Do Cannabis Plants Grow at Night? Explained

Cannabis cultivation has become a nuanced science, with growers constantly seeking to optimize conditions for bigger, healthier yields. One question often asked is, "Do cannabis plants grow at night?" 

Q: Do cannabis plants grow at night?

A: Yes, cannabis plants do grow at night. While photosynthesis happens during the day, at night the plant shifts energy toward root development, cell growth, and strengthening stems. This nighttime growth is essential for the plant’s overall health and prepares it to support larger buds during the flowering phase.

In this post, we’ll explore the growth cycle of cannabis, why nighttime is essential to its development, and how the right storage—using options like a stash box, weed stash box, or even a cannabis humidor—can keep your harvest fresh. Whether you’re an experienced cultivator or a curious consumer, this deep dive into cannabis growth patterns will help you better appreciate the journey from seed to stash.

The Basics of Cannabis Growth: Light and Dark Cycles

Cannabis, like all plants, relies on light to grow. Light provides the energy needed for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light into the energy required for growth. However, just as humans need rest, so do cannabis plants. The periods of darkness are just as crucial as light for the plant’s development.

Cannabis grows in two main stages: the vegetative stage and the flowering stage. Both stages rely on specific light-dark cycles to trigger certain growth behaviors, with the dark periods allowing the plant to recover and strengthen. During the night, cannabis doesn’t stop growing—it merely shifts its energy focus. (The Stages of Cannabis Growth)

Do Cannabis Plants Really Grow at Night?

Yes, cannabis plants do grow at night. But what does that mean, exactly? While photosynthesis only happens when there’s light, cannabis plants still go through a range of processes during the dark period. Here’s how each phase uses darkness to benefit overall growth.

1. Nighttime and Root Development

One of the key aspects of cannabis growth at night is root development. During the day, the plant focuses on absorbing light and producing energy, while at night, it directs more energy toward strengthening its roots. Strong roots are essential for supporting the plant’s structure and for absorbing water and nutrients. A healthy root system is the foundation of a strong cannabis plant and sets the stage for high-quality yields.

2. Stem and Cell Growth

Cannabis plants also experience significant stem and cell growth at night. Darkness stimulates the release of certain hormones, such as auxins, which are crucial for vertical growth. Auxins are more active during the night and help elongate the plant’s cells, promoting stem growth and preparing the plant to support larger buds during the flowering stage. So, while your cannabis may look like it’s only growing during the day, much of its physical development actually takes place after sundown.

3. Flowering and Bud Formation

When cannabis plants enter the flowering stage, the role of the dark period becomes even more critical. Most strains of cannabis are photoperiod-dependent, meaning they require a specific amount of darkness to trigger the flowering phase. For indoor growers, this means controlling the light and dark cycles to encourage the plant to start forming buds. 

In the flowering stage, cannabis requires a consistent light cycle of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. The dark period signals to the plant that it’s time to focus on reproduction, leading to the development of flowers, or buds, which are the most desirable parts of the plant for consumers. Even slight interruptions to the dark cycle during flowering can cause stress and potentially lead to reduced yields or lower-quality buds. (How to Start Growing Weed at Home Part 0: Overview)

Why the Right Dark Cycle Matters

For growers, understanding the importance of the dark cycle in cannabis cultivation is essential to producing quality yields. Disruptions to the dark cycle can lead to “hermaphroditism,” where the plant develops both male and female flowers. This is undesirable, as male flowers can pollinate the female buds, leading to seedy, lower-quality cannabis. To ensure your plants grow well at night, make sure to maintain a consistent light-dark schedule, avoid light leaks, and protect the dark period from any disturbances. (Importance of Light Cycle Timing for Your Cannabis Plants)

Optimizing Your Harvest: Post-Growth Storage Solutions

Once you’ve gone through the careful process of growing cannabis, storing it properly is crucial to maintain its potency and flavor. Proper storage ensures that all the work put into cultivating a high-quality crop doesn’t go to waste. Using a stash box, weed stash box, or cannabis humidor can make a huge difference in the longevity and freshness of your buds.

1. The Importance of a Stash Box

A stash box isn’t just for convenience; it helps protect your cannabis from elements that degrade its quality, such as light, air, and moisture. The best weed stash boxes are designed to be airtight, blocking out air and light that can cause cannabinoids and terpenes to break down. A good stash box also keeps your buds organized, so you know exactly what you’re reaching for when it’s time to enjoy.

2. Why You Should Consider a Cannabis Humidor

If you’re serious about preserving the quality of your cannabis, a cannabis humidor such as LOKKBOXX is an ideal investment. Unlike standard stash boxes, cannabis humidors are specifically designed to maintain a stable humidity level, which is essential for preventing your buds from drying out or becoming too moist. The optimal humidity range for cannabis storage is between 55-65% relative humidity. Too much moisture can lead to mold growth, while too little can dry out the buds, making them harsh to smoke and reducing their potency.

3. The Role of a Weed Storage Box

A weed storage box provides an excellent solution for those who like to keep their cannabis fresh and organized. Many storage boxes come with compartments and additional features like odor-blocking technology and built-in humidity packs. Weed storage boxes can be particularly useful if you store multiple strains, as they help prevent cross-contamination of flavors and smells, ensuring each strain maintains its unique profile.

How to Store Cannabis for Maximum Freshness

Beyond the storage container you choose, there are a few general guidelines to follow when storing cannabis to keep it fresh and potent:

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: UV light can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes, so always store your cannabis in a cool, dark place. Even the best weed stash box won’t protect your buds if it’s kept in direct sunlight.

• Control Humidity: Humidity packs can be added to your stash box or cannabis humidor to maintain the ideal moisture level. Aim for relative humidity between 55-65% to prevent drying out or mold growth.

• Keep It Airtight: Oxygen exposure can cause cannabis to lose its potency over time. Airtight containers, whether they’re stash boxes, jars, or humidors, are essential to preserving the quality of your buds.

• Store at a Consistent Temperature: Avoid storing cannabis in places with temperature fluctuations, as extreme temperatures can impact the texture, potency, and flavor of your buds.

Final Thoughts: The Importance of Nighttime in Cannabis Growth and Proper Storage

Cannabis plants grow and develop continuously, using both daytime and nighttime to fuel different aspects of their growth cycle. While the day provides energy through photosynthesis, the night is when cannabis roots, stems, and cells expand, laying the groundwork for a robust, high-yield plant. Properly understanding and respecting the light and dark cycles of cannabis can help growers maximize their harvest and achieve the best possible results.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical, financial, or legal advice. The use of cannabis and its derivatives may have risks and potential side effects, and individuals should always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using cannabis or any other substances for medicinal purposes. This article does not endorse the use of cannabis or any other substances for recreational purposes. The author and publisher of this article are not responsible for any damages or losses that may result from the use of the information presented herein. Readers are advised to do their own research and exercise caution when making decisions related to cannabis or any other substances.

Once harvested, treating your buds with care by using high-quality storage solutions—such as a stash box, cannabis humidor, or weed storage box—can help keep them fresh and potent for months to come. By paying attention to both growth and storage, you can enjoy your cannabis at its best, whether for personal relaxation or shared experiences.