A cannabis clone is a genetically identical cutting taken from a mature “mother” plant, rooted in a propagation medium like a rockwool cube or peat plug. Eventually, this small cutting requires moving to a larger container to support its developing root system. Transplanting is the process of moving the young plant from its initial restricted space to a more permanent growing medium. The timing of this move directly influences the plant’s subsequent growth rate and overall health.
Visual Indicators of Rooting Success
Determining the right time to transplant a clone centers on the observable development of its root system. A clone is ready when healthy, bright white roots are clearly visible, often emerging from the sides or bottom of the initial rooting medium. Waiting until the roots are approximately 3 inches (7.6 cm) long provides the best balance between stability and avoiding root-binding. New vegetative growth on the clone’s upper structure is a positive sign, showing the root system is functional and actively supporting the plant’s metabolism. Conversely, delaying the transplant too long can cause the roots to circle excessively within the small plug, leading to a condition known as being root-bound. A constricted root ball hinders nutrient uptake and water absorption, significantly slowing the plant’s growth and making recovery more difficult after it is finally moved.
Preparing the Clone and New Medium
The process immediately preceding the transplant involves hardening off the clone to prepare it for environmental changes. Clones often start in high-humidity domes under low light, so this step involves gradually exposing them to lower humidity and increased light intensity over a few days. Acclimatizing the clone reduces the shock of a sudden environmental shift. Watering the clone a day or two before the transplant is beneficial, as properly hydrated plants handle the stress of being moved better and ensure the root ball stays intact.
A common starting size for the first transplant is a one-gallon pot, which offers sufficient space for the root system to expand without holding excessive moisture. The new medium, whether soil or a soilless mix like coco coir, should be pre-moistened to a uniform saturation before the clone is placed into it. This prevents the new medium from wicking moisture away from the delicate root ball and ensures immediate contact between the roots and the surrounding substrate.
When physically moving the clone, the goal is to minimize disturbance to the established root ball. Create a hole in the new medium that is large enough to comfortably accommodate the clone’s entire root structure, ensuring the top of the rooting plug sits level with the surface of the new medium. Gently placing the clone into the prepared hole and backfilling with the medium avoids unnecessary trauma to the roots. Lightly tamping the medium around the base of the clone removes any large air pockets and establishes good soil-to-root contact, which is necessary for efficient water and nutrient absorption.
Managing Post-Transplant Shock and Recovery
Despite careful handling, the clone may experience a temporary slowing of growth or minor symptoms of transplant shock immediately following the move. Common signs of this stress include a temporary drooping or wilting of the leaves, which occurs because the disrupted roots struggle to keep pace with the plant’s transpiration rate. Severe shock can sometimes result in minor leaf discoloration, particularly yellowing at the edges or tips, a sign of nutrient or water imbalance.
Environmental adjustments can significantly aid the plant’s recovery during the first 24 to 72 hours. Immediately after transplanting, the light intensity should be slightly reduced to lower the plant’s overall metabolic demands and reduce water loss through the leaves. Maintaining a slightly elevated relative humidity around the transplanted clone also helps reduce transpiration while the roots are working to establish themselves in the new medium.
The initial watering strategy is important; the clone should be watered thoroughly immediately after transplanting to settle the new medium and eliminate air pockets. Subsequent watering must be done with restraint to avoid over-saturation, which can lead to root rot. Focusing the water directly around the original root ball encourages the new roots to grow outward in search of moisture. The plant will typically overcome the initial stress and resume vigorous growth within a few days, at which point normal light and nutrient regimens can be slowly reintroduced.