Starting out in the world of cannabis cultivation can feel like diving into a complex maze of choices, strategies, and a ton of detailed info. Right at the heart of it all is a key decision that will shape your entire grow: picking the right cannabis seeds Let’s peel back the layers enveloping this pivotal decision, unveiling the details of why and how the selection of cannabis seeds significantly impacts the ultimate harvest, and providing answers to some of the FAQs newcomers have. And since we love you, we're going to help by giving you our recommendations of the best cannabis seeds in 2024.
The Symbiosis with High-End Breeders
Scanning through the bottomless ocean of available strains, beginners and veteran cannabis growers alike can quickly find themselves overwhelmed by the options. In this context, allying with respected breeders becomes a necessity, guiding cultivators through these otherwise murky waters. High-end breeders and reputable seed banks, with their blend of experience, expertise, and ethical practices, skilfully navigate the art and science of cannabis breeding. Their commitment to quality goes beyond merely producing seeds and supplying popular strains; it reaches into the realms of advancing the entire cannabis lineage through conscientious genetic enhancement. When you buy cannabis seeds, your first consideration should be the reputation and status of the source; it’s vital to do some background checks on the seed bank and the breeder. This is especially true when buying cannabis seeds online, and if you're looking for the best cannabis seeds.
Among the benefits established breeders and seed banks provide:
- Strains with a Good Reputation: A verifiable history of positive grower experiences and consistently robust yields.
- High Germination Success Rates: Seeds that exhibit a strong propensity to successfully sprout and mature, ensuring resource optimization. A good germination rate is just one indication of a solid cannabis strain with good genetics.
- Pioneering Next-Generation Genetics: Great strains that exemplify stability and bring forth innovative characteristics, be it in flavor, potency, or resistance profiles.
These benefits offer a reassurance a of quality. But what else does your seed supplier offer? If buying marijuana seeds online, there are other factors to look out for. For example:
- Does this online seed bank offer customer support?
- Does this seed bank offer a germination guarantee?
- Does this seed bank offer customer reviews?
- Do seeds come in original branded packaging?
- Do they offer multiple payment options?
- Do they provide discreet shipping?
Almost all online seed banks claim to offer the best cannabis seeds, but only the best cannabis seed banks provide evidence to back up their claims, such as certificates of analysis or lab reports? At Seedsman, we are committed to providing COAs for as many of our products as possible. These documents are generated after independent testing of a given cannabis strain, and outline all the key details such as terpene profiles, cannabinoid content, and a host of other relevant information. This way, you know you’re receiving only high-quality cannabis seeds, and can be truly confident you're buying the best cannabis seeds.
Strain Specifications: A Deep Dive into Genetic Robustness
Mold and Pest Resistance
When you come to choose your seeds, resilience against mold and pests stands paramount, especially for cultivators in regions grappling with high humidity and pest proliferation. Strains endowed with heightened resistance not only safeguard the crop but also diminish the need for potentially harmful pest control applications, maintaining the purity and safety of the yield. The best cannabis seeds must offer a degree of resistance to these issues - otherwise they're not the best cannabis seeds.
Autoflowering and Fast-Flowering Strains
The growing popularity of autoflowering and fast-flowering strains, especially in regions with shorter growing seasons or for cultivators seeking rapid turnovers, is marked by their ability to transition from the vegetative to the flowering stage independent of light cycle adjustments, and expedite the entire growth process, respectively. These traits are not just convenient; they are often vital in ensuring that the plant reaches full maturity before the risk of harm by adverse weather conditions. Therefore, for some growers, these are often the most sensible choice to ensure a safe grow and a quicker turnaround. Even though they tend to produce slightly lower yields, autoflowering cannabis strains are typically very resilient, and fast. Although they are a relatively recent development, some of the best cannabis seeds today are autoflowering varieties.
