Using a bloom booster like Overdrive, especially in the flowering stage of your cannabis plant, can help enhance bud development and increase yields. However, it's essential to use such products judiciously and at the right time to avoid potential issues. Here are some signs to look for before using a bloom booster like Overdrive:
1. **Trichome Development**: Before adding a bloom booster, examine the trichomes on your buds using a magnifying tool. Look for cloudy or amber-colored trichomes, as this indicates that the buds are reaching maturity and nearing harvest. Using a bloom booster during this stage can help maximize the potency and quality of your buds.
2. **Visible Bud Growth**: Wait until your plant has developed substantial bud sites with noticeable growth before introducing a bloom booster. Adding Overdrive during this phase can support the continued development and enlargement of buds, resulting in increased yields.
3. **Orange Pistils**: While waiting for some orange hairs (pistils) before adding a bloom booster like Overdrive is a common guideline, it's not the only factor to consider. Orange pistils are an indication of maturing buds, but relying solely on this factor may not provide a comprehensive assessment of your plant's readiness for a bloom booster.
Given that you're considering adding Overdrive to your auto-flowering plant around week 9/10 (which is typically when auto-flowering strains are nearing maturity), it seems like an appropriate time to introduce a bloom booster. However, it's crucial to monitor your plant closely and base your decision on a combination of factors, including trichome development, visible bud growth, and overall plant health.
Regarding your proposed flushing schedule (flushing during weeks 11-12), this is a common practice to help remove any residual nutrients from the soil and improve the final taste and smoothness of your buds. Flushing is typically done in the final weeks before harvest to allow the plant to utilize any remaining nutrients stored in the leaves and stems. However, the exact timing and duration of flushing can vary depending on factors such as the specific nutrients used, the plant's response, and personal preference.
In summary, waiting for some orange hairs before adding a bloom booster like Overdrive is a reasonable guideline, but it's essential to consider multiple factors and monitor your plant's development closely. Additionally, flushing during weeks 11-12 can be beneficial, but adjust the timing based on your plant's individual needs and response.