Growing cannabis plants may appear easy, but in reality, it involves a few things. Well, one of the most important ones is regarding the seed you choose. From growth speed to yield size, everything begins with the right starting point.
When it comes to cannabis seeds, there are three most common cannabis seed types out there. These include auto-flowering, feminised, and regular seeds.
Each of these comes with unique benefits and challenges. This is exactly what makes them essential for growers to understand their differences before planting.
Differentiating Auto-flowering Seeds from Feminised and Regular Seeds
With auto-flowering seeds on one hand and feminised and regular seeds on the other hand, it may become difficult for a cannabis grower to choose. Take a look at the following 10 points to understand and choose what works best for growth, and simplify the rest of the process.
Difference 1: Life Cycle and Flowering Time
One of the most important differences between cannabis seed types is their process of germination to harvest.
Auto-flowering seeds begin to flower automatically after a set period, irrespective of how much light they receive. This is why most people rely on them for quick harvests.
On the other hand, feminised and regular seeds require a strict routine of a light cycle. This usually includes 12 hours of light followed by 12 hours of darkness, which is necessary for it to enter the flowering stage.
Difference 2: Genetics and Plant Size
The genetics of seed type play a huge role in determining how the plants grow.
Auto-flowering seeds contain Ruderalis genetics. This is a hardy cannabis variety that naturally flowers quickly and grows smaller in size. This results in small plants that are easy to manage indoors or in discreet outdoor grows.
However, feminised and regular seeds are derived from Indica and Sativa genetics. This is why they grow larger in comparison to the other seeds. These bigger plants are capable of producing higher yields, but they also demand more space and care.
So, choose a seed type depending on your growing environment.
Difference 3: Yield Potential
Yield is an important factor for most growers, and this is where seed types show the most differences.
Regular and feminised seeds generally offer higher yield potential. This is truer if you manage to grow them in conditions with plenty of space and light control.
However, auto-flowering seeds produce moderate yields, especially due to their smaller size and rapid life cycle. But their quick turnaround makes it possible to harvest multiple crops per year. So, that compensates for lower per-plant output.
This is why auto-flowering seeds provide a practical balance for growers who want to increase their annual production.
Difference 4: Ease of Growth for Beginners
Not all cannabis seeds are easy to grow, but auto-flowering seeds shine in that crowd. These seeds are considered the most beginner-friendly option as they do not need any light schedules. On top of that, the best thing about them is that they are more forgiving of common mistakes.
On the other hand, regular seeds demand experienced skills, so they are best for experienced growers. From identifying plant sex to removing male plants and even ensuring optimal breeding conditions, there’s a lot that one has to do.
Lastly, feminised seeds like Godfather OG strain are easier than regular seeds, but require careful monitoring of environmental factors and light exposure. Otherwise, they won’t be able to grow properly.
Difference 5: Sex Determination and Breeding
Another major difference lies in plant sex and breeding potential. Regular seeds naturally produce both male and female plants, which makes them highly valuable for breeding new strains.
Feminised seeds, however, are specifically bred to produce female plants only. This is why they are ideal for growers who want buds without the hassle of sexing plants.
And auto-flowering seeds are mostly feminised for convenience, but breeders can also find auto-flowering regular versions, allowing them to combine fast cycles with new strain development.
Difference 6: Light Requirements
Light is one of the most critical elements in cannabis cultivation, and also important in the seed types. Auto-flowering plants need under 18–24 hours of light per day. This is great for maintaining growth.
On the other hand, feminised and regular seeds require a carefully managed 12/12 light cycle to trigger flowering. Growers who want a simpler, less technical approach, auto-flowering seeds are the best choice. But feminised and regular seeds reward careful light management with bigger yields.
Difference 7: Resistance and Hardiness
The resilience of a cannabis plant depends heavily on its genetics. Auto-flowering seeds have a unique advantage here. Auto-flowering plants are naturally more resistant to pests, mould, and harsh climates because of their Ruderalis heritage.
This factor automatically makes them an excellent choice for outdoor growers or those in less predictable environments. On the other hand, feminised and regular plants are capable of producing excellent results. However, they generally require more controlled conditions and consistent care to achieve their full potential.
Difference 8: Harvest Frequency
The speed at which auto-flowering plants complete their cycle gives growers an advantage in terms of harvest frequency. As auto-flowering seeds typically finish in 8–12 weeks, it is possible to grow and harvest multiple cycles within a single year.
On the other hand, feminised and regular plants have longer growth timelines, allowing for 1–2 harvests annually. So, if anyone wants a continuous supply of fresh harvests, then auto-flowering seeds will be a better choice.
Difference 9: Cost and Availability
Cost and accessibility are important considerations. Auto-flowering seeds are generally slightly more expensive due to their specialised breeding techniques.
However, feminised seeds like the Godfather OG strain are widely available and strike a balance between cost and reliability. This is why they are a popular choice for both hobby and commercial growers.
But even then, regular seeds are generally the least expensive. But they are less common among casual growers as they require more skill to manage.
Difference 10: Suitable Growing Environments
Different seed types grow under different conditions. Auto-flowering seeds are versatile and perform well in indoor, outdoor, and even guerrilla-style grows. Their smaller size and quick life cycle make things easy.
Feminised and regular seeds are better suited to growers who have access to controlled environments like greenhouses or professional indoor setups. These seeds require light schedules and space.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right cannabis seed type is the first step to successful cultivation. While auto-flowering seeds stand out for their speed, resilience, and suitability for beginners, feminised and regular seeds remain excellent options for higher yields and advanced growers.
So, choose one carefully after understanding how they are different from one another.
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