If you want to really get a room of cultivators talking and taking sides, there’s one question to rule them all. Indoor vs. outdoor cannabis? Knowing which methods to choose and why can be difficult when starting out. While both methods can produce quality cannabis, there’s really no best way to do it.
There are, however, key differences and constraints to keep in mind when selecting your ideal cultivation style. When growing indoor vs. outdoor plants, indoor tends to be easier; however, sun-grown weed also has benefits.
Indoor vs. outdoor cannabis growing
The first thing that comes into play when deciding between indoor and outdoor cultivation is outdoor viability and space. Some climates are not ideal for cannabis cultivation. It needs temperatures of 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 30 degrees Celsius) throughout the plant’s life cycle. The space and security to grow outdoors may also be hard to obtain for many home growers.
Indoor vs outdoor weed plant differences
If the climate is right and space isn’t an issue, then outdoor can be considered against indoor. Both will lead you to quality cannabis with the right methods and setup but with slightly different results and varying levels of effort.
The debate between indoor vs. outdoor cannabis cultivation has been ongoing since indoor cultivation became so prevalent. Illegalization drove growers indoors for obvious reasons and changed how we grow cannabis, but outdoor flower is undoubtedly unique and stands up against it.
Buy Indoor Cannabis Seeds
Easy to grow
Beginner friendly
Guaranteed germination
Grow guide available
A recent scientific publication attempts to lay the issue to rest but cannot do so. Rather than finding one method was better than the other, they found that growing weed outside vs. inside from the same genetics produced differing compositions of cannabinoids and terpenes.
There’s also a completely different take on this argument in favor of outdoor cannabis due to the lower carbon footprint. Indoor cannabis grows take a lot of energy and materials. In the long term, outdoor and greenhouse cultivation will be the most sustainable option, barring new discoveries.
As a consumer and cultivator, I enjoy cultivars rich in terpenes and other cannabinoids. I’ve found cannabis worthy of connoisseurship created by each method. I do recognize the environmental impact of indoor cannabis, though; it’s something the industry and community is working to improve.
Growing marijuana both indoor and outdoor is easy provided you know the proper technique. Download my FREE marijuana grow bible to get an easy step by step guide.
Overview of indoor cannabis cultivation
Indoor cultivation can be quick and simple or done to rigorous scientific standards. This ease of entry for indoor cultivation makes it a viable option for beginners with a small space or a lower budget.
With indoor-grown cannabis, the grower plays the role of mother nature, which is a blessing and a curse. It is great to control the light, temperature, water, and humidity, but it can require a high degree of precision to get it done right.
It can be hard and repetitive work for indoor growers to maintain their garden. Along with this level of control comes administrative overhead – work! I would best describe indoor growing like doing construction in a closet. The main constraint for indoor growing is the space, as plants must be kept to a certain size.
Growing marijuana indoors
Along with this labor comes the cost. That light, temperature, water, and humidity are not free indoors. Nutrients, tents, or a dedicated room/closet, along with needed equipment, can add up and impact monthly bills. That being said, you can start with a smaller level of control and settle on some tradeoffs for quality when getting started.
In general, indoor cultivation requires at least 1 room to see plants through their vegetative and flowering phases before harvest. This would include providing necessary light, nutrients, support structures, and air quality for the plant. Depending on your setup, there may be times when the plants need repotting into larger containers.
A major benefit to indoor growing is the perpetual harvest; you don’t have to rely on seasons. This, along with the ability to create more “vibrant” looking flower and better control of the indoor environment to improve terpene content and create diverse and powerful aromas and flavors, is why indoor growing is perhaps the most common method of cannabis cultivation.
Features of indoor-grown marijuana plants
Indoor plants are smaller than those grown outdoors and often manicured heavily to fit the space. Growers may top them to reduce height and encourage more colas or train them with a screen of green to maximize indoor space.
While the goal is to reduce stretching indoors, the length between nodes on the plant may be longer on indoor plants, and the leaf color may look lighter in color depending on the cultivar.
Indoor plants are pruned heavily before flowering to reduce foliage and chances of pests. The plants also may be weaker in structure without a deep root system or be completely rootbound in their containers.
Overview of growing weed outdoors
Growing outdoors is a great option if you have the space and security to do so. The micromanagement of indoor environments is traded for the natural outdoors. This is also a blessing and a curse for growers. Less labor, lower costs, and lower environmental impact come with less control over the plant life cycle, more risk for pests or adverse weather, and typically more space required.
With outdoor-grown cannabis, soil can be natural or supplemented with methods like Korean Natural Farming and other living soil techniques. The soil will be more forgiving of ph and micronutrient issues that can occur quickly indoors for potted plants but can still go awry if mismanaged.
Growing marijuana outdoors
Outdoor growing is extremely vulnerable to poor weather and other natural phenomena that would not occur indoors and is typically only useful for part of the year. Sometimes as an outdoor grower, you’ve got to make the best of it where an indoor grower could make adjustments in their setup and avoid issues like cloudy days.
