420Fastbuds Auto Grow Guide Banana Purple Punch & Gorilla Zkittlez Harvest

Hey there, fellow cannabis enthusiasts! If you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for the next big thing in the world of autoflowering strains. And let me tell you, 420Fastbuds has been killing it lately! In this comprehensive guide, we'll dive deep into my current auto grow, featuring the delicious Banana Purple Punch and the potent Gorilla Zkittlez. We'll cover everything from seed to harvest, including tips, tricks, and stunning harvest pictures to get you inspired. So, buckle up, grab your favorite strain, and let's get growing!

Why Choose Autoflowering Strains?

Before we jump into the specifics of my grow, let's quickly touch on why autoflowering strains have become so popular. Autoflowering strains, like those from 420Fastbuds, offer a range of advantages that make them appealing to both novice and experienced growers. The most significant benefit is their automatic flowering cycle. Unlike photoperiod strains that require specific light cycles to trigger flowering, autoflowers bloom based on age, typically within 2-4 weeks of germination. This means you don't have to worry about managing light schedules, simplifying the growing process significantly. Another significant advantage of autoflowering strains is their short life cycle. Most autoflowers are ready for harvest in just 8-10 weeks from seed, allowing for multiple harvests in a single growing season. This rapid turnaround is perfect for growers looking for quick results. Additionally, autoflowers are generally more compact and resilient than their photoperiod counterparts. Their smaller size makes them ideal for indoor grows with limited space, and their hardy nature allows them to withstand environmental stressors more effectively. This makes them a great choice for beginners who are still learning the ropes. Finally, the convenience of autoflowers cannot be overstated. Their ease of growth and reduced maintenance make them a fantastic option for anyone with a busy lifestyle or those new to cannabis cultivation. With 420Fastbuds consistently producing high-quality autoflowering genetics, there's never been a better time to explore the world of autoflowering cannabis.

420Fastbuds: A Breeder You Can Trust

420Fastbuds has carved out a reputation as a premier breeder of autoflowering cannabis strains, and for good reason. Their commitment to quality genetics and consistent performance has made them a favorite among growers worldwide. When you choose 420Fastbuds, you're not just buying seeds; you're investing in a wealth of experience and dedication to the craft of breeding. One of the key reasons for their success is their rigorous selection process. 420Fastbuds carefully selects and crosses the finest genetics to create autoflowering strains that boast exceptional yields, potent effects, and unique flavor profiles. This meticulous approach ensures that every seed has the potential to produce top-tier results. Furthermore, 420Fastbuds places a strong emphasis on stability. Their strains are known for their consistent growth patterns and reliable performance, which means you can expect similar results from plant to plant. This predictability is invaluable for both beginner and experienced growers, as it allows for more accurate planning and optimization of the growing environment. Innovation is also a hallmark of 420Fastbuds. They are constantly pushing the boundaries of autoflowering genetics, developing new and exciting strains that cater to a wide range of preferences. Whether you're looking for a relaxing indica, an energizing sativa, or a balanced hybrid, 420Fastbuds has something to offer. Beyond their genetics, 420Fastbuds is also known for their excellent customer service. They are always ready to assist growers with any questions or concerns, providing valuable support and guidance throughout the growing process. This commitment to customer satisfaction is a testament to their dedication to the cannabis community. In short, 420Fastbuds stands out as a breeder you can trust because of their unwavering commitment to quality, stability, innovation, and customer service. When you choose 420Fastbuds, you're choosing seeds that are backed by years of expertise and a passion for cannabis cultivation.

The Stars of the Show: Banana Purple Punch and Gorilla Zkittlez

In this grow, we're featuring two standout strains from 420Fastbuds: Banana Purple Punch and Gorilla Zkittlez. Both of these strains have gained a reputation for their exceptional qualities, and I'm excited to share my experience growing them.

