What Are Autoflower Seeds? Demystifying the Grower’s Choice
Autoflower seeds are a revolutionary type of cannabis seed that, unlike photoperiod varieties, automatically begin flowering based on their age rather than the light cycle they receive.
Understanding Autoflowering Genetics: A Background
For centuries, cannabis cultivation relied almost exclusively on photoperiod plants. These plants require specific light cycles (typically 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness) to trigger the flowering stage. However, the discovery of Cannabis ruderalis, a subspecies native to harsh climates with short summers, changed everything. Ruderalis evolved to flower based on its maturity, regardless of light exposure. This trait was then bred into existing cannabis strains to create what we now know as autoflowering seeds. The most common way to achieve this is through careful crosses with photoperiod plants, selecting for the autoflowering trait in subsequent generations until the resulting seeds reliably produce autoflowering plants.
Key Benefits of Autoflower Seeds
Autoflowering seeds offer several advantages over traditional photoperiod varieties, making them popular among both novice and experienced growers:
- Faster Life Cycle: Autoflowers typically complete their entire life cycle (from seed to harvest) in just 8-12 weeks, significantly shorter than photoperiod plants.
- Ease of Cultivation: They require less attention to light cycles, simplifying the growing process, especially for beginners. You can practically leave your lights on all the time!
- Multiple Harvests: In warmer climates, it’s possible to achieve multiple harvests in a single growing season.
- Smaller Size: Autoflowers tend to be smaller and more compact, making them ideal for indoor cultivation or discreet outdoor growing.
- Resilience: Ruderalis genetics often contribute to greater resilience against pests and diseases.
The Autoflower Growing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cultivating autoflowering plants is relatively straightforward. Here’s a simplified guide:
- Seed Germination: Germinate your autoflower seeds using your preferred method (paper towel, direct soil planting, etc.).
- Early Vegetative Stage: Once seedlings emerge, provide them with consistent light (18-24 hours per day is common), adequate watering, and nutrient-rich soil.
- Flowering Stage: The plant will automatically transition into the flowering stage after approximately 2-4 weeks, regardless of the light cycle.
- Monitor and Adjust: Continue to monitor the plant’s health, adjusting nutrients and watering as needed throughout the flowering stage.
- Harvest: Harvest when the trichomes (the resin glands on the buds) have reached the desired maturity (typically a milky white or amber color).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While autoflowers are relatively easy to grow, certain mistakes can hinder their growth and yield:
- Overwatering: Autoflowers generally prefer slightly drier conditions than photoperiod plants. Overwatering can lead to root rot and stunted growth.
- Overfeeding: Autoflowers are sensitive to nutrient imbalances. Start with low nutrient concentrations and gradually increase as needed.
- Transplanting: Transplanting autoflowers can stress the plants and negatively impact their growth. It’s best to plant them directly into their final container.
- Pruning: Avoid heavy pruning or topping, as it can slow down their growth and reduce yields. Autoflowers have a limited lifespan, so they do not have the time to recover.
- Incorrect pH: Maintaining the correct pH level in the soil or growing medium is essential for nutrient uptake. Aim for a pH of 6.0-7.0.
Autoflower vs. Photoperiod: A Comparison
| Feature | Autoflower Plants | Photoperiod Plants |
|---|---|---|
| Flowering Trigger | Age | Light Cycle |
| Life Cycle Length | 8-12 weeks | Varies (can be months) |
| Size | Smaller, more compact | Larger, more variable |
| Light Requirements | More flexible | Requires specific 12/12 cycle for flowering |
| Ease of Growth | Generally easier | Requires more attention to light and growing environment |
Yield Expectations From Autoflowers
Yields from autoflower seeds can vary significantly depending on several factors, including strain, growing conditions, and grower experience. However, expectations for autoflowers are generally lower than for photoperiod plants, due to their shorter growing cycle. A typical indoor autoflower yield can range from 1-4 ounces per plant, while outdoor yields can range from 2-6 ounces per plant. With optimized growing conditions and advanced techniques, some growers have achieved even higher yields.
Choosing The Right Autoflower Seeds
With the wide variety of autoflower strains available today, selecting the right seeds for your needs is important. Consider these factors:
- Strain characteristics: Research the specific strain’s effects, flavor profile, and growth characteristics.
- Climate: Choose strains that are well-suited to your local climate.
- Growing space: Select strains that will fit comfortably within your growing space.
- Experience level: Novice growers may want to start with easier-to-grow strains.
The Future of Autoflowering Genetics
Autoflowering cannabis genetics are continuously improving. Breeders are focusing on increasing yields, enhancing potency, and developing new and exciting strains. Expect to see even more advancements in autoflower technology in the years to come. It’s an ever-evolving field.
Frequently Asked Questions About Autoflower Seeds
What exactly makes a seed “autoflowering”?
The autoflowering trait comes from the Cannabis ruderalis genetics. This subspecies automatically begins flowering at a certain age, regardless of the light schedule. Breeders cross ruderalis with other cannabis strains to transfer this trait.
How much light do autoflowers need?
Most growers prefer an 18/6 (18 hours of light, 6 hours of darkness) or even a 24/0 light schedule throughout the entire life cycle of an autoflower. Unlike photoperiods, they don’t need a 12/12 light cycle to trigger flowering, and the extended light exposure can maximize growth.
Can I clone autoflower plants?
While it is possible to clone autoflowers, it is generally not recommended. Because autoflowers have a fixed lifespan, clones may not have enough time to develop and produce a substantial yield. The rooting process also takes time.
What kind of soil should I use for autoflowers?
A well-draining, lightly fertilized soil is ideal. Avoid heavily amended soils as they can burn the young plants. A soil mix specifically designed for cannabis is a good choice.
Are autoflowers more susceptible to pests and diseases?
Generally, autoflowers are not more susceptible to pests and diseases than photoperiod plants. In fact, some Ruderalis traits can contribute to increased resilience. However, maintaining good growing practices is still crucial.
Do I need to change nutrients when my autoflower starts flowering?
Yes, you should gradually transition to a bloom-specific nutrient formula. This will provide the plant with the necessary phosphorus and potassium to support bud development.
How do I know when my autoflower is ready to harvest?
The most reliable way to determine harvest readiness is by examining the trichomes on the buds. When most of the trichomes have turned a milky white or amber color, it’s time to harvest.
Can I grow autoflowers outdoors?
Absolutely. Autoflowers are well-suited for outdoor growing, especially in regions with short summers. Their fast life cycle allows for multiple harvests in a single season.
Will autoflowers grow well in colder climates?
While they can grow in colder climates, autoflowers thrive best in warmer temperatures (around 70-80°F). Extreme cold can stunt their growth and reduce yields.
What is the best container size for autoflowers?
A 3-5 gallon container is generally considered ideal for autoflowers. This provides enough space for root development without being excessively large.
Why is my autoflower plant so small?
Several factors can contribute to stunted growth in autoflowers, including: overwatering, underwatering, nutrient deficiencies, poor lighting, and transplant shock. It is critical to identify and address issues early on.
Are autoflower seeds more expensive?
Generally, yes, autoflower seeds can be slightly more expensive than regular photoperiod seeds. This is due to the more complex breeding process involved in creating autoflowering genetics. However, they still provide excellent value, and can be even more affordable when considering total turnaround time.