An outdoor marijuana grow
Cannabis grown outdoors creates larger plants, in general, with larger yields. Outdoor cannabis plants can be huge if left on their own, especially sativa-leaning cultivars in the right climate. Cannabis plants grown outdoors also tends to produce more terpenes. More terpenes, of course, mean a richer, more complex aroma and taste, along with a more nuanced effect.
Features of outdoor-grown marijuana plants
Outdoor-grown weed with optimal weather conditions will be hearty and bulkier than its indoor counterparts. They can still be manicured and trained to fit the desired methods of the grower but will benefit from the full natural sunlight and temperature variations.
Depending on the cultivar, the coloration may be darker, and the final product may not be as flashy as certain indoor strains. There can be a “waxy” appearance and feel to sun-grown cannabis due to exposure and the plant’s responses to natural stress.
If growing from seeds outdoors like those available on ILGM, the plants will have a long central tap root instead of the indoor “root ball” to keep them healthy and stable.
What is greenhouse cannabis growing?
Greenhouses shake up the outdoor vs. indoor bud growing debate. They can be an option for some or all of the plant life cycle, allowing for hybrid approaches to cultivation. For example, cultivators can start seeds and clones inside and veg them for a few weeks in a greenhouse before putting them into the ground outdoors.
Many commercial growers take advantage of the cheaper construction costs of greenhouses to create massive facilities. Home growers can set up low-tech greenhouses of any size if desired; these can mitigate extreme weather and allow for some degree of climate control.
Growing marijuana in a greenhouse
Greenhouses are a true mix of indoor and outdoor cultivation in that you get some of the natural light without other aspects of the environment that can be hard to control, like wind and pests. Greenhouses are generally much cheaper than growing indoors; run them for a single season, or pull the shades and get multiple harvests a year.
Greenhouses will almost always need a little bit of light supplementation, especially if growing late in the season when temperatures may swing. For beginners, I’d recommend trying a few harvests indoors or outdoors, but there’s no reason you can’t start with greenhouses if you have the materials, budget, and space.
The difference between indoor vs. outdoor cannabis
Differences in bud structure and size of weed flowers
The bud structure differs for outdoor and indoor. Outdoor flowers are typically bulkier than indoors thanks to fully developed root systems and natural beneficial microorganisms. The bud structure of outdoor flower is often not as dense (fluffier) as cannabis grown indoors.
Indoor vs outdoor marijuana bud structure differences
Differences in color of the marijuana plant and flower: Flavonoids
The color is a quick way to distinguish indoor vs. outdoor cannabis. Outdoor will be darker in color and tone with some brown even near the stems. Indoor, on the other hand, is often a brighter palette of color.
This distinction of color between indoor and outdoor is still up for debate and depends on cultivar selection and environmental factors. The flavonoids in cannabis contribute to coloration. Some research suggests they can influence the flavoraroma profile. Studies are still being done to see which metabolites contribute the most. Optimized cultivars or stress methods during cultivation can create deep blue, red, purple, and yellow cannabis rich in anthoxanthins and whiteyellow in those with anthocyanins.
Flavor and smell differences between indoor and outdoor cannabis plants: Terpenes
The Flavonoids mentioned above are small building blocks in the complex flavor profiles of cannabis. The main contributors to flavor and aroma are the terpenes. Cannabis contains more than 150 different terpenes, with many unique to cannabis only.
The combination and concentration of these create our wildly diverse selection of cultivars and give insight into indoor vs. outdoor weed price variation. Outdoor weed has been proven to be higher in terpenes, and the flavor and aroma produced are the ideal quality. That being said, indoor cannabis is no joke; growers can create wonderful aromas and high-quality cannabis indoors as well.
Buy Outdoor Cannabis Seeds
Easy to grow
Beginner friendly
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Grow guide available
Trichome density for indoor vs. outdoor cannabis plants
Trichomes are typically more concentrated in indoor-grown cannabis due to their optimized environment. The grower can harvest at just the right time, whereas outdoor marijuana is typically on a tight seasonal schedule that can be affected by different weather. This may be one reason why indoor cannabis was found to have higher levels of THCA than outdoor.
The difference in trichome density for outdoor vs indoor grown weed plants
The previously mentioned study on outdoor vs. indoor cannabis potency found that the outdoor test had higher concentrations of terpenes and all other cannabinoids except for CBCA and THCA when compared to genetically identical plants grown indoors.
Yield differences between indoor and outdoor cannabis plants
Due to outdoor plants being bigger and having full sun and more developed root structures, the yields are often larger with outdoor. Indoor plants can be high yielding with the right setups and training methods but are typically grown smaller than outdoor plants.
Potency difference with indoor and outdoor cannabis plants: Cannabinoids
This is the interesting topic the Molecules study outlines. The study mentioned that indoor cannabis had higher THCA and CBCA and lower terpenes and other cannabinoids. This means genetically similar plants grown indoors were slightly more “potent” in THC than their counterparts grown outdoors but lacking in other cannabinoids that may contribute to the complete experience or entourage effect of cannabis. Outdoor-grown plants also had THCA derivatives that create less anxiety than the standard type found in very high concentrations indoors.
