Understanding Ontario’s Climate and Soil
Before we dive into the best cannabis strains to grow outdoors in Ontario, we need to understand Ontario’s climate and soil. Ontario has a humid continental climate, which means the summers are hot and humid while the winters are cold and snowy. The soil in Ontario is generally acidic, so it’s important to choose a strain that can tolerate these conditions.
Understanding the Growing Season
The growing season in Ontario typically starts in late May and lasts until early October. This gives growers approximately five months to cultivate their cannabis plants. When choosing a strain, it’s important to consider the plant’s flowering time, which can range from six to twelve weeks.
Best Cannabis Strains to Grow Outdoors
1. Blue Dream
Blue Dream is a hybrid strain that is perfect for growing outdoors in Ontario. It grows well in humid conditions and has a flowering time of approximately nine weeks. Blue Dream produces a high yield and has a high THC content, making it a popular strain among growers.
2. Northern Lights
Northern Lights is an indica strain that is well-suited for Ontario’s cold and snowy winters. This strain has a fast flowering time of approximately six weeks and produces a high yield. Northern Lights is also known for its high THC content and calming effects.
3. Super Skunk
Super Skunk is a hybrid strain that is perfect for growing outdoors in Ontario’s acidic soil. This strain has a fast flowering time of approximately eight weeks and produces a high yield. Super Skunk is known for its strong aroma and high THC content.
4. Durban Poison
Durban Poison is a sativa strain that is well-suited for Ontario’s hot and humid summers. This strain has a long flowering time of approximately twelve weeks but produces a high yield. Durban Poison is known for its uplifting effects and high THC content.
Tips for Growing Cannabis Outdoors in Ontario
1. Choose the Right Strain
As we’ve discussed, it’s important to choose a strain that is well-suited for Ontario’s climate and soil. Consider factors such as flowering time, yield, and THC content when selecting a strain.
2. Start Early
To take full advantage of Ontario’s growing season, it’s important to start your plants early. Begin germinating your seeds indoors in late April or early May, so they are ready to be transplanted outdoors in late May or early June.
3. Protect Your Plants from Pests
Outdoor cannabis plants are vulnerable to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. To protect your plants from these pests, consider using natural pest control methods such as neem oil or ladybugs.
4. Provide Adequate Watering
Cannabis plants require frequent watering, especially during the hot and dry summer months in Ontario. Make sure your plants receive adequate watering to ensure healthy growth and high yield.
5. Harvest at the Right Time
To achieve the best potency and flavor, it’s important to harvest your cannabis plants at the right time. Harvest your plants when the buds are fully mature but not yet overripe. This typically occurs in late September or early October in Ontario.
Conclusion
Growing cannabis outdoors in Ontario can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to choose the right strain and provide adequate care to ensure a successful harvest. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can cultivate high-quality cannabis plants that thrive in Ontario’s climate and soil.
