Herbies editorial team Herbies

How to Grow Cannabis Outdoors in Australia: Climate Zones, Legal Tips & Best Weed Strains

Last updated: 16 April 2025

how to grow cannabis outdoors in australia

Thinking of growing your own weed outdoors in Australia? You're in the right place. Whether you're in the tropical humid north, the dry red centre, or up in the cooler mountains, this guide's got you covered. We'll walk you through growing cannabis outdoors – from cracking open those cannabis seeds to trimming your very first sticky buds.

Introduction to Growing Cannabis Outdoors in Australia

No matter where you are, the Aussie climate throws a bit of everything at you, so knowing when to plant, which strain to choose, and how to deal with problems like pests and heatwaves can make all the difference. Never fear – we'll cover the tips and tools you'll need to keep your cannabis plants thriving in the great outdoors.

We’ll talk about how to pick a spot that maximizes sunlight, what kind of growing medium works best, and even how a simple greenhouse setup can help if things get too wild weather-wise. You’ll also get the lowdown on stuff like cloning, transplanting, pruning, and making sure your plants receive everything they need through the vegetative and flowering stages.

Whether you’re just getting started or already a bit of a grower, there’s something here for you. Think of this as your laid-back, no-BS roadmap to growing top-shelf pot in your own backyard.

Disclaimer: Cannabis cultivation laws vary by region. This information is intended for use only in areas where growing cannabis is legal. Please check your local laws before proceeding.

Understanding Australia’s Climate Zones for Outdoor Weed Growing

understanding climate zones for outdoor weed growing

Alright, so let's talk about climate. If you want to grow cannabis outdoors in Australia, you have to match your cannabis plants with your postcode, because what will grow in Cairns might not work in Canberra.

According to the Australian Building Code Board, Australia is divided into eight zones of climate, and each has its own atmosphere. Located in the Southern Hemisphere, Australia experiences seasons opposite to those in Europe or North America – and with eight distinct climate zones, growing conditions can vary wildly from one region to another. Look at it this way: you're preparing yourself to head off for a bushwalk – you wouldn't proceed up the snow-capped top in thongs, and your marijuana crops feel the same about a storm.

Zone 1 – Tropical Climate: Hot, Humid, and Lush

If you’re up in the tropics – think Darwin, Cairns, and the steamy edges of Far North Queensland – timing is everything. The best window to get your seeds in the ground is late February to March, just after the monsoon rains calm down. Harvest usually rolls around between July and September, but if you’re feeling bold, you might squeeze in a cheeky autoflower run from October to December, just before the wet season crashes back in.

Pro tips:

  • Humidity’s high airflow is your BFF. Prune those lower leaves.
  • Mulch like a boss to keep roots cool and soil moist.
  • Autos rock here, as they finish fast before the wet season crashes the party.

Zone 2 – Subtropical: Warm, Mild, and Rainy

If you’re growing around Brisbane or up on the northern Gold Coast, you’re in subtropical territory – warm, mild, and blessed with steady rains. The sweet spot for planting is March to April, when the weather starts to mellow. Come August or September, your harvest should be ready, and thanks to the mild winters, you might even manage a sneaky second run before spring kicks in.

Pro tips:

  • Less insane rain than Zone 1, but still sticky – choose mould-resistant strains.
  • Photoperiods love these steady autumn days; autos are great if you hate babysitting.

Zone 3 – Dry Heat: Sun-Intense and Low Humidity

If you're growing near Alice Springs or out in central WA, you're dealing with lots of hours of sunlight and bone-dry air. Aim to plant around September to October, before the mid-summer scorcher hits. By February or March, you’ll be harvesting under clear skies, provided your plants survive the brutal heat.

Pro tips:

  • Water your plants smart: drip system or deep soak.
  • Throw up some shade cloth for midday scorchers.
  • Go for drought-proof genetics and sandy, fast-drain soils.