Banana Purple Punch: A Sweet and Relaxing Treat

Banana Purple Punch is an indica-dominant hybrid that's known for its delicious flavor and relaxing effects. This strain is a cross between Banana OG and Purple Punch, resulting in a genetic masterpiece that's sure to impress. From the moment the seeds germinate, Banana Purple Punch plants exhibit vigorous growth and develop a sturdy structure. They are relatively easy to grow, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced growers. One of the most appealing aspects of Banana Purple Punch is its complex aroma. As the plants mature, they release a delightful blend of ripe bananas, sweet berries, and earthy undertones. This tantalizing scent is a preview of the flavor experience to come. During flowering, Banana Purple Punch plants produce dense, resin-coated buds that are a sight to behold. The buds often display beautiful shades of purple, adding to the strain's visual appeal. The resin production is also impressive, making Banana Purple Punch a great choice for those interested in making concentrates. When it comes to effects, Banana Purple Punch delivers a powerful and relaxing high. It's perfect for unwinding after a long day or enjoying a lazy weekend. The effects are primarily felt in the body, providing deep relaxation and stress relief. However, there's also a gentle cerebral buzz that keeps you from feeling too sedated. Medically, Banana Purple Punch is often used to alleviate pain, insomnia, and anxiety. Its calming effects can help to soothe both the body and mind, making it a versatile strain for therapeutic use. In terms of yield, Banana Purple Punch is a generous producer. With proper care, you can expect to harvest a substantial amount of high-quality buds. This makes it a rewarding strain to grow, both in terms of the experience and the final product. Overall, Banana Purple Punch is a standout strain that offers a winning combination of flavor, effects, and ease of growth. Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting out, this strain is sure to impress.

Gorilla Zkittlez: Potent and Flavorful

Gorilla Zkittlez is another exceptional strain from 420Fastbuds, known for its intense potency and mouthwatering flavor. This hybrid is a cross between Gorilla Glue and Zkittlez, two legendary strains that have won numerous awards. The result is a genetic powerhouse that delivers a truly unforgettable experience. From the early stages of growth, Gorilla Zkittlez plants demonstrate robustness and vigor. They are relatively easy to cultivate, making them a great choice for growers of all skill levels. The plants develop a strong, bushy structure, with multiple side branches that are capable of supporting heavy buds. One of the most striking features of Gorilla Zkittlez is its aroma. As the plants mature, they emit a captivating blend of sweet fruits, berries, and a hint of diesel. This complex scent profile is a testament to the strain's diverse genetic heritage. During flowering, Gorilla Zkittlez plants produce dense, resinous buds that are coated in a thick layer of trichomes. The buds often display a vibrant mix of colors, including green, purple, and orange, making them visually stunning. The resin production is particularly impressive, making Gorilla Zkittlez an excellent choice for those interested in making concentrates. When it comes to effects, Gorilla Zkittlez delivers a powerful and long-lasting high. The effects are both cerebral and physical, providing a balanced experience that's perfect for a variety of activities. You can expect a euphoric and uplifting head high, combined with a relaxing and soothing body buzz. Medically, Gorilla Zkittlez is often used to alleviate stress, anxiety, and pain. Its potent effects can help to calm the mind and relax the body, making it a valuable strain for therapeutic use. In terms of yield, Gorilla Zkittlez is a high-yielding strain. With proper care and attention, you can expect to harvest a generous amount of top-quality buds. This makes it a rewarding strain to grow, both in terms of the experience and the final product. Overall, Gorilla Zkittlez is a standout strain that offers a winning combination of potency, flavor, and yield. Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting out, this strain is sure to impress. It's a true testament to the quality and innovation of 420Fastbuds genetics.