THC and CBD Levels
Navigating towards the potency and therapeutic efficacy of the yield, elevated levels of cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD, emerge into the spotlight. Strains bred to manifest high concentrations of these compounds cater to specific user preferences and medical necessities, addressing a spectrum ranging from recreational indulgence to alleviating various health conditions. THC content is still viewed by many as the ultimate indicator of a quality cannabis strain, but there is more to consider than high THC content alone. The CBD content of a strain can work in harmony with THC levels to give a more balanced effects, or, in the case of some high CBD strains, create an altogether less psychoactive experience with numerous potential medicinal benefits.
Unique Terpene Profiles
The aromas and flavors found in each strain, attributable to their unique terpene profiles, not only delight the senses but also hint at the strain’s therapeutic and experiential offerings. Beyond olfactory pleasures, terpenes interact synergistically with cannabinoids, modulating and enhancing their effects, in a phenomenon known as the entourage effect.
Feminized v Regular Seeds
Another key consideration when shopping for the best cannabis seeds is whether to opt for feminized or regular cannabis seeds. This choice will ultimately be influenced by your project. If you’re looking to grow marijuana purely for flower, female seeds are the logical choice. Female plants produce the flowers, or buds, used for recreation and medicinal purposes However, if you’re aiming to execute a breeding project of your own, regular seeds will allow you to do this. Before buying cannabis seeds, check - is it clearly denoted whether the seeds are feminized or regular? Otherwise, you could end up with male plants, cross-pollination, or a number of other potential pitfalls that could set you back.
Autoflowering Cannabis Seeds
Autoflower seeds are best suited to growers looking for a quick turnaround. Due to the shorter lifecycle, autoflowering cannabis plants can reach harvest in half the time of a photoperiod strain. They also offer a degree of natural immunity against adverse weather conditions thanks to their ruderalis genetics.
Handling Potential Pitfalls
Conversely, stepping into the realm of untested genetics, unproven breeders, and lack of verifiable credibility can plunge the cultivator into a world of unpredictability and disappointment.
Untested Genetics
Unverified and untested genetics run the risk of manifesting unforeseen vulnerabilities, erratic growth patterns, and inconsistent cannabinoid and terpene profiles, jeopardizing both the quality and quantity of the yield. The best cannabis seed banks thoroughly test genetics and provide accurate, verifiable performance metrics which offer you peace of mind that you’re buying high-quality cannabis seeds.
Choosing Cannabis Seeds By Variety
Understanding the fundamentals of cannabis strains goes a long way to decoding the potential mysteries of not only the end product, but the growing stages and the needs of the plants themselves. When growing your own cannabis, your needs may well dictate what kind of seeds you choose. For example:
Indica cannabis strains typically have a shorter life cycle than their sativa counterparts. They may thrive better in colder temperatures and have different nutrient needs when growing. In terms of effects, indica strains or indica-dominant strains may provide a greater level of relaxation and muskier, earthier aromas.
Sativa strains, on the other hand, often have a longer life cycle. They need more warmth from their environment and nutrient needs can differ from indica cannabis strains. In terms of effects, sativas and sativa-dominant strains are described as more uplifting. Aromas and flavors of sativa strains often lean more towards fruity flavours.
Photoperiod strains have longer lifecycles and require a definitive change in light schedules to initiate the flowering phase. Photoperiod strains have the highest yield potential.
Autoflowering Strains have shorter lifecycles than photoperiod strains. They reach flowering as a result of maturity rather than a change in light schedule, and their entire lifecycle may be equivalent to the flowering time of a photoperiod cannabis. They are also typically much shorter in stature than photoperiod strains, allowing for cultivation in confined spaces and providing stealth. However, there is often a trade-off for the size and speed difference - a reduced yield when compared to photoperiod cannabis strains.
Other Considerations
When you’ve done your homework and settled on what’s right for you, there are still considerations before you pull the trigger. Check the reputation of the strain - is it highly rated? Is it long-established? Experienced growers will have a rough idea of a strain’s standing in the growing community - with strains such as Northern Lights and White Widow being among the trusted classics. But for a beginner, getting to know the big-hitters takes some time. Before going any further, does your seed bank have reviews or testimonials from users and growers alike? If so, you can read these to gain a better understanding of what to expect during cultivation - and after.
