What are autoflower seeds?
Autoflower cannabis seeds are a unique strain of cannabis seeds that can flower without high dependence on external cultivation factors. In addition, we have engineered them to be rugged and self-reliant, so much so that they do not need the light cycle that feminized seeds require to yield.
There are many autoflower cannabis varieties; they can be high in CBD, high in THC, or a balance of both with a richly diverse range of terpene profiles. The strain is the go-to genetics for beginner growers and those looking for a fast return..
So, what makes this strain unique? To understand the uniqueness of the strain, we would take a closer look at the cannabis growth cycle.
The average growth cycle of the cannabis plant consists of two (2) distinct phases; the vegetative phase and the flowering phase. The vegetative phase is the first phase, and the flowering stage is the next, and each step requires some factors to be in place for them to occur and transition accurately.
In the flowering phase, light (rather the absence of light) is critical for this strain to flower. These strains are referred to as photoperiod cannabis strains as they require a shift in the light cycle to trigger flowering. But the same cannot be said for the autoflowering strain. The flowering of the autoflower seed is not light-dependent. It does not rely on external cues to flower or produce buds; instead, it works around its time clock.
The autoflower was first discovered in the cannabis ruderalis subspecies. The species developed the autoflower trait through environmental adaption and as a survival mechanism. Originally an indigenous plant of the cold regions of Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and Russia, the specie adapted to the cold and often harsh environments of its indigenous locale by developing an autoflower gene that ensures that reproduction occurs before the temperature plummets.
Based on this natural adaption, our breeders at Amsterdam Marijuana Seeds have designed autoflower seeds that enjoy speedy growth and a great yield.
For whom are Autoflower cannabis seeds?
Autoflower cannabis seeds are the preferred option for beginner growers and those who cultivate their cannabis. Because of the nature of the plant, it does not require any special rig or controlled environment to perform optimally and yield.
The autoflowering nature of the plant allows for single-growth and private farming indoors and outdoors.
How are autoflower seeds created?
Autoflower cannabis seeds are created by crossbreeding cannabis ruderalis with other cannabis strains. The Cannabis ruderalis is a hardy, fast-flowering cannabis that originates in Central and Eastern Europe. By crossbreeding ruderalis with different strains, breeders can create autoflower seeds that retain the best traits of both parent plants. The resulting plants are typically small and compact, with a short flowering period.
Characteristics of autoflower Seeds
The autoflower seed is characterized by several features. While the strain possesses many benefits for cannabis growers, some factors are not as endearing.
We have listed some of the main advantages of this strain below:
- Short growth cycle, the average plant takes about 8 to 10 weeks from seed to harvest.
- Discreet plants: Because they do not grow as large as the others, they are discreet and can be farmed indoors, even in your living space.
- Simple lighting demands: The autoflower cannabis seeds do not require so much light to perform; this is their unique advantage. As a result, they can self-pollinate and flower within a given time without external cues or limitations.
- Fewer nutrients needed: The autoflower cannabis seed strain is a survival beast. The plant does not require any special care or intense routine. As a result, they would survive in almost all conditions.
On the flip side, this species has a few thumbs down.
- Possibly lower yield: Autoflowers are always crossed with a Ruderalis plant which does not grow big. So they may sometimes produce less yield than the feminized seeds species.
- Poor-quality clones: These strains practically cannot be cloned. And if they ever are cloned, they often perform very poorly.
Advantages of autoflower weed seeds
The autoflower seed is characterized by several features. While the strain possesses many benefits for cannabis growers, some factors are not as endearing.
We have listed some of the main characteristics of this strain below:
- Fast life cycle: The autoflower seed strains are often ready for harvesting long before others. The average plant takes about 8 to 10 weeks from seed to harvest.
- Discreet plants: Because they do not grow as large as the others, they are easily hidden and can be farmed indoors, even in your living space.
- Resilient plants: These strains are some of the most resilient. They perform even under some of the harshest conditions, a reason why they are loved by novice growers who are still learning about cannabis cultivation and its unique requirements.
How potent are autoflower cannabis seeds?
Autoflowers generally have the same potency variations as the other species. There are a few autoflowers that stand out as being particularly potent. One such autoflower is the White Widow XTRM Autoflower. This strain is known for its high THC content, up to 23%. White Widow Autoflower is also known for its high yield, making it a popular choice for growers.
Another strong autoflower is our Forest Fruits Autoflower this strain has a THC content of up to 23%, and it produces large, dense buds that are covered in trichomes. Being a mix of the very potent New York Diesel and Blueberry 420 known for its sweet blueberry flavor, which makes it a popular choice for smokers who enjoy flavored strains.
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What do you need to Grow autoflower weed seeds?
You need a growing medium, water, light, and nutrients to grow auto-flower weed seeds. A growing medium is any material that can support plant growth; the most common growing medium is soil, but other options are coco coir, Rock wool, and vermiculite. Water is necessary for all plants to grow water them regularly. Light is also essential for plant growth; auto-flowering weed seeds must be exposed to light for 12 to 18 hours daily.
Our guide, how to grow autoflower seeds, covers everything you need to know.