Zone 4 – Hot Days, Cool Nights: Managing Fluctuations

Places like Adelaide and inland NSW offer plenty of sun, but the temps can swing wildly between day and night. Get your plants in the ground by September to avoid the risk of frost. Harvest usually wraps up around January or February, just in time to beat the late-season chills.

Pro tips:

  • Day-night swings can stress plants – choose hardy strains only.
  • Use row covers when night temps start to dip.
  • Dry air = less mould, so focus on windbreaks instead.

Zone 5 – Warm Temperate: Ideal for Most Outdoor Plants

From Sydney to Perth and along coastal SA, this zone is a dream for growers. The climate’s balanced, the sun’s steady, and conditions are perfect for a wide range of strains. Plant in October and expect a lush harvest around March or April.

Pro tips:

  • Steady sun: photoperiods flourish under these predictable hours.
  • Watch for random showers – mould resistance is key.
  • Tie and train your ladies (LST/SCROG); they’ll stretch nicely.

Zone 6 – Mild Temperate: Balanced Rainfall and Seasons

Down in Melbourne or southern Tasmania, the weather’s fairly mild but still a little unpredictable. Your planting window runs from October to November, with harvest season hitting around March. Just be ready for late-season rains – they can sneak up on you.

Pro tips:

  • Late rains can mess with buds – dry out the soil before the flowering period.
  • A quick auto can dodge those surprise cold snaps.
  • Toss in a greenhouse hoop for extra warmth.

Zone 7 – Cool Temperate: Short Growing Seasons

Growing around Hobart or southern VIC? You’ve got a narrow season to work with. Plant in November and expect to chop down by late February. Timing is everything here – one cold front too early, and your plants could be in trouble.

Pro tips:

  • The short seasons mean you’ll need fast autos or photoperiods that finish early.
  • Insulate pots or use root wraps to fend off chill.
  • Bonus LED strips can bump up yields on gloomy days.

Zone 8 – Alpine Region: Cold and Windy Growing Challenges

If you’re brave enough to grow in the Snowy Mountains or highland TAS, hats off to you. This is Australia’s trickiest zone – cold, windy, and short. November is your only real shot to plant, and you’ve got until early February to harvest. That’s a tight 12-week window, so every day of a flowering phase counts.

Pro tips:

  • Frost is a buzzkill – go autoflower under mini-greenhouses.
  • Cold-hardy strains (Northern Lights Auto, Chemdog Fast) are must-haves.
  • Keep plants low and snug against wind.

Cannabis Laws in Australia: What Outdoor Growers Should Know

That covers the weather – now let’s get legal. Below is a state-by-state guide to where growing cannabis is permitted, where penalties are lighter, and where laws remain especially strict.

Just a note: Due to recent order seizures in parts of Australia, our team has adjusted shipping methods and packaging to improve delivery success. We’re keeping a close eye on the situation to make sure your order gets to you as smoothly as possible.

Where It’s Legal to Grow Weed Outdoors

Right now, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) is the only place in the country where outdoor cannabis cultivation is officially allowed, at least for personal use. Adults aged 18 and over can legally grow up to two plants per person, with a maximum of four plants per household. You're also allowed to possess up to 50 g of dry bud or 150 g of fresh cannabis.

That said, the rules come with caveats. You can’t sell, gift, or use cannabis in public, and federal laws still technically ban recreational use. So while the ACT is leading the way, there’s still a legal grey area to be aware of.

Areas with Decriminalized or Relaxed Laws

A few other states and territories aren't exactly "cool" with growing weed, but they’re not cracking down hard either, especially when it comes to personal possession.

In South Australia, growing is still illegal, but if you're caught with up to 100 g of cannabis or 20 g of resin, it usually just means a fine, not a criminal record.

The Northern Territory has similar vibes: cultivation is off the table, but possession of up to 50 g at home typically results in a fine (up to AU$200), not a court date.

In New South Wales, having up to 15 g could get you a caution or a fine, depending on the officer – again, it’s not legal, but usually not the end of the world either.

Meanwhile, in Victoria, while growing is illegal, possession of up to 50 g might just earn you a warning. There's talk of full decriminalization in the near future, so it’s a space to watch.

