How to Grow Wedding Cake Strain at Home (Step-by-Step)

Why Grow Wedding Cake at Home?

Growing cannabis at home has become increasingly popular, not just for the convenience or cost savings, but for the deep satisfaction that comes from cultivating your own top-shelf flower. Among the many strains available to home growers, Wedding Cake has secured a prominent place due to its unique combination of potency, flavor, yield potential, and visual appeal. Sometimes labeled as “Pink Cookies” depending on the breeder, Wedding Cake is an indica-dominant hybrid that traces its lineage back to Triangle Kush and Animal Mints. This genetic background produces a plant that is not only visually striking but also rich in terpenes and resin, making it a prized cultivar for personal grows and small-batch craft gardens alike.

One of the biggest reasons growers choose Wedding Cake is its resin production. This strain produces dense, frosty buds that shimmer with trichomes, making it a favorite among extract makers and anyone seeking high cannabinoid concentrations. But potency is not the only draw. Wedding Cake also delivers on flavor, offering a unique blend of sweet vanilla, creamy dough, and subtle earthy undertones that linger pleasantly on the palate. These characteristics translate well into both flower and concentrate form, giving the grower flexibility in how they enjoy the harvest.

From a growing standpoint, Wedding Cake presents a moderately challenging yet highly rewarding experience. It is known for having a bushy structure with robust lateral growth, meaning it can take well to training techniques like topping or low-stress training. This gives indoor growers more control over canopy shape and light penetration. However, Wedding Cake’s dense bud formation does require extra vigilance during the flowering stage, particularly with humidity and airflow. If conditions are not managed carefully, moisture can get trapped within the tightly packed buds, leading to mold or mildew issues. For this reason, the strain is best suited to growers who are comfortable monitoring environmental variables closely, especially during the last four to six weeks of the cycle.

The great thing about cultivating Wedding Cake at home is the level of customization and control it allows. You can grow in soil for a more organic flavor profile, or choose hydroponics for rapid nutrient uptake and potentially higher yields. You can manipulate the light schedule, feeding regime, and training methods to bring out the best in your specific phenotype. And once harvested, you can cure the buds slowly to retain every ounce of terpene character and smoothness.

Growing your own Wedding Cake means more than just having a jar of top-quality flower. It means understanding the plant on an intimate level, observing how it responds to different inputs, and fine-tuning your approach with each grow. Whether you’re new to home cultivation or already have experience, this strain offers enough complexity to keep things interesting and enough reward to make the effort worthwhile. In the sections that follow, we will guide you step-by-step through the entire growing process, from choosing the right seeds to harvesting, drying, and curing your buds to perfection.

Choosing the Right Seeds and Genetics

Before planting anything, the first and most important decision you will make is which type of Wedding Cake seeds to use. Genetics are the foundation of any successful grow, and even the best lighting, nutrients, and growing techniques cannot compensate for weak or unstable genetics. Choosing quality seeds from a reputable source is the starting point for ensuring healthy plants, consistent yields, and the signature aroma and flavor Wedding Cake is known for.

There are two primary seed types to choose from when growing Wedding Cake at home: feminized photoperiod and autoflowering. Each has its own advantages and challenges, and the right choice depends on your growing experience, setup, and goals.

Feminized photoperiod seeds are often preferred by more experienced growers who want full control over the plant’s life cycle. These seeds produce only female plants, which is essential since only females produce usable flower. With photoperiod seeds, you control the transition from vegetative growth to flowering by changing the light schedule. Typically, plants are kept under 18 hours of light during the vegetative phase, then moved to a 12-hour light cycle to induce flowering. This control allows for extended veg times, which can lead to larger plants and higher yields if space allows. Wedding Cake grown from feminized seeds tends to produce robust, resin-heavy buds with complex flavor and a terpene profile true to its lineage.

Autoflowering seeds, on the other hand, are designed to flower automatically based on age rather than light cycle. These are often chosen by newer growers or those with limited space or time. Autoflowering Wedding Cake plants are typically smaller, require less maintenance, and complete their life cycle in around 9 to 11 weeks from seed to harvest. While they may yield less than photoperiod plants, modern autoflower genetics have come a long way, and many now rival traditional strains in potency and flavor. Autoflowers are particularly suited for stealth grows, small tents, or limited outdoor seasons where timing is critical.