You may have decided to grow the famous Northern Lights strain, but when you come to buy seeds, you’re suddenly faced with five different versions from five different breeders. How do you choose? This is when testimonials and reviews can be your best friend. As with any other purchase, the reviews will provide you with a degree of inside information on how each performs. Then it’s down to you to choose the one that offers the most promise. Look at the main variables, such as THC levels, or if one offers especially high yields. Invest the time beforehand and make sure the necessary markers of quality are in place before you introduce a strain to your garden, and you can save yourself a number of problems. Eliminating uncertainty should be the first step, but if you’re still not sure on what to grow, or if you’re torn between a couple of different marijuana strains, why not consider mix packs? At Seedsman, we offer a range of mix packs, containing the genetics of different strains, giving you the freedom to experiment and find the best cannabis seeds you.
Unproven Breeders and Seedbanks
Aligning with unproven breeders or seedbanks, particularly those lacking a traceable history and tangible customer feedback, becomes a gamble where the stakes involve time, resources, and anticipation. It’s all well and good receiving offers and free seeds, but without the aforementioned markers of quality, it’s hard to know what you’re getting. There are levels to the game with genetics, and it’s important to know how to spot the signs of a quality product - or the absence of those signs.
Absence of Certificates of Analysis
Seed purchases devoid of certificates of analysis or lacking transparent genetic lineage information plunge the grower into an abyss of uncertainty, potentially culminating in a harvest that deviates drastically from expectations. A COA ensures product consistency, safety, and transparency by taking a test grow and analysing the cannabinoid levels, then conveying terpene and potency information in the resulting certificate.
In conclusion, the journey through cannabis cultivation is one filled with choices, learnings, and anticipations, where the initial decision of seed selection profoundly reverberates throughout the journey. By meticulously curating genetics through an alliance with reputable breeders, focusing on strains renowned for their stability, potency, and resistance, and steering clear of the precarious terrains of unverified genetics and breeders, cultivators pave a path towards a harvest that is not only abundant but is also a true testament to the potentials enshrined within the marijuana plant.
10 of the Best Cannabis Seeds in 2024
Now that you know what to look for, you're spoiled for choice at Seedsman. To make it a little easier, we'll recommend some of the best cannabis seeds in our collection. With this, a little cultivation knowledge leads to some truly spectacular results.
Best Heirloom/Old School Seeds
Bubba Kush Feminized
One of the most consistently popular strains in the USA, Bubba Kush combines the classic genetics of the original with easy-growing qualities. It's suitable for all grow media, and yields are high whether grown indoors out outdoors. Flowering in 9 to 11 weeks, this titan of indicas produces ultra-dense buds of potent cannabis, leading to a strong relaxing effect that soothes the body and unwinds the mind.
Jack Herer Feminized
As old school classic cannabis strains go, Jack Herer is one that is known - and still loved - by cannabis enthusiasts the world over. Named after the late, great cannabis activist and author icon Jack Herer, this strain combines the euphoric effects of a sativa with the high resin content of an indica. The THC content is reassuringly high, and the unique sweet, peppery taste is very much present and correct in this fabulous namesake strain. Yields are very high, whether grown indoors or outdoors.
Best Seeds For A Short Outdoor Season
Gorilla Candy Auto
Traditionally, the trade-off when growing autoflowering cannabis was faster finishing, but smaller yields. Not anymore! Seedsman's Gorilla Candy Auto brings high yields of killer buds in just 8-10 weeks from seed to harvest. Combining the best of Caramel Auto and the mega-sticky Gorilla Glue Auto, Gorilla Candy Auto boasts a beginner-friendly grow level and a great resistance to mold. The taste is sweet with notes of earthy Kush, and THC content is medium-high.
