Outdoor
Outdoor & Balcony Cannabis Growing
Growing cannabis outdoors in Malta's climate offers many advantages, including free sunlight, natural air circulation, and lower startup costs. This guide will help you set up an effective growing space on your balcony or in an outdoor area.
Understanding Malta's Climate for Cannabis
Malta's Mediterranean climate is excellent for cannabis cultivation with:
- Abundant sunshine - Over 3,000 hours of sunshine annually
- Mild winters - Temperatures rarely drop below 10°C (50°F)
- Hot summers - Temperatures can reach 35°C (95°F) or higher
- Limited rainfall - Most precipitation occurs in winter months
- Sea breezes - Natural ventilation from coastal winds
These conditions make Malta ideal for growing cannabis outdoors, but also present challenges like water conservation during dry periods and protecting plants from intense summer heat.
Malta Cannabis Growing Calendar
January-February
Indoor germination and seedling stage for early season plants
March-April
Begin outdoor growing with autoflowers or early photoperiods
May-June
Main growing season begins, plant feminized photoperiods
July-August
Peak vegetative growth, watch for heat stress and water needs
September-October
Flowering phase and harvest for photoperiods
November-December
Late harvests, prepare for next season
Balcony Growing Setup
Balcony growing is perfect for Maltese residents with limited space. Here's how to create an optimal setup:
Sunlight Exposure
Ideal: South-facing balcony with 6+ hours of direct sunlight
Workable: East or west-facing with 4-6 hours of sun
Privacy & Discretion
Consider using:
- Companion plants (tomatoes, herbs) as camouflage
- Balcony screens or bamboo fencing
- Strategic pot placement behind larger plants
Wind Protection
Malta can experience strong sea breezes that may stress plants.
- Install windbreak screens or cloth
- Place plants against walls for protection
- Use staking or support for taller plants
Temperature Management
Summer temperatures in Malta can exceed optimal growing range.
- Create shade during peak afternoon heat
- Use light-colored containers to prevent root overheating
- Consider shade cloth during extreme heat waves
Container Selection & Setup
Fabric Pots
Advantages:
- Excellent drainage and root aeration
- Prevents root circling
- Lightweight and easy to move
Disadvantages:
- Dry out quickly in Malta's heat
- Require more frequent watering
- Can leave water marks on balcony surface
Recommended size: 15-20L for autoflowers, 25-30L for photoperiods
Plastic Pots
Advantages:
- Retain moisture longer
- Less expensive
- Widely available in Malta
Disadvantages:
- Can lead to root circling
- Dark colors absorb heat
- Drainage depends on number of holes
Recommended size: 15-20L for autoflowers, 25-30L for photoperiods
Terracotta Pots
Advantages:
- Blend well with Mediterranean décor
- Naturally regulate temperature
- Sturdy and durable
Disadvantages:
- Heavy and difficult to move
- Can crack in freezing temperatures
- More expensive
Recommended size: 15-20L for autoflowers, 25-30L for photoperiods
Soil Mix for Maltese Balcony Growing
For a well-draining, nutrient-rich medium that works well in Malta's climate:
- 50-60% - Quality potting soil (locally available in garden centers)
- 20-30% - Coco coir or peat moss (water retention)
- 10-20% - Perlite or pumice (drainage and aeration)
- 5-10% - Compost or worm castings (nutrients)
- Optional: Mycorrhizal fungi (improves root development)
Watering Strategy for Balcony Plants
Water management is critical in Malta's hot, dry climate:
How Often to Water
- Seedlings: Keep soil consistently moist (check daily)
- Vegetative stage: Every 2-3 days (check soil first)
- Flowering stage: Every 2-3 days, or as needed
- Hot summer days: May require daily watering
Testing Soil Moisture
Before watering, check if plants actually need it:
- Insert finger 2-3cm into soil
- If dry at this depth, it's time to water
- If still moist, wait another day
Water Conservation Tips
- Water early morning or evening to reduce evaporation
- Use saucers to catch excess water
- Consider mulching the soil surface
- Collect rainwater when possible
Self-Watering Options for Vacations
Recommended Strains for Maltese Balconies
These varieties are well-suited to Malta's climate and balcony growing:
Autoflowering Strains
Perfect for beginners and discrete balcony growing:
Northern Lights Auto
Height: 60-90cm
Time to Harvest: 10-12 weeks from seed
Tolerance: Heat-resistant, low odor
Royal Critical Auto
Height: 60-100cm
Time to Harvest: 9-10 weeks from seed
Tolerance: Resistant to Mediterranean climate
Amnesia Haze Auto
Height: 50-100cm
Time to Harvest: 10-12 weeks from seed
Tolerance: Adaptable to varying conditions
Feminized Photoperiod Strains
For experienced growers seeking larger yields:
Durban Poison
Height: 150-200cm (can be trained)
Flowering Time: 8-9 weeks
Tolerance: Heat and humidity resistant
Critical Kush
Height: 100-140cm
Flowering Time: 7-8 weeks
Tolerance: Mold resistant, handles Mediterranean climate
Jack Herer
Height: 120-180cm
Flowering Time: 8-10 weeks
Tolerance: Adaptable to outdoor conditions
Discrete Growing Tips for Balconies
While cannabis cultivation for personal use is legal in Malta, you may still want privacy:
- Companion Planting: Grow alongside tomatoes, sunflowers, and herbs which have similar care needs and provide camouflage
- Training Techniques: Use low-stress training (LST) to keep plants short and bushy rather than tall
- Strain Selection: Choose naturally shorter, less "traditional-looking" cannabis varieties
- Visual Barriers: Install decorative trellises or balcony screens that allow light but block view
- Odor Management: Plant aromatic herbs like rosemary, lavender, and mint to mask cannabis scent during flowering