Dominion Seed Company

Dominion Seed Company is not about chasing the latest hype. It is a mission to preserve the potency, essence, and “outlaw gumption” of the legendary strains that defined the craft. This is a genetic library dedicated to the “heirloom classics” from the 1970s and 80s, ensuring that the iconic Roadkill Skunk, Afghan, and Hash Plant lines are not lost to history.

At the heart of this mission is founder Duke Diamond, one of the most respected and “famous” breeders “representing the South”. His “passion for growing that can’t be tamed” and deep “love for the plant” have been proven not just by decades of cultivation, but by years of “sacrifice… during the war on drugs”. This is a brand built on a foundation of resilience and an unwavering commitment to the plant, forged through “legal hurdles” and prison terms that tested his dedication.

This dedication is guided by a simple, uncompromising philosophy: “Potency was always most important”. Dominion Seed Company’s work is characterized by a “steadfast commitment to preserving and enhancing cannabis genetics”, resulting in a catalog of robust, reliable, and “ass-stomping” strains.

To understand the dedication, you must first understand the story. Explore the tabs to discover the man behind the mission, the legendary genetics he has preserved, and the expert-level techniques he shares with the community.

“Our Story: An Unwavering Passion for the Plant
The story of Dominion Seed Company is the story of its founder, Duke Diamond. It is a narrative of resilience, sacrifice, and an authentic, lifelong “”love for the plant””.

The Outlaw Gardener: A Career from Age 12
For Duke Diamond, cannabis cultivation was not a hobby; it was a necessity. His career began in Virginia at around 12 years old, driven by a simple truth of prohibition-era reality: he “”felt safer growing it than buying it””. After planting his first seeds, his “”older cousins caught me, took me under their wings and pointed me in the right direction””.

This early start in “”the South””—a region not typically known for breeding—forced a different kind of innovation. Duke began ordering seeds from Amsterdam, specifically the foundational building blocks: “”Afghani, Skunk and Northern Lights x Skunk””. This “”outlaw gumption”” was the genesis of a lifelong obsession.

Forged by Necessity: “”Potency Was Always Most Important””
Duke’s breeding philosophy was forged by the high-stakes reality of his environment. His work was not just for connoisseurship; it was for survival. His goal was to create “”Real ass-stomping stuff!”” , and he quickly developed a competitive edge. “”We felt we could compete with California or anywhere else,”” he stated.

To do this, he focused on “”practical farmer’s-level selection”” (what he terms “”farmer shit””) to achieve the traits necessary for an outlaw grower: “”speed up flowering time, boost yields and make the best selections””. His “”Hash Plants were big, heavy yielders that finished up before the fall rains came in””. Above all, one rule guided every selection: “”Potency was always most important””.

The Price of Passion: Sacrifice & Resilience
Duke was active on online cannabis forums, sharing valuable information and helping countless people learn to grow and breed. This passion and visibility, however, came at a great cost.

In 2007, Duke was “”ratted on by an associate and busted by the DEA for growing, ultimately serving time in the Federal penitentiary””. His commitment to the plant was tested again in 2019, when he had to return to prison “”over an unfortunate bust for possession of a firearm as a felon””. This history is not hidden; it is the ultimate proof of his authenticity and “”sacrifice for the plant”” during the decades of prohibition.

The Comeback & The Founding of Dominion
In 2015, during the progression of legalization, the legendary MrSoul reopened Brothers Grimm Seeds. In a partnership of peers, he “”initially team[ed] up with Duke Diamond”” for the relaunch. This collaboration validated Duke’s status among the industry’s elite, but his own vision was calling. Duke soon “”left to begin his own seed company, Dominion Seed Company””.

After being “”released in 2022,”” Duke returned “”fresh out the joint”” with a singular focus: “”reviving Dominion Seed Company”” and sharing his life’s work with the community that had long awaited his return.
“

Dominion Seed Company is recognized by seasoned growers as a pillar of genetic preservation and uncompromising quality. Its reputation is built on these foundational “greatest hits.”

The Keeper of “Lost” Legends Dominion is synonymous with the preservation of foundational “heirloom classics”. Duke Diamond is one of the few breeders renowned for working with the “legendary varieties of the 1970s and ’80s,” including the most iconic and sought-after lines: Roadkill Skunk, Afghan, G-13, and Hash Plant.

The “Skelly” Hashplant Genetic Backbone The core of Dominion’s breeding program is built on a piece of cannabis history: the Skelly Hashplant (aka “The Puck”). This is a verified 1989 cut from Nevil Schoenmaker and The Seed Bank, originating as a “Clone Only PNW Hashplant” crossed to an NL1 and then backcrossed. This cut, and its verified sister “Cuddlefish Hashplant”, form the genetic backbone for many of Dominion’s most famous strains.

Signature Strains (Modern Heirlooms) Duke uses the “Skelly” backbone to create stable, potent hybrids that carry the torch of their legendary parents.

Granny Skunk: A celebrated line built from (Virginia Beach Afghani x Skelly Hash Plant x SSSC Skunk #1).

