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So you just got done with harvesting, trimming, and curing your bud–what are you gonna do with all of that leftover trim, larf, and kief? Here’s a wonderful idea–decarboxylate it! Decarba-who-woxalate what?

Decarboxylation–or simply just “decarb” for short–is the process of activating THCA and CBDA into active THC and CBD for use in whatever kind of cannabis creations you wish to make. There are many different ways to go about decarboxylation of different cannabinoids, so let’s go through them and see how you can successfully decarb all of your leftovers once you’ve trimmed your harvest.

What Exactly Is Decarbing Weed, And How Does It Work?

The science of cannabinoids is an interesting one. Popular cannabinoids like THC, CBD, and CBG can’t do their special things until they become activated from their original acidic states. If you’ve ever heard aliens or humanoids alike talking about THCA or CBDA and CBGA, it’s because that’s what cannabis is until you activate it, aka decarboxylate it.

When growing your weed plants, all potential psychoactive and therapeutic cannabinoids are contained primarily in the trichomes and other plant matter. Cannabis plants all start as CBGA and can eventually begin to metabolize into THCA or CBDA further along in their development. [1]

Fully mature and cured cannabis–when grown correctly–is typically very rich in either THCA or CBDA. These acidic cannabinoids can be converted to their activated THC and CBD forms once the right amount of heat is applied. Decarboxylation essentially means that you are removing a carbon atom from the genetic structure of the cannabinoid to activate it.

Smoking Activates Cannabinoids At High Temperatures

Cannabis consumers who smoke activate the THCA or CBDA into THC and CBD once the lighter is applied to the weed. High temperatures ranging from around 1000°F–650°F are in the zone by which cannabis begins to ignite for inhalation.

However, the main thing about combusting cannabis is that cannabinoids like THC and CBD become activated at around 315°F and 356°F, respectively. What that means is that when you smoke, you are applying much more heat than is necessary to get the potential therapeutic and psychoactive properties from these cannabinoids. This excessive heat leads to harmful byproducts like carbon monoxide in the smoke, along with degradation of other terpenes and cannabinoids. [2]

Vaping Activates Cannabinoids At Lower Temperatures

Vaporization of cannabis uses lower temperatures in the 320°F–450°F range to activate CBD and THC from their acidic forms. Vaporization uses lower heat that can be evenly applied compared to the higher, more random temperature ranges that smoking cannabis utilizes. The vapor created when using a dry herb vaporizer is free of any harmful byproducts and enhances the terpene and flavor as well. [2]

Using vape cartridges and pens is a whole other story, though. Vapes use the same lower temperatures to heat the hash oil as their dry herb brethren, however, studies have shown these devices to cause a host of respiratory and pulmonary issues for regular users. [3]

Decarboxylation Is The Same As Cooking Your Weed

To make edibles like magic brownies and gummies, or even medicinal tinctures, you must first decarboxylate the weed being used for the recipe. Otherwise, the digestive system and bloodstream aren’t going to be able to put the weed to any good use–it has to be activated for our endocannabinoid systems to interact with it. [4]

Devices To Cook Your Weed

Use Safe And Reliable Cookware

For the longest time, the act of decarbing weed has been a mostly DIY-type affair. How to decarb weed has always been up to the person doing the decarboxylation. Everything from glass casserole dishes to baking sheets has been used in some way, shape, or form to decarb.

The container being used should be made out of glass or metal that is meant as cookware that can safely be used in an oven already, so that it can hold up for use in decarbing. It’s also important to keep the pan or device covered with an oven-safe lid or aluminum foil to ensure enough heat during the process.

Precise Devices

These days, there’s a whole other host of devices ready to ensure precise decarboxylation for you. Some humanoid home chefs like to use their sous vide devices, mason jars, or vacuum-sealed bags to securely cook their weed at an even temperature in a bath of warm water. Others use a product known as an Instapot.

Meanwhile, devices specifically engineered for the decarboxylation of weed are fantastic choices to provide the most accurate temperatures during the decarb process. These devices can range from affordable to pricey but remove a lot of the guesswork and monitoring of temperatures out of the decarb process. They also make a great investment for anyone with a lot of plant material and a desire to DIY their own edibles, oils, tinctures, and lotions.

Use Your Trim, Larf, And Kief From Your Harvest

Chances are you’ve got an entire trim bin of dank, leftover plant material after your successful grow. If you’ve managed to make it out of trim jail in one piece and are curing your precious buds, all of that leftover trim, larf, and kief can be utilized by decarbing it. Post-harvest yields can be hefty, so there’s usually gonna be a lot!

Using the whole plant–i.e., trim, kief, leaves, stems, etc.–leads to a more full-spectrum effect once activated. Full spectrum means more therapeutic potential, chock full of various cannabinoids, terps, and other compounds like flavonoids. This is great for a more medicinal and well–rounded phenomenon known as the entourage effect. [5]

A full bag of trim from the weed plants you grew is always going to be special because you can put all parts of the plant to excellent use. However, if you’re not growing anything at the moment and want to make edibles, etc., you can use any type of weed you want!

How To Best Prepare Your Weed

Regardless of what you may have grown–CBD, THC, or some mix of both–there’s a lot of similarity between how to prepare it for a decarb. The same goes for whether you choose to use butter or a specific type of oil, like coconut butter, as the carrier oil the cannabinoids will bind to after the decarb is complete. Here is how to best prepare your weed for the decarb process.

  • Use disposable gloves to handle plant material since the natural oils and resins of the weed plant are super sticky to the touch and can be hard to remove later. Keep those thumbs green!

  • When using trim, use as much of the whole plant as possible to create the most beneficial spectrum of cannabinoids, terps, and flavonoids in your post-decarb creations. Use stems sparingly, keep only the frostiest sugar leaves, and break up all plant material by hand as much as possible to ensure maximum surface area coverage.

  • If including kief in your decarb, be sure to keep it mixed in or concentrated on the top of the rest of your plant material. Kief tends to burn on hot surfaces during decarb, so doing this will help keep searing to a minimum.

  • For whole flower buds, grind or break them up by hand as much as possible to cover better surface area during decarboxylation.

How To Decarb Your Weed For Edibles, Oils, And Tinctures

For the longest time, there was no real consensus on the most optimal and precise temperatures and durations to decarb the acidic forms of THC, CBD, and CBG into their active forms. Finally, a thorough study released in 2016 tested several temperature ranges and time durations on all 3 cannabinoids to determine the most optimal conditions to decarb them.

  • THCA converts most optimally to THC at a steady rate of 230°F for about 45–50 minutes.

  • CBDA at a steady temperature of 230°F for 50 minutes will also provide a full conversion to CBD.

  • Not much of a surprise here: CBGA also converts best to CBG at a rate of 230°F for 50 minutes as well! [6]

Let’s Activate Some Weed!

Now that you know how to prepare your plant material, how long, and how hot you are going to decarb, it’s time to get started. If you don’t have a decarboxylation device designed specifically for this task, then gather some of the following tools around the house to begin:

  • Baking or casserole dish

  • Aluminum foil

  • Oven timer

  • Digital oven thermometer

  • Oven gloves

  • Spread the broken-up plant material evenly on the dish to ensure it decarbs consistently.

  • Place any kief on top once spread out.

  • Cover tightly with aluminum foil.

  • Place in an already warm oven at any of the temps mentioned above. Do not disturb as much as possible or you will not be able to maintain a consistent temperature.

  • Use a digital timer to ensure the correct amount of time.

  • Once the timer goes off, carefully remove the dish with the oven gloves and let stand for about 10 minutes at minimum.

  • Remove the foil, and start making edibles with your freshly cooked weed!

Tips For Using The Oven

  • Ensure your oven is running at the correct temperature. Many home ovens are not calibrated precisely, and even though it may say it’s operating at 230°F, that may not be true.

  • Use a digital oven thermometer inside the oven to base your decarb off of. A digital oven thermometer will give you the actual temperature inside your oven, leading to a more optimal activation.

