CULTIVATION GUIDE

How to Grow Northern Lights

Complete Northern Lights cultivation guide — from seeds and germination to harvest, drying and curing.

Difficulty: Easy Flowering: 7–8 weeks Indoor Yield: 500–600g/m²

Difficulty

Easy

Flowering Time

7–8 weeks

Indoor Yield

500–600g/m²

Outdoor Yield

600g+/plant

Plant Height

100–160cm

Grow Type

Indoor/Outdoor

Northern Lights Grow Timeline

Stage	Duration	Notes
Seeds / Germination	3–5 days	Paper towel or direct soil method
Vegetative Stage	4–5 weeks	18/6 light cycle, nitrogen-heavy feeding
Flowering Stage	49–56 days	12/12 light cycle, bloom nutrients
Harvest & Dry	7–14 days	18–21°C, 50–60% RH, dark room
Cure	3–4 weeks	Glass jars, burp daily (first 2 weeks)
Total Grow Time	3.5–4.5 months

Northern Lights growing under optimised conditions

Northern Lights Seeds & Genetics

Genetics: Afghani × Thai landrace | Breeder: Sensi Seeds | Type: Indica-dominant

Northern Lights is an Afghani-dominant indica developed in the US Pacific Northwest in the 1970s before being refined by Sensi Seeds in the Netherlands. It is widely considered the benchmark for pure indica growing — fast, compact, resinous and resilient. Northern Lights seeds are available in feminised and autoflowering versions from dozens of breeders worldwide. Feminised photoperiod seeds remain the most popular for maximising yield. Germination takes just 3–5 days. For first-time growers, our beginner cannabis growing guide covers every step from seed to harvest.

Indoor vs Outdoor Growing Northern Lights

Northern Lights is perfectly suited to indoor growing due to its compact height (100–160cm) and fast flowering. It fits easily in 1.2×1.2m tents and produces thick, resin-covered colas under HPS or LED. Its bushy structure benefits from topping in early veg to create an even canopy. Learn effective canopy management in our training techniques guide. Outdoors, Northern Lights finishes by early October in Northern Europe — avoiding most autumn rain. Plant in a sheltered, south-facing spot with well-drained soil. See our outdoor growing guide for site preparation tips.

Nutrients & Feeding Schedule for Northern Lights

Northern Lights is a moderate feeder with a preference for phosphorus and potassium during flowering. Use a standard grow nutrient in veg (EC 1.2–1.6) and switch to a bloom formula as soon as the first pistils appear. Northern Lights thrives in organic soil grows — compost teas and worm castings produce exceptional flavour in the final product. In hydro, keep EC below 2.0 to prevent tip burn. Check our cannabis nutrients guide for a full feeding timeline.

Common Problems & Solutions When Growing Northern Lights

Northern Lights is exceptionally resilient and rarely suffers serious problems. Its main vulnerability is overwatering in heavy soils — always allow the medium to partially dry between waterings. In very hot environments (above 30°C), growth slows and potency can drop. Maintain grow room temps at 22–28°C. Minor nitrogen deficiency (yellowing lower leaves in late flower) is normal and not cause for concern. Consult our pH guide for any nutrient lockout symptoms.

Harvest, Drying & Curing Northern Lights

Northern Lights is ready when trichomes are predominantly milky white with 20–30% amber for maximum sedative effect. Harvest timing significantly impacts the final high — earlier harvests produce a more cerebral effect. Cut branches and hang-dry in a dark room at 18–21°C for 7–10 days. Its dense buds can retain moisture — ensure adequate airflow to prevent bud rot during drying. Cure in glass jars for 3–6 weeks for optimal flavour development. Full process covered in our harvest guide.

Also See Our Northern Lights Strain Review

Discover the full terpene profile, effects, and medical uses of Northern Lights.

Northern Lights Strain Guide →

Northern Lights Terpenes & Effects

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Frequently Asked Questions — Growing Northern Lights

Is Northern Lights the easiest strain to grow?

Northern Lights is widely regarded as one of the easiest cannabis strains for beginners. Its compact indica structure, fast flowering time and robust resilience make it nearly foolproof.

How fast does Northern Lights flower?

Northern Lights has one of the shortest flowering times of any photoperiod strain — just 7–8 weeks. This makes it ideal for growers seeking quick turnarounds.

What yield does Northern Lights produce indoors?

Under quality LED or HPS lighting, Northern Lights produces 500–600g/m² indoors. Its dense buds and short stature allow efficient use of grow space.

Is Northern Lights a good outdoor strain?

Yes. Northern Lights finishes early enough to avoid autumn frosts in most temperate regions. Its mould resistance makes it suitable for humid climates.

Does Northern Lights need much training?

Northern Lights grows naturally bushy with limited branching. Simple topping or LST during veg significantly increases yield without complex training requirements.

What does Northern Lights smell like during grow?

During flowering, Northern Lights produces a sweet, earthy and pine-heavy aroma. Use carbon filters in your grow room to manage odour during the final weeks.