In general, the potency of indoor cannabis is often higher from a THC perspective. Where outdoor flower is lacking in THC, it makes up for it in other cannabinoids. Outdoor flower can have higher levels of terpenes, CBD, CBGA, and more.
Growing marijuana indoor vs outdoor comparison
Is there a real difference in quality with indoor and outdoor cannabis?
At the end of the day, the quality argument is not over. There’s no “better” way to do it. Each cultivation method has its merits, and each can produce excellent top-shelf bud. There are downsides to both; in general, indoor cannabis is more accessible. It is easier to pull off than outdoor cannabis, which can take up a lot of space and rely on the weather.
If the climate is perfect for outdoor cannabis, then it will likely beat indoor cultivars in the same area; sun-grown cannabis is true craftsmanship when done right. But if the climate is not reliable or optimal, then indoor or greenhouse cannabis will be the best that can be had.
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The best indoor and outdoor cultivars at ILGM
Cultivar selection is always a fun part of growing. ILGM has a wide range of seeds available. The smaller cultivars, or those that grow shorter like indica-leaning varieties or autoflowers, are a good place to start for indoor setups. For the outdoor growers, you’ll want to select cultivars that can thrive in your environment based on where you grow geographically. Although there can be some difference between indoor and outdoor strains, ILGM seeds are selected and sold because they can thrive indoors and outdoors.
Best ILGM marijuana strains for outdoor grows
California Dream Strain
California Dream, with its ability to flourish in multiple climates and its good yields and potency profile, is always a great choice.
Plant type
70% indica 30% sativa
THC
Up to 24%
CBD
Insignificant amount
Climate
Indoors | Steppe | Mediterranean | Mold Resistant
Plant size
Tall
Vegetative stage
4 to 8 weeks
Flowering time
9 weeks
Yields
21 oz per plant
Buy California Dream Seeds
70% indica 30% sativa
Extreme THC levels up to 24%
Good yield indoors, even better outdoors
Powerful sedative relaxation
Amnesia Haze Strain
Amnesia Haze is another solid outdoor option to take advantage of the outdoor space. This high yielder has awards on the shelf as it is a previous winner of several Cannabis Cups.
Purple Haze can pack a similar flavor profile to Amnesia Haze but in a smaller package. The cultivar is very popular thanks to its ability to live healthily in multiple environments.
Super Skunk is easy to grow and delicious to smell. It has a smaller stature. While the yields are high, it requires careful attention to its indoor environment.
Big Bud is another hearty cultivar that can put up with a lot indoors. It’s an average-sized cultivar that also has multiple cannabis cup wins in its past.
Critical Mass brings a higher CBD level than the previous two, along with a potent yield. It won’t be too difficult to tame in indoor setups.
Plant type
80% indica 20% sativa
THC
Up to 22%
CBD
5%
Difficulty
Easy
Climate
Indoors | Mediterranean
Plant size
Average
Vegetative stage
4 to 8 weeks
Flowering time
8 to 9 weeks
Yields
14 to 17 oz per plant
Taste and Smell
Earthy | Pungent | Sweet
Effects
Happy | Relaxed
Buy Critical MassSeeds
80% indica 20% sativa
High CBD and High THC levels
Easy to grow
Eases your mind and physical aches
Indoor, outdoor, greenhouses, or combinations of the three can all produce wonderful quality flowers. The different methods bring out different characteristics in cannabis. Growers and consumers should decide which they like best.
The skill of the grower and the optimization of their setup and workflows will determine quality more than whether or not it was sun-grown. Along with those skills, good genetics are necessary for creating fine cannabis. Legacy strains with a proven track record help to take some stress out of the process. Find the right cultivar for you at ILGM.
FAQs About deciding between growing indoor vs. outdoor cannabis
How much of a difference in quality is outdoor vs. indoor weed?
This question will always vary based on the growers’ methods and the cultivars they are growing. Certain cultivars, climates, and processes create quality. Good cannabis can be made indoors, outdoors, or in greenhouses.
Is indoor cannabis stronger than outdoor?
Some studies show indoor cannabis has a higher concentration of THCA, which is one way to consider cannabis’s “strength.” This is not always great, as it can drown out the complex flavor and effect profiles that outdoor cannabis brings to the table.
Can outdoor weed be top shelf?
One hundred percent. Outdoor cannabis grown in the right climate by an experienced grower can be exquisite top-shelf quality, especially when done so with good curing methods.
Barney’s Farm is an internationally known, Europe-based cannabis breeding brand that’s been around for decades. Looking to grow Barney’s Farm seeds or learn more about their strains? Read on.
Who is Barney’s Farm owner Derry Brett?
Derry Brett, the Irish-born visionary behind Barney’s Farm, has transformed the cannabis landscape with his innovative breeding that led to award-winning strains. With decades of experience and a deep passion for the craft, Brett has played a crucial role in shaping Barney’s Farm into a global leader in the cannabis industry.