Regardless of which seed type you choose, make sure the genetics are stable and well-bred. Poorly stabilized seeds can result in hermaphroditism, irregular growth, or plants that do not match the expected phenotype. Look for breeders with consistent customer feedback and transparent lineage information. Brands that provide lab-tested seeds, COA documentation, or phenotype data tend to be more trustworthy. Avoid seeds sold on auction sites or from unknown sources, as these often lack quality control.

It is also important to understand that Wedding Cake can exhibit slight phenotypic variation, even within seeds from the same pack. Some plants may lean slightly more toward the Triangle Kush side, with earthy and skunky undertones, while others might express more of the creamy, vanilla-dominant traits from the Animal Mints side. These differences are natural, and with good selection practices, you can identify and clone the phenos that best match your preferences.

In summary, the key to growing Wedding Cake successfully starts with selecting high-quality seeds from a breeder you can trust. Decide whether feminized or autoflowering genetics align best with your goals, space, and experience level. Once you have the right seeds in hand, you are setting yourself up for a smoother growing process and a far better final product. A strong start is half the battle in cultivation, and with Wedding Cake, that means beginning with the right genetics.

Optimal Growing Environment

Creating the right environment for your Wedding Cake plants is essential for a successful grow. While genetics provide the blueprint, it is your environment that determines how well that blueprint is expressed. Wedding Cake has specific preferences when it comes to temperature, humidity, light, and airflow. Understanding these needs and planning your grow space accordingly can help you avoid problems and push the strain to its full potential.

Wedding Cake thrives in a mild and stable climate, whether grown indoors or outdoors. For indoor growers, maintaining daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal. Nighttime temperatures should not fall below 60 degrees and should ideally stay within 10 to 12 degrees of the daytime range to avoid stress. Outdoor growers should aim to plant in regions where temperatures remain within this window for most of the grow season. Colder climates can stunt growth or cause the plant to finish early, while excessive heat can impact bud development and terpene retention.

Humidity control is another critical aspect, especially during the flowering stage. During the vegetative stage, Wedding Cake performs best in relative humidity levels between 55 and 65 percent. This range supports healthy transpiration, nutrient uptake, and leaf expansion. As the plant enters flowering, reduce humidity to around 40 to 45 percent to prevent mold and mildew, which can easily take hold in Wedding Cake’s dense buds. Using a dehumidifier in your grow room can help keep levels in check during this sensitive stage.

If you are growing indoors, your lighting setup will play a major role in the plant’s health and productivity. Wedding Cake responds well to powerful full-spectrum LEDs or high-pressure sodium (HPS) lights during flowering. During the vegetative stage, aim for at least 18 hours of light per day, then reduce to 12 hours once flowering begins. Autoflower variants will flower automatically, but maintaining consistent lighting still ensures optimal growth and bud development.

Air circulation and ventilation are just as important as temperature and humidity. Wedding Cake’s compact and bushy structure can lead to stale air pockets, particularly within the inner canopy. Poor airflow increases the risk of mold, pests, and nutrient lockout. Use oscillating fans to promote movement across the plant canopy, and ensure that air is being exchanged regularly in the room. An inline fan paired with a carbon filter not only controls odor but also pulls stale air out while drawing fresh air in.

Outdoor growers should select a sunny and dry location with at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Shelter from heavy rain and consistent wind flow are important for preventing water-related issues. While Wedding Cake can tolerate light stress, extreme fluctuations in weather can reduce yield and quality.

In both settings, always monitor environmental conditions with accurate tools. A digital thermometer-hygrometer, pH meter, and soil moisture sensor will help you stay on top of your grow. The more precisely you control the environment, the more consistently Wedding Cake will reward you with high-yielding, resin-rich flowers. Your attention to detail during this phase lays the groundwork for everything that follows.

Soil and Growing Mediums

The growing medium you choose for your Wedding Cake plants plays a major role in determining nutrient availability, root health, and overall plant vigor. While the genetics dictate what the plant is capable of producing, the medium influences how easily it can access the elements it needs to thrive. Whether you are growing in organic soil, coco coir, or hydroponics, each option has its own strengths and requirements. Choosing the right one depends on your goals, experience, and the level of control you want over your grow.

