Starting your cannabis journey with clones is like skipping the line at a concert – you get a head start on the growing process and enjoy faster, more predictable results. For South African growers looking to explore the art of cloning, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to grow Cannabis Clones in South Africa, from choosing the right genetics to mastering your grow space.
Whether you’re cultivating at home in Cape Town or setting up a small grow tent in Jozi, this guide is tailored to South Africans eager to get their hands dirty – legally and successfully.
What Are Cannabis Clones and Why Grow Them?
A cannabis clone is a cutting taken from a “mother plant” that’s been carefully rooted to grow into a genetically identical plant. Instead of starting from seed, clones offer:
- Genetic consistency – No surprises on sex, potency, or growth traits.
- Shorter grow cycles – No waiting for germination or sexing.
- Predictable results – You already know how the plant performs.
For beginner growers in South Africa, clones remove many of the unknowns associated with starting from seed – ideal for learning and yielding faster results.
Legal Note: Is Growing Cannabis Clones Legal in South Africa?
Thanks to the 2020 Constitutional Court ruling, personal cultivation of cannabis for private use is permitted in South Africa. While the Cannabis for Private Purposes Bill is still being finalised, individuals can legally grow cannabis clones in South Africa, at home as long as:
- It’s for private and personal use.
- The cultivation does not involve dealing or public distribution.
- It’s not accessible to children or visible to the public.
Always stay informed with updates from local legal channels or the Department of Justice.
Step-by-Step: How to Grow Cannabis Clones at Home in South Africa
Let’s break down the process of growing cannabis clones in South Africa, from selection to harvest.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Clone
Your success begins with genetics. African Smoke offers a curated selection of local and imported breeder clones, each selected for specific traits such as yield, potency, flavour, and washability.
🔥 Popular Imported Picks from African Smoke:
- Golden State Banana (Imported)
- Zkittlez (3rd Gen Family Farms)
- Grape Gas (Compound Genetics)
- Dulce De Uva (Bloom Seed Co)
- Gary Payton (Cookies x Powerzzzup)
💡 Tip: If you’re new, go for resilient genetics like Gary Payton or Grape Gas to learn the ropes.
Step 2: Prepare Your Grow Environment
Before your clone arrives, set up your growing area. You don’t need an elaborate indoor grow – a small tent or cabinet works for home cultivation.
Essential Equipment:
- Grow lights (LEDs are energy efficient)
- Air circulation (small oscillating fan)
- Humidity dome or tent
- Grow medium (coco coir, soil, or hydroponics)
- Rooting plugs like ASH Jiffy Plugs
Step 3: Transplanting and Rooting
Once your clone is home:
- Gently transfer it into a rooting plug or small pot.
- Dip in cloning gel to promote strong root development.
- Place under 18–24 hours of light daily.
- Keep humidity between 70–90% for the first 7–10 days.
Optional: Use a Clone Transporter if you’re moving clones long distances – it keeps them safe and stress-free.
Step 4: The Veg Stage
After rooting (usually 7–14 days), your clone enters the vegetative phase.
Key Tips:
- Light cycle: 18 hours on, 6 hours off.
- Temperature: 22–28°C
- Humidity: 50–70%
- Feed light nutrients (especially Nitrogen-rich)
Maintain steady airflow and avoid overwatering – a common rookie mistake.
Step 5: The Flowering Stage
Switch your lighting to 12/12 (12 hours light, 12 hours dark) to trigger flowering.
At this stage:
- Drop humidity to 40–50%
- Maintain temps between 20–26°C
- Increase Phosphorus and Potassium in your feeding schedule
By weeks 6–10, your plant will produce buds. Imported clones like Zkittlez or Dulce De Uva shine here, known for resin-rich flowers and award-winning terps.
Step 6: Harvest, Dry, Cure
Once trichomes turn milky or amber, it’s time to harvest:
- Cut branches and hang upside down in a dark, ventilated space.
- Dry for 7–14 days (aim for 60% humidity, 20°C).
- Cure buds in glass jars, “burping” daily for the first 2 weeks.
🎯 Quality matters – proper drying and curing brings out the full flavour and potency of your clones.
Want to Learn More About Cannabis Clones in South Africa?
Before you dive into your first grow, it’s worth understanding the bigger picture. Our in-depth guide, The Ultimate Guide to Cannabis Clones in South Africa: Everything You Need to Know, covers cloning techniques, sourcing genetics, and industry insights tailored for South African growers.
African Smoke vs. The Competition
There’s no shortage of clone providers, but African Smoke stands out in three big ways:
- Imported Breeder Genetics – Unlike most competitors, African Smoke offers direct clones from world-renowned breeders like Compound Genetics, 3rd Gen Family, and Cookies.
- One-Stop Grow Shop – From cloning gel to transporters, everything you need is under one roof.
- Educational Content & Local Support – African Smoke provides South African-specific resources and tools to empower growers at every level. You’re not just buying a plant – you’re joining a movement.
Local Touch: The Rise of Home Growing in South Africa
According to a 2024 study by Cannabiz Africa, over 900,000 South Africans are actively growing cannabis for private use – a 200% increase since 2021.
Why the spike?
- Legal shifts
- Access to better genetics
- Education from companies like African Smoke
With affordable tools and online resources, home growing has become more accessible than ever before.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Weed Clones
- Overwatering – Wait until the topsoil dries out.
- No light timer – Inconsistent light disrupts growth cycles.
- Neglecting pH levels – Keep it between 5.8–6.5 for soil.
- Poor airflow – Stagnant air invites mould and pests.
💡 Fix: Create a checklist. Consistency is your best friend in clone growing.
Tools & Products We Recommend
African Smoke has handpicked grow gear to make life easier:
- ASH Jiffy Plugs – Easy rooting medium
- ASH Cloning Gel – Boosts root growth
- Clone Transporter – Secure delivery
- Imported Clones – Rare, award-winning genetics
Final Thoughts: Ready to Start Growing?
Growing weed clones in South Africa is no longer just for pros. With the right guidance, equipment, and genetics, anyone can start a successful home grow. Whether you’re interested in flavour-packed cultivars or rosin-worthy strains, African Smoke is your go-to partner.
👉 Visit our website to find more tools and equipment
👉 Browse our current clone stock
FAQs: How to Grow Cannabis Clones in South Africa
What are the benefits of using clones over seeds?
Clones grow faster, are genetically identical to the mother, and skip the germination stage – great for consistency and predictability.
Is it legal to buy cannabis clones in South Africa?
Yes, it is legal to grow and own cannabis for private, personal use in South Africa. However, selling and public distribution remains illegal.
How long does it take to grow a cannabis clone to harvest?
From rooting to harvest, expect a grow cycle of around 10–14 weeks depending on the strain and environment.
Can I grow cannabis outdoors with clones?
Absolutely. Just make sure the clone is hardened off before exposure to full sun. South Africa’s climate is great for seasonal outdoor grows.
Do I need a grow tent or can I use a regular room?
You can use any controlled space with consistent light, airflow, and humidity. Tents make this easier but aren’t essential for small grows.