Growing

Aeroponic Cannabis: A Sustainable Cultivation Method

Published

5 months ago

December 20, 2023

admin

Cannabis growing out of thin air? That’s the idea behind aeroponics. This growing concept is becoming increasingly popular in industrial food production due to its environment-friendliness and excellent yields. Furthermore, when it comes to growing cannabis, aeroponic weed can be a fruitful and worthwhile endeavour.

What is aeroponics?

Aeroponics is a sophisticated way of growing plants without using soil as a medium. Instead, the plant roots hang in the air and get their nutrients by being regularly misted with a nutrient-rich solution. This cultivation method is closely inspired by hydroponics, where plants are grown in soilless mediums like coco coir and drenched in nutrient water. Aeroponics takes this further by eliminating any growing medium, subsequently letting the roots develop freely in a protected air container.

However, aeroponic cannabis cultivation is not without its challenges. What you need to succeed is the right equipment, commitment, and, of course, knowledge!

How does cultivating cannabis with aeroponics work?

In an aeroponic system, plants grow and undergo photosynthesis above a soilless medium, illuminated by grow lights. The planting bed covers the reservoir below, featuring pre-cut holes to hold plants securely. Plants in aeroponic systems are supported by net baskets, allowing their roots to grow freely into a chamber below without getting submerged in the nutrient solution.

A tank containing a water-nutrient mixture is located below the baskets, and the roots are periodically misted. This is done using an automated mechanism directly connected to the water pump, which drives a misting solution from a separate reservoir into the chamber. Excess water is collected in a separate drainage reservoir or returned to the main reservoir, depending on how the system is structured.

3 Types of aeroponic cannabis cultivation systems

When exploring the realm of aeroponics, you’ll encounter three primary systems. Choosing the right one primarily depends on your expertise and available resources.

1. Low-Pressure Aeroponics (LPA)

Low-Pressure Aeroponics utilises primary pumps and sprinklers to douse nutrient-rich water onto the cannabis plant roots. One of its significant advantages is its accessibility, and almost everything you need for an LPA setup can be easily procured from local grow shops or gardening centres. As such, this system is popular with beginners and small-scale growers.

2. High-Pressure Aeroponics (HPA)

Scaling up in complexity, the High-Pressure Aeroponics system is for the aficionado. As the name hints, it relies on high-pressure pumps paired with atomisers to disperse 50 microns or less of ultra-fine water droplets onto the roots. The minute size of these droplets ensures enhanced oxygenation for the roots, which in turn boosts growth rates.

3. Fogponics (Ultrasonic Fogger Aeroponics)

Fogponics is the most advanced aeroponic method that transforms water into tiny droplets resembling fog. This technique facilitates faster and healthier growth of plants, both of the plant itself and of the root system. One of the benefits of providing plants with tiny droplets (as small as 5 microns) is that they can penetrate even the finest root structures. This allows nutrients to enter the inner plant structures without water drops sitting on the roots and impeding the oxygen flow.

Aeroponics vs. hydroponics: what is the difference?

Aeroponic farming is a sub-category that has evolved from hydroponics. Although both aeroponics and hydroponics are soilless cultivation methods, they differ in how they deliver nutrients to the plants. With hydroponics, the roots of the cannabis plants are submerged in a solution of water enriched with nutrients. Aeroponic farming keeps plants suspended in the air, providing nourishment via a mist sprayed directly onto the roots.

When evaluating plant health, aeroponics generally has an edge due to its sealed environment, which minimises root exposure to contaminants. Additionally, with roots in the open air, aeroponically-grown plants receive more oxygen, typically resulting in more substantial growth than their hydroponic counterparts. However, just as with soil, aeroponic is less forgiving of mistakes than hydroponics.

Aeroponics vs soil: how do they compare?

There is, of course, nothing wrong with growing your cannabis plants in soil. Soil is a medium that keeps water, air and nutrients ready for the roots to feed. Living soil is also rich in minerals and microbial life, which benefits all plants. One of the great benefits of using soil is that you can add water and nutrients and allow the roots to absorb them naturally. Soil acts as an excellent buffer, providing a conducive environment for plant growth.

On the other hand, soil comes with certain drawbacks as well. To cultivate a large number of plants, one needs a significant amount of soil, which can be both heavy and expensive. Moreover, if you are growing in an area where soil is scarce, you may have to bear the additional cost of purchasing and transporting it. Furthermore, because it is a good provider for all kinds of life, you must deal with unwanted visitors, like fungus gnats, spider mites and malevolent fungi.

To avoid these challenges, looking into a soilless cultivation method like aeroponics might be worthwhile. Aeroponics is a technique that eliminates the need for soil and allows for the distribution of nutrients in exact amounts. When executed accurately, it can result in even more productive growth than soil-based cultivation.

While aeroponics allows for precise nutrient distribution, the absence of soil as a buffer requires careful monitoring of the growing process. For example, imagine pulling a mature plant out of the soil and leaving it without care. It will wither within hours and shows that even the slightest error can result in a complete harvest loss in no time.

