Utopia Haze is a rare heavily sativa dominant hybrid (90% sativa/10% indica) strain created through back crossing Brazilian Sativa strains. This tasty little bud took home 1st Place for Best Sativa in the 2008 High Times’ Cannabis Cup and for good reason – with its potent 18-22% average THC level and long lasting cerebral effects, Utopia Haze is one powerhouse smoke. The Utopia Haze high comes on soon after you finish your first toke, hitting you with a strong cerebral lift that infuses you with a sense of hazy relaxation. Type: Feminised/Photoperiod Cultivation: Indoor/Outdoor Flowering Time (days): 70-75 Indoor Yield (g): Up to 650 Feminised Outdoor Harvest Month: October Feminised Outdoor Harvest Month Week: 3rd-4th week Aroma: Citrus, Woody, Pungent, Mint Effect: Cerebral Lift, Hazy Relaxation, Sleepy Welcome Everyone to the Final Entry of my Utopia Haze Grow ! There is so much to discuss ! I have been extremely busy as of late trying to get this Harvest together, but i am happy to have it here for you now ! I Seriously under estimated the amount of time, help from others, and my own necessary skills to pull this off.. and i still kind of screwed it up lol ! But its worth noting i have never actually done this before and trying to document it during....was extremely hard. It is next to impossible to work an iPhone with rubber gloves on ! First I want to discuss everything step by step so before you jump straight into the comments on how the end product is so small in "quantity" Rest assured i am happy with its"quality"...and thats all that matters to me because Life is a journey not a destination! and i have learned so much from this grow that I couldn't be any happy even if i messed some things up :) But at the very least I hope you read through this entry in its entirety with an open mind and focus more on the process, rather than just the outcome! I ran out of Ice & i was only able to wash three times..(normally I've heard you should go sometimes 5-6 washes) Preparation is Key & things will be much better next round :) Photos 1-22 These are pretty self explanatory but for those of you just tuning in now.. this is what happens to a very happy plant when you don't have the necessary tools to monitor key components of growing cannabis.. Ph, as well as EC levels play a very key role in the outcome of your grow lol that being said I was just able to save this plant by purchasing both tools but that doesn't mean the plant didn't suffer because of the prior events.. This was a Huge reason behind me choosing to turn this harvest into what i would consider "Solventless Hash Rosin" from "Ice water extracted Bubble hash". Pictures 23 The idea here is the process of using "fresh Frozen Cannabis" this has been discussed many a time online on such sites as instagram and here on grow diaries as well.. I personally have Never tried the process so i decided to try it out and make a judgement for myself.. Video 24 The Cannabis has now been in the freezer for 72 hours making it very well frozen.. as you can tell i struggled getting it all into the 25u Screen Wash Bag. One thing of note i would do differently is i will de-stem my next batch as i also believe this played a part in the amount of plant matter that escaped through the sieves. Photo/Video's 25-28 The idea here is "ice water Seiving" & especially with the bags that I am using here that are only have screen material on the bottom portion of the bag it is very important to have spaces in-between the screens to allow the water to pass directly through the screens into the bottom bucket with the least amount of resistance.. because the hash is so extremely temperature dependant if it gets warm on the side of the bag.. it will stick there and not make it to the bottom to become use able product.. 29 You do not need to use as much Ice as i used here lol... the idea is to keep everything very cold..i certainly achieved that but at the sacrifice of using so much that i ended up grinding product and producing "contaminants" but in the end they are just plant matter that i would be smoking when i rolled up my joint either way so.. I'm not super disappointed.. But it should be noted that what you want to achieve here is a Layering effect where you have the wash bag between two small layers of ice while the "water current" washes the Trichomes away allowing them to be separated by the screens setup below :) Before Starting the machine you should allow some time (i.e.;10-12minutes pre soak to allow the product to become saturated) before the first cycle. By video 32 I have just ran out of ice lol.. Video 33-34 Here I have a tip for you.. to separate the screens that you sieve through.. cut 5 gallon buckets to stretch them across nice and tight.. it'll make scooping your Bubble that much easier ! i learned this from the many "Frenchy" videos I have watched :) Picture 35 Here in lays the problem for most people.. drying your hash without loosing vast amounts of "Terpenes" whilst also stay ever vigilant against mold ! Thanks to all those videos I've watched on youtube.. id like to think this was one of my most successful parts of this process.. Things to Note; Terpenes start to seriously evaporate at temperatures 68F or 20C you need to stay as cold as possible whilst bringing the Relative Humidity in the space down into the 40-30% to stay away from that nasty mold ! I used my cold storage room in the basement.. with a dehumidifier running to keep the space at 45% RH & staying at a constant 15c. All while spreading the hash as thin as possible across parchment paper, on top of the white screens with a fan moving air across both sides of the paper. Pictures 36-38 These are some macros i took in the middle of my drying session I fell in love with the colour. Yes i know the black spots are plant material but they will get caught when i bag the hash & squish the oil out. Thing to Note; at this stage it is important to ensure you 'micro plane" the hash down as fine as you can whilst staying weary of the temperature... any "chunks" will hold pockets of moisture.. that lead to potential problems..ie; mold ... Picture/Video 39-41 Successfully planed bubble hash ready to be bagged and Squished ! Picture 42 Ive decided to follow Pedro.. from Pedros Grow Room and double bag to be on the safe side so i don't have any blow outs. So thats One 25u bag inside one 160u bag ! :) Pictures 43 This is almost 3 grams of the bubble hash from above, already melting in the bag.. this is where i ran into trouble again lol things started getting to warm in the house and i was only able to get one of the three squish's i did on video :( things started getting sticky. Picture 44 This is basically just a photo of the equipment I'm using; 3x5 LowTemp Cage in the frame I built myself, with a 20Ton bottle jack. Something to note here is this is an older Lowtemp model with only a single heating zone which is which i have it closed here heating Both sides of the press :) As well as the importance of having adequate pressure on your plates.. my rig is very overkill for the size of hash bags..lol Video 45 Here is the lovely press video.. its didn't quite work the way i wanted either lol my directional folding wasn't quite tight enough for a big "drip" :) &the Press was set to 65°c Photo's 46-50 are pretty self explanatory :) I had a blow out.. but still managed to pull an 80% return from the hash once squished...& yes it tasted amazing :) Was it worth it in the end... that could be debated.. for some..i understand..its not your thing, but for those of us that are interested in making our own concentrates.. free from Solvents... I wouldn't make it any other way :) If even ONE of you reading this diary finds it helpful to reference for ANYTHING.....even if its "what not to do" ill consider it a success ! Thanks again for tagging along on this garden adventure.. its been one heck of a journey ! Much Love from B.C. Canada, Until Next time, Cariboo