  • If using a baking dish or other decarb box made of oven-safe silicone, place the digital oven thermometer inside it and then in the oven first before adding your plant material. Once inserted, wait for the internal temperature of your dish to get up to 230°F, THEN take it out and add the plant material. This practice ensures your decarb will start right away instead of waiting for the dish or box to get up to temperature, which can throw the necessary duration of decarboxylation off. Be sure to use oven gloves to handle it!

  • Ensure the plant material is broken up and spread evenly around the dish. Another thing to consider is to activate only 1–2 ounces of plant material at a time to also ensure a consistent decarb.

  • Let the decarbed dish or box sit for at least 10 minutes while covered. Better yet, you can toss it into the freezer for 10–20 minutes and then remove it. This will help to preserve vital terpenes as a result.

Decarbing Trim And Plant Material Is Easy

Making your own edibles, oils, tinctures, and so much more is a big bonus of growing your own weed plants. Not only do you reap the rewards of a bountiful harvest full of big buds, but you also get to make your own medicine and edibles to share with family and friends of all different multiverses!

Home growers can use all parts of the weed plant and discover how truly easy it is to activate and utilize extra plant matter and trim in the most dynamic way possible!

Contact Us

Need help with your next harvest or questions about decarboxylation? Reach out to the cannabis cultivation experts at Multiverse Beans for support, tips, and more information on everything from THCA activation to making full-spectrum cannabis edibles.

Call To Action

For more how-tos, growing guides, and insights into activating cannabinoids, check out more of the Multiverse Beans blog. Ready to create something magical with your harvest? Contact us today.

References

  1. Calapai, F., Cardia, L., Esposito, E., Ammendolia, I., Mondello, C., Lo Giudice, R., Gangemi, S., Calapai, G., & Mannucci, C. (2022). Pharmacological aspects and biological effects of cannabigerol and its synthetic derivatives. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (eCAM), 2022, 3336516. https://doi.org/10.1155/2022/3336516
  2. MacCallum, C. A., Lo, L. A., Pistawka, C. A., Christiansen, A., & Boivin, M. (2023). Cannabis vaporisation: Understanding products, devices and risks. Drug and Alcohol Review, 43(3), 732–745. https://doi.org/10.1111/dar.13800
  3. O’Callaghan, M., Boyle, N., Fabre, A., Keane, M. P., & McCarthy, C. (2022). Vaping-associated lung injury: A review. Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania), 58(3), 412. https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina58030412
  4. Lu, H. C., & Mackie, K. (2021). Review of the endocannabinoid system. Biological Psychiatry: Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuroimaging, 6(6), 607–615. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpsc.2020.07.016
  5. Russo, E. B. (2019). The case for the entourage effect and conventional breeding of clinical cannabis: No “strain,” no gain. Frontiers in Plant Science, 9, Article 1969. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2018.01969
  6. Wang, M., Wang, Y. H., Avula, B., Radwan, M. M., Wanas, A. S., van Antwerp, J., Parcher, J. F., ElSohly, M. A., & Khan, I. A. (2016). Decarboxylation study of acidic cannabinoids: A novel approach using ultra-high-performance supercritical fluid chromatography/photodiode array-mass spectrometry. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 1(1), 262–271. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0020

Despite a lack of research regarding how cannabinoids react with the human body’s endocannabinoid system, cannabis has been unofficially accepted by many to have the potential for therapeutic treatment.

Cananbis has unofficially accepted by many to have the potential for therapeutic treatment, despite a lack of research regarding how cannabinoids react with the human body’s endocannabinoid system

While more sample group-based clinical studies are currently still underway, one placebo-based, single blind crossover study found correlations that show CBD-rich CBMPs could improve ill effects from Long COVID. The antioxidative potential of CBD to provide antiviral protection is also mentioned in studies that name CBD a top candidate to battle Long COVID. 

We all need a little support sometimes—our weed plants are no different! For all of my growmies out there, I’m sure you’ve already learned the benefits of low stress training, but have you tried trellising and staking your weed plants as well?

Trellising and staking are two of the most commonly used cannabis plant support techniques growers utilize—providing optimal structure and airflow, better bud weight support, and increased final yields. Let’s explore each technique and how you, the humanoid home grower, can apply it to your indoor or outdoor setup.

Trellising Weed Plants

A trellis is essentially a wire or mesh screen or net that can be fitted onto a metal, plastic, or wood frame. The individual branches and bud sites are then fit through the net or mesh so that they can each receive an even amount of airflow and light penetration. These factors alone have the potential to contribute heavily to mold control and exceptional bud development. [1] Here are a few of the most popular ways for trellising weed plants.

Screen Of Green (ScrOG) Method

At this point, the hope is that you’ve honed your LST and pruning techniques to take things to the next level. For indoor growers, setting up a Screen of Green or ScrOG has become the standard for achieving a horizontal trellis for their weed plants. The simple addition of a ScrOG net and its sturdy frame promotes a more level canopy and improved horizontal growth.

When using the ScrOG method, it’s important to begin the process a few weeks before you flip to flower during the vegetative stage. That way, your plant has been able to grow most of its many branches and shoots mature enough that you can eventually bend, twist, and corral them within the netting.

Once the ScrOG screen is fitted around your plants and is secured, be sure to continue to lollipop individual stems and branches while trimming away any extra leaves. This ensures that your weed plant can focus all of its energy on developing the buds to their maximum potential. Ensure all colas are receiving the same amount of light and that the canopy is still a safe distance away from the lights.

Above the net, growmies must be aware of removing fan leaves that may be getting in the way of the bud sites, without putting any extra stress on your weed plant if possible. Fan leaves are essential for photosynthesis. Clips and ties are also your friends to help your weed plant stay in place as it matures.

Vertical Trellising

Outdoor weed plants can very often use some support too. Many outdoor plants don’t have the same space restrictions as their indoor counterparts, so they have the inherent ability to just keep growing bigger and badder to the point where they can become way too top-heavy and lack enough support.

Eventually, all of that mass needs a helping hand, and that’s where a vertical trellis can come into play. Vertical trellises are beneficial for several reasons, including:

  • Support and protection
  • Easier to trim, prune, defoliate, and harvest
  • Promote upward growth
  • Improve quality, yield, and grow performance
  • Increase beneficial air circulation

How Do I Set Up A Vertical Trellis For My Outdoor Weed Plants?

  • Install metal, plastic, or wood posts into your garden bed or outdoor pot. Each post should be installed close to the height of your weed plant and spaced so that all parts of it can be corralled.
  • If you have multiple plants, install an entire row of posts spaced apart from each other to create what’s known as a trellis wall.
  • Once the posts are installed, mesh, wire, or rope netting will need to be installed around the entire plant. Zip ties are great at keeping the netting in place and tight.
  • Make sure each section of the netting is around 4″–6″ so branches can easily fit in there and continue to grow.
  • As your outdoor plants continue to grow, be sure to keep up on gently weaving their branches and bud sites through the mesh holes in the net.
  • Always ensure branches and buds are supported enough—add extra trellis layers if need be.
  • Remove unnecessary plant matter both below and above the net to optimize beneficial air circulation.

Staking Weed Plants

Another fantastic way that growers of all levels support the branches of their weed plants is by staking them. Typically made of metal, plastic, bamboo, or unfinished wood, stakes are similar to trellises in that they lend support to specific branches or the main stem. They’re also similar in that their role is to keep branches from being damaged or destroyed by the weight of heavy buds. Staking is also super easy and efficient for indoor and outdoor grows. There are several ways to stake it up with your growth.

Single Stakes

Single stakes are used to support the upward growth of your weed plant. Very simply, just insert a single wooden stake into the soil area closest to the main stem in order to lift it and keep it mobilized.

