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Autoflowering cannabis varieties are a great way to get started with growing cannabis, as they are easy to maintain and tend to require less time and effort than other strains. Auto flowers can automatically flower within 2-3 weeks of germination, so you don’t have to worry about light cycles or stress the plants over long periods.
However, it can be challenging to know which strain is right for you when looking at the wide varieties available. The following guide will help you find the perfect regular auto flower seed strain that meets your needs and maximizes your growing success.
What Are Autoflower Seeds?
Autoflower seeds are a type of cannabis seed that begins to flower automatically based on age rather than light cycle changes. Unlike photoperiod varieties, they will start to flower regardless of light intensity and photoperiod. Regular weed seeds varieties can also be grown in colder climates with shorter summers due to their short flowering cycle.
Different Types of Cannabis Strains
When it comes to regular cannabis seeds, there are three main types of strains available:
Indica
Indica strain seeds tend to produce plants with larger yields and a more “couch-lock” effect. Indica strains are often used for medical purposes, such as pain or stress relief. The flowering time for Indica is typically shorter than other varieties, with harvest times ranging from 8-10 weeks.
Sativa
Sativa seeds produce plants that have more of an uplifting and energizing effect. Sativa strains tend to take longer to flower than Indica, with flowering times ranging from 10-14 weeks. Sativa also tends to have longer flowering times and may require more tending during their growth.
Hybrid
Hybrid strains combine Indica and Sativa genetics, offering growers the best of both worlds. Hybrids tend to have shorter flowering times than pure strains, with harvest times ranging from 8-12 weeks. Hybrid plants also tend to have higher yields than pure strains, making them a great choice for growers looking to maximize their yield.
Are Auto Flower Seeds Male or Female?
Autoflowering cannabis plants are not typically bred for sex, so they will usually produce both male and female flowers. It means that you may have to remove any males from your grow before they can pollinate the females; otherwise, the buds will be seeded, which will significantly reduce their potency.
However, some breeders offer feminized auto-flowering seeds, which will only produce female plants. Feminized auto flowers are more expensive but provide a higher quality crop with fewer male plants.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Strain
Finding the perfect auto flower seed strain for your needs might seem daunting, but a few tips can help make the process easier.
1. The Variety
Are you looking for an Indica, Sativa, or Hybrid strain? Knowing what type of effect or yield you want will help narrow down your options. The variety of your chosen strain will also determine the time it takes for the plant to flower, so check the flowering time of your chosen variety.
2. Growing Conditions
Consider the size of your grow space and climate when choosing a strain. Autoflowers are typically hardy and require less tending than other pure strains, but some types may still need specific growing conditions. Make sure to research the strain you are interested in and make sure it is suitable for your climate and setup.
3. Your Skill Level
Are you a beginner or an experienced grower? Autoflowering cannabis varieties tend to be easier to manage than photoperiod varieties. Choosing a strain that matches your skill level is important to maximize your chances of success.
4. The Genetics
Genetics plays a key role in dictating the plant’s overall yield, taste, aroma, and effect. It is important to research and selects the regular autoflower seeds at AskGrowers with the desired genetics for your needs. Moreover, you should always buy your seeds from a reputable source to ensure you are getting high-quality genetics.
5. Yields
Yields are important for any grower, and auto flowers have higher yields than photoperiod varieties. Make sure to research the average yields of your chosen strain to ensure you get the most out of your grow.
Benefits of Autoflowering Strains
Fast Flowering Times
Autoflowers have short flowering times of 7-10 weeks, allowing you to harvest multiple crops in one season. It makes them perfect for those who live in regions with short growing seasons or want to maximize their yields.
Discreet & Easy to Grow
Autoflowers are easier to conceal than photoperiod varieties since they tend to be smaller and less conspicuous. Moreover, they require less maintenance and attention than traditional cannabis plants, making them suitable for even novice growers.
Versatile & Durable
Autoflowers can be grown indoors or outdoors and are generally more resilient than photoperiod plants, meaning they can survive in various climates and conditions. They are well-suited for those who live in cold climates or have limited growing space.
Tips for Growing Autoflower Seeds
Once you have chosen the right strain for your needs, it is important to follow some basic guidelines when growing auto-flowering cannabis.
Temperature and Humidity
Autoflowers thrive in warm temperatures and low humidity. Make sure to keep your grow space at a consistent temperature between 70-80°F and maintain a humidity level between 40-50%. If the temperature or humidity levels get too high, it can cause your plants to become stressed and produce less yield.
Nutrients
Autoflowers are generally hardy and don’t require a lot of nutrients during their growth cycle. However, they need light and basic nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to produce healthy, robust flowers.
Light
Autoflowers need plenty of light to thrive, so give them at least 18 hours each day during their growth stage. This will ensure they get enough energy to produce strong flowers and healthy buds.
Prune & Train
Pruning and training your auto flower plants can help maximize yields. Pruning off any extra fan leaves will allow more light to reach the lower buds, while LST (low-stress training) can help ensure all flowers get enough light and energy for optimal growth.
Harvest & Cure
Once your plants have finished flowering, it is time to harvest and cure. Make sure to carefully cut the buds off the plant and hang them upside down in a dark, dry area for at least 7-10 days. It will allow the buds to develop maximum flavor and potency.
Conclusion
Choosing the right auto-flowering cannabis seeds can be tricky, but it’s worth finding a strain that suits your needs. With so many different types of auto-flowering seeds on the market, it can take a lot of work to know where to start. This guide should help you narrow your options and choose the best regular auto-flowering seeds for your operation.
Tia Moskalenko pieces together informative articles for AskGrowers and interviews notable authorities in the cannabis community to shed light on its economic, recreational, and medical benefits to consumers and governments. She constantly interacts with influential cannabis stakeholders, including farmers, to know where the industry is headed.