Local Skunk F3: A complex and renowned hybrid of (Original Diesel x (Cuddlefish HP x Sour Diesel IBL) x (Skelly Hashplant x SSSC Skunk1)).

Dominion Skunk: A potent fusion of (Chemdog x Skunk #1 x Skelly Hash Plant).

Burnout Chem: A “standout choice” and “heavy-hitting” genetic known for its potent effects and unique flavor.

The Breeder’s Promise: “Meets or Exceeds the Parents” Dominion Seed Company is guided by a simple, non-negotiable rule that defines its breeding philosophy. As growers in the community will attest, “Duke doesn’t sell a strain unless it meets or exceeds the parents”. This is the ultimate quality guarantee and the core of the brand’s trusted reputation.

Dominion Seed Company’s reputation is not built on competing for trophies. For many “kings” of the industry, the quality of the work stands on its own. As one forum member noted about top-tier breeders, “It’s an insult to your brand to compete… You won’t see any of the kings in this list… These companies all know they’re doing amazing”.

Dominion’s validation comes directly from the community, its peers, and its role as a cornerstone of genetic preservation.

Formal Recognition
Duke Diamond’s work and his commitment to sharing knowledge have been formally recognized by his peers. He is “recognized for educating others about cannabis cultivation” and has been featured as Breeder of the Month.

Peer-Reviewed: The “OG” Status
In the legacy cannabis community, peer respect is the highest award. Duke Diamond is widely regarded as a legend and a “hot shit” breeder who “gives a lot of support with his gear”.

Testimonials from other growers confirm his status:

“Skunk VA & Duke Diamond are the definition of OGs. I support the originals who sacrificed for years during the war on drugs. They grow for the love of the cannabis plant. They did it before it was out in the open.”

In the Hall of Fame Conversation
The High Times “Seed Bank Hall of Fames” exists to honor the “world’s best pot breeders” who create “great and unique strains that stand the test of time”. The inductees are celebrated for discovering and working with foundational lines like Tangie or Triangle Kush.

Duke Diamond’s entire career is a living embodiment of this principle. His “steadfast commitment” to preserving, documenting, and breeding with the original Roadkill Skunk, G-13, and Skelly Hashplant lines places him firmly in this same elite class of breeders who are protecting the “potency and essence” of cannabis history for the next generation.

“Section 1: Breeding Philosophy

Q: What is Dominion Seed Company’s core breeding philosophy?
A: It is a philosophy of uncompromising quality, guided by two simple rules. First, “Potency was always most important.” Second, there is a non-negotiable quality guarantee: “Duke doesn’t sell a strain unless it meets or exceeds the parents.” This ensures that every pack contains meticulously selected genetics that have been rigorously tested and proven to be “real ass-stomping stuff.”

Q: What is Duke Diamond’s approach to pheno-hunting?
A: Duke considers it an art form. In his words: “You’re looking for that one plant that has it all… It’s about creating a masterpiece—something that people will remember.” This meticulous attention to detail is why his genetic lines are so consistent and celebrated.

Section 2: Seed Types Explained

Q: What seed types does Dominion offer?
A: Dominion Seed Company is a “premier provider” of high-quality, heirloom-focused genetics, offering both Regular and Feminized seed lines.

Q: What is the difference between Regular, Feminized, and Autoflower seeds?
A: This is the most important choice for a grower, as it determines the outcome of your garden.

Regular Seeds

These are 100% natural and produce approximately 50% male and 50% female plants. They are essential for growers who wish to create their own new strains (breeding) or hunt for unique phenotypes and mother plants.

Feminized Seeds (Photoperiod)

These seeds are bred to produce 99.9% female plants. This removes the need to identify and discard males, making them the best choice for growers whose goal is a reliable harvest of flowers (buds). They require a change in the light cycle (to 12/12) to initiate flowering.

Autoflower Seeds

These seeds (typically also feminized) are genetically programmed to flower based on age, not a change in the light cycle. They are known for having the fastest grow time, often finishing in 10–12 weeks from seed. They are ideal for beginners, small spaces, or growers wanting multiple harvests per season.

Q: Which seed type is right for me?
A: It depends on your goal:

For Maximum Yields & Control: Choose Feminized (Photoperiod) seeds.

For the Fastest Harvest: Choose Autoflower seeds.

For Breeding Projects or Pheno-Hunting: Choose Regular seeds.

Section 3: Duke Diamond’s Grow Tips (“Dominion Tech”)

Q: What is Duke Diamond’s #1 tip for new growers?
A: Duke’s primary advice is to “first dial in your environment.” He also cautions growers to “go low and slow with the nutrients” and “Don’t overwater.” In his words: “When it comes to weed, everybody overdoes shit.”

Q: Does Duke have any specific nutrient advice?
A: Yes. He provides a critical expert-level tip for flowering:
“Avoid using alfalfa and kelp after day 21 of flowering to keep your plants from tasting like grass clippings and burning improperly.”
This is a common mistake that Duke helps growers avoid.