Where Outdoor Growing Is Still Restricted

In other parts of Australia, outdoor cultivation is still very much off-limits, and the penalties aren’t light.

Queensland takes a hardline stance. Any amount of cannabis can land you in serious trouble, with penalties of up to 20 years in prison for cultivation.

Western Australia isn’t quite as harsh but still strict. Possession of up to 10 g will get you enrolled in a mandatory intervention program – anything more brings down the legal hammer.

In Tasmania, even a small amount can lead to fines up to AU$7,950, while large-scale possession or cultivation could result in prison terms of up to 21 years.

Medical Cannabis Rules and Access in Australia

Medical cannabis requires a prescription in all Australian states and territories. However, access and procedures vary. In some states, like Queensland and Tasmania, the process can be more difficult due to a limited number of authorized prescribers.

Picking the Best Cannabis Seeds for Outdoor Growing in Australia

Selecting the right seed is akin to picking the perfect hiking partner – it needs to be suited to your terrain, your timetable, and the amount of work you're ready to invest. Start by asking yourself the following:

  • Climate match: Is this strain compatible with heat, humidity, frost, or drought?
  • Grow window: What’s the duration of your growing season, from last frost (or first substantial rains) to first frost?
  • Flowering type: Would you like a quick, set-and-forget auto or a photoperiod where you can control the veg time?
  • Resistance & resilience: Look for mould-resistant, bug-tolerant genetics if insects or humidity are your nightmares.
  • Yields vs. effort: High-yielding photoperiods might demand more pruning and babysitting; stubborn autos are more low-maintenance.

Choose wrong, and you'll be left with dead‑looking plants in the Australian sun or mouldy buds in the tropics. Choose right, and you'll be high‑fiving yourself come harvest time.

Autoflowers vs. Photoperiods – Which to Grow Outdoors

Autoflowering strains are the go-to for growers dealing with tight schedules, unpredictable weather, or space limitations.

  • Pros: Fast lifecycle (typically 8-10 weeks), no light-schedule modifications, perfect for short seasons or stealth grows.
  • Cons: Slightly less yields, less control of veg time, sometimes lower THC potential.

Photoperiod strains are the traditional choice for outdoor growers chasing maximum yields and control of plants outside, assuming you’ve got the time and conditions to support them.

  • Pros: Greater yields, more potency options, full control of vegetative growth for organizing your canopy.
  • Cons: Need a strict light schedule (12/12), longer overall grow duration (12-16+ weeks), risk of early flowering if daylight decreases too early.

Bottom line: If you’re racing against frost or monsoons, grab an autoflower. If you’ve got a long, stable season and crave top‑shelf yields, photoperiod is your jam.

Best Cannabis Strains for Australia’s Outdoor Conditions

Australia’s vast and diverse climate zones – from hot and humid tropics to cool alpine regions – make choosing the right cannabis strain for outdoor cultivation especially important. The success of an outdoor crop depends on a match between a plant's inherent resilience and your local climatic conditions, from daytime temperature variations and humidity to the sun strength and length of the growing season.

Below are 10 of the top cannabis strains to cultivate outdoors throughout Australia – a carefully curated selection for every major outdoor climate region. Each is a blend of genetics, a blend of autoflowers and photoperiod strains, and a compromise between performance and consistency. Most are developed by well-respected growers like Herbies Seeds, Fast Buds, EGS, and Barney's Farm, supplemented by some solid international seed banks.

Want to explore more? Check out our collections for hot climate, cold climate, autoflower strains, and high-yielders.

Top Cannabis Strains to Grow in Each Australian Climate Zone

We've listed our top picks from the hottest tropics through to the chilliest alpine elevations so you can skip the chit-chat and get straight to procuring the right seed for your local garden. Starting in Zone 1's balmy summers and finishing in Zone 8's frozen highlands, the following are the strains that'll have you harvesting like a pro.