(If you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a small affiliate commission.)
Where is Barney’s Farm based? Amsterdam
Barney’s Farm has established a strong presence in the heart of Amsterdam, with three coffeeshops and bars located on Haarlemmerstraat, a seven-minute walk west from the central station. Moving away from the Red Light District, the brand has created a distinct cannabis experience. In addition, Barney’s owns Amnesia Coffeeshop on Herengracht 133, which transitioned to Coffeeshop Barney’s Farm at the end of September, expanding their influence even further.
Award-winning breeding
Barney’s Farm is not just another seed company–it is one of the most celebrated and in-demand cannabis breeders in Europe. With over 70 Cannabis Cups and other prestigious global prizes, Barney’s Farm has proven itself as a leader in the cannabis world. Their seeds are available throughout the European Union and have recently launched in the USA through their online store, barneysfarm.us, and various resell outlets across the country.
What strains is Barney’s Farm known for?
Barney’s Farm is renowned for its signature strains, which have captivated cannabis enthusiasts worldwide. Some of their most notable creations include:
Mimosa x Orange Punch
Gorilla Zkittlez
Cookies Kush
Critical Kush
Acapulco Gold
Blue Cheese
Glookies
Pineapple Express
Pineapple Chunk
G13 Haze
Liberty Haze
Laughing Buddha
Runtz Muffin
Runtz Layer Cake
Do Si Dos 33
These strains represent what Barney’s consider the pinnacle of their cannabis genetics.
(If you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a small affiliate commission.)
What is the Barney’s Farm Backpack Boyz collaboration?
Black Cherry Gelato (Barney’s Farm)
Lemon Cherry Gelato (Barney’s Farm)
One of the most exciting developments for Barney’s Farm is their collaboration with Backpack Boyz. After 12 months of growing seeds, selection, and backcrossing, they released feminized seeds for Black Cherry Gushers and Lemon Cherry Gelato on August 3, 2024. Derry Brett expressed his excitement, saying, “Working with Juan has been exciting and a great honor and pleasure. We’re looking forward to developing this amazing collab to add more strains to our partnership as we isolate and develop more exciting, delicious phenotypes to choose from.”
This collaboration marks the beginning of a new era for Barney’s Farm as they continue to innovate and explore new cannabis genetics. A sensational new collaboration is set to be revealed in the coming months.
“Derry hands down is one of the easiest people I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with, the guy is so transparent and so much of a man of his word,” Juan Quesada, Backpack Boyz Founder, told Leafly, “I’m honestly honored to call him a business partner and friend.”
Related
The best cannabis seed companies
What is Barney’s Farm up to in America?
Barney’s Farm is gearing up for a major expansion in the United States, expecting to be at full capacity by mid-December 2024. With a strong foothold in the European market, the brand is now positioning itself to make waves in America, bringing their award-winning strains to a whole new audience.
On Dec. 4, Barney’s Farm announced a merger with Sensi Seeds, and ILGM—creating an international seed juggernaut. Derry Brett stated in a release: “Once combined, we’ll be able to offer growers the most unique, elevated and sought after cannabis genetics on the market.”
Barney’s Farm finding new strengths in America
Derry Brett and the Barney’s Farm team have found working in the USA to be a novel and liberating experience. Brett describes it as an incredibly freeing experience, “that freedom is translating into our work. We have time to be deliberate, thorough, meticulous, and this shows up in the quality of our new products.”
Barney’s Farm’s expansion into the American market is not just about business—it’s about embracing the freedom to innovate without restrictions. This new chapter promises to bring even more groundbreaking strains and products to cannabis enthusiasts around the world.
Grow your favorite strains more easily with seeds from these top sources. These recommendations on the best autoflower seed banks are made by Leafly’s Product Picks team after extensive research, internal debate, and expert consultation. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission.
Growing your own cannabis has never been easier, and more and more Americans are discovering their green thumbs and falling in love with cannabis cultivation. A big part of the plant’s newfound popularity is the rise of autoflowering strains, which have charmed novice and expert growers alike with their low-maintenance growing style and consistent yields.
Our team has been eagerly charting the epic rise of autoflowers, and we’re happy to say that the future is bright for this eternally excellent, accessible crop. To help you get in on the action, we’ve assembled a list of the best autoflower seed banks for the top spots to buy autoflowering cannabis seeds online. This list of seed banks is full of champions, innovators, and artisans, and they’re all well deserving of your hard-earned dollars.
If you’re curious about what exactly makes an autoflower an autoflower, and what sets this strain apart from traditional photoperiod strains, stick around after the list to read our breakdown of the science—no lab goggles required. But first, and without further ado, here’s our list of the very best autoflower seed banks of 2024.