8 Advantages of aeroponic cannabis cultivation

Aeroponics for food and crop production is successfully used in drier regions lacking fertile terroir and water. It is also used in the industrial production of agricultural products, where scaling is an essential factor. Be it leafy greens, vegetables like tomatoes, fruits like strawberries, herbs, spices, and flowers — a wide variety of plants thrive in aeroponics. And yes, your favourite green flower can also flourish with aeroponics, producing copious amounts of weed with minimal resources.

So let us check out the eight advantages of cultivating weed using aeroponics:

1. Less use of natural resources

Aeroponic cannabis cultivation eliminates the need for soil and reduces water usage drastically. There is no need for earth or other growing media, because the roots are protected from light and other environmental influences in the container, and the nutrients are applied directly to the plants.

2. Minimal use of water

Aeroponic growing is prevalent in regions where there is a lack of water. Only a tiny amount is used to douse the roots with nutrients. Compared to classic growing methods where you pour large amounts of water into the soil, you can save up to 98% of water with aeroponics.

3. Less waste

Aeroponics is a highly precise technique that minimises resource waste. The water used in this method can be recycled and there is no need for soil, which eliminates any difficulties associated with its disposal.

4. Less space needed

Aeroponic cannabis growing is great for scaling. You should consider going aeroponic if you want maximum harvests in minimal space. By creating a vertical setup, you can grow aeroponic weed with a tiny footprint into great heights. The sky is the limit with aeroponics.

5. Minimised risk of pests

One of the biggest nuisances for aeroponic cannabis cultivation is pests, like flies, lice, and other unwanted visitors. These insects and microorganisms usually grow in the soil. But when there is no soil and excess nutrients, parasites have nowhere to feed.

6. Increased oxygen intake for the plant

Plants need to breathe to grow. In an aeroponic system, the plant’s roots are suspended in the air while being misted with nutrient-rich water. This allows the roots to absorb oxygen directly from the air, which promotes healthier plant growth and faster crop growth rates.

7. Optimal control of nutrient distribution

By applying the liquid nutrients via misting directly to the roots, you always know exactly how much your plants consume. Because the plants grow in an artificial environment where all the factors are controlled, and nothing is left to chance, you can fine-tune the elements as much as you like.

8. Huge harvests possible

With aeroponics, you can achieve some of the largest yields possible. Since you have complete control over all the factors, you can optimise everything to maximise your harvest. Upscaling vertically means growing more plants in less space and with fewer resources. The method of misting the roots also leads to less stress for your plants – energy that goes directly into the forming of the buds.

5 Disadvantages of aeroponic cannabis cultivation

While it sounds fantastic to produce outstanding yields while reducing your soil and water resources, there are some obstacles when choosing the path of aeroponics. This method is only recommended if you have some growing experience because it can be unforgiving.

To begin with aeroponic cannabis cultivation, it is essential to have a thorough understanding of nutrient distribution, technical expertise, and a persistent commitment to the process. You should also be able to handle failures with tolerance and perseverance. Even small mistakes can have immediate consequences, and this is why aeroponics is favoured by professionals and often avoided by hobby growers.

So, let’s explain the main disadvantages of aeroponic weed.

1. Initial cost of equipment

To create a basic aeroponics set-up, you require almost the same equipment as for a typical indoor grow, such as a tent, lights, climate control, and several tools, in addition to the aeroponics equipment (refer to the checklist below). It is recommended that you acquire replacement parts to prevent your plants from suffering if a component malfunctions. Investing in equipment upfront may be necessary, but it can lead to long-term soil and water savings while yielding excellent harvests.

2. Constant electricity supply

When planning the overall cost, it is essential to factor in electricity expenses. In aeroponics, a pump runs continuously to mist the roots with nutrients. The plants can quickly deteriorate and die if the power supply is disrupted.

3. Ongoing maintenance

Like any other setup, aeroponics also experiences potential issues like tubing leakage, pump malfunctions, and clogging of misting heads. As aeroponics is a delicate project, it requires repairs periodically.

4. Technical problems can lead to loss of yield

Envision a plant with its roots exposed, suspended in dry air. The root system is highly vulnerable, and a single failure in your setup can end your entire grow cycle. Even with the best setup and optimal automation, leaving your project unattended for extended periods is not advisable.

5. Immediate consequences

Maintaining the right nutrient concentration is crucial for aeroponic growing. If your nutrient concentration is too high or too low, it can cause plant stress and reduced yields. In some cases, it can even lead to the loss of an entire crop.

Equipment needed for aeroponic cannabis cultivation

Getting into aeroponics is an ambitious project, aimed towards experienced growers. So firstly, let us delve into the checklist of essential equipment needed to start aeroponic cannabis cultivation

Growing tent — equipped with lights and ventilation like for a regular grow
Grow lights — use cool LED growing lights so the water does not heat up
Reservoir tank — improvise with buckets or tubs or get special aeroponic tanks
Pump — use a hydroponic submersible pump with 80-100 psi minimum to move water from the reservoir to the roots
Planting bed — should fit lightproof on top of the grow chamber
Spray nozzles — for misting the roots
Tubes — to connect the grow chamber, reservoir, and misting apparatus
Short cycle timer — for programming misting intervals
Net pots — meshed plant containers to let the roots grow
Ventilation and cooling fan — for the tent and inside the growing chamber
Training clips — to keep your plants in place
High-quality cannabis seeds — which you can grab in our store

A step-by-step to set up an aeroponics system

Once you have all the necessary equipment, it is time to follow our step-by-step guide on creating a basic aeroponic setup.

