How to Grow AK-47
Complete AK-47 cultivation guide — from seeds and germination to harvest, drying and curing.
AK-47 Grow Timeline
AK-47 growing under optimised conditions
AK-47 Seeds & Genetics
Genetics: Colombian × Mexican × Thai × Afghani | Breeder: Serious Seeds | Type: Sativa-dominant Hybrid
AK-47 was developed by Serious Seeds in 1992 through a complex cross of four landrace strains — Colombian, Mexican, Thai and Afghani. The result is a highly resinous, multi-award-winning hybrid that dominated Cannabis Cup competitions throughout the 1990s and 2000s. Seeds are available in feminised and autoflowering formats from Serious Seeds and dozens of other breeders. Autoflowering AK-47 is an excellent option for beginners in northern climates with short summers. Begin germination using the paper towel method; seeds typically sprout in 3–7 days. For a complete beginner walkthrough, visit our beginner cannabis growing guide.
Indoor vs Outdoor Growing AK-47
AK-47 performs well in standard indoor grow setups under HPS or LED lighting. Its sativa structure means it stretches during the early flowering period — begin training during veg to maintain a manageable canopy height. SCROG is highly effective for AK-47; see our SCROG guide for setup instructions. Outdoors, AK-47 prefers warm, sunny climates and finishes by late September to mid-October. In northern Europe, start indoors and transplant after last frost for maximum growing time. Our outdoor growing guide covers transplanting and sun exposure optimisation.
Nutrients & Feeding Schedule for AK-47
AK-47 has a standard-to-moderate nutrient demand. Feed with nitrogen-dominant nutrients in veg (EC 1.0–1.6) and switch to bloom formula in the first week of flower. AK-47 is sensitive to overfeeding — start at lower EC values and increase gradually. A CalMag supplement is recommended in soft water or coco coir environments. For a full feeding timeline and EC targets, consult our cannabis nutrients guide.
Common Problems & Solutions When Growing AK-47
AK-47's main challenges are height management indoors and intense odour during flowering. Without training, sativa phenotypes can double in height during the stretch. Its strong smell requires a robust carbon filter setup. AK-47 has moderate mould resistance — keep humidity below 50% during flowering. Occasional calcium deficiency may appear in later flowering; address with CalMag supplementation.
Harvest, Drying & Curing AK-47
AK-47 is ready when trichomes are 70–80% cloudy — harvesting at this point preserves its energetic, cerebral high. Waiting for more amber shifts the effect toward sedation. Cut branches carefully — AK-47 buds are resin-coated and sticky. Hang dry for 7–10 days at 18–21°C. After drying, cure in glass jars for 3–5 weeks, burping daily. The earthy-sweet aroma intensifies significantly after a proper cure. Full harvest process detailed in our harvest guide.
Discover the full terpene profile, effects, and medical uses of AK-47.
AK-47 Terpenes & Effects
Further Reading & Resources
Frequently Asked Questions — Growing AK-47
Is AK-47 easy to grow?
AK-47 is beginner-friendly despite its sativa growth pattern. It is resilient, responds well to training and produces reliable yields.
How long does AK-47 take to flower?
AK-47 flowers in 7–9 weeks indoors. Its relatively fast flowering time for a sativa-dominant strain is one of its key advantages.
What yield does AK-47 produce?
Indoor yields average 350–500g/m² depending on lighting and training. Outdoor plants in warm climates can exceed 500g per plant.
Does AK-47 have a strong smell during growth?
AK-47 has an intense, pungent skunk-sweet aroma during flowering. A quality carbon filter and inline fan are essential for odour control.
Is AK-47 good for SCROG growing?
Yes — AK-47's branchy sativa structure responds excellently to SCROG training, producing an even canopy with multiple large colas.
Can AK-47 grow outdoors in northern climates?
AK-47 can grow outdoors in temperate climates but may struggle to finish before autumn frosts in regions with short summers. Choose an early-flowering phenotype for northern grows.
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