Over watering/soil too wet.
For marijuana seedlings, it’s crucial to get the watering process just right. After planting, water gently to settle the soil, making sure it’s moist but not soaked. Avoid overwatering as seedlings have delicate roots and are prone to rot in overly wet soil. Water when the top inch of the soil feels dry, and be gentle with a watering can or spray bottle to prevent disturbing the plant. Make sure the water’s pH is between 6.0 and 7.0, ideally around 6.5, and let tap water sit for 24 hours to avoid chlorine. Signs of overwatering include yellowing or wilting leaves, while underwatering shows as dry, crispy leaves. Keep humidity around 60-70% to help with water retention, and adjust your watering schedule as the seedlings mature.
Yes, white spots on the soil can sometimes indicate overwatering, but more commonly, they are a sign of salt buildup from nutrients or minerals in the water. When plants are overwatered, the soil may stay wet for extended periods, which can cause salts from fertilizers or minerals in the water to accumulate at the surface as the water evaporates.
If you're looking for tips, I recommend using peat pots instead of plastic or fabric when transplanting. I've overwatered my plants more than once, but making these changes has helped prevent it from happening again. Watering is definitely the trickiest part of using soil until you get the hang of it.
Best of luck!