On average, autoflowers take around 30% less time to grow than traditional cannabis plants, saving the grower about a month of their time. In warmer climates, this makes it possible to harvest outdoors up to 4 times a year. They also grow perfectly in northern countries, where the summers are very short. Right now, autoflowers are the most popular and advanced product in the world of cannabis seeds.
What Exactly Are Autoflower Cannabis Seeds?
Autoflower cannabis seeds are a game-changer in the world of cannabis as they offer unique characteristics that cannot be found in other types of cannabis seeds. Autoflowers are genetically selected and bred to flower automatically, regardless of light conditions, meaning that they will transition from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage automatically, without the need to adjust or change light cycles.
One of the great traits of autoflowers is their fast life cycle. Generally speaking, autoflowers will be ready for harvest anywhere from 8 to 10 weeks from seed. This quick turnaround allows growers to have multiple harvests in a signal growing season and save on money, time, and nutrients among other things.
On top of that, autoflower seeds are extremely resilient and adaptable which allows them to thrive in less-than-ideal climates or indoor setups with limited equipment. Their compact size and ability to withstand stress make them an excellent choice for those with limited space or for discreet cultivation.
Whether you’re a beginner or an expert grower, autoflowers offer simplicity and convenience as they require less maintenance than other types of seeds. Choose autoflowering seeds for a fast, hassle-free grow cycle and enjoy the benefits of Fast Buds’ award-winning autoflowers!
What Are The Benefits of Autoflower Cannabis Seeds?
Autoflower cannabis seeds offer several advantages, particularly for first-time growers and those with space, time, or climate constraints as they are more resistant to pests and diseases.
On top of that, autos are resilient to harsher climates and can be grown all year round as they don’t depend on sun hours to start flowering, allowing growers to have perpetual harvests outdoors in almost any climate, including northern climates where photoperiod plants dont have enough time to mature due to the short summers.
This type of cannabis strains is typically smaller in size, making it ideal for compact indoor grows or stealthy outdoor growing. It is less noticeable and can fit into tight spaces where traditional cannabis strains may not.
Automatic cannabis plants transition from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage automatically, usually after 2-5 weeks of growth. Unlike photoperiod strains, they do not require a change in light cycle to trigger flowering. This feature reduces the overall time from seed to harvest, often to just 8-11 weeks, allowing for multiple harvests within a single season without affecting the final quality or quantity.
In the last decade or so, advances in breeding have led to higher potency autoflowering strains, debunking the myth that autoflowers are significantly weaker than their counterparts.
Are Autoflower Seeds Feminized?
Autoflower seeds can indeed be feminized as 'autoflower' refers to the ability to flower independent of the light cycle, while 'feminized' pertains to the plant's sex. This means that feminized autoflower seeds will start flowering based on age rather than light cycles. This characteristic is beneficial for growers wanting a fast, straightforward growing cycle without the need to adjust light schedules.
Feminization, on the other hand, is a process where breeders manipulate the plant to produce only female seeds. This is a highly desirable trait as female plants are the ones that produce the flowers, or buds.
When you have feminized autoflower seeds, you essentially get the best of both worlds: plants that will automatically flower after a certain period, and nearly all will be bud-producing females. This combination makes feminized autoflower seeds an attractive option for both novice and seasoned growers seeking an efficient and productive grow cycle.
How To Choose Autoflower Cannabis Seeds?
Choosing autoflower cannabis seeds should be based on several factors including your experience, needs, and growing conditions.
Firstly, consider your experience level. Autoflower seeds are a great choice for beginners due to their rapid growth and low maintenance. They are hardier, making them less susceptible to common growing mistakes.
Next, evaluate your specific needs. Different strains have unique effects, flavors, and aromas. Indica dominant strains tend to produce relaxing effects, sativa dominant strains are often more energetic, and hybrids can offer a balance of both.
Autoflowering strains are quite versatile. On one hand, for those who value discretion or need to maximize the grow space, there are autoflowers that can grow as short as 90cm in height but for those who prefer huge trees, modern autoflowers can grow up to 1.7 meter in height, which allows growers to make the most out of their grow cycle, no matter the setup or space available.
Don’t forget to think about your climate. Autoflower strains are usually hardy and can withstand harsher climates, but some are better adapted to cooler or warmer environments than others.
Finally, always buy from reputable seed banks that can provide information about strain genetics, THC/CBD ratios, yield, and flowering time. Customer reviews can also provide helpful insights.
How to Grow Autoflower Cannabis Seeds?
Growing autoflower cannabis seeds is a rewarding and accessible endeavor. Start by selecting quality autoflowering seeds from a reputable breeder. Once you have your seeds, germinate them by soaking in water until a taproot appears, then plant them in a suitable growing medium such as soil, coco coir, or a hydroponic system.
Autoflowers don't require a light cycle change to start flowering, but they thrive under 18-24 hours of light per day. Ensure a consistent temperature of around 70-85°F (20-30°C).
Water the plants regularly but avoid overwatering. Let the top layer of soil dry out before the next watering. Autoflowers are typically hardy but monitor for any signs of nutrient deficiencies or pest infestations.
During the vegetative stage, feed your plants a nutrient mix with a higher Nitrogen content. Switch to a phosphorus and potassium-rich mix as they enter the flowering stage.