Cage Staking

Cage staking is when a grower uses a wood, plastic, or wire-based cage around the entire plant, giving the branches a variety of support sites. Roll the cylindrical cage around the entire plant and insert two stakes into the soil to support it. Create the cage at the time of planting in order to train the branches as they mature. [2]

Multi-Staking

Multi-stakes can be used to rescue or support specific branches that may look like they could use some help or have been damaged. This method is an excellent go-to for outdoor grows with more than a few branches in need of support. Each stake can be fastened at the top to create a tripod-like structure. Branches and stems can then be woven throughout each staked area so that they grow along the structure. [2]

Stake And Weave

Stake and weave is for multiple outdoor plants in a row. Stakes measuring about 5’–6′ are spaced about 6′ or so from one another. Cord is then tied to the initial stake at about ½’–1′ above the ground, and then run around to the next stake at the same level.

This process is repeated around each stake. Keep the cord tight, and the plants will be supported between the stakes. Prune and defoliate as needed. [2]

Should I Use A Trellis Or Stakes For My Weed Plants?

By combining trellising and staking techniques, growers can customize how they want to support the weight of increasingly dense and heavy bud colas. Trellising and staking your weed plants can be used interchangeably and on an individual basis.

A good rule of green thumb is to use a ScrOG method for your indoor grow due to its efficiency with space limitations. Outdoor plants and sativas can tend to grow very tall, so that’s why some mixture of trellising and staking is ideal. The same goes for any plant starting to get nice and chonky with increased density and weight.

Try different methods of each technique to see what works best for your grow’s needs. And as always, be mindful and avoid being heavy-handed when doing anything physical with your plants.

Contact Us

Have questions about cannabis plant support, staking materials, trellising options, or which technique is best for your grow space? Contact the experts at Multiverse Beans and we’ll help you support your grow—literally and figuratively—with tools, tips, and the best cannabis seeds for every grow style

References

  1. Danziger, N., & Bernstein, N. (2021). Plant architecture manipulation increases cannabinoid standardization in ‘drug-type’ medical cannabis. Industrial Crops and Products, 167, 113528. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2021.113528
  2. Tomesh, R. (2011). Trellising, staking, and caging: Vertical gardening techniques. Board of Regents, University of Wisconsin Cooperative Extension. Retrieved from https://fruit.webhosting.cals.wisc.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/36/2011/06/Trellising-Staking-and-Caging-1.pdf

When you’re growing cannabis, keeping your plants healthy is the top priority. Unfortunately, diseases can pop up and wreak havoc on your crops if you’re not careful. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common cannabis diseases and give you tips on how to spot, prevent, and treat them before they ruin your harvest.

Why Healthy Plants Matter

Strong, healthy plants not only give you bigger yields but also better-quality buds. Sick plants can slow down growth, reduce potency, or worse, die off completely. The good news? Many diseases are preventable, and with a little know-how, you can keep your crop thriving.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that cannabis growers frequently run into. It looks like a fine layer of white powder on your plant’s leaves, stems, and even buds. This sneaky fungus spreads fast and can take over if not dealt with early.

Signs to Watch For

  • White or gray powdery spots on leaves
  • Curled or twisted leaves
  • Lower leaves yellowing before the upper ones

How to Prevent It

To prevent powdery mildew, it’s crucial to keep humidity levels low—preferably under 50%, especially during the flowering stage, as this fungus thrives in moist environments. Improving airflow is also key; space your plants properly and use fans to keep the air circulating around them. Regular inspections are essential too. By checking your plants daily for early signs, you can catch mildew before it spreads and causes significant damage.

How to Treat It

If powdery mildew shows up on your plants, the first step is to remove the infected parts immediately. Cutting off affected leaves or buds will help stop the spread. After that, you can apply organic treatments like a water and baking soda solution or a sulfur-based fungicide to combat the remaining mildew. These treatments are effective at slowing down and controlling the disease, giving your plants a better chance to recover.

Root Rot

Root rot is caused by too much water around the plant’s roots. If the roots don’t get enough oxygen because of waterlogged soil, they’ll start to decay. This can be a silent killer because the damage happens underground, where you can’t see it.

Symptoms

  • Drooping plants, even when watered
  • Yellowing leaves that start from the bottom up
  • Dark, slimy, and smelly roots
  • Stunted growth
  • Leaves falling off easily

Prevention Tips

  • Make sure your pots or grow bags have good drainage to keep water from pooling around the roots.
  • Only water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
  • Add perlite or coco coir to improve soil drainage.

What to Do If It Happens

  • If the roots are mushy and brown, trim them away.
  • Transfer the plant to fresh soil with better drainage.
  • A diluted hydrogen peroxide solution can help clean out remaining rot.
  • Improve airflow around the plant to reduce moisture buildup.
  • Avoid overwatering and monitor the plant closely for further signs of recovery.

Bud Rot (Botrytis)

Bud rot is one of the worst diseases you can face as a grower. This sneaky fungus starts inside the buds, so by the time you notice it, the damage might already be done. It thrives in damp, poorly ventilated areas.

Symptoms:

  • Browning or drying of buds from the inside out
  • Gray mold appearing on the surface of buds
  • Affected buds crumble when touched
  • Discoloration or soft spots on buds
  • Foul or musty odor coming from the infected buds

Preventing Bud Rot

To prevent bud rot, it’s important to control the humidity in your grow space, keeping it around 40-50% during the flowering stage, as high humidity encourages fungal growth. Good ventilation is also crucial, so make sure there’s proper airflow circulating around your plants, especially in dense grows where moisture can get trapped. Daily inspections are key as well—check your buds carefully as they start to mature to catch any early signs of rot.

How to Fight It

  • There’s no saving buds once rot sets in, so cut them out quickly to prevent further spread.
  • Organic, sulfur-based fungicides can help prevent rot if you catch it early.

Fusarium Wilt

Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne fungus that targets the vascular system of cannabis plants, cutting off water and nutrient flow. It’s less common than powdery mildew or bud rot but can be devastating in large grows.

Signs to Look For

  • Wilting plants despite proper watering
  • Brown or discolored streaks on stems
  • Stunted growth or sudden death of plants
  • Yellowing or browning leaves, especially around the base
  • Leaves falling off prematurely
  • Cracked or split stems with a mushy texture

Prevention and Treatment

To prevent Fusarium wilt, it’s essential to sterilize your soil, as the fungus can linger in the soil for extended periods. Always use fresh, clean soil to minimize the risk of contamination. Crop rotation is also crucial—avoid growing cannabis in the same spot every season to reduce the chances of the disease recurring. Additionally, consider using cannabis strains that are naturally resistant to Fusarium, which can offer extra protection against this destructive disease.

Septoria Leaf Spot

Septoria leaf spot is a fungal disease that primarily targets the leaves of cannabis plants. It’s more common during warm, wet weather and can spread quickly if not caught early. While it doesn’t directly affect the buds, it can stunt plant growth, reduce yields, and make your plants more susceptible to other diseases.

Symptoms

  • Small yellow or brown spots on lower leaves
  • Spots may develop into larger, circular lesions
  • Leaves eventually yellow and drop off
  • Reduced overall plant vigor

How to Prevent It

  • Make sure your plants have enough space between them to allow for good airflow.
  • Water the base of your plants rather than getting the leaves wet, as moisture on leaves encourages fungal growth.
  • Check regularly and remove any infected leaves immediately to stop the spread.

How to Treat It

To treat Septoria leaf spot, organic fungicides, such as copper-based sprays, can be effective in controlling the disease and stopping it from spreading. Pruning is also important—trim away any infected leaves and improve airflow by thinning out dense foliage around your plants. Additionally, take care of your soil by avoiding overwatering and ensuring it has proper drainage to prevent moisture buildup, which can make conditions favorable for fungal growth.

In Conclusion
Cannabis cultivation comes with its fair share of challenges, but with the right knowledge and preventive measures, you can protect your plants from common diseases like powdery mildew, root rot, bud rot, Fusarium wilt, and Septoria leaf spot. By staying proactive, maintaining optimal growing conditions, and treating problems early, you can ensure a healthy, high-quality harvest. Whether you’re a new grower or an experienced one, keeping an eye on your plants and reacting quickly to any signs of trouble is key to success.

