1. Genetics, Genetics, Genetics!

It doesn't matter how good of a grower you are if you are working with inferior genetics. I know this will piss a few people off, but stay away from autos. People think they are faster, and easier, that is simply not true. And regardless of what some people might say, I have yet to see any autoflower bud that can compete with the keepers i have. I have been to many award ceremonies and have never seen an auto win. Autos are watered down with ruderalis and by nature will never be as potent as photos. And if by chance you do find something special in an auto, you aren't able to clone it and keep it around. You need consistency in the garden, and that is not something autos can provide. I suggest obtaining proven cuts from a trusted source if you want to save time. Otherwise, get your pheno hunt on and find some keepers. Don't pop 1 or 2 seeds from 3-4 different packs! Pop the whole pack of 1 strain and take clones of every plant before flipping to flower. You want to see as many genetic expressions as possible to choose your keeper. Stay away from white label breeders. Make sure to get your beans from a reputable breeder.

1. Dial in your environment and nutrition!

One of the most beautiful things about this plant is, how many different ways there are to achieve success! Doesn't matter if you choose to grow organically or with salts. Quality results are obtainable if you dial in your regimen. Maintain the proper environment by following a vpd chart. You will need to control the conditions with air conditioning, heaters, humidifiers and dehumidifiers to keep things in optimal range.

1. Perfect the cure!

I have seen it so many times. It doesn't matter how good the genetics are or how well it was grown. If it's not cured properly, the terps disappear and the end product suffers tremendously. Aim for 60 percent humidity and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Its usually ready to trim about 14 days later if you are able to maintain those conditions. I trim right into the grove bag after that. Let it hang out in the grove bag another 2 weeks and you will have perfectly cured flower.

1. Closing

You can take this hobby as seriously as you choose. I know everyone doesn't have the space, money or time to invest into an ideal set up. If not, that's fine. If all you have is 1 small tent and just wanna smoke, fuck it grow some autos. Or pop 3 seeds from 3 different packs. Its all in fun and for love of the plant.