When a cannabis plant transitions from growth to flowering, it seems like a natural process to the eye. But what actually happens is a remarkable interplay of biology, hormones, and cultivation techniques.
In his latest research , “What Makes Cannabis Bloom,” Peter Vermeul , founder of CBD Spain and leading expert in organic cannabis cultivation, delves into the depths of this process.

His insights show that cannabis is not just a plant — it is a living system that listens to signals from its environment as well as its own internal biochemistry.

The Discovery of Florigen — the Hormone That Triggers Flowering

The story begins in 1865, when the German botanist Julius von Sachs discovered that the sap of a flowering plant could cause another plant to bloom. This launched the search for the mysterious substance that activates flowering: florigen .

For years, it remained a mystery—what exactly was florigen? Did it actually exist, or was it just a theory?
In modern botany, we now know that florigen is the hormone that initiates the transition from vegetative growth (the phase in which leaves and stems are formed) to generative growth (the flowering phase).

With cannabis, this moment is crucial. The right timing determines not only the quantity of flowers, but also their quality, cannabinoid profile, and aromatic composition.

From growth to flowering — a dance of hormones

In his research, Peter Vermeul clearly explains how different plant hormones work together to control this transition:

• Florigen – the direct trigger for flowering, produced in the leaves in response to changes in the light cycle.

• Gibberellins – responsible for height growth in the vegetative phase, but can also be used to prepare the plant for flowering.

• Abscisic acid (ABA) – helps the plant cope with stress, such as drought or cold, and can be used to stimulate flowering.

These hormones act as invisible directors —determining when a plant grows, rests, or flowers. By understanding and managing these natural signals, a grower can take their crop to the next level.

Crop Steering — precision in cannabis cultivation

In addition to the organic side, Peter introduces the concept of crop steering : an advanced cultivation method that allows growers to consciously control the growth direction of their plants.
By cleverly playing with light, water, nutrients, temperature and humidity , the plant can be subtly influenced to switch to the flowering phase at the ideal moment.

Some key principles from his research:

• Light manipulation: By shortening the light hours (for example, 12/12 light/dark), the grower simulates the approaching end of summer — the natural signal for the plant to start flowering.

• Nutrition and irrigation: By reducing the amount of nitrogen and slightly increasing the electrical conductivity (EC), the plant is 'stimulated' to produce flowers.

• Temperature and humidity: A slight drop in temperature and humidity helps the plant behave as if it is approaching the end of the season, shifting energy from leaf growth to flower formation.

The result of this balance? Top-quality flowers with a rich cannabinoid profile, intense aroma, and optimal yields.

The art of balance — science meets craftsmanship

Successful cannabis cultivation is all about balance: flowering too early results in a weak plant, waiting too long leads to excessive growth.
Peter emphasizes that the secret lies in understanding the natural rhythms of the plant and adjusting each environmental factor to that rhythm.

This takes cannabis cultivation beyond the level of "regular growing." It becomes a form of organic craftsmanship —a combination of knowledge, experience, and respect for nature.

Delving deeper into the science behind cannabis flowering

What makes cannabis thrive isn't just a story about cultivation techniques, but also about respecting the biological intelligence of plants.
By understanding hormonal signals and cultivation strategies, growers can optimize their results — and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable cannabis culture.

In this study, Peter Vermeul shares not only his knowledge but also his passion for natural growth, balance, and purity — the same principles on which CBD Spain and CBD & Herb are built.

👉 Read the full article “What Makes Cannabis Bloom” by Peter Vermeul

• What Makes Cannabis Bloom - pdf NL
• What makes Cannabis bloom - pdf EN

Discover how florigen, hormonal balance, and modern cultivation methods converge in the heart of nature—and what that means for the future of high-quality CBD.