Soil is the most beginner-friendly and forgiving option, making it a popular choice for home growers. A high-quality organic soil blend can provide nutrients for the first few weeks of growth without any added feeding. Look for a mix that includes compost, worm castings, perlite, and peat moss or coco coir. This type of blend offers excellent drainage and aeration while supporting a healthy population of beneficial microbes. These microbes improve nutrient uptake, break down organic matter, and help protect roots from pathogens.

To give your Wedding Cake plants a boost, you can amend your soil with natural additives like bat guano, kelp meal, fish bone meal, and mycorrhizal fungi. These additions improve long-term soil health and support vigorous root development. Soil pH should be maintained between 6.0 and 6.5 to ensure proper nutrient availability. A pH that falls outside this range can lead to deficiencies, even if nutrients are present.

Coco coir, made from the fibrous husk of coconuts, offers a great balance between soil and hydroponics. It is inert, meaning it contains no nutrients, so you have full control over what the plant receives. Coco provides excellent aeration and water retention, making it difficult to overwater as long as your containers have proper drainage. It also supports fast root growth due to the increased oxygen available at the root zone. For best results, use a buffered coco coir product to prevent calcium and magnesium binding issues.

When growing Wedding Cake in coco coir, you will need to feed your plants more frequently than in soil. A light nutrient solution with every watering is common practice. Be sure to include calcium and magnesium supplements, especially during the early stages, as coco tends to lock these elements away. The optimal pH range for coco is slightly lower than soil, around 5.8 to 6.2.

Hydroponic systems, such as deep water culture or drip irrigation, offer the most control and fastest growth. In these systems, nutrients are delivered directly to the roots through a water-based solution. This can lead to explosive growth and higher yields when managed properly, but it also comes with a steep learning curve. Any mistake in pH, nutrient balance, or water temperature can cause problems quickly. Wedding Cake responds well to hydroponics when dialed in, but it is better suited for growers with some experience.

Regardless of which medium you choose, make sure your containers offer adequate drainage. Root rot and fungal infections often result from soggy or compacted soil. Use fabric pots or plastic containers with multiple drainage holes, and avoid letting runoff sit in trays.

Ultimately, the best medium for growing Wedding Cake depends on your comfort level and growing style. Soil offers a natural, low-maintenance option with rich flavor profiles. Coco coir gives more control and rapid growth with fewer complications than full hydro. Hydroponics delivers maximum efficiency but demands constant attention. Each method can produce beautiful, resin-rich flowers if managed properly, so choose the one that aligns with your workflow and growing goals.

Germination and Seedling Stage

The germination and seedling stage marks the beginning of your Wedding Cake plant’s life and sets the tone for the entire grow. This is a delicate yet critical phase where small mistakes can lead to stunted growth or plant failure. While Wedding Cake is a resilient strain once established, it requires a gentle and precise approach during these early stages. Your goal is to create an ideal environment that supports strong root development, healthy leaf formation, and a smooth transition into the vegetative phase.

There are several reliable methods to germinate cannabis seeds, and the right one depends on your preferences and resources. The most common technique is the paper towel method, which involves placing seeds between two moist, non-bleached paper towels and enclosing them in a plastic container or sandwich bag. Keep the setup in a dark place at a stable temperature between 70 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Within 24 to 72 hours, you should see the seeds crack open and a small white taproot emerge. Once the root reaches about half an inch in length, the seed is ready to be placed in your chosen medium.

Alternatively, you can plant seeds directly into starter plugs, such as Rockwool cubes or peat pellets. These pre-formed plugs provide a consistent environment and minimize transplant shock later on. Simply moisten the plug, insert the seed about half an inch deep, and keep it in a warm, humid environment under a gentle light source. Some growers prefer to plant directly into small containers filled with soil or coco coir. While this method can work, it makes it harder to monitor seed viability and increases the risk of overwatering.

During germination and the seedling stage, moisture control is essential. The medium should be damp but not soaked. Oversaturation can suffocate the seed and lead to rot, while dryness can cause the root to stall or die off. Use a spray bottle to gently mist the top layer of soil or plug if it starts to dry out. Avoid using strong water streams that can displace or damage the fragile seed.