Setting Up the Grow Environment

Creating the right environment is crucial for a successful auto grow. Here’s a breakdown of my setup:

• Grow Tent: A 4x4 grow tent provides ample space for these ladies to stretch out. Using a grow tent allows for better control over environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and light. This control is essential for maximizing the growth and yield of your plants. A 4x4 tent is a versatile size that can accommodate several plants, making it ideal for growing multiple strains or experimenting with different techniques. The enclosed environment also helps to contain odors and prevent pests from entering your grow space.
• Lights: I'm using a 600W LED grow light. LED grow lights are highly efficient and produce very little heat, which is crucial for maintaining a stable temperature in the grow tent. A 600W LED is powerful enough to provide adequate light coverage for a 4x4 tent, ensuring that all parts of the plants receive the necessary light for photosynthesis. LEDs also have a longer lifespan compared to traditional grow lights, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.
• Ventilation: An inline fan and carbon filter combo keeps the air fresh and odor-free. Proper ventilation is critical for the health and vigor of your plants. An inline fan helps to exhaust stale air from the tent, while a carbon filter removes odors, ensuring that your grow remains discreet. Good ventilation also prevents the buildup of humidity, which can lead to mold and mildew problems. Additionally, fresh air circulation helps to strengthen the plants and improve overall growth.
• Growing Medium: I'm using a coco coir mix, which provides excellent drainage and aeration. Coco coir is a popular growing medium for cannabis because it offers a balance of water retention and drainage. It's also a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to peat moss. The excellent aeration of coco coir promotes healthy root development, which is essential for nutrient uptake and overall plant health. Coco coir is also relatively inert, meaning it doesn't contain many nutrients on its own, allowing you to have more control over the feeding schedule.
• Nutrients: I use a balanced nutrient solution specifically formulated for cannabis. Providing the right nutrients is crucial for healthy growth and abundant yields. A balanced nutrient solution tailored for cannabis will contain the essential macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) and micronutrients that plants need at each stage of their life cycle. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and adjust the nutrient levels as needed based on the plants' specific requirements. Overfeeding can be as harmful as underfeeding, so careful monitoring and adjustment are key.

Germination and Early Growth

The germination process is where the magic begins. I soaked the 420Fastbuds seeds in water for 24 hours before planting them in small starter pots filled with coco coir. Germinating seeds in starter pots allows for easy transplanting later on, minimizing the risk of damaging the delicate seedlings. Soaking the seeds in water helps to soften the outer shell, making it easier for the root to emerge. Coco coir provides a sterile and well-draining environment for the seedlings to establish themselves.

The First Few Weeks: Seedling Stage

During the seedling stage, which lasts for about 2-3 weeks, the young plants are fragile and require gentle care. I kept the humidity high (around 70%) and the temperature stable (between 70-75°F). Maintaining high humidity is crucial during the seedling stage because it helps the young plants absorb moisture through their leaves until their root systems are fully developed. A stable temperature also promotes healthy growth and prevents stress.

I used a weak nutrient solution, gradually increasing the strength as the plants grew. Seedlings are sensitive to nutrient imbalances, so it's important to start with a weak solution and gradually increase the concentration as the plants mature. Overfeeding can lead to nutrient burn, which can damage or even kill the seedlings. Careful observation and adjustment of the nutrient levels are essential during this stage. Consistent watering and proper lighting are also vital during this period. I made sure the coco coir stayed moist but not waterlogged and kept the lights at an appropriate distance to prevent burning the delicate leaves.

Vegetative Stage: Growth Explosion

Once the plants entered the vegetative stage, they really took off. This is where the majority of the plant's growth occurs, and it's essential to provide the right conditions for optimal development. The vegetative stage is characterized by rapid growth and the development of leaves and branches. It's a crucial time for the plant to establish a strong foundation for flowering. During this stage, plants require higher levels of nitrogen, which is essential for leaf and stem growth.

I increased the light intensity and adjusted the nutrient solution to support the rapid growth. Providing adequate light is critical for photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy. Increasing the light intensity ensures that the plants receive enough energy to support their rapid growth. Adjusting the nutrient solution to include higher levels of nitrogen and other essential nutrients helps to fuel the plant's development. Regular monitoring of the plants' health and growth is essential during this stage.