Contact Multiverse Beans

Dealing with plant diseases can be a real headache, but don’t let it stop you from growing the best cannabis possible. With some preventive measures and quick action, you can keep your plants healthy and thriving. If you’re looking for the best cannabis seeds online with strong genetics to help reduce disease risk, check out our wide selection at Multiverse Beans. We offer top-tier seeds for growers of all levels, and our team is always here to help with advice and support.

By knowing the signs of these common cannabis diseases and acting quickly, you’ll be able to protect your plants and enjoy a successful grow season. Happy growing!

Just like the Big Bang created all of the infinite possibilities found in the Multiverse, cannabis seeds are packed full of their very own amazing potential. Cannabis seed germination is the first step for growers to start a little galaxy in their tents, grow rooms, or outdoor gardens. So let’s break down the science of germination and how to best approach and understand it, according to the science.

Hormonal And Chemical Processes During Germination

Just like many other plants and crops, cannabis seeds lie low until they are exposed to the right conditions to begin sprouting and growing. All seeds remain dormant—or inactive—as a result of an internal hormonal regulation between abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellins (GA). ABA prevents early germination, while GA gets the internal germination message stimulated inside the seed with enzymes and cellular growth. [1]

After absorbing enough water to begin activation, enzymatic activity, coupled with internal hormonal processes, paves the way for the seedling to come out of its shell. Two enzymes in particular—amylases and proteases—metabolize starches and proteins. They are vital for the embryo to receive sufficient energy for cellular growth. [2]

You’ll know a seed is germinated once the taproot, aka the radicle, begins to develop and can be seen attaching the seedling to the soil to begin growing both above and below it. This typically takes anywhere from 4–7 days, according to researchers. [3] After the taproot makes its debut, the many shoots of the weed plant will begin to emerge—eventually becoming the stems and leaves that will help birth your best buds.

What Are The Main Environmental Factors That Cause Germination?

As mentioned, to activate GA enzymes and begin the activation process of cannabis seeds, several conditions must be met. These conditions include temperature, water, and oxygen to spur internal metabolic activity. [1]

Water And Cannabis Seed Germination

Water absorption is the first metabolic signal to the GA enzymes to begin germination. Nutrients stored inside the seed are dissolved by water, creating a reaction that causes starch enzymes to become sugars, which provide vital nourishment to seeds and seedlings. [4] It also helps soften the seed coat for the taproot to break through and begin growing in the soil. [1]

Steady water moisture is super important compared to too much of it, which can rot a seed out just as quickly as it will germinate it.

Oxygen And Cannabis Seed Germination

To produce more energy for the emerging seedlings, cannabis seeds experience what’s known as aerobic respiration. This cellular process is how the sugar that came from the starch enzymes can be converted into the cannabis seed’s energy or ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Oxygen is also crucial in forming the taproot, which will break through the seed shell. [1]

All of the internal activity during germination requires a demand for more oxygen and subsequent energy. If oxygen levels aren’t up to snuff, germination can, at the very least, take longer—at the worst, it can prevent germination from occurring.

Ambient room temperature is typically around 21% oxygen. This is an ideal percentage for successful germination. Once oxygen levels begin to go lower and lower, the possibility of germination failure is more common. [5][6]

Ensure your germinating seeds are in well-aerated soil with good drainage to receive optimal oxygen. According to one of the original humanoid authorities on growing weed plants—Jorge Cervantes—cannabis seeds should be planted at a depth of about 2x their diameter to create the ideal harmony between moisture and available oxygen. [7]

Temperature And Cannabis Seed Germination

According to some humanoid researchers, the ideal temperature sweet spot for cannabis seed germination is 68–77°F. [8] However, it is also noted by other researchers that “germination temperature varies with genotype and geographical location.” This means landrace and sativa cannabis seeds that originate from warmer climates can withstand different temperature variations compared to, say, a Canadian-bred strain. [5]

Just like lower levels of oxygen availability, lower temperatures will slow internal seed activity. High temps do a remarkable job of stressing and destroying seed proteins, ultimately preventing germination. [8] Once in the sweet spot of an ideal temperature range, starch and protein conversion work most efficiently to promote strong germination. [9]

Some growers like to keep their seeds in a seedling heat mat to ensure optimal temperature control, but me—I just make sure they’re stored, ready, and undergoing germination at a healthy room temperature with humidity levels below 70%. [10]

Keep Cannabis Seed Germination Science In Mind When Planning Your Grow

Planning your own grow can be a rewarding experience—your very own little universe right there in front of you brimming with life and vitality. Getting it started off on the right foot by understanding the science behind germinating cannabis seeds can be beneficial for a number of reasons.

By making more informed decisions come planting season as a result of knowing the science behind germination, you not only get your seedlings off to a great start, you also set the stage for a fruitful harvest a few months down the road.

If you’re unsure how to get started with the germination of your weed plants, check out my How To Germinate Cannabis Seeds Guide. It provides the most efficient methods to germinate seeds, backed by science and Uncle Paulie’s seal of approval, of course!

Contact Us

Have questions about cannabis seed germination, environmental factors, or what strains are right for your grow? Contact Multiverse Beans and let our team of experts help you select the best cannabis seeds and provide personalized guidance for your successful germination and beyond.

References

  1. Finch-Savage, W. E., & Leubner-Metzger, G. (2006). Seed dormancy and the control of germination. New Phytologist, 171(3), 501–523. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1469-8137.2006.01787.x
  2. Penfield, S., & MacGregor, D. R. (2017). Effects of environmental factors on seed dormancy and germination. Journal of Experimental Botany, 68(8), 1973-1984.
  3. Wielgus, K., Luwanska, A., Lassocinski, W., & Kaczmarek, Z. (2008). Estimation of Cannabis sativa L. tissue culture conditions essential for callus induction and plant regeneration. Journal of Natural Fibers, 5(3), 199–207. https://doi.org/10.1080/15440470801976045
  4. Nonogaki, H., Bassel, G. W., & Bewley, J. D. (2010). Germination—Still a mystery. Plant Science, 179(6), 574-581. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.plantsci.2010.02.010
  5. Langa, S., Magwaza, L. S., Mditshwa, A., & Tesfay, S. Z. (2024). Temperature effects on seed germination and seedling biochemical profile of Cannabis landraces. International Journal of Plant Biology, 15(4), 1032-1053. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijpb15040073
  6. Sharma, S., & Hashmi, M. F. (2022). Partial pressure of oxygen. StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK493219/
  7. Cervantes, J. (2006). Marijuana horticulture: The indoor/outdoor medical grower’s bible (Illustrated ed.). Van Patten Publishing.
  8. Fahad, S., Bajwa, A. A., & Nazir, U., et al. (2017). Crop production under drought and heat stress: Plant responses and management options. Frontiers in Plant Science, 8, 1147. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2017.01147
  9. Bewley, J. D., Bradford, K. J., Hilhorst, H. W., & Nonogaki, H. (2013). Seeds: Physiology of Development, Germination and Dormancy. Springer Science & Business Media.
  10. Lazar, T. (2003). Taiz, L., & Zeiger, E. Plant physiology (3rd ed.). Annals of Botany, 91(6), 750–751. https://doi.org/10.1093/aob/mcg079

Whether you’re a budding grower or a seasoned cultivator, understanding pH is essential to unlocking the full potential of your cannabis plants. pH balance impacts everything from nutrient absorption to bud quality, so keeping your grow environment dialed in can make all the difference. In this post, we’ll break down what pH means for cannabis, how to manage it for the best results, and share some helpful tips for avoiding pH pitfalls. Here at Multiverse Beans, we’re passionate about helping you grow top-notch plants, every step of the way!

What is pH and Why is it Important?

Understanding pH

To start, pH is a scale that measures how acidic or alkaline something is, with values from 0 to 14. Neutral is 7, anything lower is acidic, and anything higher is alkaline. For cannabis, pH is critical since it affects how your plants absorb nutrients — the magic stuff that keeps them lush, green, and potent.