Godzilla Cookies Auto – Top Performer in Hot & Humid Conditions (Zone 1)

Godzilla Cookies Auto (Herbies Seeds)
1-yr Guarantee Top Extra Seeds
27% THC
Godzilla Cookies Auto (Herbies Seeds)
  • Autoflowering
  • Hours of belly laughs
  • 450 - 600 g/m² indoors
Pack (number of seeds)

Godzilla Cookies Auto adores hot and humid conditions because of its mould resistance and fast flowering time. As an autoflower, it skirts the risks of high humidity exposure during flowering.

Mimosa Shot – Reliable Choice for Tropical Climates (Zone 1)

Mimosa Shot (Herbies Seeds)
1-yr Guarantee Top Extra Seeds
30% THC
Mimosa Shot (Herbies Seeds)
  • Photoperiod
  • Unapologetic glee
  • 600 - 800 g/m² indoors
    1300 - 1600 g/plant outdoors
Pack (number of seeds)

With a strong Sativa-based structure, Mimosa Shot is heat-resistant and finishes flowering quickly, reducing the risk of mould. With an open structure, it allows for sufficient air circulation in humid climates.

Auto Purple – Great Fit for Warm and Mild Conditions (Zone 2)

Auto Purple (Original Sensible Seeds) Original Sensible Seeds
Extra Seeds
16% THC
Auto Purple (Original Sensible Seeds)
  • Autoflowering
  • Morpheus' hug
  • 400 g/m² indoors
    80 g/plant outdoors
Pack (number of seeds)

Auto Purple is ideal for warm, humid climates due to its compact size and fast life cycle. It's famous for resisting humidity issues like bud rot, so it's reliable in subtropical regions.

Strawberry Gorilla Auto – Best for Dry Heat and Intense Sun (Zone 3)

Strawberry Gorilla Auto (Fast Buds)
Top
28.4% THC
Strawberry Gorilla Auto (Fast Buds)
  • Autoflowering
  • Happiness intoxication
  • 450 - 600 g/m² indoors
    60 - 300 g/plant outdoors
Pack (number of seeds)

Strawberry Gorilla Auto handles extreme sunlight and dryness very well. It’s robust in its genetics, so it does well with minimal watering and is thus a good choice for hot, dry, Mediterranean-type climates.

Alpha 21 – Suited for Hot Days and Cool Nights (Zone 4)

Alpha 21 (AlphaFem Seeds)
1-yr Guarantee New Top Extra Seeds
30% THC
Alpha 21 (AlphaFem Seeds)
  • Photoperiod
  • Knockout strong medicine
  • 600 g/m² indoors
    600 - 800 g/plant outdoors
Pack (number of seeds)

Alpha 21 possesses hardy, hybrid genetics that ensure both heat and cold tolerance. It’s a fast-flowering, drought-tolerant strain ideal for areas with hot daytime and chilly nighttime temperatures late in the season.

Apple Betty – Thrives in Balanced Temperate Climates (Zone 5)

Apple Betty (Herbies Seeds)
1-yr Guarantee Top
28 - 33% THC
Apple Betty (Herbies Seeds)
  • Photoperiod
  • Sugary psychedelia
  • 600 - 800 g/m² indoors
    2300 - 2600 g/plant outdoors
Pack (number of seeds)

Due to its balanced Indica-Sativa genetics and moderate flowering time, Apple Betty is a good match for temperate climates. It develops steadily over the course of a standard growing season without excessive heat or cold.

Shiskaberry – Dependable Grow in Mild Temperate Conditions (Zone 6)

Shiskaberry (Barney's Farm)
Top Great yields
26% THC
Shiskaberry (Barney's Farm)
  • Photoperiod
  • 600 - 700 g/m² indoors
    1500 - 2000 g/plant outdoors
  • Complete harmony
Pack (number of seeds)

Shiskaberry performs well in mild climates because of its compact structure and reasonable mould resistance. It’s resilient enough to handle cold nights while still putting out firm, quality buds.

