This week the photoperiod girls continued to show steady growth and healthy development. Their leaves are a rich green, with wide blades and strong node stacking. The plants are branching nicely without excessive stretch, which means the 18-inch, 50% light setting is still working perfectly.
The cover crop has taken off and is providing great soil protection, though it may need some trimming soon to prevent light competition. Humidity and pest prevention measures (sticky traps, nematodes applied earlier) are keeping things stable with no major pest pressure noted.
On the feeding front, the plants have been living off the nutrients in their soil with no deficiencies showing. The plan is to water with silica tonight (Sept 3) to strengthen cell walls and prep them for training. Topping is scheduled this week as well — this will help shape the canopy and encourage even bushier growth moving into later veg.
Overall, Week 4 has been smooth and productive. The plants are thriving in their environment, setting the stage for training and stronger structural development in Week 5.