Alaskan Bananaberry Auto
Looking for a strain that's easy to grow, with big, dense, buds packed with resin, and a flavour that'll make your mouth water? We have just the thing, and it's called Alaskan Bananaberry Auto. This strain loves cooler climates to produce those sensational purple hues, and its bountiful harvests of up to 450g/m2 indoors or 450/plant outdoors take just 8 weeks from seed. Potency is high and guarantees an immense full-body relaxation. The combination of Strawberry Banana Punch Auto and Alaskan Purple genetics makes for an earthy, fruity, taste with ripe floral notes.
Best High THC Seeds
Banana Jealousy
New to the Seedsman collection for 2024, Banana Jealousy is the offspring of some elite parents. Combining the finest qualities of Banana Cream, Jealousy, and Gelato 41 has created a high-THC monster with superstar looks. One of the more visually-stunning cannabis strains we offer, Banana Jealousy's striking purple and green appearance sparkles with insane resin coverage, hinting at the huge THC content of 28%. This sensational hybrid packs a punch in all departments, qualifying it as a truly elite strain. The kicker? It's extremely easy to grow. Think you need to be an experienced cultivator to produce top-shelf cannabis? Think again. Banana Jealousy shines brightly even in the hands of a novice. You simply have to try this sweet and fruity high-yielding strain.
Gelato 41 BX
Gelato 41 is one of the most popular and talked-about strains of the last decade. We took an original pheno and backcrossed it to enhance its premium characteristics, creating this amazing new variety, Gelato 41 BX. Imagine all the hallmarks of the beloved Gelato 41, with improved mold resistance and ease of growing. Add to that high yields of 600g/m2 when grown indoors, or as much as 700g/plant when grown outdoors, and you have a sensational elite-level cannabis strain. And the magic number? THC content is an off-the-charts 30%! Delicious flavors abound as succulent cream, chocolate, and hazelnut notes make for a luxurious experience on every inhale of this exceptional and potent new strain.
Best Early/Fast Seeds (For cooler, wetter climates)
Blue Dream Fast
One of the most sought-after, talked about strains of the last 20 years is undoubtedly Blue Dream. With its sensational taste and stunning terpene profile, this modern classic is prized for its mental effects and medical benefits. If you live in a climate where summers are shorter, Seedsman's Blue Dream Fast delivers the same top-quality cannabis, high yields, and resistance to plant pests and diseases, but with a shorter flowering time of 7-9 weeks.
Bruce Banger Fast
Big, dense buds, powerful uplifting effects, and flavor in abundance are all chief characteristics of the original Bruce Banger. Seedsman's Bruce Banger Fast puts those attributes in your hands even sooner with this fast-floweering photoperiod strain. A versatile strain that grows happily in most environments, Bruce Banger FAST combine sthe best of the Original OG Kush and Strawberry Diesel, making for a hardy strain with great resistance. Yields are exceptional, whether grown indoors or outdoors.
-30%Bruce Banger Fast
Feminised
Seeds
From: £9.98Add to basket
Best For Balanced Cannabinoids (CBD:THC)
Cream & Cheese CBD 1:1
A therapeutic strain that still delivers a classic cannabis taste - that's Seedsman's Cream & Cheese CBD 1:1. By combining a special Seedsman CBD variety with UK Cheese, we've created a powerful medicinal strain that can soothe away bodily aches and pains while retaining - and boosting - mental clarity, but with the killer classic taste of UK Cheese. With a CBD presence of around 18%, this unique strain can provide relief from a number of ailments. Yields are high, and flowering takes just 8-10 weeks.
Purple Kush CBD 1:1 Auto
Combining two Purple CBD phenos resulted in Seedsman's Purple Kush CBD 1:1 Auto, a stunning -looking plant with therapeutic properties in abundance. If you seek physical relief without psychoactivity, this special strain provides exactly that. With a seed to harvest time of just 8-10 weeks, this autoflowering wonder will yield its powers fast. Earthy, fruity flavours make for a divine taste, enhancing the overall experience.
