Autoflowering cannabis seeds have taken the growing world by storm. They’re popular because they flower based on age rather than the amount of light they receive. This makes them simpler to grow for beginners and experienced growers alike. In this guide, we’ll explore what autoflowering seeds are, list their pros and cons, and walk you through how to cultivate them. You’ll also learn where to buy them, the laws that may affect your grow, and some advanced tips to get the most out of your plants.
What Are Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds?
Autoflowering cannabis seeds are unique because they don’t depend on strict light cycles—like 12 hours on and 12 hours off—to begin flowering. Instead, they start flowering after a set period, often within two to four weeks of growth.
They owe this special ability to Cannabis ruderalis, a subspecies that grows in harsh climates with short summers. Breeders mixed ruderalis with indica and sativa strains to create autoflowering varieties that mature quickly and stay relatively small. Although stress (like lack of water or temperature changes) can speed up flowering, autoflowering seeds will bloom on their own regardless.
- Key Point: Age—not light schedule—triggers flowering.
- Ruderalis Influence: Originally adapted to short summers, giving autoflowers natural toughness.
Advantages of Growing Autoflowering Seeds
One reason autoflowers are so popular is that they have several perks. Their fast growth cycle, which can be as short as 8 to 10 weeks from seed to harvest, suits those who want quicker results or multiple harvests in a single season.
They’re also easier to manage because they don’t need a precise 12/12 light cycle to flower. This flexibility allows them to thrive in various environments, both indoors and outdoors. Another plus is their small size. Autoflowering plants typically stay compact, making them a good fit for growers with limited space or those who need to be discreet.
- Fast Growth: Quick turnaround means more frequent harvests.
- Simple Light Needs: No need for strict 12-hour darkness.
- Small Plant Size: Ideal for stealth grows or tight spaces.
Because of their tough ruderalis genes, autoflowers are often more resilient to pests and diseases. This makes them a favorite for beginners who may not have the experience to handle common cultivation issues. They also require fewer complicated techniques, which allows new growers to learn the basics without feeling overwhelmed.
Disadvantages of Growing Autoflowering Seeds
Even though autoflowers come with many benefits, they do have some drawbacks. Their shorter vegetative period means they usually produce lower yields than photoperiod (regular) strains. These smaller plants also have a limited window for training methods that boost yields.
- Lower Yields: Not as much time in the vegetative stage to bulk up.
- Limited Training Time: Less chance to apply techniques like topping or super cropping.
- Potency Concerns: Older autoflower strains sometimes had lower THC levels, although modern ones have improved significantly.
Types of Autoflower Cannabis Seeds
Autoflowers can be indica-dominant, sativa-dominant, or hybrid. You can choose the type based on the effects you prefer—relaxing, energizing, or balanced. Beyond these categories, you’ll find a few specific types:
- Feminized Autoflower Seeds: Almost always produce female plants, which is handy if you only want bud-producing females.
- Regular Autoflower Seeds: Not feminized, so there’s about a 50/50 chance of getting males or females.
- XXL Autoflowers: Bred to provide larger yields while keeping the autoflowering trait.
How To Grow Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds
Growing autoflowers is generally straightforward, making them a solid choice for both novice and experienced growers. Below is a simple outline of the main steps:
- Choose Quality Seeds: Pick a reputable seed bank that offers reliable genetics.
- Germination: Place seeds in a damp paper towel or starter plugs until they sprout roots.
- Planting: Transfer sprouts into nutrient-rich soil or another suitable medium.
- Light and Water: Give them about 18 to 24 hours of light each day and water only when the top soil is dry.
- Nutrients: Use a mild fertilizer because autoflowers have a shorter life cycle and can be sensitive to too many nutrients.
- Harvest Time: Check trichomes (the tiny crystals on buds). When they turn cloudy or amber, it’s time to harvest.