1. Choose your system according to your budget

As previously mentioned, there are three types of aeroponics systems, each catering to a different market. If you are on a low budget, a DIY low-pressure aeroponic (L.P.A.) system would be ideal, as the components can easily be found in any garden centre or grow shop.

2. Define your grow space

Aeroponic cannabis cultivation can be space-saving, especially if you want to scale and go vertical. You can use a grow tent or build your own space from scratch. Choose a location that is easily accessible and has enough space to accommodate the expected size of your plants. Ensure that you have access to electricity and water supply. Some elements to consider when planning your grow space are:

An extra utility shelf within the tent for accessibility of tools and equipment.
Structural supports and reinforcements, like space booster poles.
Plant support netting to improve light coverage and keep plant growth lower if needed.

3. Assemble the reservoir

When creating your reservoir for your plants, it’s essential to consider the space and size of the plants you want to grow. You can create a reservoir within the same enclosed area as your plants, but it’s crucial to maintain the water at a certain level without the roots touching it. To start, you can use a bin or bucket with a fitting lid. It’s important to ensure the reservoir is completely shielded from light, as the roots require complete darkness, and no light should enter the water.

4. Set up the planting bed

The planting bed is essentially the roof of your reservoir. Here, net pots will be securely placed in pre-cut holes. These pots will allow your plants to dangle into the aeroponic space without being submerged in the nutrient solution. Ensure that no light enters the interior of the reservoir.

5. Installation of the pump and tubing

Depending on your setup, the pump can sit either within the reservoir or outside. Plastic pipes and hoses connect the pump with the reservoir and misting nozzles.

6. Set up the misting system

When choosing the mist heads, you should choose quality brass instead of less reliable plastic. A droplet size of 30-50 microns is recommended. Check that all the roots get sufficient misting.

7. Time your misting cycles

Connect a short cycle timer to the pump. Some grows require misting of one to three minutes every five minutes; others can have shorter bursts of five seconds every minute. The aim is to have roots that are constantly moist, but not dripping. The ideal misting interval is highly dependent on your individual setup.

8. Give your full attention and care

Aeroponic systems need to be monitored constantly. Be ready for challenges, failures and trial and error when growing aeroponic weed. A good tip is to have replacement parts for all the components at hand so that you can switch quickly in case of technical failure.

Aeroponic cannabis in a tower garden

Tower gardens are vertical farming solutions using aeroponic technology. As the name suggests, these structures are built like small towers out of which a plethora of plants can grow out of. Depending on height and size they can be put on balconies, terraces, rooftop gardens, and even in interiors like living rooms or kitchens.

Tower gardens are used to grow veggies, fruit, and herbs for a sustainable home — and yes, they can also be used for growing weed! Just like other aeroponic systems, the advantages of tower gardens for cannabis lie in low resources without any soil and a small footprint. If you want to start growing aeroponic tower weed, one tip is to choose the perfect feminized strains: Tall-growing sativas should be placed on the lower end of the tower, while shorter indicas can go near the top.

Ready to give aeroponic weed a try?

Growing cannabis with aeroponics is a unique and sophisticated method of cultivating your favourite plant. Instead of sitting in soil or being submerged in water, like with hydroponics, the roots can grow freely without limitations while receiving a constant supply of nutrients.

If you decide to get into aeroponics, be aware that this is a method suited more for experienced growers and not as much for beginners. Especially when starting, you should monitor your plants constantly, as mistakes can quickly lead to their demise. When done right, aeroponics can maximise yields and create mouthwatering buds with little resources.

Do you have any experience with growing aeroponic cannabis? Share some of your insights in the comments below!

Disclaimer:

Laws and regulations regarding cannabis cultivation differ from country to country. Sensi Seeds therefore strongly advises you to check your local laws and regulations. Do not act in conflict with the law.

Source link

Growing

Royal Queen Seeds & Mike Tyson are the double bill your grow needs

Published

3 weeks ago

April 29, 2024

admin

The King of the Ring & the Queen of Seeds make a great 1-2.

Royal Queen Seeds, the award-winning European seed bank that has recently captured the hearts and minds of many American growers, isn’t the type of outfit to just sit around on its laurels. Their high-quality genetics and respect for cannabis tradition have earned both our interest and respect ever since they made their way across the Atlantic, and they’re not even close to running out of tricks.

The drive, focus, and determination that brought Royal Queen Seeds to the apex of the weed world are shared by their newest collaborator, Kid Dynamite himself, Mike Tyson. ‘Iron’ Mike is one of the most famous and recognizable heavyweight boxers ever to tie on a pair of gloves.