I also started training the plants to maximize light exposure and airflow. Plant training techniques, such as low-stress training (LST) and topping, can help to create a more even canopy and increase yields. LST involves gently bending and tying down branches to expose more of the plant to light, while topping involves removing the main growing tip to encourage the growth of multiple colas. Improving airflow around the plants helps to prevent mold and mildew and ensures that all parts of the plant receive adequate ventilation.

Training Techniques: Low Stress Training (LST)

Low Stress Training (LST) is a gentle yet effective method to manipulate plant growth, maximizing light exposure and airflow. LST involves bending and securing branches to create a more even canopy, allowing light to penetrate deeper into the plant. This technique encourages the development of multiple bud sites, leading to higher yields. By spreading out the branches, LST also improves airflow, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. The "low stress" aspect of the technique means that the plants experience minimal trauma, allowing them to recover quickly and continue growing vigorously. LST is particularly well-suited for autoflowering strains, which have a limited vegetative period. It allows growers to optimize the plant's structure without the extended recovery time associated with more aggressive training methods. To perform LST, you'll need soft plant ties or coated wire and a way to secure the branches, such as by attaching them to the sides of the pot. Start by gently bending the main stem and securing it in a horizontal position. As the plant grows, continue to bend and secure new branches, creating a flat and even canopy. Regularly adjust the ties to accommodate the plant's growth and ensure that all branches receive adequate light. With LST, you can transform a single main cola into multiple bud sites, significantly increasing your harvest potential.

Flowering Stage: The Magic Happens

The flowering stage is the most exciting part of the grow cycle, where the plants begin to develop their buds. During the flowering stage, the plants shift their energy from vegetative growth to bud production. This transition is triggered by changes in the plant's internal hormonal balance, and it's crucial to provide the right conditions to support this shift. Reducing the humidity and maintaining a slightly cooler temperature can help to promote bud development and prevent mold and mildew.

I carefully monitored the humidity levels to prevent bud rot and maintained a consistent temperature. Bud rot, also known as botrytis, is a common fungal infection that can devastate a cannabis crop. It thrives in humid conditions, so it's essential to keep the humidity levels low during flowering. Maintaining a consistent temperature also helps to prevent stress and ensure that the plants can focus their energy on bud production.

I also switched to a bloom-specific nutrient solution to provide the necessary phosphorus and potassium. Phosphorus and potassium are essential macronutrients for flowering plants. Phosphorus is crucial for bud development and energy transfer, while potassium helps with overall plant health and nutrient uptake. Using a bloom-specific nutrient solution ensures that the plants receive the right balance of nutrients to support their flowering process. Regular feeding and monitoring of nutrient levels are crucial during this stage.

The aromas became more intense, and the buds started to swell and become covered in trichomes. The intense aromas are a sign that the plants are producing cannabinoids and terpenes, the compounds that give cannabis its unique flavor and effects. Trichomes are the resin glands that cover the buds and leaves, and they are the primary site of cannabinoid and terpene production. The more trichomes a plant has, the more potent it is likely to be. Watching the buds swell and become coated in trichomes is one of the most rewarding aspects of growing cannabis.

Harvest Time: The Grand Finale

The moment we’ve all been waiting for – harvest! Determining the right time to harvest is crucial for maximizing potency and flavor. The ideal harvest time is when the trichomes have reached the desired level of maturity. Trichomes are the resin glands that cover the buds, and they change color as they mature. Clear trichomes indicate that the plant is still developing, cloudy trichomes indicate peak potency, and amber trichomes indicate that the THC is degrading into CBN, which has more sedative effects.

I used a magnifying glass to check the trichomes, looking for that perfect ratio of cloudy to amber. Using a magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe allows you to closely examine the trichomes and determine their color. Harvesting when the trichomes are mostly cloudy with a few amber ones is generally considered the sweet spot for maximizing potency and flavor. However, some growers prefer to harvest earlier or later depending on their desired effects.

