Sun, Salt and Strong Breezes
If you don’t just want to holiday by the sea but also grow cannabis plants there, you might dream of a garden right on the coast, plenty of sun and a fresh sea breeze. But what sounds idyllic to holidaymakers poses very particular challenges for cannabis plants. Salty air, sandy soil and often fierce winds can quickly ruin a grow if you’re not prepared.
In this article on weedx.ch we show you how to make the most of the coastal climate and master the pitfalls of the sea. Plants from hemp clones also benefit from the right protective measures.
The challenges of a coastal climate
1. Salt in the air (sea spray)
Salt draws moisture out of plants. When fine salt crystals settle on the leaves, they can cause “salt burn”. The leaf edges turn brown and the plant dehydrates, even though there’s enough water in the soil.
2. Strong wind
On the coast there’s almost always a breeze – or a storm. Wind does help against mould (Botrytis), but it can physically damage young plants or dry out the soil extremely quickly.
3. Sandy soil
Coastal soils are often very sandy. Sand holds water and nutrients extremely poorly. That means your plants could go hungry or thirsty even if you feed them regularly.
Tips for a successful coastal grow
The right windbreak
Don’t plant your cannabis right on the front line facing the sea. Use natural barriers such as hedges, fences or companion plants (like marram grass or hardy shrubs) to catch the full force of the wind and the salt spray.
Improving the soil is a must
If you grow directly in the ground, you need to upgrade the sand. Mix in plenty of compost, worm castings or coco fibre to increase water retention. Alternatively, grow in large pots or fabric pots to keep full control over the medium.
Cleaning the leaves
It sounds unusual, but it helps: after a storm with lots of spray, gently mist your plants in the morning with soft fresh water (before flowering!) to wash the salt layer off the leaves.
Choosing strains
Choose robust strains. Autoflowering genetics are often a good choice, as they make the most of the short, intense coastal summer. Indicas are usually more compact and wind-resistant, while sativas often cope better with the high humidity (fog) by the sea.
Advantages of growing by the sea
Despite the extra work, the sea also has its upsides:
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Light reflection: the water reflects sunlight, which can increase light intensity for your plants.
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Mild climate: the sea acts as a heat store. Nights are often less cold than inland, which can extend the growing season a little into autumn.
Conclusion: hemp under palm trees (or pines)
Growing by the sea needs more attention than in a sheltered inland spot. With the right windbreak and optimised soil, though, you can achieve first-class results. The combination of high light intensity and fresh air often produces a very special terpene profile.
Discover the quality of weedx.ch: whether grown by the sea or in the Swiss mountains – you’ll only find the best with us. Browse our shop for first-class CBD products and CBD flowers, cultivated with passion and know-how!
Sources & further reading
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Royal Queen Seeds: Growing cannabis outdoors: coastal vs. inland. (Comparison of climate zones.)
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Dutch Passion: The best cannabis seeds for coastal growing. (Strain recommendations for harsh climates.)
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High Times: Tips for growing pot near the ocean. (Pro tips on salt and wind.)
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Gardeners’ World: Dealing with salty coastal air. (Botanical tips on salt tolerance.)