His iconic tattooed face has been everywhere from the silver screen to the breakfast cereal aisle, and these days, Iron Mike is becoming the champ of a different arena, cannabis. His Tyson 2.0 pre-rolls, concentrates, and edibles have all made a splash in markets all over the states, and now, thanks to an exclusive partnership with Royal Queen Seeds, you can finally grow these strains for yourself.

Can the Royal Queen Seeds online Seedfinder find your ideal strain? We find out.

These two titans have come together to bring homegrowers some of the most exciting new seeds we’ve seen. In the later rounds of this article we’ll fill you in on the details of these new strains, but first, let’s take a look at why Mike Tyson and Royal Queen Seeds make such a powerful combo.

Get the champ in your corner

If you thought that Royal Queen Seeds’ collaboration with Iron Mike is just another celebrity endorsement, another in the long line of pretty faces trying to sell otherwise unremarkable weed, you’d better think again. Tyson brings far more than just his famous tattooed mug to the proceedings.

In recent years, Kid Dynamite has become an outspoken cannabis advocate, evangelizing for the plant’s incredible medical and recreational properties most every time he finds himself in front of a microphone, like on his weekly podcast, Hotboxin’. He’s also shown himself to have impeccable taste and a vast knowledge of weed and its history, making him one of the most dynamic personalities in the cannabis space today.

How to get the most out of these five unique strains by Royal Queen Seeds

Mike has confirmed that cannabis has been a part of his life for many years and has helped him cope with both physical and mental stress, the same struggles that bring many Americans to cannabis today. This all goes to what makes this exclusive collaboration all the more special; these strains weren’t developed only by Mike Tyson, The Baddest Man on the Planet, but also by Mike the Grower, the tireless cannabis advocate and homegrowing enthusiast.

Mike the Grower is out to spread the love of growing like a modern-day Johnny Appleseed, albeit one with a champion belt and a devastating left hook. But his cannabis bonafides are as legit as they come, and we’re thrilled that Iron Mike is a kindred spirit.

It’s tough to imagine a better collaborator for Tyson than Royal Queen Seeds. Royal Queen Seeds brings Tyson 2.0 to the next level in the same way that a great coach brings the most out of a talented fighter. RQS is a team of cannabis breeder’s breeders, with decades of experience delivering top-quality seeds to growers.

Why you should be growing F1 hybrids from Royal Queen Seeds

In the same way that a good boxing couch can take a fighter to the next level, Royal Queen Seeds brings Tyson 2.0 to even greater heights. You can be sure that any seeds ordered from RQS meet their exacting standards of genetic quality and pedigree purity, and at an affordable price to boot. Said Tyson: “If you’re the best in the world at what you do, most likely, we’re gonna be partners.”

What else is there to say? Some of the best of the best are teaming up to make themselves even better. Let’s get ready to rumble and take a look at the first six strains on offer from Royal Queen Seeds and Tyson 2.0.

Royal Queen Seeds x Tyson 2.0 Gelato 44

tyson seeds — Image courtesy of Royal Queen Seeds.

Descended from Sunset Sherbert and Thin Mints GSC, Gelato 44 is a powerful indica-dominant hybrid that doesn’t pull its punches. Newer growers need not apply; Gelato 44 is a strain that requires a consistent amount of light and good soil quality to thrive, making it a better fit for experienced growers.

While Gelato 44 is not for the faint of heart, either for growing or for smoking, those who can hang ten rounds with this strain will find that it offers a tasty citrus flavor and a pleasantly relaxing, occasionally euphoric sensation. Gelato 44 is also potent enough to overcome Iron Mike’s formidable tolerance. Growers can expect their buds to be around 22% THC by volume.

Royal Queen Seeds x Tyson 2.0 Dynamite Diesel

Named for Kid Dynamite, one of Mike’s many monikers, Dynamite Diesel is a piston-punching indica-like that’ll put even frequent cannabis consumers flat on their backs. Dynamite Diesel has DNA from two legendary strains you’re probably familiar with, Sour Diesel and Skywalker OG. With genetics like those, there was no way that Dynamite Diesel would wind up with a glass jaw—on the contrary, it’s more than worthy of bearing one of Mike’s names. This beauty takes particularly well to outdoor environments and can reach titanic 200 cm heights. Plant some this season, and you’ll have a full tank of gas come harvest.

Royal Queen Seeds x Tyson 2.0 NYC Sour D Auto

A favorite of the man himself, with NYC Sour D, you can now grow the strain that charmed The Baddest Man on the Planet. While most of the Tyson 2.0 strains are pretty heavy hitters, NYC Sour D is a lighter affair, a sour, citrus, and gas-flavored sativa perfect for an energetic morning smoke or midday rally.
Growers working with limited space will love NYC Sour D. It only grows to around 80 cm tall when grown indoors, perfect for most tents and balconies. NYC Sour D Auto comes from fine genetic stock, an heir of NYC Diesel and Sour Diesel Auto. The result is an autoflowering strain that doesn’t skimp on all the good stuff. Who says good things can’t come in small packages?