7/21 330am MONDAY everyone is looking good. I gave a little bit of nitrogen from a germination grow yesterday gorilla gas F1 has little white bugs in the soil, but it doesn’t seem to be affecting anything too bad. I don’t want to spray anything. It will affect the outcome and make everything taste gross. I learned that the hard way☠️ flushing matters because even though the flowers process & convert, there is still water being delivered up through the root system that carries up things that taste bad and your BONG WATER will look the same color as your runoff SHOULD HAVE after the first hit. DONT DO THAT, DONT BE LIKE ME!👍👍 7/22 3:22 AM I got five Mike Tyson clones. They are not autos, but I think they are gelato. They are great. I put some extra dirt and one of the Mike Tyson plants yesterday so I have to put in some new nutrients on the nitrogen deficiency, everything‘s looking good. 👍👍. 7/22 1030pm......WELL WE KNOW WHAT DOESNT WORK...... I SCREWED UP WITH RAPID START. IT WILL CAUSE VERY SPECIFIC BURNS TO THE LEAF TIPS AND SIDES WHEN USED. I MAY BE USING TOO MUCH, 0.5ML SHOULD USE .25ML, WONT USE AGAIN UNTIL I FIGURE OUT WHATS INTERACTING AND CAUSING THIS. The clones are looking great, they will go back from flower to veg this week then a month of slow germination and kept low and slow so I can keep them. 7/23 4 AM adding TMG powder to the mix 👍👍 7/24 111am TMG did not harm the plants. The clones are progressing nicely. There may be some problems mixing methylene blue with nitrous oxide but it’s maybe different. There’s a combination of amino acids. I’m still trying to work out. Proline arginine citrulline are the main ones right now that have pretty good results. Methylene blue works really good during veg not so sure during flower I tend to accumulate in the chloroplast and on the in the leaves you can see it. It doesn’t affect the flavor or the taste. I’ve smoked some critical Kush shake on some pretty heavy methylene blue is an experiment and I’m not dead yet so dammit here we are.👍👍👍🎉🎉. My personal results using this combination on myself has been phenomenal. The change after using the system on myself is nothing I’ve experienced before I feel ripped off by about 40 years of garbage medicine when I created something that actually worked for the first time, I wouldn’t put too much faith in any more PhD lab coats. They are all failures and I found a system that works.👍. 845am PROP WALL UPDATE, I GET DISTRACTE....OH LOOK AT THAT... I DONT KNOW WHERE I SAID DISNEY WHILE SHE WAS LISTING BUT IT SCREWED UP OR MADE INCREDIBLY BETTER THE INFO YOU ARE ABOUT TO READ!!!!!!! IM PRETTY SURE I SAID DIXIE VIBE...BUT OK 7/24 315pm Got it, so anyway, we were talking about adjusting the dosage for your mix on flowering cannabis, and you’re saying to skip the methylene blue. Let’s pivot and finalize the analysis without methylene blue, focusing on 10 drops Amino Acid Quick-Sorb, 1/4 teaspoon TMG powder, 1 Nitric Boost capsule (L-arginine 400 mg, L-arginine AKG 400 mg, L-citrulline 200 mg, L-citrulline malate 200 mg, L-citrulline AKG 200 mg) in a 2-liter solution with Advanced Nutrients Connoisseur at the recommended dosage (4–8 mL/L). I’ll wrap up the effects on bud quality, cannabinoids, and terpenes during the flowering stage (weeks 4–12), and give you practical tips to optimize your cannabis grow. ### Effects During Flowering Stage (Without Methylene Blue) 1. Amino Acid Quick-Sorb (10 drops, ~100 mg in 2 L, ~50 mg/L): - Bud Impact: At 50 mg/L, amino acids (glycine, L-arginine, L-proline, etc.) act as biostimulants, boosting terpene production but potentially reducing cannabinoid content. They increase nitrogen and sulfur uptake, supporting trichome development but may lower calcium and iron, risking deficiencies that affect bud density. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9008891/) - Cannabinoids: Reduces CBDA by up to 44% and THCA by up to 196% (especially in drain-to-waste systems), lowering potency. Recirculation systems mitigate this loss slightly. (https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2022.868350/full) - Terpenes: Boosts limonene (81–123%) and β-myrcene (139–167%), creating aromatic buds like a burst of citrusy magic from a Disney parade. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9008891/) - Flowering Note: The low dose minimizes nitrogen overload, but excess could delay bud ripening, making buds leafy like overgrowth in Sleeping Beauty’s castle. Monitor for yellowing leaves (calcium/iron deficiency). 2. Trimethylglycine (TMG) Powder (1/4 teaspoon, ~1250 mg in 2 L, ~625 mg/L): - Bud Impact: TMG acts as an osmoprotectant, enhancing stress tolerance (e.g., high light, humidity swings), which is key for robust bud development in flowering. It supports methylation, potentially upregulating terpene or flavonoid genes, but doesn’t directly boost cannabinoids. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trimethylglycine) - Cannabinoids: May indirectly support THCA/CBDA synthase via methylation, but evidence is speculative. No significant direct impact. - Terpenes: Likely amplifies amino acid-driven terpene boosts, enhancing aroma like a floral float at Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival. - Flowering Note: At 625 mg/L, TMG helps plants thrive under stress but may increase nitrogen levels, risking delayed flowering if overdone. Watch EC to avoid burn. 3. Nitric Boost Capsule (1 capsule, 1400 mg total NO precursors in 2 L, ~700 mg/L): - Ingredients Recap: L-arginine (400 Great! So, let’s finalize the flowering cannabis analysis, focusing on your mix—10 drops Amino Acid Quick-Sorb, 1/4 teaspoon TMG powder, 1 Nitric Boost capsule (with L-arginine 400 mg, L-arginine AKG 400 mg, L-citrulline 200 mg, L-citrulline malate 200 mg, L-citrulline AKG 200 mg), and 1 drop 5% methylene blue in a 2-liter solution with Advanced Nutrients Connoisseur at the recommended dosage. I’ll finish the terpene effects, summarize the overall impact, and give you actionable tips to optimize bud quality, cannabinoid, and terpene production during the flowering stage (weeks 4–12 for most cannabis cultivars). Then, I’ll tie in any Disney vibe you’re feeling, maybe with a sprinkle of fun! — ### **Completion of Effects During Flowering Stage** We were discussing the **terpene profile** and how the mix impacts bud quality. To