The variety of cannabis seeds types available in the market has significantly transformed since the 1990s. In the past, growers had limited options, having to choose between indica, sativa, or hybrids in their regular versions. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of seed banks and breeders, the landscape has completely changed. They have conducted extensive research and successfully developed new seed strains. As a result, today’s market offers an incredible array of choices that cater to the preferences and interests of any cannabis enthusiast.
There are many types of cannabis seeds, therefore it’s hard to put everything under one group. The easiest way to classify cannabis seeds is by their genetic group and growth pattern. Let’s take a look at the genetic group first.
Key Takeaways
- Genetic groups (Indica, Sativa, Ruderalis) influence traits and growth patterns.
- Hybrid seeds blend desirable characteristics of Sativa and Indica strains.
- Growth pattern classification includes Regular, Feminized, and Auto-Flower seeds.
- Regular seeds offer genetic diversity but unpredictable male-to-female ratios.
- Feminized seeds ensure exclusively female plants for desired flower production.
- Auto-flower seeds flower based on maturity, offering easier cultivation for beginners.
Genetic types of cannabis seeds
Cannabis seeds can be categorized into distinct genetic groups, each offering a diverse set of characteristics and growing patterns. These genetic groups play a crucial role in determining the plant’s traits, potency, and overall growth. Understanding these genetic classifications enables cannabis lovers and farmers to make informed decisions when picking seeds that correspond to their unique preferences and cultivation needs.
Indica
These seeds come from Cannabis indica plants, known for their relaxing and calming effects. Indica strains often have a shorter flowering time and produce dense, compact buds.
Sativa
These seeds originate from Cannabis sativa plants, which are associated with more uplifting and energizing effects. Sativa strains typically have longer flowering periods and can result in taller plants with airy buds.
Ruderalis
Seeds from Cannabis ruderalis plants are less common and are often used in breeding to create auto-flowering strains. Ruderalis plants have unique auto-flowering properties, allowing them to transition into the flowering stage based on age rather than the light cycle.
Hybrid seeds
Hybrid seeds are the result of combining two distinct genetic lineages, often a mix of Sativa and Indica, with the aim of enhancing the desirable traits of cannabis strains. The primary goal of hybridization is typically to reduce the flowering period of sativa and increase yields with denser and more robust buds, or to infuse Indica with unique and exotic flavors and aromas.
Growth pattern TYPES of cannabis seeds
Classifying cannabis seeds based on their growth pattern is another good way to understand the different types of cannabis seeds. These growth pattern groups include Autoflowering (Auto), Feminized, and Regular seeds. Each group has distinct advantages for growers. Understanding these growth patterns empowers cultivators to tailor their cultivation approach and achieve the desired outcome, whether it’s the ease of cultivation, maximizing yield, or maintaining a diverse genetic pool.
Regular seeds
Regular seeds are the outcome of crossbreeding a male cannabis plant with a female cannabis plant, and they have the potential to develop into either male or female plants.
One of the unique aspects of regular seeds is that growers cannot determine the male-to-female ratio until the flowering phase begins, revealing the plants’ sexes. While female plants are valued for their flower production, regular seeds provide cultivators with the chance to witness the complete expression of the strain’s genetic heritage. This unpredictability adds a sense of excitement and discovery to the cultivation process, allowing growers to explore the full diversity of the strain.
Advantages of regular seeds
- They are 100% pure because they have not been genetically modified.
- Produce both genders in order to create fresh seeds.
- Unlike feminized seeds, regular seeds include no chemical agents.
- Seeds can be used for a variety of reasons, including hemp production.
fEMINIZED sEEDS
Feminized seeds develop into exclusively female plants, which are prized for their ability to produce the desired flowers or buds.
To create feminized seeds, a female cannabis plant is induced to develop male flowers. This can be achieved by manipulating the plant’s light exposure during the flowering phase, or by applying Colloidal Silver to the flower sites, triggering a chemical change that leads to the development of male flowers with pollen.
The pollen derived from these “male” flowers is then used to pollinate other female flowers. Because the original source of the pollen is technically from a female plant, all the resulting offspring should be female. This selective breeding process ensures a higher likelihood of obtaining female plants, which are valued for their ability to produce potent and resinous flowers.
Advantages of Feminized Seeds
- Make the most of your growing space by germinating the seeds that are necessary.
- It saves time and effort while removing male plants.
- No sexing is required, which can be difficult for first-timers.
Auto-flower Seeds
If you are a novice grower, auto-flower seeds could be the ideal choice for you. These plants enter the flowering stage based on their maturity, typically around ten weeks from germination, rather than relying on specific daily light schedules.
Auto-flower strains are the result of crossing modern-day cannabis strains with Cannabis Ruderalis, the third subtype of cannabis, alongside Indica and Sativa. Cannabis Ruderalis is commonly found in regions closer to the North and South Poles, and it exhibits a distinctive lifespan compared to strains originating near the Equator.
In response to the extended periods of low sunlight near the poles, Cannabis Ruderalis strains have evolved to complete their life cycle regardless of the amount of light available. This unique adaptation allows auto-flower strains to thrive under various lighting conditions, making them an excellent option for growers seeking a more forgiving and efficient cultivation experience.
Advantages of Auto-Flower Seeds
- Minimal daylight requirements, making plant scheduling easier for owners.
- Grows at a faster rate
- A tough plant that can fend for itself against common garden problems.
WHAT IS THE PERFECT TYPE OF CANNABIS SEED FOR YOU
Choosing the right cannabis seed is essential for a successful and enjoyable cultivation experience. With the vast array of options available, finding the perfect match for your preferences and cultivation goals can be exciting and sometimes confusing. For this reason, when choosing a cannabis seed you would like to grow, consider the desired effects. Do you want to get uplifted or couch-locked? Consider your grow space, if you have a mini grow box, auto-flower may be the best bet. Don’t forget to experiment and have fun. Growing various strains can be an enjoyable learning experience and can help you discover your favorite cultivars.
Do you want to learn how to successfully germinate cannabis seeds? Here are our top 3 proven ways of germination!