After 8-11 weeks, you'll notice the buds are ready to harvest when the trichomes turn milky white or amber. Always remember to follow local laws and regulations when growing cannabis.
How to Successfully Grow Autoflower Cannabis Seeds Indoors?
Growing autoflower cannabis seeds indoors is straightforward, as they flower based on age, not light cycles, making them ideal for beginners who don’t want to deal with the complicated stuff.
Start by germinating seeds in a moist environment, like paper towels, then transfer them to pots filled with nutrient-rich, well-draining soil. We recommend soaking the seeds in a glass of water for 48 hours before starting your preferred germination method.
Cannabis plants thrive under the right light so make sure to choose quality full-spectrum grow lights, ensuring the plants get 18-24 hours of light per day. Unlike photoperiod strains, autoflowers don't require light schedule changes to initiate flowering.
For the best results possible, maintain a stable environment: temperatures around 70-85°F (21-29°C) and relative humidity around 40-50% for most of their life cycle.
Water regularly, but avoid overwatering. Let the top layer of soil dry out between watering sessions and feed your plants with a balanced nutrient solution. Ensure a more Nitrogen-rich nutrient solution during the vegetative stage and higher levels of Phosphorus and Potassium as they enter the flowering stage.
Given their sturdy genetics, autoflowers generally have a strong resistance to pests and diseases so it’s important to implement a pest management program to prevent buds from ruining your harvest, it's also important to monitor plant health regularly by checking the colors of the leaves among other things.
As autoflowers typically reach harvest in 8-11 weeks from germination, stay attentive to trichome color to determine the right harvest time as the state of the trichomes dictates their maturity. You should harvest your plants when the majority of the trichomes are cloudy/milky with around 20% amber, this will guarantee maxim potency and flavor. If you’re seeking a more medicinal effect, harvest when the majority of the trichomes have turned amber indicating a higher CBN content.
How to Successfully Grow Autoflower Cannabis Seeds Outdoors?
Growing autoflower cannabis seeds outdoors is a popular choice due to their quick and easy growth cycle. These plants begin flowering based on age rather than light conditions, making them ideal for areas with shorter summers or inconsistent daylight hours.
Begin by germinating your seeds indoors or in a greenhouse, then transplant them outdoors after the last frost. Choose a sunny location as autoflowers thrive with plenty of light, despite not being dependent on a light cycle to flower.
Use a nutrient-rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Autoflowers generally prefer light, airy soil for their root structure. They also have a shorter growth period, so a slow-release fertilizer can be beneficial to provide nutrients throughout their life.
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. As with other cannabis plants, they prefer the soil to slightly dry out between watering.Protect your plants from pests and harsh weather conditions. While autoflowers are typically more sturdy, they are not immune to these threats.
Lastly, keep an eye on the trichome color to determine when to harvest. Autoflowers typically take 8-11 weeks from seed to harvest, offering the possibility of multiple harvests in a single growing season outdoors.
How to Correctly Water Autoflower Cannabis Seeds?
Proper watering is essential for successful cultivation of autoflower cannabis seeds. Make sure to use a well-draining growing medium so that the root zone is not waterlogged.
In the early stages, the growing medium should be kept consistently damp but not soaked. Lightly water around the seedling, avoiding direct contact which can displace or damage it.
As the plant matures, it will require more water. However, it's important to allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions to prevent overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep in mind that the rate of water absorption can be influenced by environmental factors like temperature and humidity, so these should be monitored closely.
When watering, do so slowly to ensure thorough saturation of the soil, allowing some runoff to avoid nutrient buildup. Remember that overwatering is one of the most common mistakes in cannabis cultivation. It's better to underwater than overwater as it's easier to correct.
What is The Most Suitable Soil for Autoflower Cannabis Seeds?
The most suitable soil for autoflower cannabis seeds is light, well-draining, and rich in organic nutrients. Autoflowers, due to their genetic heritage, have a compact root structure and shorter life cycle, making the soil choice critical for their fast-paced growth.
Loamy or sandy soil is often best as it allows the roots to easily spread and access the available nutrients, while also providing the necessary drainage to prevent waterlogging and root diseases.
The soil should be rich in organic matter providing essential macronutrients (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) and micronutrients (Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, etc.) needed for healthy growth. Many growers opt for pre-fertilized soil mixes specifically designed for cannabis to ensure a balanced nutrient profile.
Maintaining a proper soil pH, typically between 6.0 and 7.0, is vital as it influences nutrient uptake. Soil with beneficial microbes can also help enhance the plant's nutrient absorption and improve root health.
Autoflowers don't typically require nutrient-rich soil during their entire lifecycle due to their fast growth. Start them in nutrient-rich soil, but avoid over-fertilization during growth as it can lead to nutrient burn.
Buy The Best Autoflower Seeds by Fast Buds.
Fast Buds is a world-renowned seed bank that offers some of the best autoflowering cannabis seeds in the market. Browse through our broad selection of strains, from classic favorites to unique varieties.
When choosing Fast Buds seeds, consider your needs and preferences. Fast Buds offers +50 strains with various effects, flavors, and potency levels. Whether you prefer a calming indica, an uplifting sativa, or a balanced hybrid, you're likely to find a strain that suits you.
Fast Buds prides itself on the quality of its seeds. Our seeds are meticulously select and bred, ensuring that the seeds are stable and high-performing while delivering rapid growth, hardiness, and impressive yields.
