Lights are one of the most expensive things you'll need to buy for growing cannabis. The truth is, if you time your cannabis grow correctly, you won't need lights to grow big, beautiful cannabis plants. This article delves into the innovative approach of growing weed without lights, offering insights for enthusiasts and cultivators alike.

Natural Light in Cannabis Cultivation

The foundational principle of growing cannabis without lights lies in harnessing the energy of the sun. Natural sunlight, unlike artificial LED or other lighting systems, offers a full spectrum of light, which is essential for the healthy growth of cannabis plants. However, relying solely on natural light requires strategic planning and an understanding of the plant's needs.

The Science Behind Sunlight and Cannabis Growth

• Intensity and Duration: For optimal growth, cannabis requires around 10-12 hours of direct sunlight daily. This exposure is crucial during the flowering stage, where light intensity directly impacts bud size and quality​​.
• Seasonal Considerations: Timing is vital. The best growth period is late spring to early summer, ensuring maximum daylight exposure​​​​.

Ideal Locations for Sunlight Exposure

• Windows and Sills: South-facing windows provide the most consistent light. However, growers should be cautious of stretching, where plants grow tall and thin due to inadequate light​​.
• Alternative Spaces: Courtyards and patios with translucent roofs offer excellent sunlight exposure while protecting plants from harsh weather​​.

Picking the Right Seeds for Sunlit Cultivation

Selecting the appropriate cannabis strain is crucial for successful growth without artificial lights. Autoflowering strains are particularly suitable for this method because they can flower based on age rather than light exposure. This characteristic makes them ideal for environments with varying natural light levels​​​​. 
You might find a seed in our CBD flowers; we've heard of a few instances where they've grown very well on windowsills. 

Cultivation Tips

• Pot Selection: Choose dark pots with drainage holes to protect roots and prevent waterlogging​​.
• Soil Quality: Nutritious, well-draining soil is essential for healthy plant growth​​.
• Temperature Control: Maintain an indoor temperature of around 21 degrees Celsius for optimal growth​​​​.

The Pros and Cons of Growing Weed Without Artificial Lights

Advantages

• Cost-Effectiveness: Growing cannabis without lights significantly reduces the need for expensive equipment and power consumption​​.
• Simplicity and Freedom: This method is less intrusive and straightforward, requiring less maintenance and equipment​​.

Challenges

• Risk of Stretching: Plants may grow weak and tall without optimal light exposure, impacting yield and stability​​.
• Smaller Yields: Expect modest harvest sizes due to the limitations of natural light exposure compared to LED or other artificial lights​​.

How To Grow Cannabis In The UK with No Lights

The UK is divided into several climate zones, each with its characteristics:

• Southeast: Dry with mild summers and cold winters. Occasional watering might be required during droughts.
• Northeast: Known for cold summers and winters, with a short growing season.
• Southwest: Longer growing season, beneficial for outdoor cultivation.
• Northwest: It is a wet region with frequent rain, requiring measures to prevent moulding and root rot​​.

Month-by-Month Growing Guide

March

• Activities: This month marks the beginning of spring and is ideal for starting indoor cultivation. Germinate seeds using LED lights or place them on a sunny windowsill.
• Preparation: Prepare the growing area by de-weeding and adding compost to the soil.
• Temperature: Average temperatures range from 3 to 10°C​​​​.

April

• Climate: Temperatures improve, but frost is still a risk.
• Indoor Cultivation: Most regions will require keeping plants indoors a bit longer. If you have a greenhouse or polytunnel, you can move plants there.
• Companion Planting: Plant companion plants like peppermint and marigold to deter pests​​​​.

May

• Outdoor Transplanting: Warmer regions can start moving plants outdoors. Be cautious of frost in northern and central areas.
• Weather Adaptation: Ensure greenhouses are ventilated in southern regions to avoid overheating.
• Watering: Regular watering is necessary, but be careful not to overwater​​​​.

Sunlight and Window Orientation

• Window Direction: For indoor cultivation without lights, south, southwest, or southeast-facing windows are ideal. These orientations ensure maximum sunlight exposure.
• Avoiding Plant Stretching: Ensure your cannabis receives enough sunlight to prevent stretching, where plants grow tall and thin due to inadequate light​​.

Conclusion

Growing weed without lights is an intriguing and eco-friendly approach to cannabis cultivation. It challenges traditional methods and encourages growers to work in harmony with nature. While it may not yield the same results as high-intensity LED setups, it offers a unique and rewarding experience for those willing to embrace the sun's natural energy.