Why Cannabis Plants Need Specific pH Levels

Cannabis plants thrive in slightly acidic to neutral environments. The ideal pH range for soil-grown cannabis is typically between 6.0 and 7.0, while hydroponic or soilless grows prefer a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Within this range, the roots can absorb essential nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements efficiently. Any deviation from this range can lead to nutrient deficiencies or toxicities, both of which can harm plant health.

How pH Affects Nutrient Availability

Nutrient Uptake and Blockage

When pH levels are too low (acidic), cannabis plants may experience “nutrient lockout,” where the roots cannot absorb certain nutrients even if they are present. Conversely, when pH is too high (alkaline), essential nutrients become unavailable. Key nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and iron are particularly susceptible to pH imbalances, and deficiencies can stymie plant growth.

The Role of pH in Hydroponic and Soil-Based Systems

Soil and hydro systems react to pH in different ways. Soil often has natural buffering agents, which means it can resist sudden pH changes. But in hydroponics, pH can swing wildly, requiring more frequent testing and adjustment to keep plants happy. In either setup, keeping an eye on pH is key to a thriving grow.

Identifying and Diagnosing pH Imbalances

Signs of pH Problems

If your plants are struggling with pH issues, they’ll likely show it. Look for these telltale signs of pH imbalance:

  • Yellowing leaves — often caused by a nitrogen lockout.
  • Burned tips — an indicator of nutrient toxicity.
  • Curled or spotted leaves — could be due to micronutrient deficiencies.
  • Slow or stunted growth — a sign that plants aren’t getting the nutrients they need.

Testing pH Levels

Testing soil or water pH is a straightforward process. Various pH meters, test kits, and strips are available, ranging in price and accuracy. For cannabis growers, a digital pH meter is recommended for precise readings. Ensure the meter is calibrated for accurate results.

Adjusting pH Levels: Keeping Your Plants Happy

Tools for Raising and Lowering pH

Once you know your pH, you may need to tweak it. Here’s how to adjust:

  • Lowering pH: Products like “pH Down” solutions are great, or you can go DIY with citric acid or even a dash of vinegar for small tweaks. In soil, you can add sulfur or organic material like pine needles.
  • Raising pH: To increase pH, try “pH Up” solutions or add lime or potassium bicarbonate for hydro setups. Calcium carbonate can also work wonders in soil.

Maintaining Consistent pH Levels

Setting pH once is not a one-and-done deal. pH can fluctuate, especially after adding nutrients, so regular testing is essential. Many growers test weekly, and hydro growers might check even more often. Keeping pH stable is one of the most impactful things you can do for happy, healthy plants.

 

Tips for Preventing pH Fluctuations

Choose Quality Soil and Nutrients

Choosing the right soil and nutrients is the first step in controlling pH. Look for high-quality, cannabis-friendly soil mixes that are pre-buffered to hold a stable pH. If you’re in hydro, make sure you’re using pH-balanced nutrient solutions to keep everything steady.

Go Easy on Fertilizer

Over-fertilizing can cause pH to dip, leading to acidification that’s tough on plants. Stick to the recommended feeding schedule and avoid piling on high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can be especially acidic.

Regular Testing and Adjustments

For both soil and hydro setups, pH testing should be done weekly at minimum. In hydroponics, testing every other day may be necessary due to faster changes in the root zone. Record your pH levels to identify trends and make adjustments.

Common pH Issues and How to Resolve Them

Acidic Soil

Over time, soil can become acidic due to fertilizer use or poor-quality water. Here’s how to fix it:

  1. Flush the soil with clean, pH-neutral water.
  2. Add lime or other calcium-based amendments to increase pH.
  3. Test again after a week to make sure things are on track.

Alkaline Soil

Alkaline soil can block nutrient uptake, leaving plants underfed. To lower the pH:

  1. Use sulfur or acidic organic matter.
  2. Apply a small amount of pH Down solution for quick results.
  3. Recheck pH to ensure it’s within the ideal range.

Adjusting pH in Hydro Systems

Hydro systems react quickly to pH shifts, so they require careful monitoring. If you’re struggling with pH swings:

  1. Dilute your nutrient solution to prevent drastic changes.
  2. Add pH buffers to stabilize levels.
  3. Check pH regularly since it can shift overnight in hydro systems.
  4. Use a consistent water source.
  5. Clean and maintain your equipment.

Why Proper pH is Essential for Cannabis Quality

Boosts Growth and Yield

A balanced pH is like a green light for growth. When pH is in the right range, cannabis plants can absorb nutrients freely, resulting in faster growth, stronger stems, and lush, green leaves. Happy plants produce better yields — it’s as simple as that.

Enhances Flavor and Potency

Besides growth, pH affects how plants produce cannabinoids and terpenes. When plants are getting all their nutrients, they develop richer flavors, aromas, and potency. Proper pH can be the difference between a good harvest and a great one.

Builds Resistance to Disease

A stable pH keeps plants’ roots healthy and helps prevent root rot, pests, and other diseases. Plants that are well-nourished with the right pH are generally more resilient and better equipped to fight off issues, which means less hassle for you.

Managing pH for Different Strains

When it comes to cannabis cultivation, one size doesn’t always fit all — especially when it comes to pH. Different cannabis strains, from indicas to sativas and hybrids, can have unique responses to pH levels, which can impact growth rates, nutrient absorption, and overall health. Fine-tuning pH for each strain can make a noticeable difference in your grow’s success. Here’s how you can approach pH management tailored to specific strains and maximize your yield.

Recognize Unique Strain Preferences

While the general pH ranges of 6.0-7.0 for soil and 5.5-6.5 for hydroponics work well as starting points, some strains show subtle differences in their pH preferences. Here’s a general guideline:

  • Indicas: Often hardy and resilient, indica strains may perform better with a slightly higher pH within the recommended range, closer to the upper end. They tend to be more forgiving with minor fluctuations but may still benefit from monitoring to catch any nutrient imbalances early.
  • Sativas: Sativa strains, particularly landrace varieties, may be more sensitive to pH shifts and might show nutrient deficiencies or toxicities faster than indicas. They often thrive in the middle to lower pH range of the spectrum, so careful monitoring can ensure that they’re absorbing nutrients effectively.
  • Hybrids: As a blend of indica and sativa genetics, hybrids can vary widely. Some may favor the pH preferences of their indica parent, while others lean towards sativa tendencies. Adjust based on observed growth patterns and nutrient responses.

In Summary

Mastering pH is a key part of cannabis cultivation, and keeping it dialed in can help you grow happy, healthy plants with top-shelf results. A little effort on pH goes a long way, and your plants (and your harvest) will thank you.

Contact Multiverse Beans

Got pH questions? We’ve got answers! Whether you’re struggling to get your levels right or want advice on pH-friendly growing techniques, Multiverse Beans is here to help. We offer top-quality seeds, growing tips, and support to make sure your plants are thriving from seed to harvest. Get in touch with us today, and let’s grow something amazing together!

Autoflowering seeds have taken the cannabis-growing community by storm. Whether you’re a newbie grower or a seasoned green-thumb, autoflowers offer some serious benefits that might make them your new go-to. But before you dive in, it’s worth taking a closer look at both the upsides and downsides of these compact, quick-growing wonders. So, let’s break it all down!

What Are Autoflowering Seeds?

Before we get into the pros and cons, let’s talk about what autoflowering seeds are. Unlike regular cannabis seeds that rely on changes in light cycles (think sunny summer days vs. long winter nights) to start flowering, autoflowering seeds are based on a specific genetic trait. They automatically switch from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage after a set amount of time—usually around 2-4 weeks.

These seeds are typically a cross between regular cannabis strains and Cannabis ruderalis, a wild strain that naturally grows in areas with short summers. The result? Fast-growing plants that don’t need to rely on light cycles to get their groove on.

The Pros of Autoflowering Seeds

Fast Grow Time—Because Who Wants to Wait?