recap: amino acids (Quick-Sorb) reduce cannabinoids (THCA, CBDA) by up to 44–196% but boost monoterpenes like limonene (81–123%) and β-myrcene (139–167%), TMG enhances stress tolerance, Nitric Boost increases NO for nutrient uptake and terpenes, and methylene blue’s low dose (1.25 mg/L) may slightly counteract NO effects or provide antimicrobial benefits. Let’s finish the terpene section and synthesize the rest. - **Terpene Profile (Continued)**: - **Amino Acid Quick-Sorb**: The significant increase in limonene and β-myrcene enhances bud aroma and therapeutic value (e.g., anti-inflammatory, sedative effects). These terpenes are concentrated in trichomes, improving market appeal, especially for strains prized for scent (e.g., OG Kush, Blue Dream). Other amino acids like glycine and serine may support terpene synthase enzymes indirectly via protein synthesis. - **TMG**: By aiding methylation, TMG could upregulate terpene biosynthesis genes, amplifying the amino acid effect, though direct evidence is limited. - **Nitric Boost**: The NO precursors (L-arginine, L-citrulline, totaling 1400 mg per capsule, or ~700 mg/L in 2 L) boost NO signaling, which upregulates terpene pathways, synergizing with amino acids for a stronger aroma profile. - **Methylene Blue**: Its NO inhibition might slightly dampen terpene enhancement from Nitric Boost, but at 1.25 mg/L, the effect is negligible. Its antimicrobial properties could protect trichomes from fungal issues (e.g., bud rot), preserving terpene quality. - **Advanced Nutrients Connoisseur**: Its humic acids and organic inputs enhance terpene production, complementing the amino acid and NO effects for a robust flavor profile. (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9008891/, https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2022.868350/full, https://www.advancednutrients.com/products/) — ### **Overall Impact on Flowering Cannabis** - **Bud Quality and Yield**: - **Positives**: The mix enhances terpene production (limonene, β-myrcene), improving bud aroma and appeal, ideal for premium markets. TMG and proline (from Quick-Sorb) boost stress tolerance, supporting bud development under high light, heat, or humidity stress, common in flowering. Connoisseur’s optimized NPK (e.g., ~194 mg/L N, 59 mg/L P) ensures dense, resinous buds. Nitric Boost’s NO precursors may increase nutrient delivery, potentially increasing bud size in early flowering (weeks 4–6). - **Negatives**: Amino acids risk reducing THCA and CBDA by 44–196%, especially in drain-to-waste systems, lowering potency. Excess nitrogen from Quick-Sorb and TMG could delay flowering or produce leafy buds, reducing density. Methylene blue’s NO inhibition may counteract Nitric Boost’s benefits, potentially limiting nutrient uptake or terpene gains. High EC (estimated 1.8–2.8 mS/cm with additives) risks nutrient burn, visible as brown leaf tips or stunted buds. 7/25 9am Water today no MB, all aminos tho. 217pm GOATS sustained minor damage from Rapid Start product experiment at the wrong time. It's ok on its own in the beginning with clones too but never with flowering nutrients. G Gas f1 and GC Auto have more damage because I did not start Amino and Methelyene Blue treatment, so it does work in Veg. and creates a protective environment that carries through till the end. No more MB or Aminos, I WILL keep using small amounts of TMG Powder. and I will get all the other stress amino acids separately , just AN and ATAMI at .5ml per TWO liter, I do EVERYTHING in 2 liter now, just easier and more accurate. NEVER FUCKING SLEEP...FUCK 745PM.... AMINO'S HAVE BETRAYED ME!!!!!! FARGING BASTAGES!!!! I think I will get all the stress aminos separately from BulkSupplements they have small bags of each one but its 18 of them and about 12 to 17 each.....BulkSupplements. 137am. Something smoking Purple Haze...puts me to sleep....nooooo. ZUP by Fastbuds smell like. garlic cheese muffin its just greatl. I got over nitrogen and Frost Banger was leafy, all were small and all turned out perfect smell and taste. 3am they all got pretty burned by the rapid start and it also could’ve been. I sprayed a little bit of Nemo on the dart when I saw the bugs they bad idea, but I had to do it. 7/27 1233am. IVE SEEN RE-VEGES YOU PEOPLE WOULDN'T BELIVE ... UNTIL NOW LOSERS.. the Tyson plants are re-vegging perfectly!!!! in a couple months they will be strong and small. The G Gas F1 clones are ready but I think im going to try and bonsai tree them sounds like a fun project. OR EXTREMELY FRUSTRATING AND I THROW MOST OF IT AGANST THE WALL AND THEN BREAK STUFF. NOT SURE ITS WORTH IT. 7/27 230pm Adding proline to a 2-liter nutrient solution containing Advanced Nutrients pH Perfect Bloom (2–4 mL), Atami Bloombastic (1 mL), and betaine anhydrous (250–500 mg, 1–2 mM) for autoflowering cannabis plants could potentially enhance stress tolerance and growth, as proline is another well-documented osmoprotectant and stress-mitigating compound in plants. However, its effects on autoflowers, which are sensitive to nutrient overload, must be carefully considered to avoid imbalances. Since no cannabis-specific studies exist for proline or its combination with betaine, the following analysis extrapolates from research on other plants (e.g., alfalfa, peppers, maize) and accounts for autoflowers’ unique characteristics (short life cycle, low nutrient tolerance). Background on Proline • What is Proline?: Proline is an amino acid that accumulates naturally in plants under stress (e.g., drought, salinity, temperature extremes) to act as an osmoprotectant, stabilize proteins and membranes, and scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). It complements betaine’s role as an osmolyte and stress mitigator. • Role in Plants: Exogenous proline application (via nutrient solution or foliar spray) can enhance stress tolerance, improve photosynthetic efficiency, and support growth under adverse conditions. It also regulates gene expression related to stress response and nutrient uptake. • Relevance to Autoflowers: Autoflowers, with their compact size and 6–12-week life cycle, are hardy but sensitive to overfeeding. Proline could enhance resilience in stressful environments (e.g., high EC, temperature swings, or inconsistent watering), but excessive doses risk nutrient burn or metabolic