Big Bud Autoflower – Consistent Yields in Cool Climates (Zone 7)

Big Bud Autoflower (Seedstockers)
Top
23-26% THC
Big Bud Autoflower (Seedstockers)
  • Autoflowering
  • 550 g/m² indoors
  • Joy and amusement
Pack (number of seeds)

Big Bud Autoflower is ideal for short, cold summers. Its autoflowering genetics ensure a fast harvest before the arrival of cooler fall weather, and its compact buds mature even in falling temperatures and light.

Chemdog Fast Version – Handles Harsh Alpine Weather Well (Zone 8)

Chemdog Fast Version (EGS)
1-yr Guarantee New 1+1=3
31% THC
Chemdog Fast Version (EGS)
  • Photoperiod
  • 550 - 650 g/m² indoors
    550 - 650 g/plant outdoors
  • Happy relaxation
Pack (number of seeds)

Chemdog Fast Version is perfect for short seasons in Tasmania or the Australian Alps. Thanks to its rapid flowering time, it can be harvested before alpine frost starts to set in.

Northern Lights 10 of 10 – Cold-Resistant Pick for Mountain Zones (Zone 8)

Northern Lights 10 of 10 (Seedkeepers)
1-yr Guarantee New Extra Seeds
30 - 35% THC
Northern Lights 10 of 10 (Seedkeepers)
  • Photoperiod
  • Dreamlike calm
  • 500 - 600 g/m² indoors
    700 - 800 g/plant outdoors
Pack (number of seeds)

One of the most cold-resistant autoflowers available, Northern Lights 10 of 10 handles high elevation and low temperatures like a champ. It's a great choice for mountainous regions with short summers.

Where to Buy Cannabis Seeds for Outdoor Growing

Alright, so you've picked your strains and mapped out your grow – now comes the million-dollar question: how do you actually obtain the seeds?

If you're in Aus, you'll know it's not a case of clicking "buy now" and waiting a week or two. Customs can become tricky, postage is slow, and not all seed banks are up for it. But don't worry – here's how you can get it done.

Tips for Ordering Cannabis Seeds in Australia Legally

Growing cannabis in Australia comes with its challenges, from strict import rules to unpredictable climate zones. However, with the right seed bank and a few smart tactics, it’s completely doable. That’s where Herbies Seeds comes in.

We’ve been shipping cannabis seeds to Australia for years, and we know exactly what it takes to do it discreetly, safely, and with full support. Here’s how to make it smooth:

Stealth Is Your Best Friend

Always choose discreet shipping – and with Herbies, you don’t even have to think about it. It’s our default. No logos. No suspicious packaging. Just safe delivery, plain and simple.

Order Small Batches

Smaller orders mean less risk, and if customs decides to be nosy, it’s easier to replace. Speaking of which...

Lost in the Post? We’ve Got You

If your tracking stops updating or your seeds don’t show up, let us know. We offer delivery guarantees, so you can relax while we sort it out.

Germination Didn’t Go to Plan?

We’re growers too – we get it. If your seeds don’t sprout, reach out within 90 days, send us a photo and a quick note, and we’ll either replace the seeds or troubleshoot with you to get things back on track.

By the way, through Herbies, you can order seeds from trusted global brands like Fast Buds, Barney’s Farm, Original Sensible Seeds, AlphaFem, and more – all in one place, all with the same stealth shipping and support.

So while growing in Australia might not be the easiest, it’s absolutely achievable – especially when you’ve got a reliable seed bank like Herbies on your side.

Essential Equipment for Growing Weed Outdoors

essential equipment for growing weed outdoors

What equipment and materials will you require to successfully grow weed in your backyard or garden? In our guide How To Grow Marijuana Properly, we walk you through timing and basic setup; here's a quick rundown of each of the essentials, with links to our detailed investigations.

Soil, Pots, and Drainage: Getting Your Growing Medium Right

Choosing the right pot and potting medium is your beginning. Use a 15-20 L (4-5 gal) pot so roots have space to grow out, along with a light, loose medium – coco or soilless mixes with perlite added – to prevent waterlogging. Adequate drainage not only keeps roots healthy but also guards against root rot and other fungal infections. (See Growing Cannabis in Pots, Soil, or Grow Bags: What to Choose? for more.)