The best autoflower seed banks of 2024: Reviews and recommended products
• Virtually unparalleled selection of autoflowering strains
• Sourced from a global network of breeders
• Quick delivery time and regular giveaways
Recommended strain
GG4 is one of the most famous strains in the cannabis world today and essential growing for cannabis cultivators in the same way that Citizen Kane is essential viewing for film lovers. Seed Supreme’s autoflowering rendition of this famous strain is a fast-growing and low-effort indica-like that is a great pick for either your first grow or your five hundredth. Named after the gloriously sticky resin that it produces in prodigious quantities, GG4 induces a heavily sedating high that relaxes the body, making it a perennial favorite for those who turn to cannabis as a pain reliever or sleep aid.
There’s a staggering number of cannabis strains out there—we oughta know—and the plant’s endless variety is part of the reason why so many people keep falling in love with cannabis. If you have the heart of a collector and gotta grow and smoke em’ all, then Seed Supreme is the bank for you.
They’re a verified weed seed emporium with dozens and dozens of autoflowering strains available at an affordable price point. If you’ve heard of a strain in a song, movie, or here from Leafly, then the odds are good that Seed Supreme can ship it directly to your door. Our advice? Spend an afternoon browsing Seed Supreme’s vast catalog, you’ll find enough enticing strains to plan out your next several grows & see why they’re one of our best autoflower seed banks.
“You want it? Seed Supreme has got it. We tip our cap to this bank, from one crew of strain fanatics to another.”
GG4 gets its high potency from its heavyweight progenitors, Sour Dubb and Chocolate Diesel. This heritage is also where GG4 gets its polarizing flavor; a heavy punch of diesel and ammonia undergirded by more subtle, sour aromas that make themselves known on the inhale. You can expect your GG4 to have somewhere in the low 20% THC range, plenty for even an experienced consumer with a tolerance to match. Seed Supreme’s GG4 auto is also a cinch to grow, despite the strain’s wide leaves and titanic colas due to the sturdy genetics bred into it by the team at Seed Supreme.
• Deep connection to Dutch cannabis culture
• Decades of experience selling cannabis seeds
• Online seedfinder helps customers discover new strains
Recommended strain
Amnesia Haze has been a mainstay of stash boxes the world over for many years, and Royal Queen Seeds’ autoflowering rendition of this classic is the best way to get it in your grow. Amnesia Haze first rose to prominence in the freewheeling Amsterdam scene, where cannabis’ pseudo-legal nature allowed for incredible amounts of experimentation. Amnesia Haze is one of the standout strains from that process, a citrusy sativa-like that our team loves for a morning smoke that won’t end your day prematurely with overwhelming potency.
Royal Queen Seeds is one of the relative newcomers to the US market on this list, but don’t mistake that for inexperience; they only crossed the Atlantic after establishing themselves as one of Europe’s premier sources for autoflowering and photoperiod seeds.
Born in the legendary coffeehouses of Amsterdam, the team at Royal Queen Seeds has had a front-row seat to the development of cannabis into the massive industry it is today. They’re the stewards of some of the genetics from that classic era of experimentation and popularization when Amsterdam was the center of the cannabis universe.
But don’t get it twisted and start thinking that Royal Queen Seeds is just a purveyor of hall-of-fame strains, you’ll also find both new twists on classics and wholly unique strains on the Royal Queen Seeds storefront.
“Cannabis lovers used to have to make a pilgrimage to Amsterdam for this kind of weed. Now, Royal Queen Seeds brings the best of The Netherlands to your garden.”
Amnesia Haze is one of those strains from a shadowy era of cannabis history when genetics and pedigrees get a bit muddled, but it has DNA from both South Asian and Jamaican Landrace strains. Those ancient genetics make Amnesia Haze one of the most recognizable strains on the smoke, but Amnesia Haze is also quite distinctive on the stem as well. You can expect long, thin leaves and foxtail buds with plenty of deep, verdant greens. Amnesia Haze is a bit of a shy one; it takes its time to bloom, but once it does, patient growers will be rewarded with heaps of thick, high-quality buds.
• Wide selection of affordable seeds
• Free grow bible emailed to customers with seed purchase
• Regular incredible promotions
Recommended strain
White Widow, a massively popular strain that began to dominate cannabis culture in the mid-90s, is often recommended for newer growers to get their feet wet with growing before diving in. ILGM has made it even easier to grow this famous it-strain by creating an autoflowering variant that does almost everything but water itself. Even if you’ve struggled with keeping plants alive in the past, ILGM’s White Widow Auto is a cinch to care for; with the ability to thrive in virtually any setup. This strain laughs at cramped apartment closets, fluctuating temperatures, and even some common diseases that make less hearty strains tremble.
ILGM aka I Love Growing Marijuana and their incomparable founder, Robert Bergman, have been some of the biggest names in American cannabis seeds through several of the plant’s different eras. As you may have guessed from their name, ILGM is a passion project sustained through a commitment to the joys of cannabis cultivation.
We’re big fans of their grow bible, a massive tome full of growing wisdom that ILGM sends to your email when you buy any of their seeds. And that’s the type of outfit Robert Bergman has made—a company that cares about spreading knowledge and furthering the accessibility of cannabis cultivation.
