Growing Marijuana in 50 Gallon Pots Outdoors for Maximum Yield

Growing marijuana outdoors can be an extremely rewarding experience. With proper care and technique, outdoor plants can yield huge, dense buds that rival or even surpass the quality of indoor grows. One of the most important factors for maximizing yield when growing marijuana outside is using a large container size. Bigger pots allow the roots to fully develop and support larger plants and bigger yields. In this article, we’ll look at using 50 gallon pots for outdoor marijuana grows and how to get the highest yields from them.

Why Use 50 Gallon Pots for Outdoor Growing?

Most experienced outdoor marijuana growers recommend using pots or planters that are at least 30 gallons for optimal growth and yield Some even go up to 100+ gallon pots for monster plants The larger the container, the more soil capacity and root space the plant has to work with.

With 50 gallon pots, you get the perfect balance of large size and manageable portability. 50 gallons allows ample root expansion while still being light enough when empty to transport discreetly.

Plants of all strains and sizes can be grown successfully in 50 gallon containers. A 50 gallon pot size will support growth of 7-12 feet tall plants and can yield over 2 pounds per plant of dense, high-quality buds.

Preparing the 50 Gallon Pots for Planting

Smart pots and fabric grow bags are good options for 50 gallon containers. Make sure there are several drainage holes in the bottom to prevent waterlogging.

For soil, use a high quality outdoor potting mix with plenty of perlite, compost, and other amendments to keep it light and airy with good drainage. Proper soil preparation is key when using containers.

Place several inches of hydroton clay pebbles or gravel at the bottom of the pots to improve drainage further. Then fill the remainder of the way with your amended soil mix.

Before planting, pre-feed the soil with dry organic fertilizers like bone, blood, or kelp meal to provide nutrition for at least the first month of growth.

Caring for Plants in 50 Gallon Pots

Watering is crucial when growing in pots. Check soil moisture frequently, and water whenever the top few inches become dry. During the peak of summer, you may need to water every other day if it’s hot and dry.

Use compost teas, organic nutrients, worm castings, and other amendments to feed plants in veggie and bloom stages. Watch closely for signs of over or underwatering and nutrient issues.

Plants in 50 gallon pots will grow into monsters, so provide proper staking and training as they mature to support heavy branches and colas. Set up trellising or cages around the perimeter of the pots to help disperse plant weight.

Maximizing Yields in 50 Gallon Containers

To really max out the yields from 50 gallon pots, some extra care and techniques can be used:

• Use strains known for high yields like Critical, Northern Lights, or White Widow

• Top and train extensively to form an even, flat canopy that gets plenty of light penetration

• Use mycorrhizae and beneficial bacteria inoculants for better root health and nutrient absorption

• Use bloom boosters and supplements like molasses, seaweed extract, etc. in late flowering

• Provide optimal light exposure from start to finish (at least 8 hours direct sun daily)

• Control pests diligently, as potted plants are more susceptible than in-ground

• Flush plants thoroughly for 7-10 days before harvest to improve bud flavor and smoothness

Expected Yields from 50 Gallon Pots

With excellent care and genetics, experienced growers report yields of up to 2 pounds or more per plant in 50 gallon containers. On average, you can expect 1 to 1.5 pounds per 50 gallon pot. Yield ultimately depends on the strain, grower skill, and environmental conditions.

While yields will vary, the use of 50 gallon pots allows your plants to reach their full genetic potential in an outdoor setting. Following the tips in this article will set up your ladies for bountiful, monster harvests from 50 gallon pots this season. Keep detailed notes on your practices and plants to continue honing your skills each grow. Enjoy the fruits of your labor at harvest time!