Cannabis cultivation has seen significant advancements over the years, with the development of various seed types that cater to different grower preferences and requirements.
Among these are autoflowering and photoperiod cannabis seeds, each with unique features that offer both advantages and disadvantages.
Here we’ll examine the differences between these two seed types, exploring their growth patterns, ideal cultivation conditions, yields, and more.
Understanding Autoflowering and Photoperiod Cannabis Seeds
Auto-flowering Cannabis Seeds
• Definition: Autoflowering cannabis seeds were developed by crossbreeding Cannabis Ruderalis with other cannabis types, the result being a plant what will transition from the vegetative to the flowering stage automatically, regardless of the light cycle.
• Origins: These seeds originate from the Cannabis Ruderalis species, which is native to areas with shorter growing seasons and less predictable daylight patterns.
Cannabis Ruderalis is believed to have originated in Central and Eastern Europe and parts of Asia, particularly Russia and Siberia.
This hardy subspecies of cannabis has evolved to withstand the harsh conditions and shorter growing seasons of these regions.
The natural ability of Ruderalis to auto-flower, regardless of the light cycle, is an adaptation to the unpredictable sunlight patterns found in its native habitat.
Photoperiod Cannabis Seeds
• Definition: Photoperiod cannabis seeds are a type of cannabis seed that relies on changes in the light cycle to initiate the flowering stage of growth.
These plants typically require a consistent period of 12 hours of darkness per day to trigger the process of producing buds, which eventually develop into mature flowers that contain the plant’s active compounds, such as THC and CBD.
• Origins: Photoperiod cannabis seeds originate from the Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica species. These species are native to regions with longer growing seasons and predictable daylight patterns, such as Central Asia, South Asia, and parts of Eastern Europe.
In these areas, the natural shift in daylight hours throughout the year provides an environmental cue that prompts the plants to enter the flowering stage.
Growth Patterns and Cultivation
Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds
• Speed of growth: Autoflowering plants grow rapidly, with some strains reaching maturity in as little as 8-10 weeks from germination.
• Size: These plants are typically smaller in stature, making them ideal for limited grow spaces.
• Light cycle: Auto-flowering plants do not rely on specific light cycles to flower, making them less sensitive to disruptions in the light schedule.
• Potting: Most autoflowering cannabis plants thrive when cultivated in a single container, eliminating the need for any repotting during their growth cycle.
Photoperiod Cannabis Seeds
• Speed of growth: Photoperiod plants have a longer growth period, with some strains taking 12-14 weeks or more to reach maturity.
• Size: These plants are generally larger and taller, often requiring more grow space.
• Light cycle: Photoperiod plants need a consistent light schedule with a specific light-dark cycle to flower, making them sensitive to changes in the light pattern.
• Potting: Photoperiod plants achieve optimal growth when repotted multiple times, as this process promotes enhanced root development.
Yields and Harvest
Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds
• Yields: Auto-flowering plants typically produce lower yields compared to their photoperiod counterparts, due to their shorter growth period and smaller size.
• Harvest schedule: Growers can achieve multiple harvests per year with auto-flowering seeds, as they do not depend on seasonal light changes for flowering.
Photoperiod Cannabis Seeds
• Yields: Photoperiod plants often produce higher yields, as their longer growth period allows for more extensive vegetative growth and larger bud development.
• Harvest schedule: These plants are typically harvested once per year in outdoor grows, while indoor growers can manipulate light schedules to achieve multiple harvests.
Cannabinoid and Terpene Profiles
Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds
• Cannabinoid content: Historically, autoflowering strains have had lower THC levels than photoperiod strains. However, modern breeding techniques have resulted in auto-flowering varieties with comparable THC content.
• Terpene profiles: Auto-flowering strains offer diverse terpene profiles, contributing to a wide range of flavors and aromas. Check out Fastbuds to see some great examples.
Photoperiod Cannabis Seeds
• Cannabinoid content: Photoperiod strains often exhibit higher THC levels, though this varies among individual strains and breeding techniques.
• Terpene profiles: Photoperiod strains also boast a broad range of terpene profiles, with complex and varied flavors and aromas.
Ideal Grow Environments
Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds
• Indoors: Auto-flowering seeds are well-suited to indoor cultivation, where space may be limited, and light schedules can be easily controlled.
• Outdoors: These seeds are also a viable option for outdoor grows in regions with shorter growing seasons, unpredictable weather, or limited sunlight.
Photoperiod Cannabis Seeds
• Indoors: Photoperiod seeds can thrive in indoor grow setups, provided there is ample space and strict control over the light schedule.
• Outdoors: Photoperiod plants are also well-suited for outdoor cultivation in regions with longer growing seasons and consistent daylight patterns.
Choosing the Right Seed Type for Your Needs
Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds
• Ideal for beginner growers due to their lower maintenance requirements and shorter growth period.
• Suitable for growers with limited grow space or those looking for a quick turnaround between harvests.
• Best for outdoor cultivation in areas with shorter growing seasons or unpredictable weather conditions.
Photoperiod Cannabis Seeds
• Better suited for experienced growers who can manage the light schedule and have the patience for a longer growth period.
• Ideal for growers with ample grow space and a desire for higher yields.
• Recommended for outdoor cultivation in regions with longer growing seasons and consistent daylight patterns.
Final thoughts
When choosing between autoflowering and photoperiod cannabis seeds, it’s essential to consider your growing conditions, experience level, and desired outcomes.
Both seed types have their advantages and disadvantages, so understanding their unique features can help you make an informed decision.
With the right seed type and proper care, you can easily cultivate cannabis plants that meet your specific needs and preferences.
See this page for more information on buying cannabis seeds.