Once your seed has sprouted and the cotyledons (the first round leaves) have opened, your plant enters the seedling stage. This phase typically lasts one to two weeks. Place the seedling under a full-spectrum LED or fluorescent light source, positioned about 18 to 24 inches away. Too much light can burn the young leaves, while too little will cause stretching as the plant reaches for light. A daily light cycle of 18 hours on and 6 hours off is ideal at this stage.

Keep humidity between 65 and 75 percent to encourage strong leaf and root development. Seedlings absorb much of their moisture through their leaves at this point, so maintaining high humidity helps prevent dehydration. Temperature should stay between 70 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid stress.

During the seedling phase, feeding should be minimal. If you are using a high-quality soil mix, it likely contains enough nutrients for the first two weeks. For coco coir or hydroponic setups, use a very light nutrient solution at one-quarter strength. Watch for signs of overfeeding, such as leaf curling or discoloration.

Finally, avoid transplanting too early. Wait until the plant has developed at least three sets of true leaves and a strong root system. When transplanting into a larger container, handle the root zone carefully and avoid disturbing the soil structure.

By keeping the environment stable, light gentle, and moisture balanced, you give your Wedding Cake plant the best possible start. A strong seedling stage lays the groundwork for vigorous growth in the vegetative phase and helps prevent future setbacks.

Vegetative Growth: Building the Foundation

Once your Wedding Cake seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and a healthy root system, they will enter the vegetative stage. This is the phase where your plants grow rapidly, building structure, foliage, and roots in preparation for flowering. The decisions you make during this time, especially around lighting, nutrition, and training, will directly affect your final yield and bud quality. The vegetative stage is your opportunity to shape the plant, manage its size, and ensure it is strong enough to support heavy flower production later on.

For photoperiod Wedding Cake plants, the length of the vegetative stage is determined by how long you keep the plants under an 18 hours on and 6 hours off light schedule. Many indoor growers choose to veg for 3 to 6 weeks, depending on their space and desired plant size. The longer you allow the plant to veg, the larger it will grow, and the more potential bud sites it will develop. However, this also increases the amount of maintenance and vertical space required. Autoflowering Wedding Cake plants will automatically begin flowering after about 3 to 4 weeks, so you have less time to influence their structure and must focus on gentle care and optimal conditions from the start.

During veg, your goal is to promote vigorous foliage growth and a healthy root zone. Provide bright, full-spectrum lighting to mimic sunlight. LEDs are a popular choice due to their efficiency and low heat output. Keep your lights around 18 to 24 inches from the canopy to prevent stretching or light burn. Maintain temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity levels between 50 and 65 percent. These conditions support active nutrient uptake and reduce stress on the plant.

Nutrition becomes more important during this phase. Wedding Cake requires a nitrogen-rich diet during vegetative growth. Nitrogen supports chlorophyll production and leaf expansion, which in turn fuels photosynthesis and growth. Use a well-balanced nutrient solution formulated for vegetative stages. Look for a nutrient ratio with a higher first number in the NPK sequence, such as 3-1-2 or 4-2-3. Always monitor your pH to ensure nutrients are available to the roots. Soil-grown plants should stay in the 6.0 to 6.5 range, while coco or hydro growers should maintain a pH of 5.8 to 6.2.

This stage is also the ideal time to implement training techniques. Wedding Cake is naturally bushy with strong lateral growth, which makes it well-suited for low-stress training (LST), topping, and even screen of green (SCROG) setups. LST involves gently bending stems outward and tying them down to increase light exposure and encourage even canopy growth. Topping is the process of cutting off the main growth tip to force the plant to grow multiple colas. SCROG involves weaving branches through a horizontal net to keep everything at the same height, maximizing light penetration and improving airflow.

Watch for any signs of pests or stress during this period. Fungus gnats, spider mites, and nutrient deficiencies often make their first appearance in veg. Look for leaf discoloration, spots, curling, or slow growth. Catching problems early gives you time to correct them before the plant transitions to flowering, where recovery becomes more difficult.

By the end of the vegetative stage, your Wedding Cake plants should have strong stems, vibrant green leaves, and a wide, even canopy. They should be well-fed, well-lit, and structurally sound. With careful attention during this foundational phase, you can ensure your plants are ready to transition smoothly into flowering and deliver top-tier results.

