Northern Lights Auto is an iconic cannabis strain, known for its unique qualities and convenience. It is a cross between the legendary Northern Lights and a Cannabis ruderalis variety, which gives it its autoflowering trait. It flowers based on age, not light schedule changes. Its ease of cultivation and consistent results make it popular.
Characteristics of Northern Lights Auto
Northern Lights Auto provides a deeply relaxing body high, with subtle cerebral euphoria. It is a popular choice for evening use or for individuals seeking relief from stress, pain, or insomnia. Its aroma and flavor profile blend sweet, earthy, and pine notes for a smooth experience.
The strain produces dense, resinous buds with vibrant green hues, sometimes with purple hints. These buds are coated with trichomes for a frosty appearance. Northern Lights Auto has a THC content ranging from 14% to 18%. As an Indica-dominant hybrid, it grows into a bushy, compact plant, reaching 90-120 cm.
Why Choose Autoflowering Strains
Autoflowering strains offer several advantages. Their independence from light cycles means they automatically begin flowering after a few weeks of vegetative growth, typically 2-4 weeks post-germination. This simplifies cultivation, eliminating light schedule manipulation.
These strains also have a rapid growth cycle, often going from seed to harvest in 8-10 weeks. This allows faster turnaround and multiple harvests within a single season. Autoflowers maintain a smaller, compact size, suitable for discreet or limited growing spaces. Their Cannabis ruderalis genetics contribute to natural resilience against environmental stresses, pests, and diseases.
Growing Northern Lights Auto
Germination
Germinating Northern Lights Auto seeds can be achieved by several methods. The paper towel method places seeds between moist paper towels in a warm, dark place. Alternatively, soak seeds in room-temperature water for 12-24 hours before transferring. Direct planting into a pre-moistened, light soil mix is also effective. Maintain a warm environment (70-85°F / 21-29°C) and consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Growing Medium
Northern Lights Auto thrives in a light, airy, and well-draining growing medium for root development and oxygenation. Soil mixes rich in organic matter are recommended. Many growers use peat-based seed-starting mixes or blends with coco coir, perlite, and vermiculite to improve aeration and drainage. While soil is popular, hydroponic systems offer precise nutrient control. Ensure adequate drainage in pots to prevent waterlogging.
Lighting Requirements
Northern Lights Auto benefits from extended light periods. Common light schedules include 18 hours of light followed by 6 hours of darkness (18/6), 20 hours of light with 4 hours of darkness (20/4), or continuous light (24/0). An 18/6 cycle is popular, providing ample light while allowing a rest period.
Adjust light intensity by growth stage. During the seedling phase, a photosynthetically active radiation (PPFD) of 200-400 µmol/m²/s is suitable. Increase this to 400-600 µmol/m²/s during the vegetative stage and 600-900 µmol/m²/s during flowering. LED or HPS lamps provide necessary intensity and spectrum.
Nutrient Needs
Northern Lights Auto, like other autoflowering strains, can be sensitive to nutrient levels, requiring a cautious approach. During the vegetative stage, plants require nutrients with higher nitrogen content for leafy growth. As they transition into flowering, their needs shift towards higher phosphorus and potassium levels for bud development.
Start with lower nutrient concentrations than photoperiod strains, gradually increasing as the plant matures. Some soil mixes contain enough initial nutrients to sustain seedlings for the first few weeks, delaying external feeding. Monitor the plant for signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses to adjust feeding schedules.
Watering Practices
Water Northern Lights Auto when the top inch or two of the soil feels dry. Lift the pot to gauge its weight; a light pot indicates a need for water.
Seedlings require less water than mature plants, benefiting from light misting or small applications at the base. As the plant grows, gradually increase the water volume. Ensure pots have adequate drainage to prevent water pooling and root issues. Use pH-balanced water (6.0-7.0 for soil) for optimal nutrient absorption.
Temperature and Humidity
Maintain appropriate temperature and humidity for healthy growth. During germination, 75-80°F (24-27°C) with 60-70% humidity is conducive to sprouting. For the vegetative stage, temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) are suitable, and 40-60% relative humidity.
As Northern Lights Auto enters the flowering phase, maintain temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C). Reduce humidity to 40-50% during flowering to minimize mold and encourage resin production. Consistent airflow helps prevent moisture accumulation.
Training Techniques
Low-stress training (LST) methods are recommended for Northern Lights Auto over high-stress techniques. LST involves gently bending and tying down the main stem and branches to create an even canopy, maximizing light exposure to lower bud sites. This encourages lateral growth without stunting the plant, important given the autoflower’s rapid life cycle.
Training begins around the third week of growth, once the plant has established a few nodes and a healthy root system. Soft ties or plant wire secure branches; adjust as the plant grows to avoid constriction. Screen of Green (SCROG) can also manage canopy height and improve light distribution.
Pest and Disease Prevention
Northern Lights Auto exhibits natural resilience to pests and diseases, simplifying its cultivation. Proactive measures ensure healthy growth. Maintain a clean growing environment, regularly cleaning tools and removing plant debris.
Proper air circulation and ventilation prevent high humidity, which can lead to mold and fungal issues. Regular inspection for early pest signs, such as yellowing leaves or small spots, allows timely intervention. Organic pest control methods like neem oil, insecticidal soaps, or beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs) manage common cannabis pests. Companion planting with herbs like basil or marigolds can deter certain insects.
Harvesting and Curing Northern Lights Auto
Identify the optimal harvest time by observing trichomes, tiny glands on buds. For peak THC, look for mostly milky white trichomes; for a more sedative effect, harvest when some have turned amber. Pistil recession and browning is another indicator.
After harvest, drying preserves bud quality. Hang branches upside down in a dark, well-ventilated area (60-70°F / 15-21°C, 45-60% RH). Drying lasts 7-14 days, until smaller stems snap.
Once dried, trim buds and place them into airtight glass jars for curing. Store jars in a cool, dark place (60-70°F / 15-21°C, 58-62% RH). For the first few weeks, “burp” jars daily (15-30 minutes) to release moisture and allow flavor development. Curing lasts 2-4 weeks or longer.
Common Growing Challenges
Growers may encounter challenges even with resilient Northern Lights Auto. Nutrient imbalances, either deficiencies or excesses, can manifest as discoloration or unusual leaf growth. Yellowing leaves may indicate nitrogen deficiency, while burnt leaf tips can suggest nutrient burn.
pH imbalances in the growing medium can lock out nutrients. Monitor and adjust water and medium pH for optimal nutrient uptake. Light burn (yellowing or crispy top leaves) can occur if lights are too close or intense. Adjusting light height or intensity mitigates this. Signs of general stress, such as drooping or wilting leaves, often point to over/under-watering or unfavorable temperature/humidity. Careful observation and environmental adjustment are needed.