One of the biggest benefits of autoflowering seeds is how quickly they grow. Traditional cannabis plants can take months from seed to harvest, but autoflowers can go from seed to bud in as little as 8-10 weeks. If patience isn’t your strong suit, or if you’re looking for multiple harvests in a single season, autoflowers are your best friends.

Small and Stealthy

Autoflowering plants are typically shorter and more compact than their photoperiod counterparts, making them perfect for stealth grows. Whether you’re growing in a small apartment or a discreet outdoor spot, these pint-sized plants can pack a punch without taking up too much room.

Less Dependence on Light Cycles

Say goodbye to fiddling with grow lights! Autoflowers don’t need specific light cycles to flower, which means you can grow them under continuous light without worrying about switching to 12 hours of darkness. This makes them perfect for growers who want to keep things simple or don’t have access to a perfectly controlled environment.

Hardy and Resilient

Because of their ruderalis genetics, autoflowers are tough little plants. They can survive in less-than-ideal conditions and are generally more resistant to pests and diseases. This makes them a great option for beginner growers who might not have all the details down yet.

The Cons of Autoflowering Seeds

Smaller Yields

Here’s the catch: while autoflowers are quick and easy to grow, they tend to produce smaller yields than traditional photoperiod plants. If you’re looking to harvest big, bulky buds, autoflowers might leave you wanting more.

Less Control Over the Grow Cycle

With photoperiod plants, you can control how long the vegetative stage lasts by adjusting light schedules, which can lead to bigger plants and larger harvests. Autoflowers, on the other hand, have a set timeline. Once they start flowering, there’s no stopping them. So, if you want more control over the size and shape of your plants, autos might feel a bit limiting.

Lower THC Levels (In Some Cases)

Not all autoflowers are created equal. While many strains have caught up to their photoperiod cousins in terms of potency, some autoflowering strains may still produce lower THC levels than traditional strains. If you’re after the most potent buds possible, be sure to choose your autoflowering seeds carefully.

Sensitive to Stress

Because they have such a short growing period, autoflowers are more sensitive to stress. Whether it’s overwatering, underfeeding, or aggressive pruning, even small mistakes can impact your plants. With autos, there’s little time to recover from setbacks.

Are Autoflowering Seeds Right for You?

Choosing autoflowering seeds really comes down to your growing goals and experience level. If you’re looking for a quick, easy grow with minimal fuss, autos are fantastic. Their resilience and fast grow time make them ideal for beginner growers or anyone with limited space. However, if you’re after high yields, more control, or maximum THC levels, photoperiod plants might still be your go-to.

Autoflowering Seed Checklist

Use this checklist to help decide if autoflowering seeds are the right fit for your grow:

  • I want a fast grow from seed to harvest (8-10 weeks).
  • I have limited space or need to grow discreetly (small, compact plants).
  • I prefer not to mess with light cycles or grow room timers.
  • I’m a beginner grower or want a low-maintenance plant.
  • I need a resilient plant that can tolerate less-than-perfect conditions.
  • I’m okay with potentially smaller yields compared to photoperiod plants.
  • I’m not overly concerned about maximizing THC levels (strain-dependent).
  • I’m okay with less control over the vegetative stage and overall grow cycle.

If you checked off most of these, autoflowers are probably the right choice for you! If not, you might want to explore photoperiod strains instead.

FAQs About Autoflowering Seeds

Can I grow autoflowering seeds indoors and outdoors?

Yes! Autoflowers are super versatile and can thrive in both indoor and outdoor environments. Just make sure you provide enough light if you’re growing indoors—many growers use 18-24 hours of light to maximize growth.

How much light do autoflowering seeds need?

Autoflowers don’t rely on light cycles to flower, but they still love light! Most growers give them between 18-24 hours of light per day to keep them happy and productive.

Do autoflowers need special nutrients?

Not necessarily. Autoflowers use the same types of nutrients as regular cannabis plants, but because of their shorter life cycle, they need less of them. Be sure to use light feeding schedules and avoid overfeeding to keep your autoflowers thriving.

Can I clone autoflowering plants?

Technically, you can clone autoflowers, but it’s not recommended. Because they have such a short life cycle, clones won’t have time to veg and grow into a mature plant before they start flowering. You’re better off growing from seeds.

In Conclusion

Autoflowering seeds bring a lot of convenience and versatility to cannabis growing. With fast grow times, low maintenance needs, and small plant sizes, they’re perfect for growers looking for an easy, quick harvest. However, keep in mind the smaller yields and less control over the grow cycle. Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced grower looking for something new, autoflowers might just be the game-changer you’re looking for!

Contact Multiverse Beans for Premium Autoflowering Seeds

Ready to give autoflowers a try? At Multiverse Beans, we offer a wide selection of top-quality autoflowering seeds from trusted breeders around the globe. Whether you’re looking for fast-growing favorites or something a little more exotic, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today and start your autoflowering journey!

A lot of Earthlings I talk  to–whether telepathically or over a cup of coffee–often ask me which are the best cannabis seeds to grow. Since that’s not always the easiest answer to give, I usually try to gain some more info to steer them in the right direction. What type of effect are you looking for? Relaxed? Energized? Maybe a little bit of both? When growing cannabis seeds, it’s important to understand the difference between indica, hybrid and sativa seeds. For example, one of the coolest humanoids I chat with on a regular basis out in the desert is named Kim. She’s hoping to grow a strain of weed that is going to be able to provide her some solid pain relief from the sciatica she suffered from due to a whitewater rafting injury on the Arkansas River many years ago. The pain often radiates down Kim’s leg and prevents her from getting regular sleep quite often. However, Kim also wishes to give herself a considerable energy boost in the morning to get the day started. Kim has grown weed before, but that was in the early ‘90s, and so much has changed since then! Choosing the cannabis seeds that are going to deliver the intended effects you’re looking for can be exhausting. There are so many choices out there! Never fear, Greg the Alien is here to help guide you on the difference between indica and sativa seeds to help Kim (and you!) make the right choices.

Table of Contents

Origins of Indica & Sativa Seeds

The original distinction of indica seeds and sativa seeds is related to their geographical origins (somewhat). At one point, sativas meant indicas, and indicas meant sativas! [1]

Due to conflicting designations and classifications, the original meaning of both varieties of cannabis is still a bit muddled together. 

The Very First Sativa & Indica Seed Research

Sativa seeds were named as such by a plant researcher named Linnaeus in 1753 in his Species Plantarum book–a landmark publication for botanical classifications. The name “cannabis sativa” was then used to describe the main classification of the weed plant, which at that time was primarily used for hemp fiber. [2]

Indica seeds were originally called such by another researcher named Lamarck in 1785 in reference to intoxicating plants of Indian, Indonesian, and South African origin. This is the first recorded scientific designation of indica seeds by which Lamarck essentially describes these cannabis seeds as a modern-day sativa, i.e.”female flowers vellous calyx and long style” [2]. 