Flowering Stage: Maximizing Yield and Potency

The flowering stage is the most exciting and rewarding part of growing Wedding Cake. This is when the plant begins to produce buds, develop its signature aroma, and express its full genetic potential. However, it is also the most demanding stage in terms of precision and care. Wedding Cake’s dense bud structure and high resin content require optimal conditions throughout flowering in order to avoid issues such as mold, nutrient imbalances, or underdeveloped trichomes. With proper management, you can expect beautiful, frosty flowers with a rich vanilla-cream scent and a visually striking appearance.

If you are growing photoperiod Wedding Cake plants, you will initiate flowering by changing the light schedule from 18 hours on and 6 hours off to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This sudden shift signals the plant to stop vegetative growth and begin reproductive development. Make sure your grow space is completely lightproof during the dark period, as light leaks can confuse the plant and cause stress or hermaphroditism. Autoflowering versions of Wedding Cake will begin flowering on their own, typically around the fourth week of growth, regardless of light schedule.

Wedding Cake has an average flowering time of 8 to 10 weeks, depending on phenotype and environmental conditions. During the first two weeks, you will see a noticeable stretch in vertical growth, often referred to as the “flowering stretch.” It is common for Wedding Cake to double in height during this period. Use this time to reinforce any support structures and perform any final training to manage canopy shape. Once pistils (white hairs) begin forming at the nodes, vertical growth will slow and bud production will take priority.

During flowering, the plant’s nutritional needs change significantly. Nitrogen demand decreases, while phosphorus and potassium become the dominant elements. Look for a bloom nutrient formula with a lower nitrogen value and higher levels of phosphorus and potassium, such as a 1-4-5 ratio. Feeding too much nitrogen during flowering can lead to leafy buds and reduced resin production. On the other hand, too little phosphorus or potassium can result in small, underdeveloped flowers. Be sure to monitor runoff pH and electrical conductivity to avoid buildup and lockout. Soil-grown plants should maintain a pH around 6.2 to 6.5, while coco or hydro setups should stay between 5.8 and 6.2.

Wedding Cake’s dense flowers are rich in trichomes, which give them their sticky, frosty appearance. These trichomes are where cannabinoids and terpenes are produced. To maximize resin development, provide strong, consistent lighting throughout flowering. Full-spectrum LEDs or high-pressure sodium lights are ideal. Make sure your canopy is evenly lit and free of shadows or dark pockets. Keep temperatures between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit, and gradually lower humidity to around 40 to 45 percent during mid to late flower. This discourages mold and encourages trichome production.

Air circulation is also critical. Position multiple fans at different heights to ensure constant movement throughout the canopy. This prevents stagnant air from accumulating around the dense buds. Avoid placing fans directly on the buds, which can cause windburn. Instead, aim for indirect airflow that keeps leaves gently moving.

As Wedding Cake nears harvest, the aroma will intensify and the pistils will begin to darken and curl inward. Trichome inspection under a magnifier will reveal whether they are clear, cloudy, or amber. Most growers harvest when trichomes are mostly cloudy with some amber mixed in, which indicates peak maturity.

The flowering stage requires patience and discipline. Rushing to harvest early or ignoring small issues can result in disappointing yields and lower potency. By providing the correct nutrients, managing your environment carefully, and observing the plant closely, you will be rewarded with top-quality Wedding Cake that lives up to its reputation.

Managing Humidity, Airflow, and Mold Prevention

One of the biggest challenges when growing Wedding Cake is managing humidity and airflow, especially during the flowering stage. This strain is known for producing thick, resinous buds that grow close together. While this contributes to its visual appeal and potency, it also creates the perfect environment for mold and mildew if conditions are not properly controlled. Careful monitoring and strategic adjustments to your grow environment are essential for protecting your plants and ensuring a clean, high-quality harvest.

Humidity control is a top priority throughout the entire grow cycle, but it becomes even more important as your Wedding Cake plants begin to flower. During the vegetative phase, higher humidity levels between 55 and 65 percent help support healthy transpiration and leaf expansion. Once flowering begins, you need to lower humidity gradually to around 40 to 50 percent by mid-flower. In the final few weeks, humidity should drop even further to between 35 and 45 percent. These lower levels help prevent moisture from getting trapped inside the dense bud clusters and reduce the risk of botrytis, commonly known as bud rot.