disruption. Potential Effects of Adding Proline to the Nutrient Solution Based on studies of proline’s effects on other plants and the context of your nutrient mix, here are the likely impacts on autoflowering cannabis: 1 Enhanced Stress Tolerance: ◦ Osmotic Regulation: Like betaine, proline maintains cellular water balance under stress (e.g., drought, salinity). In maize, exogenous proline (1–10 mM) increased leaf water content and reduced wilting under drought stress. For autoflowers, proline could complement betaine’s osmotic protection, particularly in hydroponic systems or outdoor grows with variable conditions. ◦ Antioxidant Defense: Proline reduces oxidative stress by scavenging ROS and upregulating antioxidant enzymes (e.g., superoxide dismutase [SOD], peroxidase [POD]). In alfalfa under salt stress, proline accumulation (alongside betaine) decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating less cell damage. This could protect autoflower leaves and buds from stress-induced damage, especially under high-intensity lighting or heat. 2 Synergistic Effects with Betaine: ◦ Complementary Osmolytes: Proline and betaine both act as compatible solutes, stabilizing proteins and membranes. In Suaeda salsa, combined accumulation of proline and betaine under salinity improved growth and ion homeostasis (Na+/K+ balance). For autoflowers, adding proline to betaine could enhance stress resilience, particularly if grown in challenging conditions (e.g., high EC from Bloom/Bloombastic, low humidity, or temperature fluctuations). ◦ Potential Redundancy: Since betaine (250–500 mg, 1–2 mM) already provides osmoprotection, additional proline may offer diminishing returns in optimal conditions (e.g., controlled indoor grows with 18–20 hours light, 70–80°F, 40–60% humidity). However, under stress, their combined effects could be additive, improving root activity and biomass. 3 Improved Growth and Photosynthesis: ◦ Growth Enhancement: In peppers, 5 mM proline increased plant height and fresh weight under salinity stress. For autoflowers, proline could support vegetative growth (weeks 2–4) or early flowering (weeks 4–6), potentially increasing bud sites or yield, though effects may be limited by their short cycle. ◦ Photosynthetic Efficiency: Proline protects photosystem II and increases chlorophyll content. In wheat, 10 mM proline improved Fv/Fm (photochemical efficiency) under drought. For autoflowers under high-intensity lights (e.g., LED, HPS), proline could stabilize photosynthesis, complementing betaine’s effects on chlorophyll gene expression (e.g., Capsb genes in peppers). 4 Nutrient Uptake and Metabolism: ◦ Ion Homeostasis: Proline enhances K+ uptake and reduces Na+ toxicity under salinity, as seen in Suaeda salsa. This could improve nutrient absorption in autoflowers, which rely on efficient uptake due to smaller root systems, especially in hydroponics with Advanced Nutrients Bloom (high N-P-K) and Bloombastic (high P-K). ◦ Metabolic Support: Proline supports protein synthesis and enzyme stability, potentially enhancing metabolic efficiency during the rapid autoflower life cycle. However, excessive proline could disrupt nitrogen metabolism, as it’s an amino acid competing with other nitrogen sources in the nutrient solution. 5 Potential Impact on Yield and Quality: ◦ Yield: Proline’s stress-mitigating effects could indirectly increase bud weight by reducing environmental setbacks, similar to betaine’s potential to enhance biomass. Autoflowers yield 28–112 g/plant indoors, and proline might support larger buds if stress is a limiting factor. ◦ Cannabinoid/Terpene Profile: No data exists on proline’s effect on THC, CBD, or terpenes. It’s unlikely to directly alter cannabinoid synthesis but could improve plant vigor, potentially leading to denser buds or enhanced resin production. Overapplication risks altering flavor if not flushed properly. Recommended Proline Dosage • Optimal Concentration: 1–2 mM (230–460 mg per 2 L). ◦ Calculation: Proline molecular weight: 115.13 g/mol. 1 mM = 0.001 mol/L × 115.13 g/mol = 0.11513 g/L = 115.13 mg/L. For 2 L at 1 mM: 115.13 mg/L × 2 L = 230.26 mg (rounded to 230 mg). For 2 L at 2 mM: 115.13 mg/L × 2 × 2 L = 460.52 mg (rounded to 460 mg). ◦ Rationale: Studies (e.g., maize, peppers) show 1–10 mM proline is effective for stress tolerance, with 1–5 mM optimal for root application to avoid toxicity. For autoflowers, 1–2 mM aligns with betaine’s 1–2 mM (250–500 mg), ensuring compatibility and minimizing nutrient overload. Start with 230 mg (1 mM) to test plant response, increasing to 460 mg (2 mM) if no stress signs (e.g., leaf burn, stunted growth) appear after 1–2 applications. • Comparison with Betaine: Proline and betaine have similar molar masses (115.13 vs. 117.15 g/mol), so 1–2 mM of each results in comparable mass (230–460 mg for proline, 250–500 mg for betaine). Their combined effect should stay within autoflower EC limits (1.2–1.8 mS/cm for flowering). Application Guidelines • Nutrient Solution Recipe (2 L): ◦ Water: 2 L (RO or dechlorinated tap water). ◦ Advanced Nutrients pH Perfect Bloom: 2–4 mL (1–2 mL/L, start with 2 mL for early flowering). ◦ Atami Bloombastic: 1 mL (0.5 mL/L, suitable for flowering autoflowers). ◦ Betaine Anhydrous: 250–500 mg (1–2 mM, start with 250 mg). ◦ Proline: 230–460 mg (1–2 mM, start with 230 mg). ◦ Mixing: Add Bloom first, then Bloombastic, betaine, and proline, stirring thoroughly after each addition. Check EC (target 1.2–1.8 mS/cm) and pH (5.5–6.5 for hydro, 6.0–6.5 for soil). • Timing: Apply during vegetative (weeks 2–4) or early flowering (weeks 4–6) to support stress tolerance and growth. Stop both betaine and proline 2 weeks before harvest to allow flushing for optimal bud flavor. • Frequency: Use with each nutrient feeding (e.g., every 2–3 days in hydro, weekly in soil). Alternate or reduce frequency if EC approaches 1.8 mS/cm. • Source: Use L-proline (plant-grade, 99%+ purity) from a reputable supplier (e.g., agricultural or lab-grade sources). Avoid impure or non-plant-specific products. Potential Risks and Considerations • Nutrient Overload: Combining betaine (250–500 mg) and proline (230–460 mg) with Bloom and Bloombastic increases EC and nitrogen load (proline is an amino acid). Monitor for nutrient burn (brown leaf tips, clawing). If symptoms appear, reduce both to 0.5 mM (125 mg betaine, 115 mg proline per 2 L) or skip a feeding. • EC Impact: Betaine and proline each add ~0.1–0.2 mS/cm at 1–2 mM. With Bloom (1–2 mL/L) and Bloombastic (0.5 mL/L) at ~1.0–1.5 mS/cm, the total EC should stay below 1.8 mS/cm. Measure after mixing. • Redundancy: Betaine and proline have overlapping roles (osmolytes, antioxidants). In optimal conditions, adding proline may offer minimal additional benefits over betaine alone, but under stress (e.g., high heat, low humidity), their synergy could enhance resilience. • Cost vs. Benefit: Proline is more expensive than betaine and may not justify the cost in well-managed grows. Test its impact on a small scale first. • Flushing: Cease both betaine and proline in the final 1–2 weeks to avoid residual taste in buds, using plain water or a flushing agent (e.g., Advanced Nutrients Flawless Finish). • Unknown Cannabinoid Effects: No evidence suggests proline or betaine alters THC, CBD, or terpenes, but overapplication could affect flavor if not flushed. Summary of Effects Adding proline (230–460 mg, 1–2 mM) to a 2-liter solution with betaine (250–500 mg, 1–2 mM), Advanced Nutrients Bloom (2–4 mL), and Atami Bloombastic (1 mL) could enhance autoflower stress tolerance by: • Improving osmotic regulation and antioxidant defenses, complementing betaine’s effects. • Supporting photosynthesis and growth under stress (e.g., salinity, heat, low light), potentially increasing biomass or bud yield. • Enhancing nutrient uptake efficiency, critical for autoflowers’ small root systems. Start with 230 mg proline (1 mM) and 250 mg betaine (1 mM), increasing to 460 mg proline (2 mM) and 500 mg betaine (2 mM) if plants tolerate well. Apply during vegetative or early flowering, monitor EC (1.2–1.8 mS/cm), and stop 2 weeks before harvest. Risks include nutrient burn and redundancy, so test cautiously and ensure proper flushing. If you provide your grow setup (e.g., hydro/soil, indoor/outdoor, strain, growth stage), I can refine the dosing or application method. Let me know if you need sourcing tips for proline or further guidance!”” 7/27 3PM. Adding **0.5 mL of Advanced Nutrients Rhino Skin (potassium silicate)** to a 2-liter nutrient solution containing **Advanced Nutrients pH Perfect Bloom (2–4 mL)**, **Atami Bloombastic (1 mL)**, **betaine anhydrous (250–500 mg, 1–2 mM)**, and **proline (230–460 mg, 1–2 mM)** for autoflowering cannabis plants could provide additional benefits, particularly in strengthening plant structure and enhancing stress tolerance. However, the effects must be evaluated carefully given autoflowers’ sensitivity to nutrient overload and the complex nutrient mix already in use. Below, I analyze the potential effects of adding 0.5 mL of Rhino Skin, based on the role of silica in plant physiology, studies on cannabis and other crops, and the specific context of your nutrient solution. ### **Background on Silica (Advanced Nutrients Rhino Skin)** - **What is Rhino Skin?**: Advanced Nutrients Rhino Skin is a potassium silicate supplement (typically 0-0-0.4 N-P-K, with ~4–7% silica as SiO₂). Silica strengthens plant cell walls, improves stress resistance, and enhances nutrient uptake. The recommended dosage is 2 mL/L for photoperiod cannabis, but autoflowers require 1/4 to 1/2 strength (0.5–1 mL/L) due to their sensitivity. - **Silica in Plants**: Silicon (Si), absorbed as silicic acid, deposits in cell walls as silica gel, increasing structural rigidity. It also mitigates abiotic (e.g., drought, heat) and biotic (e.g., pests, fungi) stresses and can improve photosynthesis and yield. In cannabis, silica is not essential but is considered a beneficial element. - **Autoflower Context**: Autoflowers have a short 6–12-week life cycle and smaller root systems, making them prone to nutrient burn if EC (electrical conductivity) exceeds 1.2–1.8 mS/cm during flowering. Rhino Skin’s low dosage (0.5 mL per 2 L, or 0.25 mL/L) minimizes this risk while complementing betaine and proline’s stress-mitigating roles. ### **Potential Effects of Adding 0.5 mL Rhino Skin** Based on silica’s effects in cannabis and other plants (e.g., rice, tomatoes, hemp), and considering your nutrient mix, here are the likely impacts on autoflowering cannabis: 1. **Strengthened Plant Structure**: - **Cell Wall Reinforcement**: Silica deposits in cell walls, increasing stem and leaf rigidity. In hemp (*Cannabis sativa*), silica supplementation (e.g., 1–2 mM Si) thickened stems and improved mechanical strength. For autoflowers, which are compact (1–3 feet tall), 0.5 mL Rhino Skin could strengthen branches, supporting heavier buds during flowering (weeks 4–10), reducing the risk of snapping under weight or wind (outdoor grows). - **Benefit in Your Mix**: Betaine and proline enhance osmotic and metabolic resilience, but they don’t directly strengthen cell walls. Silica complements their effects by providing structural support, potentially allowing autoflowers to allocate more energy to bud development. 2. **Enhanced Stress Tolerance**: - **Abiotic Stress**: Silica mitigates drought, heat, and salinity stress by reducing transpiration and stabilizing cell membranes. In tomatoes, 1 mM silica improved water retention under drought. For autoflowers, 0.5 mL Rhino Skin (~0.1–0.2 mM Si, based on typical 4–7% SiO₂ content) could enhance resilience in challenging conditions (e.g., low humidity, high temperatures, or high EC from Bloom/Bloombastic). - **Biotic Stress**: Silica forms a physical barrier in cell walls, deterring pests (e.g., spider mites) and pathogens (e.g., powdery mildew). In cannabis, silica reduced fungal infections in controlled studies. This could protect autoflowers, especially in humid indoor grows or outdoor settings prone to pests. - **Synergy with Betaine and Proline**: Betaine and proline reduce oxidative stress (via antioxidant enzymes like SOD, POD) and maintain osmotic balance. Silica adds a physical and physiological layer of protection, creating a robust stress-response system. For example, in *Suaeda salsa*, betaine and proline improved ion homeostasis under salinity, while silica in rice enhanced K+ uptake, suggesting complementary effects. 