The appearance of “nanners” on plants often signals a plant’s response to stress or genetic predisposition. These small, banana-shaped growths are male reproductive tissue emerging on typically female plants. Their presence can significantly impact yield by leading to seed production rather than unpollinated flowers. Understanding nanners and the factors contributing to their formation is important for maintaining a healthy and productive garden.
What Exactly Are Nanners
“Nanners” describes small, elongated, yellow or lime-green growths that emerge from the buds of female plants. These structures are essentially exposed male stamens, which are the pollen-producing parts of a male flower. Unlike typical male pollen sacs, which are usually enclosed and round, nanners do not need to burst open to release pollen; they are already exposed and can begin shedding pollen immediately upon appearance.
These growths typically form within the flower structures, often appearing on the nodes or bracts of the flowers. Their distinct banana-like shape makes them relatively easy to identify. The primary concern with nanners is their ability to self-pollinate the female plant or pollinate other nearby female plants, leading to seed production. This process diverts the plant’s energy away from cannabinoid and terpene development towards seed formation, reducing the overall quality, potency, and yield of the harvest.
It is important to differentiate nanners from true hermaphroditism, where a plant develops both distinct male pollen sacs and female flowers. Nanners represent a specific type of intersex expression where male reproductive organs (stamens) appear directly within female flower structures. This distinction is significant as nanners indicate a more direct and immediate threat of pollination due to their exposed nature.
Common Causes of Nanner Formation
Several factors can contribute to the development of nanners on plants, primarily stemming from environmental stressors or genetic predispositions. Inconsistent light schedules are a frequent trigger, particularly for photoperiod-sensitive plants. Interruptions during the dark period, known as light leaks, can cause significant stress, as can overly bright lighting or lights placed too close to the plant.
Temperature extremes also play a significant role. High temperatures, especially those consistently above 85°F (30°C), can cause heat stress, leading to nanner appearance. Conversely, freezing cold nights or large temperature swings can similarly induce stress and trigger nanner development in some plant varieties.
Nutrient imbalances and pH issues can also contribute to nanner formation. When plants do not receive the correct balance of essential nutrients, or if pH levels are outside the optimal range, it can stress the plant. Deficiencies in phosphorus, potassium, or magnesium are known stressors. Major plant health problems, such as root rot or pest infestations, also weaken the plant and can cause it to produce nanners as a last resort to self-pollinate and ensure reproduction.
Genetic predisposition is another significant factor, as some plant strains are naturally more prone to developing nanners, even under optimal growing conditions. Plants that are allowed to flower for an overly long period, past their optimal harvest window, may also produce nanners as a final attempt to self-pollinate and create seeds, a process sometimes referred to as “rodelization.”
Identifying and Responding to Nanners
Identifying nanners early is important for mitigating their impact on your crop. These growths are typically elongated and can be yellow, white, or lime green, often appearing in bunches. They commonly emerge directly from the female flower structures, particularly from the nodes or bracts. Using a magnifying glass can assist in spotting these small structures, as they can be minute. Unlike enclosed pollen sacs, nanners often have visible stamens protruding.
Upon discovering nanners, prompt action is advisable to prevent widespread pollination. One immediate step is careful removal of the nanners. Using tweezers or small scissors, gently pluck off the individual nanners, taking care not to disturb them too much, which could release pollen. It is recommended to spray the nanners with plain water before removal to help contain any pollen. This action should be performed with fans off to prevent any released pollen from circulating throughout the grow space.
If nanners appear early in the flowering stage, especially if there are many, it may be necessary to remove the affected plant entirely from the grow area to protect the rest of the crop from pollination. If the nanners appear later in the flowering cycle, close to harvest (e.g., within a week or two), the risk of significant seed development is lower, as seeds require approximately 15 days to form after pollination. In such late-stage cases, growers might choose to continue plucking nanners daily until harvest or consider an early harvest to prevent further seeding. While nanners can affect bud quality and potency, the presence of a few nanners does not necessarily mean the entire crop is ruined.
Strategies for Nanner Prevention
Preventing nanner formation largely involves creating a stable and stress-free environment for your plants. Maintaining consistent environmental conditions is a primary preventative measure. This includes regulating temperature within an optimal range of 65-85°F (19-30°C) and avoiding drastic fluctuations. Humidity levels should also be controlled, typically between 40-60% relative humidity during the vegetative stage and 40-50% during flowering to discourage mold and reduce plant stress.
Proper light management is another important strategy. Ensuring a consistent light schedule without interruptions during dark periods, known as light leaks, is critical for photoperiod-sensitive plants. Providing appropriate light intensity and distance from the plant canopy prevents light stress, which can induce nanners. Adequate airflow and ventilation also contribute to a healthy environment by preventing stagnant air, regulating temperature and humidity, and strengthening plant stems, thereby reducing overall plant stress.
Effective nutrient management and pH control are also crucial. Providing a balanced nutrient regimen tailored to the plant’s growth stage and maintaining optimal pH levels in the growing medium ensures proper nutrient uptake and reduces stress. Regular monitoring of plants for signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses allows for timely adjustments. Furthermore, selecting stable genetics from reputable sources can minimize the inherent predisposition of certain strains to produce nanners, even when subjected to minor stressors. Consistent monitoring and proactive adjustments to environmental conditions and plant care practices can significantly reduce the likelihood of nanner development.