Bmollyanswered grow question a year ago Yes, you can switch back to an 18/6 light cycle once your autoflowering plant has started flowering and developed pistils. Autoflowering plants are not dependent on a specific light cycle to transition into the flowering stage, as they are genetically programmed to automatically flower regardless of the light cycle.
Starting with a 12/12 light cycle is commonly recommended to initiate flowering in autoflowering plants, as it mimics the natural outdoor light conditions during the flowering season. However, once the flowering process has begun and the pistils are visible, you can adjust the light cycle back to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness.
Switching to a longer light cycle like 18/6 can provide additional light energy to your plants, which can potentially enhance growth and yield. Just make sure to provide a consistent and uninterrupted dark period during the 6 hours of darkness to avoid disrupting the flowering process.
Remember to monitor your plants closely during the transition and adjust environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and nutrient levels accordingly. Wishing you success in your cultivation!