3. **Improved Photosynthetic Efficiency**: - **Leaf Support and Light Capture**: Silica strengthens leaf tissues, keeping them erect for better light exposure. In rice, 1.5 mM silica increased chlorophyll content and photosynthetic rates. For autoflowers under high-intensity lights (18–24 hours), 0.5 mL Rhino Skin could optimize photosynthesis, complementing betaine’s role in protecting photosystem II (e.g., upregulation of Capsb genes in peppers). - **Relevance to Your Mix**: Advanced Nutrients Bloom supports flowering with N-P-K, and Bloombastic boosts bud density with high P-K. Silica could enhance energy allocation to buds by improving leaf health, especially if plants face light stress (e.g., inconsistent outdoor light). 4. **Nutrient Uptake and Compatibility**: - **Enhanced Nutrient Absorption**: Silica improves root uptake of nutrients like potassium and calcium. In maize, 1 mM silica increased K+ and Ca²⁺ levels. For autoflowers, this could optimize absorption of Bloom’s macronutrients and Bloombastic’s P-K, critical for flowering. - **pH and EC Impact**: Rhino Skin’s potassium silicate can raise pH slightly, but Advanced Nutrients pH Perfect Bloom (2–4 mL) stabilizes pH at 5.5–6.5 (hydro) or 6.0–6.5 (soil). At 0.5 mL per 2 L (0.25 mL/L), Rhino Skin adds minimal EC (~0.05–0.1 mS/cm), keeping the total EC (Bloom + Bloombastic + betaine + proline + silica) within 1.2–1.8 mS/cm for flowering autoflowers. - **Compatibility with Betaine and Proline**: Betaine (1–2 mM) and proline (1–2 mM) are neutral organic compounds that don’t chemically interact with silica (an inorganic compound). Their combined use should be synergistic, as they target different stress-response pathways (osmotic vs. structural). 5. **Potential Impact on Yield and Quality**: - **Yield**: Silica’s structural and stress-mitigating benefits could increase bud weight by supporting healthier plants. In hemp, 1 mM silica increased biomass by 10–15%. For autoflowers (28–112 g/plant indoors), 0.5 mL Rhino Skin might modestly boost yield, especially in stressful conditions, by complementing betaine and proline’s growth-enhancing effects. - **Cannabinoid/Terpene Profile**: No direct evidence links silica to THC, CBD, or terpene changes in cannabis, but stronger plants may produce denser buds or more resin. Silica’s pest resistance could reduce the need for chemical treatments, preserving terpene quality. Proper flushing remains critical to avoid flavor impacts. ### **Recommended Dosage and Application** - **Dosage**: **0.5 mL Rhino Skin per 2 L (0.25 mL/L)** is optimal. - **Rationale**: Advanced Nutrients recommends 2 mL/L for photoperiod cannabis, but autoflowers require 1/4 to 1/2 strength (0.5–1 mL/L). At 0.5 mL per 2 L, Rhino Skin provides ~0.1–0.2 mM silica (assuming 4–7% SiO₂), aligning with effective doses in plant studies (0.5–2 mM) while minimizing EC and pH impacts. - **Confirmation**: Your specified 0.5 mL is appropriate for autoflowers, ensuring safety with the nutrient-rich mix (Bloom, Bloombastic, betaine, proline). - **Nutrient Solution Recipe (2 L)**: - **Water**: 2 L (RO or dechlorinated tap water). - **Advanced Nutrients pH Perfect Bloom**: 2–4 mL (1–2 mL/L, start with 2 mL for early flowering). - **Atami Bloombastic**: 1 mL (0.5 mL/L, suitable for flowering). - **Betaine Anhydrous**: 250–500 mg (1–2 mM, start with 250 mg). - **Proline**: 230–460 mg (1–2 mM, start with 230 mg). - **Advanced Nutrients Rhino Skin**: 0.5 mL (0.25 mL/L). - **Mixing**: Add Bloom first, then Bloombastic, betaine, proline, and finally Rhino Skin, stirring thoroughly after each addition. Check EC (target 1.2–1.8 mS/cm) and pH (5.5–6.5 for hydro, 6.0–6.5 for soil). - **Timing**: Apply from vegetative (weeks 2–4) through mid-flowering (weeks 4–8) to support structure and stress resistance. Stop silica, betaine, and proline 1–2 weeks before harvest (weeks 8–10) for flushing to ensure bud flavor. - **Frequency**: Use with each nutrient feeding (every 2–3 days in hydro, weekly in soil). If EC nears 1.8 mS/cm, reduce Bloom to 2 mL or alternate silica applications. ### **Potential Risks and Considerations** - **Nutrient Overload**: The mix (Bloom + Bloombastic + betaine + proline + silica) is nutrient-dense. At 0.5 mL, Rhino Skin adds minimal EC (~0.05–0.1 mS/cm), but the total EC (1.2–1.8 mS/cm) must be monitored to avoid burn (brown leaf tips, clawing). If symptoms appear, reduce Bloom to 2 mL or skip silica for one feeding. - **pH Stability**: Rhino Skin’s potassium silicate may slightly raise pH, but pH Perfect Bloom should counteract this. Verify pH after mixing (5.5–6.5 for hydro, 6.0–6.5 for soil). - **Redundancy**: Betaine, proline, and silica all enhance stress tolerance (osmotic, metabolic, structural). In optimal conditions (e.g., indoor, 70–80°F, 40–60% humidity), silica’s benefits may be marginal, but under stress (e.g., heat, pests), it adds a complementary layer of protection. - **Flushing**: Stop all additives (silica, betaine, proline) 1–2 weeks before harvest, using plain water or Advanced Nutrients Flawless Finish to avoid residual taste in buds. - **Cost vs. Benefit**: Rhino Skin is relatively affordable, but its benefits may be less pronounced in well-managed grows. Test on a few plants to assess impact. - **Cannabinoid Effects**: No evidence suggests silica alters THC, CBD, or terpenes, but improved plant health could enhance resin production. Overuse risks silica deposits affecting flavor if not flushed. ### **Summary of Effects** Adding **0.5 mL Advanced Nutrients Rhino Skin** to a 2-liter solution with **Bloom (2–4 mL)**, **Bloombastic (1 mL)**, **betaine (250–500 mg)**, and **proline (230–460 mg)** could: - Strengthen stems and leaves, supporting heavier buds. - Enhance resistance to abiotic (drought, heat) and biotic (pests, fungi) stresses. - Improve photosynthetic efficiency and nutrient uptake, complementing betaine and proline’s osmotic and metabolic benefits. - Potentially increase yield (28–112 g/plant) by reducing stress setbacks. The 0.5 mL dose (0.25 mL/L) is safe for autoflowers, keeping EC within 1.2–1.8 mS/cm. Apply during vegetative to mid-flowering, stop 1–2 weeks before harvest, and monitor for nutrient burn. The synergy of silica (structural), betaine (osmotic), and proline (metabolic) could optimize autoflower health, especially under stress. If you share your grow setup (e.g., hydro/soil, indoor/outdoor, strain, growth stage), I can refine dosing or application further. Let me know if you need sourcing tips or additional guidance!

