From Blimburn Seeds, we bring you the best tips and tricks. Also, we are committed to all growers in the world to maximize their outdoor growing production. In other words, we will make you an expert grower and lover of our seeds.
Why choose BLUE DREAM?
First, because it comes from the cross of two best sellers of cannabis. Secondly, one of the most sought after varieties. In other words, a plant that can reach a meter and a half in height. In addition, it is easy to cultivate by any padawans who is beginning in the arts of the culture of marijuana.
Blue Dream is a strain of sativa tendency. Lineage of the powerful Blueberry and one of the best strains of all time, the legendary Haze.
Finally, this magnificent strain leaves no marijuana grower indifferent. In addition, from its first days of flowering, it gives fruity and earthy aromas. This great ally is ideal for feeling happy and relaxed .
However, we didn’t forget the most important thing. It has an indoor flowering period of 9 to 10 weeks, but we recommend 10 weeks for optimal maturation. Also, outdoors you can harvest your crop from the middle to the end of April.
Can You Grow Outdoors in South Africa?
Absolutely! South Africa’s climate is well-suited for growing Blue Dream outdoors, but it does come with its own set of challenges. The countryâs diverse weather patterns, ranging from tropical in the east to Mediterranean in the west, mean that growers need to adapt their strategies to suit their specific region. With the right care and attention to timing, you can successfully cultivate a thriving Blue Dream crop.
Growing outdoors in South Africa allows you to take advantage of the abundant sunlight and warm temperatures. However, it also requires careful planning to avoid the pitfalls of sudden weather changes, especially in areas prone to heavy rains or unexpected temperature shifts. Let’s dive into the specifics of growing Blue Dream in different South African regions.
Geographic Considerations for South African Growers
South Africa’s diverse geography means that each region presents different growing conditions. In the eastern parts, such as KwaZulu-Natal, youâll encounter a subtropical climate with high humidity and frequent rainfall. These conditions can promote rapid plant growth but also increase the risk of mold. To counteract this, select a location with plenty of natural airflow and direct sunlight, which helps to dry out the foliage and reduce moisture levels.
In contrast, regions like the Western Cape offer a Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The long, sunny days and moderate temperatures make this area ideal for growing Blue Dream outdoors. However, the cooler winters mean youâll need to time your growing season carefully to avoid frost. Most areas in South Africa provide the necessary elements for Blue Dream to flourish, but selecting the right location and adjusting your methods for the local climate are key to a successful harvest.
Outdoor Growing: Adapting to South Africa’s Climate
Warmer, Humid Regions (KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga)
In the warmer, more humid regions of South Africa, growers must be vigilant about mold and pest control. Blue Dream has a natural resilience, but taking extra steps will ensure a healthier, more robust plant. Choose a spot that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Providing some shade during the hottest part of the day helps prevent heat stress, which can slow growth and reduce yields.
Elevate your plants in raised beds or containers to promote better drainage. Mulching around the base of the plant conserves moisture during dry spells while preventing root rot during periods of heavy rain. Keep a close eye on the weather and be prepared to cover your plants if a storm is approaching. Regularly pruning lower branches and excess foliage increases airflow, reducing the risk of mold in these humid environments.
Dryer, Mediterranean Regions (Western Cape)
For those cultivating Blue Dream outdoors in drier areas such as the Western Cape, the climate provides excellent conditions. Warm, sunny days combined with low humidity reduce the risk of mold, promoting strong plant growth. In these regions, it’s important to start early in the spring (September-October) to benefit from the extended growing season.
Ensure your plants receive adequate watering, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering. Blue Dream benefits from deep, less frequent watering, which encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil. Using a drip irrigation system can help you maintain consistent moisture levels without the risk of waterlogging the roots.
Soil Preparation for Growing Blue Dream Outdoors in South Africa
Proper soil preparation is essential for a successful Blue Dream grow. This strain thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil that enables its roots to expand and access the necessary nutrients for healthy development. In South Africa, soil types vary by region, so it’s important to adjust your soil to meet Blue Dreamâs specific requirements.