Q: What is the “Dominion Tech” soil philosophy?
A: “Dominion Tech” refers to Duke’s organic, living-soil cultivation philosophy. This approach was even developed into a formal Dominion Potting Soil Blend in collaboration with BuildASoil. It is a “potent” soil with over 20 ingredients designed to be “kept and reused for a lifetime.” Duke’s philosophy is not about “feeding the plant” with bottled nutrients, but about “feeding the microbes” in the soil, which he calls your “workers.”

Section 4: The Science of “Skunk” (Advanced)

Q: What is the secret to the “skunk” aroma in your strains?
A: The “skunk” in Dominion’s strains is not just a name; it is the result of breeding for specific chemical compounds. Duke Diamond has spoken at length on this, diving into the importance of sulfur. He explains that providing “high dosages of sulfur throughout the veg and bloom cycle” is a critical factor. This allows the plant to produce the volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) that are scientifically linked to the potent, room-clearing “skunk aroma so many of us know and love.”

Section 5: Germination & Support

Q: What is the recommended germination method?
A: Most breeders recommend the paper towel method for its reliability and the ability to track progress.

Steps:

Dampen a paper towel (moist, not soaking wet).

Place your seeds on one half of the towel.

Fold the other half over the seeds.

Place the towel in a sealed Ziploc-style bag or between two plates to retain moisture.

Store in a warm, dark place (70–85°F or 21–29°C).

Check daily. The taproot should appear in 24–72 hours.

Q: What is the germination guarantee?
A: We partner with breeders like Dominion Seed Company who provide high-quality, viable, and authentic genetics. We expect high germination rates and stand by our commitment to your success. If you have any issues, please contact customer support for assistance.”

Don’t just take our word for it. Duke Diamond’s story, resilience, and expertise are celebrated throughout the cannabis community. See what others are saying about the man behind Dominion Seed Company.

Featured Podcast: GrowCast

Quote: “Today we have the famous breeder, creator of Dominion Seed Co, ‘fresh out the joint…’ Duke Diamond joins the show! Tune in to hear how Duke has been doing since his release, his future plans… [he] talk[s] about some of his favorite work, from Granny Skunk to his Munson cross.”

Content: An in-depth “Breeder Feature” episode discussing his 2022 return to the industry, his future plans for Dominion, and a deep dive into his signature strains and his theory on “skunk weed.”

Source: GrowCast, “Breeder Feature: Duke Diamond”

[Listen to the full episode]

Featured Profile: Leaf Magazines

Quote: “A combination of proper climate, good genetics and outlaw gumption… Duke Diamond’s Cannabis career started early when at around the age of 12… ‘I ordered a bunch of seeds from Amsterdam, specifically Afghani, Skunk and Northern Lights x Skunk, and they performed so well. Real ass-stomping stuff!… Potency was always most important.’”

Content: A comprehensive profile on Duke Diamond, detailing his “outlaw” origin story in Virginia, his early breeding philosophy, and the legal sacrifices he made for the plant.

Source: Leaf Magazines, “Duke Diamond of Dominion Seed Company”

Featured Podcast: The Pot Cast

Quote: “…we are back for another killer episode with the skunk soldier, the organic guru… Duke Diamond VA – The man, the myth, the legend, hot out of the pen (this episode was recorded within a week of duke being free’d) ready to hit the ground running sharing some thoughts and knowledge with us.”

Content: A “killer episode” welcoming Duke back to the community immediately following his 2022 release, hailing him as “the organic guru” and “the skunk soldier.”

Source: The Pot Cast, “Episode 65 ft Duke Diamond”

[Listen to the interview]

Featured Show: The Breeding & Genetics Show

Quote: “This time we talk with Duke Diamond about genetics, selection tips, and the stories behind his favorite crosses. Let me know who you’d’ like to see featured, what some of your favorite genetics are, and any questions you have about breeding in the comments.”

Content: A technical deep dive with host Chad Westport, focusing on Duke’s specific breeding techniques, his philosophy on selection, and the origin stories of his most famous genetic crosses.

Source: Chad Westport, “The Breeding and Genetics Show #18”

Featured Interview: Common SENSimilla

Quote: “With a career in the cannabis industry starting at the age of 12, a few prison terms, and a passion for growing that can’t be tamed, Duke Diamond’s story is full of twists and turns. Now the Founder/CEO of Dominion Seed Co, Duke is one of the few breeders representing the South.”

Content: An episode exploring the business and innovation of cannabis, focusing on Duke Diamond’s incredible founder’s story, his resilience through legal battles, and his role as a pioneering breeder from “the South.”

Source: CannaPlanners, “Common SENSimilla EP 22”

Featured Podcast: The Cannabis Connection

Quote: “Duke Diamond- Breeder, Grower and Macguyver of all things Cannabis. Duke sheds light on his story breeding seeds, growing organic cannabis and the long strange trip it’s been behind the building block strains that create…”

Content: A discussion covering Duke’s multifaceted role as a breeder, grower, and “Macguyver,” with a focus on his history and the foundational strains that built his catalog.

Source: The Cannabis Connection, “Duke Diamond VA 04/20/18”

[Listen to the discussion]