Greenhouses & Plant Protection for Harsh Climates

While a direct‑sun set‑up can be stunning, unpredictable Aussie weather often requires a backup. A simple polytunnel or DIY PVC hoop frame protects from heavy rain and searing sun alike, and if you want round-the-clock peace of mind, a full glass or polycarbonate greenhouse lets you control temperature and humidity. Our Greenhouse Cannabis Growing Tips cover every option in detail.

Choosing the Right Fertilizer for Outdoor Cannabis Plants

Your crop's nutrition is a marathon, not a sprint – it takes a season. In the vegetative phase, use a high‑nitrogen blend (about 3‑1‑2 NPK) every two weeks to fuel leafy growth; transition to a bloom‑boosting formula (about 1‑3‑2 NPK) when pistils are visible to add on those buds. Organic compounds like bat guano or seaweed meal offer calming, slow-release nutrients that complement Australia's unpredictable soils well. Check out our 5 Best Fertilizers For Growing Cannabis for more details.

Outdoor Cannabis Growing Season and Life Cycle

Step by step, from seedling to flower – here’s how long each stage takes and what to watch for at each turn.

Germination and Early Seedling Care

Your garden’s story begins when the seed cracks open, usually within 3-10 days. Keep humidity high (70-80%) under a gentle light and transplant into larger pots once the first true leaves appear. If you’re working from clones, treat them as mature seedlings – higher light and a controlled environment help them root quickly. (Check How To Quickly And Successfully Germinate Cannabis Seeds.)

Vegetative Phase – Maximize Natural Sunlight

After transplant, plants require 18-24 hours of daylight. This is your window for shaping: low‑stress training, topping, or a SCROG net can turn a bushy plant into a high‑yielding canopy. Watch daily for new growth and adjust supports as needed – you want even light distribution for fat, uniform colas. Dive deeper into methods with our article The Vegetative Stage: Everything There Is To Know About It.

Flowering Stage – When Buds Start to Develop

When days shorten to about 12 hours light/12 hours dark, your plants become serious. During weeks 1-2, you'll notice the initial pistils; within the subsequent 8-12 weeks (depending on the strain), those lavish hairs turn into hard buds. Watch for trichomes – milky white equals peak THC, while amber points towards sedative effects. Want more information? Check out our guide: All You Need To Know About Flowering Cannabis Plants.

When and How to Harvest Your Outdoor Cannabis

Outside, from flip to harvest, it may be 8-12 weeks, but this can vary based on the strain and regional climate. Harvest too early and lose maximum potency; harvest too late and risk spoilage. Check trichomes with a loupe, then dry and cure slowly. For more advanced harvesting guidance, visit When Is The Best Time To Harvest Your Cannabis Plants?

Protecting Outdoor Cannabis Plants from Pests and Weather

protecting outdoor cannabis plants

Nature will be both your best friend and your worst enemy. Here's how to tip the dice in your favour.

Common Garden Pests and Beneficial Insects

Sap-sucking aphids, chewing caterpillars, and stealthy spider mites are just a few of the pests that will test your garden's defences. Before reaching for chemical sprays, invite beneficials – ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory wasps – to guard your leaves.

Wind, Rain, and Heat – How to Protect Your Plants Outdoor

Australia's climatic extremes need planning. Shade cloths or sails temper blistering midday sun, rain domes and pots with good drainage avert root drowning during downpours, and hard stakes or windbreak fences anchor plants in the face of gale-force winds.

Outdoor vs. Indoor Cannabis Grows in Australia

Although the basic principles of growing cannabis are universal, the Australian climate has its peculiarities. The following is a brief rundown of the main differences and some advice for Australian growers.