Royal Queen Seeds x Tyson 2.0 GOAT’Lato Auto

You can tell that the Tyson 2.0 team knew they had something special when they named this strain. GOAT’Lato Auto is a cross between Cookies Auto and Tyson’s own Gelato 44, an inspired combination that has resulted in a true contender. A fast-growing indica-dominant hybrid that can be ready to harvest in as little as ten weeks, GOAT’lato Auto is tough to beat if you need to grow your stash quickly.

Nearly as fun to say as it is to smoke, GOAT’Lato Auto also has the rare distinction of being among the most flavorful of all of Royal Queen Seeds’ vast stock, a tasty terpene-packed treat that comes on quickly and takes no prisoners. Fans of GOAT’lato Auto report that it’s an incredible focus aid, helping them lock in and KO chores in the first round. But is it truly the greatest Gelato of all time? Order from Royal Queen Seeds today and find out for yourself.

Royal Queen Seeds x Tyson 2.0 Punch Pie

Another of Iron Mike’s personal favorite strains, Punch Pie is a pleasure to grow for indoor and outdoor setups alike. Punch Pie’s genetics include strains like Purple Punch and Purple Kush, making it as true an indica as you’re likely to find. You’ll see it in the grow; Punch Pie likes to spread out in wide bushes, topping out at about 150 cm in ideal outdoor conditions.

When it’s time to harvest, you’ll be greeted by gorgeous, sweet-smelling buds that are caked in resin. Like any great fruit pie, you’ll be able to taste a whole medley of berries in Punch Pie, with notes of blueberry and cherry accompanied by earthy undertones. You can expect some serious couch-lock as well. The best part about Punch Pie is that it doesn’t even need that long in the oven. You can expect to harvest your Punch Pie plants in about nine weeks after planting.

Royal Queen Seeds x Tyson 2.0 Corkscrew Auto

For the final entry in our list, we’ve got a slightly sativa-dominant hybrid dubbed Corkscrew Auto. Corkscrew is the descendant of Cherry Pie Auto and Tangie, two easy-to-grow strains that can hold their own in rough conditions. Corkscrew Auto has the grit to go all ten rounds and make its genetic stock proud; it’s a tough customer that’ll thrive in whatever setup you have at home.

On the smoke, Corkscrew leads with a haymaker. You’ll feel the cerebral effects as soon as you take the first hit, helping you feel energetic and creative. Corkscrew Auto will take a touch longer than some of the other seeds on this list to harvest, but trust us, and trust Mike. Corkscrew Auto is well worth the wait.

And there’s the final bell! That’s all the Tyson 2.0 strains currently available from Royal Queen Seeds, but stay tuned—this partnership may well go the distance. Make sure to visit the Royal Queen Seeds website and follow them on socials to keep yourself up-to-date on all the new seeds they have in store. Likewise, you can keep up with Tyson 2.0 by heading to their website and following them on social media to see what sort of big moves Kid Dynamite and his crew have planned for the next round. Happy growing!

Availability subject to law.

Source link

420

The Leafly weed grower’s guide to 2024

Published

1 month ago

April 16, 2024

admin

Spring has sprung and with it fresh veggies in the garden. High season has also kicked in for cannabis gardeners: clone and seed sellers are doing brisk business as growers big and small ramp up for the 2024 full-sun outdoor run.

You can grow a pound of AAA-grade buds off a single outdoor plant if you get started today. Here’s how from Leafly’s weed grower’s guide to 2024.

Where to start

Start with Leafly’s first-ever Weed Gardener’s Almanac for 2024. Learn the right thing to do at the right time to stay synced with the seasons and maximize your investment in seeds, soil, water and time.

Image Not Found

The official Leafly Weed Gardener’s Almanac 2024

You can also start with Leafly’s Learn/Growing section—our evergreen guide to the basics of weed gardening.

Image Not Found

Leafly’s guide to growing marijuana

Can’t grow? No problemo

How to order weed delivery online with Leafly

What to grow

Man, do we have some options for you! Our affiliate link partners want you to start with “The best cannabis seed companies”. Featuring groups like:

Homegrown Cannabis Co

Cookies Seed Bank

Premium Cultivars

Image Not Found

The best cannabis seed companies

Beyond that, we published our biggest, independently reported, 100% organic, 100% AI-free guide to the best seeds and clones to grow in 2024. Part 1 has the hot-hot new-new from the top dogs. Part 2 digs into strains related to Sour Diesel and Chemdog and such. Part 3 focuses on strains perfect for making extracts (aka hash) both old-school and new.

Modern cannabis too strong for you? No sweat, we have some excellent picks for strains with a balanced amount of THC (which causes euphoria) and CBD (which can moderate THC’s effects).

How to grow it

So you figured our where to start and what you want to grow—now you need to know how to grow it!

For that we got a fresh story on the ‘living soil’ wave sweeping cultivation. What is living soil? Read about it and start that compost pile today!

Image Not Found

What is ‘living soil’ weed and why does it rule?

For even more, check out: How to make organic soil

There’s even more to vegetation and flowering.

Image Not Found

How to top and prune marijuana plants

Get pest management tips from Kannabia Seed Company.

Image Not Found

How to keep your grow pest-free with Kannabia Seed Company

Leafly Strain of the Year 2023 is Permanent Marker—Here’s how to grow that strain and catch that wave.