“Aptly named ILGM would be one of the best autoflower seed banks in the world even without their cartoon mascots. With, no contest.”
Like all the best heroines, White Widow’s past is a little mysterious. We aren’t sure of the specifics, but we know that White Widow is descended from a Brazilian sativa landrace and a heavily resin-producing South Indian indica. The result is the Goldilocks of indica-likes, potent but not too potent, relaxing but not sedating, an uplift that comes without panic.
These balanced qualities extend to White Widow’s flavor as well; you can expect a woody, subtly sweet taste that still carries a delightful dankness that our team of writers go wild for. Newcomers to growing and old hands alike will find something to love in ILGM’s White Widow Autoflower, so click the link below and don’t wait another day to start growing.
• Two decades of experience
• Creators of several famous strains
• Reputation for consistent innovation
Recommended strain
You may not have heard of this strain from DNA Genetics yet, but trust us, it might be everywhere soon. A true indica-lovers indica, Canelo is a closer that is best saved for the end of the night when it’s time to tune out and turn off. It excels in this role, and we’re putting our marker down that DNA Genetics’ Canelo’s profile will only keep rising as time goes on, and you can grow it and smoke it way before your local dispensary has it in stock with these autoflowering seeds. If you love indicas, or even just next-big-things, then you need to check Canelo out.
DNA Genetics is a legendary bank that occupies a rare and hallowed spot in cannabis-growing culture. They’ve recently celebrated their 20th anniversary, an incredible feat that makes them older than Methuselah in weed years. They’ve stuck around so long by consistently looking to the future and never resting on their quite considerable laurels.
They’re the minds behind several of the most popular strains to arrive since the new millennium, with a commitment to quality that has earned them the respect of breeders, retailers, and homegrowers alike. The odds are good that the next big strain is somewhere on DNA Genetics storefront, so get ahead of the curve and order some exciting autoflowering seeds from DNA Genetics before they’re cool and never let your friends hear the end of it.
“When we’re looking for something avant-garde that’ll set the smoke circle buzzing, DNA genetics is our first stop.”
OG Kush and Strawberry Banana are the direct progenitors of Canelo Auto, a prestigious parentage that makes the strain nothing less than indica royalty. You can taste and smell that heritage as well, both in the kush earthiness and fruity sweetness. These genetics also mean Canelo is a resilient plant that is quite forgiving to novice growers and less-than-ideal conditions, so don’t let either of those factors stop you from taking the plunge.
You can expect your Canelo buds to have a THC percentage somewhere in the high teens or low twenties, just enough to put you down for the count at night without a trace of grogginess in the morning. Grow what people are going to be talking about before they’re talking about it and order yourself some Canelo Auto seeds today.
• Autoflower specialists
• Winner of several global awards
• Quality Californian genetics
Recommended strain
Fast Buds’ Strawberry Gorilla Auto is one of the most-awarded autoflowering strains in the world, and it can be yours in no time flat. It recently triumphed in the American Autoflower Cup and even beat out some photoperiod strains to earn honors at the 2023 Farmer’s Cup. Those are pretty some pretty serious kudos to earn, but if you ask them, the team of Fast Buds breeders responsible for this strain would put more stock in the overwhelmingly positive response from growers who have tried their hand at growing their own Strawberry Gorilla Auto. Their hybrid has won hearts with its surprisingly potent strawberry flavor and classic diesel aroma.
Fast Buds has been on a meteoric rise, quickly rising to become some of the preeminent autoflower specialists in the world. They’re an autoflower seed bank that takes pride in their top-tier California genetics while also maintaining a global perspective on the cannabis industry.
Fast Buds’ trophy case features awards from all over the planet, a truly globe-trotting tour of excellence that we here at Leafly have to applaud (and give our best autoflower seed banks list stamp of approval). As a bank that focuses on autoflowers, they’ve done incredible work in ensuring that autoflowering strains can stand on equal footing in terms of yield and potency to their photoperiod counterparts. They’re an easy recommendation for all the autoflower lovers out there, but if you’re a skeptic who’s made it here, then our advice is to see if the autoflower experts at Fast Buds can change your mind.
“Fast Buds knows the ins and outs of autos better than just about anyone.”
Strawberry Gorilla Auto isn’t for novices in more ways than one. It benefits from an experienced hand that knows how to properly handle its height by providing support and plenty of nutrients. Those growers who are up to the task will reap some truly stunning rewards when their gorgeous purple buds are ready for harvest. Strawberry Gorilla Auto is a monstrously potent strain that can produce buds with up to 28% THC. If you’ve ever been skeptical about autoflowering strains’ ability to stack up to traditional photoperiods, we dare you to give Strawberry Gorilla a try; we won’t even say “I told you so!”
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 and testimonials to source products you can trust.
Jake Rosendale: Lead Content Writer, Brands & Products
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
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.
What is an autoflower?
