How to Grow Cannabis: A Beginner’s Guide

Growing cannabis can be a rewarding experience when you understand the basics. Whether you’re a first-time grower or looking to improve your results, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to grow healthy, high-quality plants.

1. Start With the Right Growing Medium

Your plant’s foundation matters. Cannabis grows best in high-quality soil or coco blends that provide good drainage and airflow to the roots.

• Choose soil designed specifically for cannabis

• Avoid compact or low-quality soil that holds too much water

• Look for soil with added organic matter for strong root development

Healthy roots lead to healthy plants.

2. Choose the Right Nutrients

Cannabis plants need nutrients to grow strong and produce quality yields. The main nutrients are:

• Nitrogen (N) – promotes leafy growth

• Phosphorus (P) – supports root and flower development

• Potassium (K) – improves overall plant health

During the vegetative stage, plants need more nitrogen. During the flowering stage, they require higher phosphorus and potassium levels.

Always start with lower nutrient doses and increase gradually to avoid nutrient burn.

3. Light Is Everything

Cannabis is a light-loving plant. The amount and quality of light directly affect growth and yield.

• Indoor growers should use LED or HID grow lights

• Vegetative stage: 18 hours of light / 6 hours of darkness

• Flowering stage: 12 hours of light / 12 hours of darkness

Make sure lights are not too close to avoid stressing the plants.

4. Water Properly

Overwatering is one of the most common mistakes new growers make.

• Water only when the top inch of soil feels dry

• Ensure pots have proper drainage

• Use clean, pH-balanced water (typically 6.0–6.5 for soil)

Healthy watering habits prevent root rot and nutrient issues.

5. Control Your Environment

Cannabis plants thrive in stable conditions.

• Ideal temperature: 70–85°F

• Humidity:

  • Vegetative stage: 50–70%

  • Flowering stage: 40–50%

Good airflow helps prevent mold and pests, especially in Arizona’s warm climate.

6. Be Patient and Observe

Every plant is different. Watch for signs of stress, nutrient deficiencies, or pests. Yellowing leaves, curling, or slow growth are signs something needs adjusting.

Growing cannabis is a learning process — the more attention you give your plants, the better your results will be.

Final Thoughts

Growing cannabis doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right soil, nutrients, lighting, and care, anyone can grow healthy plants. Starting with quality grow supplies makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

At Metro Grow Arizona, we’re proud to support local growers with trusted nutrients, soil, and cultivation essentials to help you grow with confidence.