Image Not Found

How to grow the Permanent Marker strain

How to harvest it

Growing is only half the battle. So much good pot is destroyed in the drying and curing phase where you got to keep temps low, humidity balanced, and avoid mold.

Shop highly rated dispensaries near you

Showing you dispensaries near

See all dispensaries

Here’s some fresh drying tips for an experienced master.

Image Not Found

Expert interview: The science of saving those terps at harvest

Then check out our evergreen guides to drying and curing:

Image Not Found

The ultimate guide to drying and curing cannabis for the best results

Troubleshooting your garden

If you want to make God laugh, tell Her your plans. When things go off the rail, practice a positive, solution-oriented mindset and enjoy the chance to learn something new from our troubleshooting guides.

The best part about growing weed is the friends you make along the way. You’ll be stronger and happier when you grow in community with your fellow gardeners and cannabis culture. Plug into your new network by attending these amazing cannabis events, all across the country.

Image Not Found

Ultimate weed contest calendar of 2024

Are you excited about growing a pound yet? You should be. The golden era of ganja shines even brighter when every garden has a seven-leafed tree poking out of it. Remember: She who is not busy growing is busy buying!

Source link

autoflowering seeds

The best cannabis seed companies 2024

Published

1 month ago

April 12, 2024

admin

These recommendations on the best cannabis seed companies are made by Leafly Product Picks after extensive research, internal debate, and expert consultation. If you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Updated for 2024.

A quick look at 2024’s best cannabis seed companies

Homegrown Cannabis Co

Cookies Seed Bank

Premium Cultivars

Selecting seeds ahead of the planting season is one of the most exciting parts of growing your own cannabis for experts and novices alike. There are thousands of strains out there to try, with more dropping every season, so the only real question is where you want to start.

We’ve put together this list of the best places to buy seeds online to help you navigate where to find quality seeds you can count on. We’ve gone ahead and classified these into several categories like best genetics, best for beginners, etc, so read on until you find the right seed bank to fit your needs. Happy growing!

Top seed banks of 2024: Reviews and recommended products

Highlights

Expert knowledge courtesy of Robert Bergman
Extensive resources for newcomers
Highly affordable

The cannabis journey of a thousand harvests begins with a single seed, and tons of happy hobbyist growers get their start with I Love Growing Marijuana, affectionately known as ILGM. Founded in 2012 by the incomparable master breeder Robert Bergman, ILGM.com is our recommendation for the best seed bank to start your growing journey due to their extensive online resources for novices, as well as plug-and-play grow kits that are ideal for those just starting out. That’s not all—ILGM will also include a free download of Robert Bergman’s Grow Bible with every purchase.

ILGM is the perfect company to teach you how to stop worrying and learn to love growing marijuana, and even have it love you back.

Do-si-dos: Winner of one of the biggest prizes in cannabis, our very own 2021 Leafly Strain of the Year award, Do-si-dos may be a total champion, but it hasn’t let all that fame go to its head. Do-si-dos is still the easy-to-grow sensation that arrived on the scene nearly a decade ago and has been a friendly introduction to the world of cannabis growing ever since. Do-si-dos is a slightly indica-leaning hybrid that can hold up well in a variety of climates and growing conditions, although it slightly prefers an indoor environment. You can start your cultivation adventure with ten Dos-i-dos feminized seeds for just $149.

Pros	Cons
Plug-and-play options	Limited selection of rare strains
Free Grow Bible

Highlights

Great for medical patients
Easy delivery
High-CBD options

Many growers first take to the hobby because they get tired of giving so much of their paycheck to the local dispensary. If you’re one of those cannasseurs that got into growing green to save some green, then look no further than Seeds Supreme. They have a massive selection of strains both common and rare, expertly collated into an easy-to-use webpage. You’ll be hard-pressed to find seeds for a better price anywhere, and Seed Supreme even frequently slashes their own already low prices with heaps of special deals and promotions.

Seed Supreme goes the extra mile when it comes to taking care of their customers who primarily grow cannabis to ease the symptoms of their medical ailments. Not only do they have multiple strains popular in the medical community, Seed Supreme allows you to sort strains via the particular symptom you are hoping to relieve or condition you are suffering from. Customers are able to browse either by ailment, like multiple sclerosis or arthritis, or by symptoms, like nausea or insomnia. This means that Seed Supreme is one of the best spots around for finding the perfect strain to help with whatever ails you.

Seed Supreme’s low prices means you’ll never have to pick between two of your favorite strains again. Thanks to them, the answer will always be both.

Alien OG Feminized: A true 50/50 hybrid the likes of which are increasingly rare, Alien OG is the sort of strain that’ll have you questioning your place in the universe. Hailing from outer space by way of the San Francisco Bay, Alien OG gets its potent DNA from Alien Kush and Tahoe OG Kush, two parents who are no slouches in the THC department either. You can expect your Alien OG buds to reach up to 28% THC in ideal conditions, enough to satisfy the strongest of tolerances and help anyone explore the farther reaches of the galaxy.