To manage humidity effectively, invest in a reliable hygrometer to track levels in real time. If your grow space consistently runs too humid, use a dehumidifier to bring levels down. Be sure to choose a unit appropriately sized for your room. A small tent may need only a compact unit, while a full grow room will benefit from a larger-capacity dehumidifier with an automatic shutoff and drainage system. Also, be aware of humidity spikes that can occur at night when lights are off. This is when temperatures drop and condensation becomes more likely.

Airflow is another key defense against mold. Without proper circulation, warm and humid air can become trapped between leaves and buds, creating microclimates that promote fungal growth. Use oscillating fans to keep air moving across all parts of the canopy. It is important that fans are placed at different heights, including above the canopy, at mid-level, and near the base of the plants. This creates a constant exchange of fresh air and prevents stagnant zones where problems can develop.

Do not point fans directly at the buds or leaves, as this can cause windburn and dry out sensitive plant tissue. Instead, aim for gentle movement where leaves are lightly rustling. Strong ventilation also helps maintain carbon dioxide levels and strengthens stems over time, which becomes especially useful as heavy buds develop.

If your grow space is enclosed, such as a tent or small room, a proper exhaust system is vital. Use an inline fan to pull stale, humid air out while drawing in fresh air from outside. Pair the fan with a carbon filter to reduce odors and maintain a clean environment. An intake fan or passive intake ports can also improve airflow without relying solely on oscillating fans.

Another important tactic is strategic defoliation. By removing excess fan leaves, especially those blocking light and airflow to lower bud sites, you open up the canopy and allow for better air movement. Be cautious not to remove too many leaves at once, as this can stress the plant. Focus on clearing out the lower third of the plant and thinning out leaves in dense areas where air struggles to circulate.

Finally, keep your space clean. Mold spores can linger on old plant material, used equipment, or in poorly maintained grow rooms. Sanitize tools regularly, remove dead leaves from the floor, and avoid overwatering, which can raise humidity levels unnecessarily.

Wedding Cake is a high-value strain that rewards diligence and attention to detail. By managing humidity and airflow carefully, you give your plants the best chance to produce clean, aromatic, and fully developed flowers. Mold prevention is not just about avoiding loss, it is about preserving the quality, flavor, and safety of your final product.

Harvest Timing, Drying, and Curing

Harvesting your Wedding Cake plants at the right time and handling the post-harvest process with care are essential steps for preserving potency, flavor, and aroma. Even the best grow can fall short if the flowers are taken down too early, dried too quickly, or cured improperly. This stage requires patience, attention to detail, and a methodical approach. Wedding Cake is known for its dense, trichome-heavy buds, so every step you take here will determine the final quality and shelf life of your product.

Identifying the Right Time to Harvest

The flowering period for Wedding Cake typically lasts between eight and ten weeks, depending on phenotype and environmental conditions. The best way to determine harvest readiness is by examining trichomes, the tiny resin glands that cover the buds and sugar leaves. Under a magnifying lens or jeweler’s loupe, trichomes will appear as clear, then cloudy, and finally amber as they mature.

• Clear trichomes indicate the plant is not yet ready. Potency is still developing, and harvesting now will produce a weaker and more energetic effect.
  
• Cloudy or milky trichomes contain the highest level of active compounds and signal peak maturity.
  
• Amber trichomes suggest the plant is entering degradation, which may produce a more sedative effect.
  

Most growers aim to harvest when trichomes are mostly cloudy with 10 to 20 percent amber. This balance delivers Wedding Cake’s characteristic potency and body-calming effects without being too heavy.

In addition to trichomes, pay attention to pistils, the hair-like structures on the buds. When around 70 to 90 percent have darkened and curled inward, the plant is usually ready. However, pistils alone should not be the only deciding factor. Always confirm with trichome inspection.

Drying Your Wedding Cake Harvest

Once you cut your plants, the drying process begins. Proper drying is critical for preserving terpenes and preventing mold. Hang whole branches or trimmed buds upside down in a dark, well-ventilated room with stable conditions.

• Temperature should stay between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
  
• Humidity should remain between 50 and 60 percent.
  
• Airflow must be gentle and consistent. Use a fan to circulate air, but avoid pointing it directly at the buds.
  