Yield, Bud Quality, and Growing Conditions Compared

Outdoor plants get taller and heavier with unlimited sunlight and room to roam. With Australia's long summer days, outdoor grows can produce dank colas, but you're at the mercy of weather extremes. Plants indoors offer year-round consistency and the ability to exactly regulate light, temperature, and humidity for maximum potency and terpene profiles.

Setup Costs, Light Access, and Environmental Control

An outdoor venture requires minimal infrastructure: decent earth or pots, regular nutrients, and perhaps a low-tech polytunnel. Indoor grows require investment in lights, ventilation, and environmental controls, which translate into higher initial outlay but guaranteed returns, winter notwithstanding, or in cooler climates like Tasmania and the Victorian highlands.

Pests, Weather Risks, and How They Differ

Outdoors, you’ll contend with everything from bud‑rot in humid tropical zones (think Queensland) to sun scorch or dry‑spell stress in arid interiors. Strategic site selection – choosing sheltered spots and rotating crops – helps. Indoors, pests and mould can still appear, but sealed rooms and HEPA filters keep most invaders at bay.

Expert Growing Tips for Outdoor Cannabis Growers

Even seasoned growers have hiccups now and then. These pro tips will strengthen your equipment and optimize every sun-drenched hour.

Get Your Soil Ready Months in Advance

Till garden beds using compost, worm castings, and dolomite lime before planting. Soils in Australia may be as extreme as extreme – prep them in advance to ensure well-adjusted pH and healthy microbiology upon seedling arrival.

Use Shade Cloth Intelligently

Afternoon sunburn in areas 1-3 can zap leaves. A 30-50% shade cloth hung from noon until 3 pm over your canopy retains temps without sacrificing yields.

Rotate and Train for Even Canopy

Pair LST (low-stress training) with pot rotation weekly so all bud spots receive the same amount of sun. It encourages even colas and prevents "lollipopping" where lower nodes dry out.

Build a Rainwater Harvesting System

Droughts are intense in the Outback. Simple barrel and guttering deliver filtered rainwater teeming with trace minerals – ideal for flushing and reducing tap‑water buildup of salts.

Scout for Pests Early and Weekly

Aphids, thrips, and spider mites breed rapidly on warm days. Inspect under leaves and branch nodes and consider incorporating predatory mites or neem oil as a weekly deterrent.

FAQ – Growing Cannabis Outdoors in Australia

growing cannabis outdoors in australia

Why Is My Plant Tall and Skinny Outdoors?

Lanky, tall growth indicates too little light or Sativa-biased genetics. Plants will stretch to reach sunlight outdoors – give at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight and use low‑stress training (LST) to create a bushier canopy and more robust lateral branches.

How Many Hours of Direct Sunlight Do Outdoor Plants Need?

Cannabis does well with 6-10 hours of direct sunlight per day. In extreme areas, early morning light is less intense – orient plants east-facing if possible and employ 30% shade cloth in the hottest afternoon sun to avoid heat stress.

How Often Should I Water and Fertilize My Cannabis?

In hot Australian climates, water plants every 2-3 days, adjusting for rain and pot size. Mist young seedlings daily, but not until waterlogged. Feed veg-stage plants a high-nitrogen fertilizer biweekly, then bloom food every 10-14 days after buds have formed – always with a flush of plain water afterward to prevent nutrient lockout.

Final Thoughts – Start Growing High-Quality Weed Outdoors in Australia

To wrap it all up, growing cannabis outdoors in Australia is equal parts art and science. You’ve learned how to match strains to your zone, set up the right pots and structures, feed and train your plants, and stay one step ahead of pests and extreme weather. Whether you’re chasing colossal outdoor yields under the Tropic of Capricorn or scheming a stealthy alpine autoflower harvest, the keys are preparation, observation, and the right genetics.

Now it's your turn: grab your seed pack, choose a strain that will suit your climate, and get growing. If you found this guide useful, leave us a comment below with your number one tip or question, share this post with your grow buddy, and save it for your next garden plan. We'd also love to see your progress – take a photo of your plants on Instagram, tag @herbies_shop, or email us at [email protected].