The Banana Purple Punch buds were dense and resinous, with a sweet, fruity aroma. The Banana Purple Punch buds often display beautiful shades of purple, adding to their visual appeal. The sweet, fruity aroma is a testament to the strain's delicious flavor profile. The dense and resinous buds are packed with cannabinoids and terpenes, promising a potent and flavorful experience.

The Gorilla Zkittlez buds were equally impressive, with a pungent, tropical scent. The pungent, tropical scent of Gorilla Zkittlez is a complex blend of sweet fruits, berries, and a hint of diesel. The buds are typically dense and coated in a thick layer of trichomes, indicating their high potency. Harvesting at the right time ensures that the buds reach their full potential in terms of flavor, aroma, and effects.

Drying and Curing: The Final Touches

Drying and curing are the final steps in the harvest process, and they are crucial for preserving the quality and potency of your buds. Proper drying and curing can significantly enhance the flavor, aroma, and smoothness of the smoke. Drying involves removing excess moisture from the buds, while curing allows the cannabinoids and terpenes to mature and develop their full potential.

I hung the buds upside down in a dark, cool, and well-ventilated room for about a week. Hanging the buds upside down allows the moisture to evaporate evenly, preventing mold and mildew. A dark room helps to preserve the cannabinoids and terpenes, which are sensitive to light. A cool temperature and good ventilation are also essential for preventing mold and ensuring a slow and even drying process. The drying process typically takes about a week, but it can vary depending on the humidity and temperature in your drying environment.

Then, I trimmed the buds and placed them in airtight jars for curing. Trimming the buds involves removing the excess leaves, which can improve the appearance and flavor of the final product. Placing the buds in airtight jars creates a controlled environment for curing, allowing the cannabinoids and terpenes to mature and develop their full potential.

I burped the jars daily for the first week, then less frequently over the next few weeks. Burping the jars involves opening them for a few minutes each day to release excess moisture and prevent mold growth. During the first week of curing, the buds will release a significant amount of moisture, so daily burping is essential. As the curing process progresses, the burping frequency can be reduced. Curing is a slow process that can take several weeks or even months, but it is well worth the effort for the improved flavor, aroma, and smoothness of the smoke.

Harvest Pictures and Results

I was blown away by the results of this grow. The Banana Purple Punch yielded some incredibly flavorful and potent buds, perfect for relaxing evenings. The Gorilla Zkittlez was equally impressive, with a powerful high and a delightful taste. I'll let the pictures speak for themselves!

[Insert Harvest Pictures Here]

Lessons Learned and Tips for Success

Every grow is a learning experience, and this one was no exception. Here are a few key takeaways and tips for success:

• Start with quality genetics: 420Fastbuds seeds are top-notch, ensuring a great foundation for your grow. Choosing high-quality seeds is the first step towards a successful harvest. 420Fastbuds is known for its stable genetics and consistent performance, making it a reliable choice for growers.
• Dial in your environment: Consistent temperature, humidity, and lighting are crucial for success. Maintaining a stable and optimal environment is essential for healthy plant growth. Consistent temperature and humidity levels prevent stress and promote vigorous growth, while adequate lighting ensures that the plants receive enough energy for photosynthesis.
• Don't overwater or overfeed: Less is often more when it comes to autos. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while overfeeding can cause nutrient burn. Autoflowering strains are generally more sensitive to nutrient imbalances than photoperiod strains, so it's important to be cautious and start with a weak nutrient solution.
• Patience is key: Let the plants do their thing, and don't rush the process. Growing cannabis is a patience-testing process, and it's important to allow the plants to develop at their own pace. Rushing the process can lead to mistakes and reduced yields. Trusting the plants and providing the right conditions will ultimately lead to a successful harvest.

Final Thoughts

Growing Banana Purple Punch and Gorilla Zkittlez from 420Fastbuds was an absolute blast. These strains are not only potent and flavorful but also relatively easy to grow, making them a great choice for any grower. I hope this guide has inspired you to try growing these amazing strains yourself. Happy growing, guys!