Drying usually takes between 7 and 14 days, depending on bud density and environmental factors. You will know the buds are ready when small stems snap instead of bend. If you jar your buds while they are still moist, you risk trapping water inside, which can lead to mold during curing.

The Curing Process

After drying, curing is the final and often overlooked step that enhances flavor, smoothness, and overall quality. Place your dried buds into glass jars, filling them about three-quarters full to leave room for air exchange. Store the jars in a cool, dark place and burp them daily during the first two weeks. This means opening the lid for a few minutes to release moisture and allow fresh air in.

Monitor humidity inside the jars with small hygrometers if available. Ideal curing humidity is around 58 to 62 percent. If the humidity rises above this range, leave the jar open longer during burping or use a moisture-absorbing pack.

Curing takes a minimum of two weeks, but many growers cure for four to eight weeks for best results. During this time, chlorophyll breaks down, harshness fades, and terpene profiles mature. Wedding Cake in particular benefits from a proper cure, as its complex flavor of vanilla, sweet dough, and earthy spice becomes more pronounced and refined.

Proper harvest timing, controlled drying, and patient curing are what separate good flower from great flower. When done right, these steps ensure your Wedding Cake buds retain their full potency, rich aroma, and smooth smoke, making the entire grow worth every bit of effort.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Even experienced growers encounter setbacks during a grow, and Wedding Cake is no exception. While it is a relatively hardy strain once established, its dense bud structure, vigorous growth, and nutritional demands can make it vulnerable to specific issues. Identifying and addressing problems early is essential to prevent small symptoms from escalating into major losses. In this section, we will look at the most common challenges growers face with Wedding Cake and how to resolve them effectively.

Nutrient Deficiencies and Toxicities

Wedding Cake tends to be moderately heavy feeding during its vegetative and flowering stages. However, providing too much or too little of key nutrients can cause stress. Nitrogen deficiency is one of the most common problems during the vegetative phase. Yellowing of lower leaves, slow growth, and pale foliage can signal a lack of nitrogen. On the other hand, excess nitrogen leads to overly dark green leaves, delayed flowering, and excessive leaf production at the expense of bud growth.

Phosphorus and potassium deficiencies often show up during flowering. Signs include purple or red stems, brown spotting on leaves, and weak bud development. Be sure to use a nutrient mix specifically designed for the flowering stage and monitor your pH closely. Incorrect pH levels can lead to nutrient lockout, where nutrients are present but inaccessible to the plant. Soil growers should maintain a pH between 6.0 and 6.5, while coco or hydroponic growers should aim for a range between 5.8 and 6.2.

Overfeeding can also cause nutrient burn, where leaf tips turn yellow or brown and become crispy. When in doubt, less is often more. Start with half-strength nutrients and increase gradually based on how the plant responds. Always flush the medium if you suspect buildup.

Overwatering and Root Problems

Overwatering is a frequent issue among newer growers. It leads to soggy roots, poor oxygen exchange, and in some cases, root rot. Symptoms include drooping leaves, yellowing, and slow growth. To prevent this, allow the top layer of soil or coco to dry out slightly between waterings. Use containers with proper drainage and avoid letting runoff water sit in trays beneath the pots.

In severe cases, overwatering can attract fungus gnats, whose larvae damage root systems. Yellow sticky traps and beneficial nematodes can help reduce infestations, but prevention through proper watering practices is the most effective strategy.

Pests and Mold

Wedding Cake’s thick, sticky buds can attract powdery mildew and bud rot if humidity and airflow are not properly managed. Always keep humidity below 50 percent during flowering, especially in the final weeks. Good airflow, defoliation, and regular monitoring are your best defenses.

Common pests include spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These insects can cause leaf damage, reduce plant vigor, and spread disease. Inspect your plants regularly, especially on the underside of leaves. If pests are spotted, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or predatory insects like ladybugs or lacewings.

Environmental Stress

Wedding Cake prefers stable temperatures between 68 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Extreme heat can cause leaf curling, foxtailing, or terpene loss. Cold temperatures, particularly during the night, can stunt growth or lead to discoloration. Use heaters or air conditioners as needed to maintain consistency.

Light stress is another common issue. Too much intensity can cause bleaching or curling at the top of the plant, while insufficient light leads to stretching and weak bud development. Adjust light height and intensity based on plant response.