An autoflowering cannabis plant is any breed of cannabis that will flower after a certain period of time regardless of the amount of light the plant receives. This is opposed to traditional photoperiod strains, which will only flower due to changing light levels, either caused by the changing of the seasons or by a grower artificially lowering the amount of light the plant receives.
Autoflowers tend to be smaller, faster growing, and less potent than their photoperiod cousins, although enterprising growers are doing their best to mitigate this last point. Since autoflowers are categorically easier to grow than photoperiod plants, they’re very popular with newer growers who aren’t eager to deal with changing light levels.
All autoflowering strains share some DNA with the cannabis ruderalis plant, a variety of cannabis native to harsh northern climates, forcing the plant to evolve in ways to cope with the lack of sunlight and short growing seasons. Ruderalis isn’t very potent on its own, but breeders can cross cannabis ruderalis with traditional indica or sativa strains in order to produce a plant that flowers automatically, or an “autoflower.”
Pretty cool, right? If you’re still curious about autoflowers, cannabis ruderalis, or anything else having to do with growing cannabis, then head over to Leafly’s guide to growing marijuana. It’s the best spot on the internet to learn everything there is to know about cultivating & harvesting our favorite plant after you’ve made your picks from our best autoflower seed banks list.
Learn more about autoflowering seeds
Final thoughts
That’s all from us this time, so get to growing! But while you’re waiting for your seeds to germinate, make sure to check back in on this list of the best autoflower seed banks regularly to see if there are any hot new banks with fire strains you have yet to try. And don’t forget to check out the rest of our Product Picks to see our selections fore the greatest finds in the wide world of cannabis. Happy growing!
Fast Buds helps you enjoy champion weed in record time.
With growing season in full swing, cannabis cultivators across the country are hard at work searching for their new favorite strains. One of the foremost seedbanks offering quality genetics to American growers is Fast Buds, a group of autoflower specialists who have been breeding ever since they arrived on the scene over a decade ago. Gaining a reputation for their Gorilla genetics, their most-awarded Gorilla crosses are Gorilla Cookies, Strawberry Gorilla, and Gorilla Zkittlez. We just checked in on Fast Buds’ effort to popularize autoflowering seeds in backyards across the USA, and, as befitting their name, they haven’t slowed down since.
Leafly readers get 15% off Fast Buds autoflowering strains with code LFL420.
Fast Buds has been filling their trophy case in recent years, running the table at strain competitions all over the world, including several prestigious cannabis cup victories. Competing at the American Autoflower Cup, Farmer’s Cup, Spannabis Champions Cup, Autoflower World Cup, Dab-A-Doo Brasil, and more year after year, their breeders rarely come home empty-handed. It’s safe to say that this brand of cannabis autoflowering seeds is well on their way to redefining what you can expect from autoflowering strains worldwide.
We’ve got a roundup of some of those selfsame champion strains so you can get a taste of the winning spirit and pick out some GOATs for your garden.
Strawberry Gorilla Auto
Courtesy of Fast Buds
One of the most decorated strains in the Fast Buds’ stable, Fast Buds’ Strawberry Gorilla Auto took home two prestigious awards in 2023, winning Best Sativa at the American Autoflower Cup in Los Angeles in January and the ‘Highest Combined Terpenes’ title in the Home Grow Hash at the 2023 Farmer’s Cup. This latest victory in the Farmer’s Cup is quite the feather in Strawberry Gorilla Auto’s cap — not only did Fast Buds amazing autoflower hold its own against the competitor’s photoperiod strains, Strawberry Gorilla Auto’s terpenes triumphed, scoring a point for autoflowers everywhere.
Coming in bold with intense strawberry flavor, Strawberry Gorilla Auto has tested with a jaw-dropping 28.417% THC and 29.86% total cannabinoids. That’s enough to make even those with well-developed tolerances sit up and take notice, and extractors will love how much juicy resin each bud will produce. Growers of all skill levels can expect their Strawberry Gorilla plants to reach maturity in around ten weeks, when the chunky, frosty buds are ready to go. Our advice is to take some photos before you harvest; a looker on the tier of Strawberry Gorilla Auto ought to be celebrated.
Gorilla Cookies Auto
Courtesy of Fast Buds
The ruling silverback among Fast Buds Autoflowers, Gorilla Cookies Auto is Fast Buds’ flagship autoflowering strain. This balanced hybrid has scored multiple awards over the years, including a victory at the Expo Grow competition and Best Autoflower at the 2022 Cosecha Cup. Gorilla Cookies also snagged the prestigious Best Indica award at the 2022 Autoflower World Cup, and honestly, it was no surprise. Gorilla Cookies has it all; it’s incredibly potent (testing at a whopping 28.5% THC!), high-yielding, resilient in many different indoor and outdoor climates, and boy, is it flavorful. The impressively high THC levels translate into an intense resin production, making her buds almost completely white and covered in trichomes late in the flowering stage.
