Episode 9: Week 9 Veg Progress, Defoliation Session & Transition Planning for Flower in EarthBox Living Soil

In this episode of the BuildASoil 10×10 Series, Season 9 continues with a hands-on, real-time look at a maturing vegetative grow inside the 10×10 tent. The plants are now entering a faster growth phase after a slower start, giving me a clearer picture of how genetics, environment, and soil biology interact over time in living soil systems.

I begin with a detailed week 9 veg update, where I observe plant structure, canopy development, and how different phenotypes are responding to identical conditions. While growth is still compact and bushy, the overall health is strong and the canopy is beginning to fill in more aggressively.

From there, I dive into the decision-making process around flip timing, evaluating plant size, stretch expectations, and how the EarthBox system is handling vigorous growth. I break down the trade-offs between flipping early versus allowing more veg time, especially when working with different genetic growth patterns.

Next, I move into cloning and defoliation work, taking cuttings from selected plants and performing a heavy cleanup session. I explain how I prepare aloe-based cloning solutions, label each plant for tracking, and selectively remove growth to improve airflow and redirect energy toward stronger sites.

I also cover real-world grow challenges, including managing overly bushy plants, balancing maintenance time with lifestyle demands, and making practical decisions before leaving for a few days. This leads into a broader discussion on grow philosophy, focusing on adaptability and consistency rather than perfection.

In the environmental control section, I break down VPD, PPFD, humidity targets, and how I set up my AC Infinity system for the veg-to-flower transition. I explain how I balance automation with real-world conditions, especially when leaving the garden unattended.

Finally, I discuss trellis net timing and structural support planning, including why I delay scrogging until after the initial stretch and how I evaluate plant strength before flower. I wrap up the episode with final thoughts on readiness, environment stability, and the transition into bloom.

By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how I manage a living soil veg cycle through observation, selective pruning, cloning strategy, and environmental control as I prepare for flower.

Disclaimer:
This content is for educational and informational purposes only. BuildASoil is dedicated to teaching the art and science of soil-based growing. Always follow your local laws and regulations.

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Intro
00:18 – Week 9 Update
02:50 – EarthBox Growth Check, Stretch Concerns & Deciding When to Flip to Flower
05:20 – Aloe Cloning Solution Prep & Plant Labeling
08:36 – Taking Clone Cuttings, Defoliation Strategy & Encouraging Feeder Root Development
13:25 – Heavy Defoliation Complete, Chop & Drop Cleanup, and End-of-Day Garden Reset
15:08 – Pre-Flower Plant Check, Environment Balance, Reservoir Check & Flip Decision Making
19:04 – VPD, PPFD, Humidity Targets & Environmental Control Strategy for Veg to Flower Transition
28:25 – Trellis Net Timing, Plant Structure Check & Pre-Flower Support Planning
29:50 – Final Thoughts

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Music: Rebel by LionRiddims