She seems to be recovering well from the Calcium deficiency. No additional spotting and the heavy pruning was a good idea. I made some adjustments to the bucket design to minimize the heat from my UFO light.

Lamp Brightness: 100% @ 16" - estimated 914 PAR (experimented with angling the light slightly to achieve roughly 16" distance on both sides) Feeding schedule once-a-week, all other waterings strictly water-only Day after feeding, soil is given a sst + fresh organic kefir whey 4oz+ per gallon (kefir grains grown in local organic grass-fed milk) IPM 1oz per gal EM5 solution foliar spray + applied directly to mulch/cover crop (before lights-out) - once a week Note: had to move a couple pots around this week due to watering restrictions GMO 2 is now back left - GMO 1 moved ahead to front left stem rubs: GMO 1 - strong/gas GMO 2 - mild/faint/gas GMO 3 - strong/citrus/floral/gas

Everything’s wonderful. But a lot of work to do @ the moment.. Today I had to realize once again how different a run can be. One Dark Devil has given up. So I had to harvest her. About 2 weeks early. This specimen had already resented the topping, I think. She didn't show much effort to become more branched and was already pre-flowering in week 2. I am looking forward to a few suggestions or opinions from you, dear garden friends. I'll put photos in a moment... Normally, I wouldn't top an automatic of the Red Family from Sweet Seeds from experience. Somehow they had problems more often, when I did. When they were fully grown, they were usually very productive and healthy. She simply had too weak nerves. But that's ok. My nerves are also pretty down. Due to the loss of my beloved Quimaria - I miss my sweet cat girl insanely. That's why I didn't want to interrupt this passage with the good old Secret Jardin to set up the Homebox. Too many beautiful memories stick to this tent, because my ladybug always sat at the edge of the bed, when I did my gardening. For me, this also means a kind of farewell. This plant also began to bloom after a very short time. But I'm happy about more space, because all the other comrades-in-arms like it very much and everything is progressing properly. She behaved as if she was already slightly over time. Little perspiration. And no changes were noticeable. Leaves with an autumnal touch. But a wonderful berry-like scent. Now I have hung up their flowers to dry.