Way later down the road, researchers Vavilov and Bukinich recorded their findings from travels in Afghanistan in 1929. It was there in Afghanistan that Vavilov experienced the hash making process of the region’s cannabis farmers. The plants that he encountered during that time were then recorded as cannabis sativa vs. the hemp fiber plant described by Linneaus in the late 1700s. [1]

Other cannabis plants that Vavilov would see along the roads and in the wild were then referred to as cannabis indica–so essentially Afghani plants became cannabis sativa and Indian plants became cannabis indica. [1]

But that’s not it, there’s more! After researcher Schultes published his findings in 1974, cannabis indica was now the name given to plants in Afghanistan with “broad leaflets, densely branched, more or less conical in shape, and very short”. This new distinction replaced Lamarck’s completely opposite classification of indica plants. [1]

Researcher Anderson continued this distinction with those “short, broad, densely branched” plants Schultes noticed in Afghanistan as cannabis indica, and “tall, laxly-branched” plants in South Asia and India as cannabis sativa. This created the modern day classifications we are all now very familiar with. [1]

Sativa & Indica Seed Research 1980s-2010s

The earliest commercial use of both indica and sativa dates back to a Dutch cannabis seed catalog from 1985 that labeled each type within it. Later research in the early 1990s would use these same descriptions of each to really cement their current statuses within peer-reviewed journal work. [1] 

More research in the early 2000s by Black and Capler began to describe the effects of each:

“Sativa plants produce much more ∆9 -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) than cannabidiol (CBD), and produce a terpenoid profile that smells “herbal” or “sweet.” Sativas were then also described as producing “a stimulating, uplifting, and energizing psychoactivity, recommended for treating depression, headaches, nausea, and loss of appetite”. [4] [5] 

These same researchers then describe indicas as such, “Indica plants produce a terpenoid profile that imparts an acrid or “skunky” aroma. Indica induces relaxing, sedating, and pain-reducing effects, and is suggested for treating insomnia, pain, inflammation, muscle spasms, epilepsy, and glaucoma.” [4] [5]

To try to confuse humanoids even more, certain researchers in the 2010s then recommended sativa and indica reverse their statuses and go back to their original classifications from back in the day! These efforts, however, did not gain much traction, and the classic sativa=energized, and indica=sedated distinctions that have been reported as we know them remain to this day.

Characteristics of Indica & Sativa Seeds

Landrace is a term that is used to describe heirloom cannabis seeds with traits from their original places of origin. Landraces exemplify classic sativas and indicas with no cross-breeding to alter their appearances and plant characteristics. 

Indica Seed Characteristics

As described by researchers in the last century, indica seeds have their own unique characteristics to distinguish them:

  • Short, bushy, and compact structure
  • Wide and short leaves and leaflets
  • Densely tight and frosty flower buds
  • Bud sites in close distance to one another
  • Shorter time to flower (7-10 weeks) compared to sativa seeds
  • Sticky, resinous flower buds
  • Musky, earthy, and skunky aroma
  • Reported to produce relaxing and sedating effects

Sativa Seed Characteristics

Sativa seeds differ from their indica seed counterparts in many ways. Here are a few:

  • Taller, more slender appearance
  • High, stretchy growth
  • Long, thin leaves that are spaced apart
  • Airier and looser flower buds 
  • Longer time to flower (10-14 weeks) compared to indica seeds
  • Enjoy lots of light and warm climates
  • Average to heavy frost production
  • Dynamic spicy, floral, tropical, and fruity aromas
  • Reported to produce energizing and uplifting effects

Hybrid Seed Characteristics

Due to increased cross-breeding of various landrace cannabis seeds over the last 25-30 years, many hybrid seeds have evolved from eclectic curiosities and into the grower’s standard. 

Featuring a mix of any number of characteristics from indica seeds and sativa seeds, hybrid seeds offer a wealth of options for any grower looking for specific beneficial traits that have been specialized and bred into thousands of strains. Some characteristics of hybrid seeds include:

  • Reported to produce complex and dynamic effects, depending on the parent strains and breeder goals
  • Wide range of flavors and aromas typically selected by terpene profiles
  • Flowering times that can vary from 8-12 weeks
  • Vigorous growth as a result of cross-breeding and genetic heterosis
  • Variable flower bud size dependent on parent strains
  • Indica-dominant or sativa-dominant hybrids that feature a wide range of versatility
  • Modern-day grower and consumer favorites due to marketability, versatility, and ease of cultivation

Effects & Medical Application

Indica, hybrid, and sativa seeds can each have their place in your potential medical tool kit. Understand the main applications of each in order to unlock their purported medicinal purposes. 

Sativa Seed Effects

According to clinical descriptions from only about 20 years ago, sativa cannabis seeds can potentially produce a “stimulating, uplifting, and energizing psychoactivity.” The researchers also mention sativa seeds being an optimal choice to potentially “treat depression, headaches, nausea, and loss of appetite.” [4] [5]

As far as sativa seeds go, these are all potentially great characteristics for consumers to use during the daytime, or when they would like a sort of mental “pick-me-up,” according to researchers. There’s all sorts of sativa-dominant hybrid seeds available that vary in their spectrum and potential of potency and energizing effects. 

Some excellent sativa seeds to grow at home include: Grease Gun, Froot by the Foot, and Green Apple Candy

Indica Seed Effects

Black and Capler also mention in their detailed study that indica seeds have shown to  “induce relaxing, sedating, and pain-reducing effects” [4] [5]. Indica seeds are also known to potentially produce the muscle-relaxing couch lock effect that produces a feeling of contentedness to not to go anywhere or really do much else. 

A reported ability to relieve stress and anxiety are also reasons why so many people grow indica seeds. And of course, I wouldn’t be doing potential cannabis seed home growers a service without mentioning the increase in appetite–aka the munchies– that Earthlings (and aliens!) have shown to demonstrate when consuming indicas.

They’ve also been reported to promote a good night’s sleep and have been said to apparently be best used at night time for these reasons. Some great choices of indica seeds include: Comet Candy, Black Hole Breath, and Top Gun.

Hybrid Seed Effects

Due to massive developments in cannabis cross-breeding and genetics, hybrid seeds are often specialized for a wide range of potential effects that incorporate elements from both indica and sativa seed parents. 

For example–are you looking for a strain that can potentially help with muscle relaxation and pain relief, but also won’t leave you completely stuck on the couch? Opt for hybrid seeds that win every modern-day popularity contest with their unique bouquets of sugary and dessert aromas, flavors, and trendy names that exhibit any number of potential effects you need.

Some of the popular hybrid seeds and strains that make great choices to grow include: Star Froots, Banana Blast, and Divorce Cake

Terpene Profiles of Indica, Hybrid, and Sativa Seeds

Since the debate still rages as to whether the classic “indica vs. sativa” classification is really the most effective or productive for cannabis, some have taken to classifying cannabis seeds and strains by their unique terpene profiles. Much of these unique compounds combine with cannabinoids like THC to produce the potential medicinal effects described above.

What are Terpenes?

Terpenes are the organic compounds within plants and cannabis that give them their distinctive flavors, aromas, and effects. These unique compounds are combined with THC and other cannabinoids within the trichome heads on the buds and leaves. 

Cannabinoids and terpenes reportedly work in conjunction with the humanoids’ internal endocannabinoids system to produce much of the effects described in the previous section. 

Dr. Ethan Russo, a board-certified neurologist and researcher on the human endocannabinoid system says that that “sedation in most common cannabis strains is attributable to their myrcene content, a monoterpene with a strongly sedative couch-lock effect that resembles a narcotic.” [6]

Indica plants produce a terpenoid profile that imparts an acrid or “skunky” aroma, while sativa seeds produce a terpenoid profile that is sweet and herbal. [4] [5]

Here are some common terpenes, their characteristics, and potential effects:

  • Myrcene – Reported to contribute considerably to the sedative, “couch-locking” effect of indica seeds
  • Limonene – Provides a citrus-like palette and is said to boost moods and relieve stress with its bright, energizing effect often found with sativa seeds
  • Pinene – Purported anti-inflammatory qualities with pine-like aromas
  • Caryophyllene – Provides the peppery and spicy aroma you may have noticed in some strains; potentially great for its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Terpinolene – Contributes floral and herbal essences with supposed overall antioxidative properties
  • Linalool – Has a distinctive lavender-type of aroma, while providing potential calming effects known to reportedly help with anxiety control
  • Humulene – Gives that woody, earthy aroma and taste found in some strains; potential anti-inflammatory effect.