Pros	Cons
Incredibly easy-to-browse website	Automated customer support
Extensive options for medical patients

Highlights

Multiple award-winning genetics team
Incredibly in-depth growing information
Special members-only Seed Vault Club

With twenty years of excellence under their belt, DNA Genetics are some of the elder statesmen of the cannabis world. They’ve migrated from California to the Netherlands and back again, breeding legendary strains and filling their trophy case with prestigious awards. There’s hardly a cannabis award in the twenty-first century they haven’t won by introducing the world to favorites like Tangie, Kosher Kush, and Lemon Skunk, magical strains that continue to loom large in cannabis culture to this day.

DNA Genetics has begun to license its precious genetics to home breeders, spreading the DNA to be shared and iterated upon, in the true spirit of cannabis culture. If you’re interested in growing weed that is one step short of mythical, then DNA Genetics has the storied genetic legacy you’ve been dreaming of.

A team that got so tired of winning every single award that they decided it was only fair to let everyone else have a turn with their genetics. We’re honored to add one more accolade to this legendary group.

Chocolope Fem: The delicious winner of over ten awards, Chocolope is descended from OG Chocolate Thai, a hard-to-find cultivar notable for its chocolate and coffee aroma, and Cannalope Haze. Chocolope is a mouthwatering sativa-like that produces huge, resin-coated buds, perfect for the hash-maker or anyone who appreciates a stronger smoke. This strain is beginner-friendly, resilient, and oh-so tasty; there’s no reason not to treat yourself with a seed or twenty.

Pros	Cons
Legendary genetics	Smaller selection
Exclusive VIP members club

Highlights

Custodians of classic strains
Innovative genetic team
Scientific outlook

Earning the crown for the most innovative purveyor of seeds is Royal Queen Seeds, a European seed bank that has had a British Invasion-level impact on American growers. Based in Amsterdam, a site of stoner pilgrimage for decades, Royal Queen Seeds has been the careful shepherd of cannabis DNA that goes back to the days of the coffeeshops. However, it’s Royal Queen’s ability to look towards the future that has earned them the spot on this list.

Royal Queen’s dedication to innovation extends to all levels of their business. Not only are they advancing the frontiers of cannabis genetics with their line of F1 Hybrids, but they’re also making sure growing weed is more accessible and fun than it ever has been before through tools like their online seedfinder. Touring Royal Queen’s incredible genetic library will surely have you seduced by a special strain that you can crown as your next fave.

Royal Queen Seeds has made monarchists out of us. With unrivaled respect for tradition combined with an innovative edge, RQS will have growers saying “Hail to the Queen.”

Titan F1: F1 strains are famed for their resilience and robust genetics, and Titan F1 is an exemplar even among the F1 crowd. A pioneering hybrid, Titan F1 is an inbred cross of princely genetics including stand-out strains like Blue Dream, Amnesia, and Sugar Magnolia. Cannabis inbreeding won’t result in your weed going pug-shaped—in fact, RQS uses the technique to reinforce beneficial traits like resilience to pests or high-THC content. Get Titan F1 growing in your garden today, and experience some truly titanic majesty.

Pros	Cons
Innovative genetic team	Somewhat slower order processing
Wide variety of classic & unique strains

Recommended product: Kyle’s Sweet Island Feminized

Highlights

Great resources for growers of all levels
Several experts on staff
Unique cultivars

The best growers in the business will tell you that there’s always more to learn about cannabis cultivation. Like an iceberg, most of the substance of cannabis growing is below the surface. Growers who are interested in learning from some of the best minds in the cannabis industry should find a home at Homegrown Cannabis Co, a seed bank that offers extensive seed options as well as all the resources you could ever need to take your growing game to the next level.

Homegrown Cannabis Co has a crew of cannabis-growing heavyweights bringing their knowledge to Homegrown customers by writing articles, producing videos, and recommending strains. These experts are a veritable Mount Rushmore of cannabis legends, including Parker Curtis, Victoria Rouland, Nikki Lasterto, Swami Chaitanya, and the incomparable Kyle Kushman. With combined decades of experience, you can’t go wrong consulting with these legends.

Homegrown’s team of experts is second to none. Talk about a blunt rotation!

Kyle’s Sweet Island Feminized: One of Homegrown’s Cultivars with Character (CWC), Kyle’s Sweet Island bears the stamp of approval from one of Homegrown’s biggest assets, the man himself, Kyle Kushman. Sweet Island has a robust pedigree featuring Sweet Pink Grapefruit and Big Skunk #1, two famous parents who always bring a tropical vibe.

After planting Sweet Island, prepare for it to grow to a formidable height — this hybrid leans sativa and will bear the growing hallmarks of those strains. On the smoke, Sweet Island is an energizing, mentally stimulating strain that Homegrown recommends for a wake’n’bake companion. And with a respectable 19% THC, Sweet Island will give you just the push you need without sidetracking your whole day.