Happy growing, and may your harvest be plentiful!

Herbies Head Shop expressly refuses to support the use, production, or supply of illegal substances. For more details read our Legal Disclaimer.

Troy
Had success growing indoors and cloning in the past outdoors is a new thing for me
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Ray0408
Growing Indoors VS Outdoors. Which do you prefer and why? I like the high thc content in indoor buds but sometimes I just want a 'natural' toke and go for the outdoor buds. Iv noticed a more refined earthy taste in outdoor weed too, can smoke it throughout the day without being incapacitated from a few joints. I prefer indoor weed when I'm smoking at home with nothing to do but watch movies/eat/play video games, whilst prefer outdoor when I have to be active or at work.
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Lizard_King
As long as it is good weed, i don't mind if it is outdoor or indoor.
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Yazdan
One of the best and probably most potent smokes that I've ever had was from a plant which was growing in the wild and guess what, it had bunch of seeds in it too!
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matth82003
Indoor and outdoor for me, though I have much better success outdoors.
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Herbies
Hello matth82003, outdoors is a great option, but at the same time, indoors helps you learn new things about this hobby and plants in general. We wish you good luck with this.
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Scott
Looking for any help in best soil and feet mix to prepare soil for an outside grow in the ground with no pits, also what size hole is recommended. Thanks for any and all tips.
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Herbies
Hello Scott. Actually, most of the growint soils, designed for cannabis, will do. You don't even need a big hole if you plant the seed staight into the soils, just make sure to carefully plant it with sharp edge down on about 0.5-1 centieter deep
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Panda420
I would like a hole about 3 feet in diameter and about 3 feet deep. This should be optimal because the bigger the hole, the bigger the potential plant. Simply digging the hole and putting the same soil back in helps because it loosens the soil and cuts off the roots of nearby trees or shrubs that may be competing for water and nutrients. Don't back the hole up to the shrub or tree line. I could get by with an 18-inch by 18-inch hole, but the plant won't get as tall. Buying some decent compost from a landscape supply park is next on my list. This is to mix with the soil as you dig the hole or several holes. Also, get a peat bale to add to the soil mix. I would consider adding kelp meal, shrimp or shellfish meal, neem meal, and possibly some stone or rock minerals along the lines of the azomite and basalt. This is all mixed in so that all the microbes and other organisms in the hole can get to work breaking down all the soil amendments while the plant is still very small.
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Jim
Agreed. Or, just dig a small hole and let nature do its thing. This will work but the amount of the harvest will not be as much.
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LEO
99% of my growing experience is indoors with artificial lighting. I understand the 18/6 hour schedule for veg and the 12/12 hour schedule for flowering. But what are the dates I need to know throughout the growing season to maximize the potential of an outdoor grow? I anticipate having a lot of women ready to transition from indoors under artificial lighting to a greenhouse, but when is the right time to put them in a greenhouse? What (date) time of year? What is the best schedule to follow for maximum success in Southern Colorado?
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Christopher
the middle of May or Mother's Day is always a good date.. Lots of variables though.. Seeds will react different than clones.. I veg inside at 16-8 in order to come as close to a natural outdoor light cycle at that time of year and try to match sunrise / sunset times inside during veg to ease transition.. I'm also in soco.
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Herbies
Hello Leo! Actually, there's no certain dates for outdor growing as it depends on the weather and such parameters as dayly temperature and moisture. It is better to check this parameters and get a strain that will grow nice within them. Local growing forums might be useful
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LEO
Thank you sooooo much! This is exactly the kind of information that I was looking for. Thank you.
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Seamaiden
I pretty much ONLY grow outdoors, but I'm at 34* give or take, in the eastern part of California (Sierra Nevada, 2,500 feet elevation). First, you want to know the first and last frost dates, as cold temperatures will stop growth. IME, they can handle snow and frost, and some of them can even handle it in 1gal pots. Others, not so much. Being properly hardened off is key, IME.
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Thomas
Thank you! Awesome article.
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