Breeders create cannabis seeds by combining Sativa or Indica seeds with cannabis Ruderalis, a species native to Russia. This plant grows in a little over seven weeks, can withstand cold temperatures, and is ideal for crossbreeding. Thanks to its short growth cycle, it allows any strains it is combined with to grow in less time. The seeds flower when they reach a certain stage of development rather than relying on the light cycle. What benefits and drawbacks come with autoflowering seeds?
The Benefits of Autoflowering Seeds
Many individuals, when they need help finding cannabis seeds to try, are directed to auto-flowering seeds by experienced growers. The short growth time allows them to try new strains without a lot of wait time. They can experiment with different varieties to find those they love and wish to make a part of their regular harvest.
Photoperiod cannabis strains require twelve hours of light each day and twelve hours of darkness to start the flowering cycle. Equal periods of dark and light cycles must be maintained throughout the flowering stage for a successful harvest, and many growers struggle with this aspect of cultivating cannabis. If the plant is exposed to too much or too little light, it may continue to grow. However, it won’t produce more buds.
Autoflowering plants don’t rely on light to move to the flowering stage. They do so when they reach a certain age. This reduces the amount of equipment a grower needs to buy, as no costly light-proof box is required and no black sheeting will be needed for a greenhouse. Autoflowering strains do well in areas where it is hard to control the light cycles, such as in urban areas with lots of man-made lighting.
Autoflowering strains remain resistant to temperature fluctuations. This allows the grower to choose a spot that is convenient for their cannabis plants. The strains grow well indoors or out.
In addition, auto-flowering strains produce short plants. This makes it easier for growers to hide their crops from prying eyes. Most strains never grow taller than three-and-a-half feet. Grow operations can be set up and taken down quickly.
Many auto-flowering strains feature high CBD levels. Growers who don’t want the psychoactive effects of THC find these strains are exactly what they need. In addition, they offer medicinal benefits every grower should be aware of.
The Drawbacks of Autoflowering Seeds
However, autoflowering strains aren’t perfect. Human error remains a concern with auto-flowering seeds. As the grower manipulates the plant, they can harm it. The short growing time won’t allow the plant to recover before it is ready to harvest.
Autoflowering cannabis seeds come with a higher price tag than Sativa or Indica strains. The price of these seeds varies by seed bank, strain, and more. However, people can expect to pay more to get the benefits seen with these seeds.
Lower yields are common auto-flowering seeds. As the plants grow quickly and gain little height, they produce fewer bud sites. The grower needs to consider whether they want a significant yield or a shorter growing time when deciding which seeds to buy.
Autoflowering strains have come a long way since they were first introduced. Today, growers find they have more choices when they choose to cultivate cannabis at home. Beginning growers should try several strains to learn more about the cultivation process and determine which seeds best meet their needs. Fortunately, the auto-flowering strains are resilient. New growers can learn more about this craft without wasting a lot of money on ruined efforts.