By KATE RUBIN
Autoflowering cannabis seeds are a type of cannabis seeds that have been bred to automatically transition from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage based on their age, rather than relying on changes in light cycles. This characteristic is inherited from a cannabis subspecies called Cannabis ruderalis.
Traditionally, cannabis plants require specific light cycles (such as changing from 18 hours of light to 12 hours of light) to trigger flowering. However, autoflowering cannabis seeds have been selectively bred to bypass this requirement. This means that autoflowering plants will start flowering automatically after a certain number of weeks, regardless of the light schedule they receive.
The main advantage of autoflowering cannabis seeds is their short life cycle. Most autoflowering strains can go from seed to harvest in as little as 8 to 12 weeks. This rapid growth makes them popular among growers who want a quicker turnaround time for their crops.
Additionally, autoflowering strains tend to be smaller in stature compared to photoperiod strains. This makes them suitable for indoor cultivation or for growers who have limited space or want to maintain a more discreet garden.
Autoflowering cannabis seeds are available in a wide variety of strains, including indica, sativa, and hybrid varieties. They can be found in seed banks, online retailers, or local dispensaries where cannabis cultivation is legal.
It's important to note that while autoflowering cannabis seeds have their advantages, they may have different growth characteristics and potency levels compared to photoperiod strains. Therefore, it's recommended to research and choose to buy autoflowering cannabis seeds uk from a reputable seed bank or breeder to ensure you're getting high-quality autoflowering seeds with the desired characteristics you're looking for.