- Drying and Curing: Dry the trimmed buds for around a week, then cure them in airtight jars for two to four weeks to improve taste and potency.
While autoflowers grow well in many conditions, maintain a steady temperature (around 70 to 85°F) and watch out for common problems like overwatering or nutrient burn. Proper care during these key stages helps ensure a healthy, bountiful harvest.
Advanced Growing Techniques for Autoflowers
Although autoflowers have less time to recover from stress, you can still use certain training techniques to improve yields:
- Low-Stress Training (LST): Gently bend and tie down branches for better light penetration.
- Sea of Green (SOG): Grow many smaller plants close together, maximizing space and light.
- Topping (With Care): Remove the main top early on to create more bud sites, but only if the strain can handle it.
These methods can enhance both quality and yield, provided you time them properly and avoid damaging the plants during their short growth window.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling
Knowing when and how to harvest is crucial for the best results. Check your plant’s trichomes: if they’re mostly milky white, the buds will provide a more uplifting high. If some trichomes turn amber, expect a more relaxed or sedative effect. After cutting the plants down, trim off extra leaves and hang the buds in a dark space with good airflow for 7 to 10 days to dry.
Once they’re dry, curing is the next step. Place the buds in airtight containers and open the lids daily for a few minutes to release any trapped moisture. This process can take two to four weeks and greatly improves aroma, taste, and smoothness.
Best Places To Buy Autoflower Cannabis Seeds Online
Buying seeds online can be intimidating if you’re new to it, but several reputable seed banks offer quality autoflowering genetics. Look for stores that provide good customer service, reliable shipping methods, and germination guarantees.
- Seeds Here Now: Offers a wide variety of strains, handy grow guides, and guaranteed delivery.
- Seedsman: Large selection of strains and frequent deals.
- Royal Queen Seeds: Known for quality and fast shipping in Europe.
- Homegrown Cannabis Co.: Great deals, especially for new growers.
- Dutch Passion: Old-school seed bank with award-winning autoflower genetics.
Legality of Autoflower Cannabis Seeds
Laws about cannabis seeds differ across regions. In some places, seeds might be legal to buy as collector’s items, but growing them could be restricted or banned. Even in states where cannabis is legal, transporting seeds across state lines can break federal law. Make sure you’re familiar with the specific rules in your area, such as how many plants you can legally grow or whether a license is needed.
- Key Reminder: Always check local laws to avoid legal troubles.
Environmental Impact of Autoflower Cannabis Cultivation
Growing cannabis can affect the environment through water usage, energy consumption, and the potential use of pesticides. However, autoflowers generally have shorter life cycles, which may reduce their environmental footprint. Their natural toughness can also lower the need for harmful chemicals.
To be an eco-friendly grower, consider using organic soil, natural pest control, and efficient watering methods. Even small steps—like watering only when needed—help minimize waste and keep your cannabis grow as sustainable as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do autoflowers take to grow?
They typically finish within 8 to 12 weeks from seed to harvest.
Can I grow autoflowers outdoors?
Yes. Their rapid life cycle makes them ideal for places with shorter summers or changing weather.
What yields can I expect?
Usually one to four ounces per plant, depending on the strain and growing conditions. XXL strains can produce more.
Are autoflower strains weaker in THC?
Modern autoflower strains have been bred for higher potency, so many can match traditional photoperiod plants.
Conclusion
Autoflowering cannabis seeds have changed the way people grow marijuana. Their quick turnaround, simple light needs, and hardy nature make them a go-to option for beginners who want an easy entry into cultivation. While yields might be smaller than photoperiod strains, modern autoflowers often compete in potency and can produce surprisingly good harvests.
With so many strains and seed banks to choose from, there’s never been a better time to try autoflowering cannabis. Whether you’re looking for a smaller grow space solution, a faster harvest, or just a simpler approach, autoflowers could be the perfect fit.
Ready to get growing? Shop our wide selection of premium autoflower cannabis seeds today.