In coastal regions, where sandy soils are common, you’ll need to boost water retention by adding organic matter like compost, coco coir, or aged manure. These amendments improve the soil’s texture and help retain moisture, which is essential for Blue Dream’s vigorous growth. For clay-heavy soils found in other parts of the country, mixing in perlite or coarse sand can enhance drainage, preventing root rot and other moisture-related issues.
Blue Dream thrives in soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Before planting, test the soilâs pH and adjust it if necessary. Adding lime can raise the pH, while elemental sulfur can lower it. Incorporating organic fertilizers like bone meal or fish emulsion into the soil mix provides the nutrients your plants will need throughout their life cycle. Creating a rich, balanced soil environment will give you a head start when growing Blue Dream outdoors in South Africa.
Photoperiod: Timing Your Grow in South Africa
Blue Dream is a photoperiod-sensitive strain, meaning its growth cycle is influenced by changes in daylight hours. In South Africa, the outdoor growing season typically begins in spring (September) and continues through summer, with flowering starting as the days become shorter in late summer and early autumn (March-April). Being aware of the local photoperiod is key to achieving a successful harvest.
Start your seeds indoors in early spring to give them a head start. By the time the risk of frost has passed, the seedlings will be strong enough to transplant outdoors. For regions with more unpredictable weather, consider using a greenhouse or hoop house to control the environment during the early growth stages. This extra step can be especially helpful in areas with sudden temperature changes.
As summer progresses and the days start to get shorter, Blue Dream will naturally transition into the flowering stage. Ensure your plants receive at least 12 hours of darkness each night to trigger and maintain flowering. Light pollution from nearby streetlights or household lights can interfere with this process, so choose a secluded, dark location for your grow. By aligning with South Africaâs natural light cycle, youâll maximize your yields and produce top-quality buds when growing Blue Dream outdoors.
Nutrients for Growing Blue Dream Outdoors in South Africa
Blue Dream is a nutrient-hungry strain that demands a balanced feeding schedule to reach its full potential. During the vegetative stage, focus on providing a nutrient mix high in nitrogen to promote lush leaf and stem growth. Organic options like compost tea, fish emulsion, and worm castings are excellent choices for boosting plant vigor and improving soil health. Nitrogen plays a vital role in photosynthesis, supporting the rapid growth characteristic of Blue Dream.
As your plants transition into the flowering stage, reduce nitrogen levels and increase phosphorus and potassium. These nutrients are essential for healthy bud development and resin production. Organic sources such as bone meal, bat guano, and kelp meal can supply these key elements. Regularly monitor your plants for signs of nutrient deficiencies, such as yellowing leaves or slow growth, and adjust your feeding schedule accordingly.
In South Africaâs varied climates, nutrient leaching can occur, particularly in areas with heavy rainfall. Using a slow-release fertilizer or supplementing with compost tea throughout the growing season helps maintain a steady nutrient supply. Mulching around the base of the plants aids in moisture retention and prevents nutrient runoff, especially in the drier regions of the Western Cape. Consistent nutrient management is vital for success when growing Blue Dream outdoors in South Africa.
Week-by-Week Care for Blue Dream Outdoors
Weeks 1-2: Germination and Seedling Stage
Begin by germinating your Blue Dream seeds indoors in early spring. Use a light, well-draining soil mix to support the delicate seedlings. Keep the soil moist but not soaked, as overwatering can lead to damping-off. Place the seedlings under a grow light or in a sunny spot to encourage strong, healthy growth. During these first two weeks, maintain a temperature between 20-25°C to promote vigorous development, setting a strong foundation for growing Blue Dream outdoors.
Weeks 3-4: Early Vegetative Stage
Once the seedlings have developed their first set of true leaves, it’s time to transplant them outdoors. Choose a location with ample sunlight and good airflow. Plant directly in the ground or in large containers with nutrient-rich soil. Begin feeding with a mild, nitrogen-heavy fertilizer to encourage leaf and stem growth. Water deeply but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings, promoting root expansion. This careful early stage care will help the plants adapt to their new environment in South Africa.
Weeks 5-7: Full Vegetative Growth
During these weeks, your Blue Dream plants will grow rapidly, focusing on building strong branches and dense foliage. Continue feeding with a nitrogen-rich nutrient mix, gradually increasing the concentration to support their growth. In regions with high humidity, prune the lower branches to improve airflow around the base of the plant, reducing the risk of mold. Training techniques like low-stress training (LST) help to create an even canopy, maximizing light exposure for the budding sites.