Pros	Cons
Great community	Limited rare cultivar selection
Expert advice
Affordable

Highlights

Very innovative
Embedded in San Francisco culture
Originated world-famous strains

If you’re a seasoned hand at cannabis cultivation, and you find yourself craving something new and exciting to grow to keep the hobby fresh, then Cookies Seed Bank would like a few words. Cookies are legendary in the business, creating multiple world-famous strains, like GSC, a strain whose name pays homage to both the brand itself and the girls in green sashes. While picking up strains you’ve heard of before is certainly an option, in our opinion, the real reason to check out Cookies is the strains you haven’t. The team at Cookies is constantly cooking up new, unique strains that push the boundaries of cannabis cultivation.

Cookies was founded by the dynamic duo of Gilbert Anthony Milam Jr, AKA Berner and the enigmatic growmaster known only as Jai. Berner is nothing short of a cannabis mogul in the mold of Jay-Z, hip-hop career included. His partner Jai is a pillar of the San Francisco Bay Area community and a foundational part of the broader cannabis culture. His creativity has influenced the makeup of American cannabis forever, and if you want to know which strain will take the country by storm next, there’s a decent chance Jai is dreaming it up right now. Get your seeds from Cookies and impress your friends with a harvest of the next big thing.

Want to know what the next five years of weed will look like? The last two at Cookies.

Fried Banana is the sensitive type; a skilled hand can be necessary to help this strain reach its full potential, but there’s no better investment to make. Fried Banana features a depth of flavor and aroma that’d have a sommelier stuttering, a true treat for the connoisseur of finer cannabis flower.

Fried Banana is a backcross of Cookies’ legendary Gelato #41, with additional genetics from Stardawg Guava, where Fried Banana gets its tropical flair. Make sure you keep an eye on Fried Banana plants when they reach maturity, they tend to grow spindly as they near harvest. The team at Cookies recommends providing Fried Banana a bit of support to make sure it becomes all it can be.

Pros	Cons
Lots of unique strains	Premium price point
Killer legacy

Highlights

Impeccable genetics
Outstanding user community
Resources for all experience levels

There’s nothing quite like word of mouth to inspire trust, and a company that isn’t afraid of letting their customers speak freely is usually one you can bank on. Such is the case with Premium Cultivars, our selection for the seed bank with the best user community. Each strain available on the Premium Cultivars storefront features insightful, relevant reviews from growers all over the United States. This creates a dedicated community of growers that customers have access to, without digging through a dozen Reddit threads to find a worthwhile review from a real person.

Premium Cultivars was able to cultivate this online community because of the undeniable quality of their genetics, and the care they take in preserving that legacy. Growers respect quality and hate a scam, and the fact that Premium Cultivars has been able to inspire such a loyal community speaks incredibly well to their product. See for yourself what these seeds can do in your garden, and then pay it forward and leave your own review!

If you’re a nerd like us and love talking about weed as much as smoking it, then you’ll find your kind online at Premium Cultivars.

Jealousy: Jealousy is currently having a moment, earning a slew of accolades including the big one; the coveted Leafly Strain of the Year award. All this popularity has made Jealousy a hard girl to find, with many dispensaries selling out as fast as breeders can grow. Now, thanks to Premium Cultivars, you can snag Jealousy for yourself with these autoflowering, feminized seeds. The word from the Premium Cultivars community is that Jealousy is an easy, low-maintenance strain to grow, so pick up a pack of twelve seeds for just $129.00 and get to planting.

Pros	Cons
Excellent user reviews	No information listed for strain effects
High-quality genetics
Fast delivery

Why you can trust Leafly Product Picks

Leafly is the world’s leading cannabis discovery platform and provides a vast library of content from some of the most respected voices in cannabis. Leafly Product Picks prioritizes accuracy and integrity in our selections, working through mountains of research, testimonials, and testing to source products you can trust.

Jake Rosendale: Lead Content Writer, Brands & Products

smiling portrait photo of man in glasses and grey cap against an aquamarine background

Jake Rosendale is Leafly’s Lead Content Writer, Brands & Products. He’s been with Leafly since 2022, where he spends his time researching the best products in the wide world of weed. Jake’s been writing about cannabis, food, and wine in the Seattle area for 5 years. In addition to Leafly, you can find his work in Seattle Met Magazine and High Times. He loves sci-fi novels, country music, and Super Lemon Haze.

Anna Elliott: Senior Content Editor, Brands & Products

portrait photo of woman with short dark hair and glasses in a black polo shirt against an aqua-green background

Anna Elliott is Leafly’s Senior Content Editor, Brands & Products. She’s been with Leafly since 2021, managing and editing brand-related content and bringing the best stories on the industry’s top products to life. With a decade of experience reviewing products, covering brands, and editing stories, Anna loves talking up the people & products that make a real difference in readers’ every day. She’s found that Space Mints makes the perfect pairing for enjoying her frankly irresponsible vinyl collection.

Final thoughts

No matter the season, these seed banks are the best in the business. With options for every type of grower, from horticultural novices to captains of cannabis cultivation, our selections for the best cannabis seed companies are poised to kick off a renaissance in homegrowing. A greener world is a better world, so find the seed bank that’s right for you and get your hands in the dirt today!

For business inquiries, please direct messages to affiliate@leafly.com.

Availability subject to law

Source link