Growing Cannabis in Michigan’s Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter

Michigan’s climate is famously unpredictable - one minute, it’s sunny and warm; the next, you’re caught in a downpour or a sudden chill. For cannabis growers, this means adjusting your growing strategy to each season. Here’s how to tackle the Michigan climate year-round and keep those buds healthy and happy!

🌱 Spring: Setting the Stage

Michigan’s Spring can be a rollercoaster, with cold nights and sudden warm spells. Here’s what to focus on:

• Start Indoors: Early spring (March-April) is too chilly for most outdoor grows. Use a grow tent or a sunny window to start seeds indoors.
• Watch the Weather: By late May, when overnight temps stay above 50°F, you can safely move plants outside.
• Harden Off: Transition your plants to the outdoors gradually. Start with a few hours of direct sun each day, increasing to full exposure over a week.
• Soil Prep: Michigan’s soil can be heavy with clay, so prep your beds early. Add compost or coco coir to improve drainage and texture.

☀️ Summer: Growth Explosion

Michigan’s summer is prime growing time. Take advantage of long, sunny days:

• Hydrate Often: With the humidity, you might think you don’t need to water much, but sandy soils can dry out quickly in the heat. Check daily.
• Mulch for Moisture: Add a layer of straw or grass clippings to keep soil moist and regulate temperature.
• Watch for Pests: Michigan’s warm, humid air invites aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap early.
• Support Those Buds: Outdoor plants can get big! Use tomato cages or trellises to support heavy branches and prevent breakage.

🍂 Fall: Harvest and Protect

Fall in Michigan brings beautiful colors - and a race against the clock:

• Harvest Before the Frost: Keep an eye on the forecast. Harvest buds before the first frost hits, usually mid-October in most areas.
• Bud Rot Alert: As humidity increases in fall, mold can set in fast. Trim leaves to boost airflow and check daily for signs of bud rot.
• Dry and Cure Indoors: After harvesting, bring your buds inside to a well-ventilated space. A basement or closet with a small fan works well. Cure in glass jars, burping them daily to perfect that terpene-rich flavor.

❄️ Winter: Rest and Reset

Winter in Michigan is time for rest and planning:

• Indoor Grows: For year-round growing, set up a dedicated grow tent or small indoor space with LED grow lights. Keep temps between 68-75°F and humidity around 50%.
• Reflect and Plan: Winter is ideal for analyzing what worked in your grow and planning for spring. Try new strains or consider switching to autoflower varieties to stagger your harvests.
• Soil Recharge: Let your garden beds rest. Add a cover crop or compost to enrich the soil for next year’s grow.

🌿 Final Tips for Michigan Growers

Michigan’s climate is a challenge, but it’s also a gift. By tuning into the seasons, you’ll keep your cannabis plants thriving all year long. And remember - adaptability is your biggest tool! Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just getting started, there’s always something new to learn from Michigan’s four-season dance.

At HomeGrow Helpline, we're passionate about helping Michigan’s home cannabis growers make the most of every season. Whether you’re just starting or looking to level up your grow game, we’re here to share tips, tricks, and proven strategies tailored to Michigan’s unique climate. Let’s grow together! Text or call us at (937) 476-1669.