Weeks 8-10: Preparing for Flowering
As your plants mature, it’s time to switch to a balanced nutrient mix, reducing nitrogen while increasing phosphorus and potassium. This transition supports the upcoming flowering phase. Keep a close eye on the photoperiod, ensuring your plants receive enough darkness each night. South Africaâs climate can vary, so monitor the weather and be ready to cover your plants if unexpected cold snaps occur. This preparation phase sets the stage for a successful flowering period when growing Blue Dream outdoors.
Weeks 11-12: Early Flowering Stage
As the days shorten and the plants naturally transition into flowering, you will start to see the formation of buds. Now is the time to switch to a bloom-specific nutrient mix that is higher in phosphorus and potassium. This change supports the development of larger, denser buds, which is vital for achieving high yields when growing Blue Dream outdoors in South Africa. Continue to water the plants deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot.
Regularly inspect your plants for signs of mold or pests, especially in regions with higher humidity. Remove any yellowing leaves to promote airflow around the buds, reducing the risk of mold growth. At this stage, ensure your plants receive at least 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness each night to keep them on track through the flowering cycle.
Weeks 13-14: Mid-Flowering
During these weeks, the buds will begin to swell and become more aromatic. Continue with your bloom-focused feeding schedule, but be cautious not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to nutrient burn, which causes brown leaf tips and reduces bud quality. Mulching around the plant base helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, particularly in South Africa’s drier regions like the Western Cape.
Pruning is key at this stage. Remove any large fan leaves that block light from reaching the lower buds. Proper light penetration ensures that all parts of the plant contribute to the final harvest. Be vigilant about pests and environmental stresses, as the buds become more vulnerable during this phase. Weekly inspections help you catch and address any problems quickly, ensuring that your growing Blue Dream outdoors process stays on track.
Weeks 15-16: Late Flowering and Flushing
In these weeks, your Blue Dream plants will be nearing harvest. The buds should now be thick, sticky, and covered in trichomes. Begin the flushing process two weeks before your planned harvest. Use plain water to flush out any remaining nutrients in the soil, enhancing the flavor and smoothness of the final product.
Monitor the trichomes closely using a magnifying glass. When most trichomes are milky white with a few turning amber, your plants have reached their peak potency. During this stage, avoid adding any more nutrients. Focus on keeping the plants free from pests and mold, as these can quickly compromise your crop’s quality. Flushing properly is an essential part of growing Blue Dream outdoors to achieve the best taste and potency in your buds.
Week 17: Harvest Time
Itâs finally time to harvest your Blue Dream plants. Choose a dry day to cut the branches, preferably in the morning after the dew has dried. Use sterilized scissors to trim the plants, cutting off branches and hanging them upside down in a dark, well-ventilated space to dry. Proper drying takes about 7-14 days, depending on the local humidity levels. This careful handling during the harvest process preserves the quality and potency of your Blue Dream buds.
After drying, trim the buds and place them in airtight containers to start the curing process. Open the containers daily for the first week to release excess moisture, a process known as “burping.” This step is essential for enhancing the strain’s flavor and aroma, ensuring your efforts in growing Blue Dream outdoors result in a top-quality final product.
Health and Maintenance Throughout the Grow
Maintaining plant health is essential for maximizing your yield. Blue Dream is known for its natural resistance to mold and pests, but regular monitoring is still necessary. Check your plants weekly for signs of common pests like aphids, spider mites, and caterpillars. If detected early, natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap can effectively control infestations without damaging the plants.
In South Africa, weather can vary significantly, so be prepared to adapt your care routine. During heavy rains, use a simple canopy or greenhouse cover to protect the plants from excess moisture, preventing mold and mildew. Pruning regularly allows air to circulate through the dense foliage, keeping mold risks at bay, especially in humid regions.
Soil health is another key factor in successful cultivation. Regularly test the soilâs pH and nutrient levels to keep them within optimal ranges. If you detect deficiencies or imbalances, adjust your feeding schedule accordingly. Healthy soil contributes directly to the overall vigor and resilience of your plants, ensuring that growing Blue Dream outdoors results in a lush, productive garden.