Nothing but colas on all 3 this is going to be a big harvest. Another 2 or 3 weeks max.

I would believe this variety again ... I think it could be better ... and do not make some mistakes in it ... I recommend it to all growers ...

Girls jus doing their thing living their best

Le piante sono state un pelo stressate dal fatto che non sono state seguite correttamente questa settimana comunque nulla di irreparabile, i fert sono quelli elencati nulla di più l'unica cosa che nn capisco sono due piante che sono già iniziate a fiorire ho sbagliato qualcosa nel recuperare i semi....vedremo come finirà.

Day 70 Sorry, from now on i will update very little, i'm not doing soo much at this point, just keeping feeding. Tomorrow last big defoliation. Day 72 It's becoming pretty difficult to shoot photos in there.. i barely have space to add water to the buckets ( now 8 liters every day), added net for support and "constriction" of pinus because she's huge and was starting to trow shadow on the fresh pressed runtz.

Growing strong cut 13clones today and transplanted the two biguns loving how they are turning out

This week I let the plants rest a bit from last week's lst and topping. They have responded very well I am going to train them a little more until the whole tent is full. This week I am going to lower the lamp a bit and give some more nutrition to the plants within a week or two I will switch them to flowering period.

Hopefully she continues to fatten up! Can't wait to see the final result but still a fair bit to go.

Not sure if I recorded the wrong height as week, but she shrunk 4 inches. 🤣. No issues, chugging along in flower.

São 3 plantas da CBD Auto da Fast Buds , qualidade comprovada , duas estão bem parecidas e uma deu uma alongada no caule mas tem também boas flores achknqje as 3 me deram uma boa colheita geral.

Well I just can't stop popping beans here we have the seedstockers Purple punch auto flower. I'm excited about this one she is being grown out in a 1 litre container throughout and put into a 50%soil 25%/25% vermiculite perlite mix . The feeding will be done by Gruv Cinagro a 100% organic Canadian company . This is my first auto by this company and I'm ready to see how she does in my set up .. Cheers and thanks for checking out my grow ..

Still dealing with some deficiencies in Thai one growing three other plants in same tent no issues like the one with this one