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Why autoflowering seeds are an excellent choice for backyard cannabis cultivation
If you elect to try your hand at growing Gorilla Cookies Auto, you can expect trichome-frosted buds around the size of poker chips, in around ten weeks in good conditions. Gorilla Cookies Auto also loves to stretch out, reaching up to 150cm at maturity. It’s a bit difficult to describe the flavor of Gorilla Cookies; those who have had the pleasure report notes of hazelnut, earth, dank, and even more. That might be a bit vague, but there’s only one surefire way to discover Gorilla Cookies Auto’s complex flavor: Grow it yourself.
Gorilla Zkittlez Auto
Courtesy of Fast Buds
Gorilla Zkittlez Auto is another of Fast Buds’ legendary crosses that makes use of DNA from the Gorilla family, featuring a potpourri of enticing terpenes that runs the gamut from earthy, spicy early notes to a cotton-candy finish. This strain took home top honors from the 2022 Dab-A-Doo Brasil competition by charming judges with its ludicrous 29.85% total cannabinoid percentage, making Gorilla Zkittlez Auto one of the most potent autoflowering strains to be found, in addition to being one of the tastiest.
A hybrid with a balanced effect, Gorilla Zkittlez Auto makes a great smoke at any time of day, which means fans of this Fast Buds favorite may go through their stocks quickly. Luckily, Gorilla Zkittlez Auto is a shockingly high-yielding strain as well, producing up to 650gr/m2 in as little as 63 days in ideal conditions. With yields like that, growers don’t ever need to be shy about indulging their love for this treat of a strain.
Banana Purple Punch Auto
Courtesy of Fast Buds
The definitive end to all lingering questions about autoflowers’ ability to stack up to photodependent strains, Banana Purple Punch Auto is one of the most potent autoflowers ever tested. Tested at MJ Biz Con in 2023, Banana Purple Punch was shown to have a mind-blowing, earth-shattering 30.4% THC. That puts Banana Purple Punch solidly among famously potent strains like Green Crack and Bruce Banner, but with all the speed and convenience of an autoflower.
This indica-like will produce a respectable amount of bud in a lightning-fast seven weeks. With all these factors in Banana Purple Punch’s favor, it had no trouble winning Best Indica in the 2023 American Autoflower Cup, and it won’t have any trouble winning a spot in your heart, either.
Papaya Cookies Auto
Courtesy of Fast Buds
Hash lovers, rejoice; your time has come. One of the most exciting strains on Fast Buds’ roster, Papaya Cookies is also the second-place winner of the 2024 Best New Strain award at the Autoflower World Cup. Papaya Cookies’ intense THC percentage and far-above-average resin concentration make this sativa-leaning hybrid a dream for hash makers and extractors of all kinds, but that’s not the only thing that Papaya Cookies has going for it. The judges at the AWC noted Papaya Cookies’ delicious, complex flavor as a major strong point.
Receptive to a variety of both indoor and outdoor conditions, Papaya Cookies is a great candidate for growers of all experience levels and takes well to common plant training methods. Expect your buds in just eight weeks, with up to 29% THC for full-day potency.
Apricot Auto
Courtesy of Fast Buds
The winner of the blue ribbon for Best Sativa Strain at the 2024 Autoflower World Cup, Apricot Auto is a potent number with a flavor profile unlike any you’ve experienced before. As you might expect, Apricot Auto has a taste heavily reminiscent of the fruit that shares its name, a surprising and innovative flavor in cannabis. The tangy mix of sweet and sour makes for an excellent pairing with Apricot Auto’s dank notes, making Apricot Auto a truly unparalleled experience on the smoke.
Growers have found that Apricot Auto’s thick, resinous buds make it an excellent candidate for making concentrates, and with up to 26% THC content, any edibles made with Apricot Auto as a base will be plenty heavy-hitting. Apricot Auto will reach full maturity in around nine to ten weeks, so get planting now so you can have this delicious strain ready for summer’s peak.
Ztrawberriez Auto
Courtesy of Fast Buds
The winner of the Best Sativa prize at the 2024 American Autoflower Cup, Ztrawberriez Auto’s smorgasbord of sweet and fruity terps has been winning hearts and minds across the country. Judges, growers, and anyone else who has had the pleasure to enjoy Ztrawberriez Auto report that this autoflower is an ideal daytime smoke, elevating consumers’ moods and energy levels without giving an overly stoney feeling and testing with up to 25% THC to melt worries away.
Ztrawberriez Auto is also a linebacker against pests and rough environments; even in sub-ideal conditions, Ztrawberriez Auto seeds will yield about 600g/m2 in as little as nine weeks. With speed, quality, and flavor all set to the max, it’s easy to see why Ztrawberriez Auto beat out the competition.
Fast Buds has these champs, plus heaps more autoflowering strains on their website. Right now, you can get these strains and more for 15% off from Fast Buds with code LFL420. They are continuously launching new strains, running huge sales and giveaways, as well as educating consumers on the many, many benefits of autoflowers. You can also follow them on social media for interviews with growers, updates on new strains, and announcements of (even more) cannabis cup victories. Happy growing!
