Growing Cannabis the Easy Way: Backyard Autoflowers

Home Growing Cannabis the Easy Way: Backyard Autoflowers

Home-growing cannabis doesn’t have to be complicated, expensive, or time-consuming. With the legalization of home cultivation in Minnesota (as of August 1, 2023), residents now have the opportunity to grow cannabis plants for personal use in their own backyards. If you're new to growing or simply want an easy, low-maintenance approach, autoflowers are your best friend. These resilient, fast-growing cannabis plants offer a no-fuss route to cultivating quality flower with minimal effort. Let's dive into how you can start your backyard grow with autoflowers—the easy way.

Why Choose Autoflowers?

Autoflowering cannabis plants differ from traditional “photoperiod” strains in one major way: they don’t depend on changes in light cycles to start flowering. While photoperiod strains require a shift to 12 hours of darkness to enter the flowering phase, autoflowers begin flowering automatically—typically within 3–4 weeks from germination. This trait comes from their genetic lineage, which includes Cannabis ruderalis, a hardy strain native to northern climates.

What this means for growers is simple: less work, faster results. Most autoflowers go from seed to harvest in just 70 to 90 days. They’re also compact, discrete, and can thrive in less-than-perfect soil or lighting conditions—perfect for the casual backyard grower.

Understanding the Legal Landscape in Minnesota

Before you start planting, it’s crucial to understand your rights and responsibilities as a home grower in Minnesota.

• Legal as of August 1, 2023: Residents are allowed to grow up to 8 cannabis plants per household, with no more than 4 plants in the flowering stage at any one time.

• Must be at your primary residence: Cannabis must be grown where you live.

• Enclosures required: Many local municipalities require that outdoor cannabis plants are enclosed by a fence or secure structure.

• Possession Limits:

  • At home: Up to 2 pounds of dried cannabis and 8 grams of concentrates per person.

  • In public: Up to 2 ounces of cannabis flower and 2 grams of concentrates per person.

Knowing and following these guidelines will keep your grow legal and hassle-free.

The Ideal Grow Timeline

Autoflowers

In Minnesota’s climate, the best time to grow autoflowers outdoors is June through August. You can plant autoflower seeds anytime from early June to early July, and expect to harvest your buds by late August to early September.

Autoflowers are fast, so timing is important. Planting too early might expose your plants to cold nights; planting too late could cut your harvest short before the first frost. Stick to that early summer window for best results.

Photoperiod Comparison

Photoperiod plants require a longer grow season—usually May through October—and more careful planning due to their dependency on light cycles. While they can produce larger yields, they demand more attention and time. For beginners or low-maintenance growers, autoflowers are the clear choice.

Getting Started: What You’ll Need

Starting your backyard autoflower grow can be as simple or as fancy as you want. Here's a basic list of what you'll need:

Seeds

Buy quality autoflower seeds from a reputable seed bank. Choose feminized seeds to ensure you grow bud-producing female plants. Look for strains labeled as fast or beginner friendly

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Containers or Soil Beds

You can plant autoflowers directly in the ground, in raised beds, or in containers (5-gallon fabric pots are a great choice). Make sure your soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Add compost or worm castings for extra nutrients.

Sunlight

Autoflowers need 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Place your grow in the sunniest spot in your yard—ideally south-facing, with some wind protection.

Water and Nutrients

Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Autoflowers don’t need intense feeding like photoperiods do, but a basic nutrient regimen can help:

• Veg stage (first 3–4 weeks): Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer.

• Flowering stage (final 4–6 weeks): Switch to a phosphorus-heavy bloom fertilizer.

Avoid overfeeding—less is more with autos.

Pest Control

Backyard gardens can attract pests like aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Use organic deterrents like neem oil or insecticidal soap and inspect your plants weekly for signs of damage.

Simple Growing Tips for Success

1. Start indoors: Germinate your seeds indoors in solo cups or seed starters 2–3 weeks before transplanting outdoors.

2. Don’t overwater: Autoflowers are prone to root rot if overwatered. Let the soil dry slightly between waterings.

3. Keep it stealthy: Autoflowers are short (1–3 feet tall), but consider adding fencing, trellises, or companion plants like tomatoes to help disguise them.

4. Label your plants: If you're growing multiple strains, it helps to keep track of what’s what.

5. Harvest on time: Once most pistils have darkened and trichomes turn cloudy, your buds are ready. Wait too long and potency may drop.

   
   

Harvest and Curing

Harvesting your autoflowers is an exciting milestone. Use sharp scissors or shears to cut the plant at the base. Hang branches upside-down in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated space for 7–10 days.

Once dried, trim your buds and place them in airtight glass jars. Open the jars daily for the first week (a process called "burping") to allow moisture to escape and prevent mold. Cure for at least 2–4 weeks for smooth, flavorful smoke.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Joyful

Cannabis cultivation is more than just a hobby—it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, enjoy the outdoors, and gain a deeper appreciation for the plant. It’s also a way to create self-sufficiency and share with community (within legal limits, of course).

As one wise YouTube commenter said:

“Community does not require mutual agreement – but it does come from mutual respect.”

Whether you're growing one plant or eight, do it with intention, joy, and care. Respect your neighbors, respect the plant, and have fun with it. With backyard autoflowers, the easy way really is the best way.