In summary, growing Wedding Cake successfully involves more than just feeding and watering. Observing your plants daily, responding quickly to changes, and maintaining a clean, controlled environment are essential habits. Troubleshooting problems early not only protects your yield but also helps you become a more skilled and confident grower with each cycle.

Conclusion: Cultivating Wedding Cake with Confidence

Growing Wedding Cake at home is a rewarding experience that blends horticultural skill, environmental control, and a deep understanding of plant behavior. While this strain is admired for its stunning appearance and high potency, it also requires thoughtful attention from seed to harvest. The good news is that with the right tools, techniques, and mindset, even small-scale home growers can produce top-quality buds that rival those found in dispensaries.

Wedding Cake is a strain that thrives in a well-managed space. From the moment you select your seeds, you begin shaping the outcome of your grow. Choosing between feminized photoperiod or autoflowering genetics determines how much control you will have over the plant’s life cycle. Photoperiod plants allow for more training time and potentially larger yields, while autoflowers are better suited for compact setups and quicker harvests. Regardless of your choice, starting with reputable, stable genetics is one of the most important decisions you can make.

Once germinated, your Wedding Cake plants need a carefully tailored environment to reach their full potential. They prefer stable temperatures, moderate humidity, and lots of light. Whether you are growing in soil, coco coir, or hydroponics, maintaining the right pH and nutrient levels is crucial. Early on, this means encouraging strong root and leaf development. Later, it means maximizing flower density and resin production without causing stress or deficiencies.

One of the standout features of Wedding Cake is its dense bud structure, which looks beautiful but can also lead to mold or bud rot if you are not careful. Airflow, humidity control, and defoliation become especially important during the flowering stage. Maintaining a clean environment and investing in proper equipment will protect your plants and make a significant difference in quality.

When it comes time to harvest, patience is key. Trichome color, pistil development, and overall bud maturity all play a role in determining the right moment. Cutting your plants too early can result in underwhelming effects, while waiting too long can diminish the unique flavor and balance that Wedding Cake is known for. Once harvested, drying and curing properly will lock in potency, preserve terpenes, and ensure a smooth experience when consumed.

Even with the best preparation, problems may arise. Nutrient deficiencies, pests, overwatering, or light stress can appear unexpectedly. The key is to stay observant and learn from each grow. Wedding Cake is relatively resilient once established, and it responds well to corrective action when caught early.

Home cultivation is not only about the end product. It is also about the journey, the learning curve, and the personal satisfaction that comes with nurturing a plant from seed to jar. Every run teaches something new. Each harvest brings an opportunity to improve, refine your techniques, and develop a deeper appreciation for the plant.

By taking the time to understand the needs of Wedding Cake and providing a supportive environment at every stage, you can grow buds that look, smell, and perform like top-shelf flower. With confidence, care, and consistency, you will find that cultivating this celebrated strain at home is not only achievable but deeply enjoyable.

Research Citations

• Cervantes, J. (2006). Marijuana Horticulture: The Indoor/Outdoor Medical Grower’s Bible. Van Patten Publishing.
  Clarke, R. C. (1981). Marijuana Botany: An Advanced Study: The Propagation and Breeding of Distinctive Cannabis. Ronin Publishing.
• Green, G. (2017). The Cannabis Grow Bible: The Definitive Guide to Growing Marijuana for Recreational and Medicinal Use (3rd ed.). Green Candy Press.
• Rosenthal, E. (2021). Cannabis Grower’s Handbook: The Complete Guide to Marijuana and Hemp Cultivation. Quick American Publishing.
  Royal Queen Seeds. (n.d.). Wedding Cake: Sweet, Fruity, and a Real Treat to Grow. 
• Leafly. (n.d.). Wedding Cake Marijuana Strain Information and Reviews. 
• Grow Weed Easy. (n.d.). How to Grow Cannabis Indoors: A Beginner’s Guide.
• Seedsman. (n.d.). Wedding Cake Strain Information and Growing Tips. 
• ILGM (I Love Growing Marijuana). (n.d.). Wedding Cake Strain Review: Growing Tips and Effects. Retrieved from https://www.ilovegrowingmarijuana.comZamnesia. (n.d.). Wedding Cake: A Delicious Dessert Strain Worth Growing.
  

Frequently Asked Questions: Growing Wedding Cake at Home