I'm sorry to hear that you're experiencing hermaphroditism in your Mimosa x Orange Punch plants. It's frustrating when everything seems to be going well, but unexpected issues arise.
Here are some steps you can take to try to prevent further hermaphroditism:
1. Genetic Consideration: Since you suspect that the seeds may be from the same 10-pack and you've already had multiple plants hermie, it's possible that there's a genetic predisposition to hermaphroditism in this batch of seeds. Consider sourcing seeds from a different breeder or batch in the future to avoid potential genetic issues.
2. Environmental Factors: Even though you've checked for light leaks and ensured optimal conditions, it's worth double-checking your grow environment for any potential stressors. Even minor fluctuations in temperature, humidity, or light intensity could stress the plants and trigger hermaphroditism.
3. Nutrient Management: Ensure that you're providing the correct balance of nutrients to your plants. Nutrient deficiencies or excesses can stress the plants and increase the likelihood of hermaphroditism. Stick to a consistent feeding schedule and monitor your plants closely for any signs of nutrient issues.
4. Pruning and Maintenance: Regularly inspect your plants for any signs of male flowers or hermaphroditic traits and remove them immediately to prevent pollination. Pay close attention to the areas where you've previously observed hermaphroditic traits and check them regularly.
5. Consider Stress Reduction Techniques: While you've mentioned that everything seems perfect, sometimes plants can still experience subtle stressors that are not immediately apparent. Consider implementing stress reduction techniques such as low-stress training (LST) or providing additional airflow to the canopy to minimize stress on the plants.
6. Monitor Closely: Keep a close eye on your remaining plants for any signs of hermaphroditism or stress. Early detection and intervention can help prevent pollination and minimize the impact on your harvest.
Despite your best efforts, hermaphroditism can sometimes occur due to genetic factors or other unknown variables. If the issue persists despite your efforts, it may be necessary to consider starting fresh with new genetics to avoid further problems.
I hope these tips help you salvage the rest of your crop and prevent further hermaphroditism. Good luck, and I hope your remaining plants continue to flower beautifully!