Why is pH significant in cannabis cultivation?

pH is significant in cannabis cultivation primarily because it influences nutrient uptake. The pH level of the growing medium affects the availability of nutrients to the plant roots. Each nutrient has an optimal pH range where it is most accessible. For cannabis, this range typically falls between 6.0 and 7.0 when grown in soil and slightly lower, about 5.5 to 6.5, for hydroponic systems.

When the pH is outside this optimal range, certain nutrients may become locked out, meaning that even if they are present in the soil or solution, the plant cannot absorb them effectively. For instance, if the pH is too low or too high, essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium may become deficient, leading to growth issues and lower yields. Thus, managing pH levels is a crucial aspect of ensuring that plants receive the nutrients they need for optimal growth and development.

In comparison, options concerning flowering time, strain type, or light exposure do not directly relate to pH levels and their impact on nutrient availability. These factors are influenced by other growth conditions, making them less relevant to understanding the significance of pH in cannabis cultivation.