The Future of Indica vs Sativa Classifications

According to McPartland, “Research supports the classification of “Sativa” and “Indica,” but not their nomenclature”, while “traditional landraces of “Sativa” and “Indica” are becoming extinct through introgressive hybridization.” [1]

McPartland also mentions that because of so much cross-breeding as of the last few decades, indica and sativa seed classifications are essentially useless for today’s cannabis seed consumer. His plan is for plants to be classified by their chemical compositions, as opposed to “characterizations such as “Sativa-dominant,” “Indica-dominant,” or a whimsical strain name.” [7] 

Other cannabinoid researchers such as Dr. Russo also tend to agree with this argument: 

“There are biochemically distinct strains of cannabis, but the sativa/indica distinction as commonly applied in the lay literature is total nonsense and an exercise in futility. One cannot in any way currently guess the biochemical content of a given cannabis plant based on its height, branching, or leaf morphology. The degree of interbreeding/hybridization is such that only a biochemical assay tells a potential consumer or scientist what is really in the plant. It is essential that future commerce allows complete and accurate cannabinoid and terpenoid profiles to be available.” [6]

Additional researchers see the necessity for the consumer to have some kind of guiding principle for choosing a particular type of cannabis seeds such as “indica”, “hybrid” or “sativa”. However, the consensus seems to be that the way to actually do that is by classifying by the specific terpene profiles within each strain. 

Other researchers such as Pollio think all cannabis seeds and strains should be classified by regional heirloom lineage and other additional criteria, such as narcotic/non-narcotic, instead of just indica or sativa. [8]  

Understanding the Basic Differences of Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Seeds

Regardless of how humanoid researchers wish for cannabis seeds to be classified, the reality is that a huge worldwide marketplace and culture has already been established as per the indica, sativa, and hybrid seed classification system. 

Until there is some kind of paradigm shift, scientific or geographical classification instituted, buyers and growers are still going to continue to use the same ways to identify cannabis seeds and strains. For home growers like my friend Kim, what’s most important is to understand the differences between each cannabis seed type and how it can provide the intended flavors, aromas, appearance, and potential therapeutic effects. 

For Kim, I recommend Slurpicane indica seeds to help possibly soothe her chronic pain and potentially provide uninterrupted sleep, while a pack of sativa seeds like Crazy Train can reportedly give her the lift and energy she needs some mornings to get her day started. 

Furthermore, awesome hybrid seeds like Black Hole Breath contain properties from similar strains in order to get the best qualities of indica and sativa seed genetics.

No matter what your grow goals are, be sure to choose the right indica, sativa, and hybrid seeds for you!

Contact Multiverse Beans for All of Your Cannabis Seed Needs!

Looking to start growing cannabis but not sure where to begin? Multiverse Beans has got you covered with an extensive selection of high-quality cannabis seeds available for purchase online!

Whether you’re seeking indica seeds for relaxation and pain relief, sativa seeds for an energizing boost, or hybrid seeds combining the best of both worlds, Multiverse Beans offers a diverse range of options to suit your preferences and needs.

Contact Multiverse Beans today to explore our catalog and kickstart your cannabis cultivation adventure. With our expertise and top-notch products, you’ll be well on your way to growing your own premium cannabis plants in no time. 

References

  1. McPartland, J. M. (2017). Cannabis sativa and Cannabis indica versus “Sativa” and “Indica.” In Cannabis sativa L. – Botany and Biotechnology (pp. 101-121). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-54564-6_4
  2. Linnaeus C (1753) Species Plantarum 2: 1057. Laurentii Salvii, Stockholm
  3. Lamarck JB (1785) Encyclopédie Méthodique 1(2): 695. Panckoucke, Paris
  4. Corral VL (2001) Differential effects of medical marijuana based on strain and route of administration: a three-year observational study. J Cannabis Ther 1(3/4):43–59
  5. Black H, Capler R (2003) Operational standards for the distribution of medicinal cannabis. British Columbia Compassion Club Society, Vancouver, BC
  6. Piomelli, D., & Russo, E. B. (2016). The Cannabis sativa Versus Cannabis indica Debate: An Interview with Ethan Russo, MD. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 1(1), 44–46. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2015.29003.ebr
  7. Fischedick JT, Hazekamp A, Erkelens T, Choi YH, Verpoorte R (2010) Metabolic fingerprinting of Cannabis sativa L., cannabinoids and terpenoids
  8. Pollio, A. (2016). The Name of Cannabis: A Short Guide for Nonbotanists. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research, 1(1), 234–238. https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0027 
When you’re shopping for cannabis seeds, you might be focused on THC or CBD levels, but let’s talk about something equally important: terpenes! These little compounds are what give your cannabis its distinct aroma, flavor, and, believe it or not, they even influence how it makes you feel. Understanding the role of terpenes can help you make smarter choices when selecting cannabis seeds for your next grow.

What Are Terpenes?

Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis (and other plants), responsible for the distinct smells, flavors, and effects of each strain. If you’ve ever opened a jar of cannabis and noticed it smelled fruity, skunky, piney, or citrusy, that’s all thanks to terpenes. But they don’t just make your buds smell nice—they also work in harmony with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to enhance your overall experience, often referred to as the “entourage effect.”

Terpenes can influence how a strain affects your mood and body. Want something that’ll chill you out? Look for a strain with relaxing terpenes. Need a boost of energy? Uplifting terpenes are your go-to. Knowing the terpene profile can help you pick the perfect seeds for your desired effects.

Why Terpenes Matter in Cannabis Seed Selection

1. Flavor and Aroma

Terpenes are like the spice rack of the cannabis world. They give your buds a unique flavor and aroma profile, making each strain stand out. Whether you’re into earthy, pine-scented strains or fruity, citrusy ones, the terpene profile will determine what your cannabis smells and tastes like. This can help you select seeds that match your flavor preferences.

For example, limonene gives strains a bright, citrusy flavor, while myrcene provides an earthy, musky scent. If you’re growing for personal use and flavor matters to you, choose seeds with a terpene profile that makes your mouth water!

2. Effects and Experience

Terpenes don’t just affect how your cannabis smells—they also play a big role in how it makes you feel. This is where the “entourage effect” comes into play. Terpenes work together with cannabinoids to influence the effects of the strain. For instance, myrcene has sedative properties and can make you feel more relaxed, while pinene is known for its uplifting and energizing effects.

When selecting seeds, think about the type of experience you want. If you’re after something mellow and calming, look for strains with high levels of myrcene or linalool. But if you want an energetic, euphoric high, opt for strains with limonene or terpinolene.

Pro Tip: Don’t just look at THC and CBD levels—check out the terpene profile of the strain to get the full picture of how it might affect you.

Common Terpenes to Look for When Choosing Seeds

There are dozens of terpenes found in cannabis, but here are some of the most common ones to keep in mind when you’re picking out seeds.

Myrcene

  • Aroma/Flavor: Earthy, musky, herbal, sometimes fruity
  • Effects: Relaxing, sedative, great for chilling out
  • Found in: Blue Dream, OG Kush, Grape Ape

Myrcene is one of the most abundant terpenes in cannabis and is known for its relaxing, couch-lock effects. If you’re looking for a strain to help you wind down after a long day, seeds with high myrcene content are a great choice.

Limonene

  • Aroma/Flavor: Citrus, lemon, lime
  • Effects: Uplifting, mood-boosting, anti-anxiety
  • Found in: Super Lemon Haze, Wedding Cake, Do-Si-Dos

Limonene gives off that fresh, citrusy vibe and is known for its mood-boosting and anti-anxiety effects. If you’re looking for a strain to brighten your day, pick seeds with high limonene content.

Pinene

  • Aroma/Flavor: Pine, forest, fresh
  • Effects: Alertness, focus, memory retention
  • Found in: Jack Herer, Strawberry Cough, Blue Dream

Pinene smells like a walk through a pine forest and is great for when you need to stay focused and sharp. Strains with high pinene are perfect for creative work or daytime use.

Linalool

  • Aroma/Flavor: Floral, lavender
  • Effects: Relaxing, anti-anxiety, calming
  • Found in: Amnesia Haze, Lavender Kush, LA Confidential

Linalool has a soothing, lavender scent and is often found in strains that help with relaxation and anxiety relief. If stress is getting the better of you, pick seeds rich in linalool for a calm, relaxing experience.

Caryophyllene

  • Aroma/Flavor: Spicy, peppery, earthy
  • Effects: Anti-inflammatory, stress-relief, pain management
  • Found in: GSC, Bubba Kush, Sour Diesel

Caryophyllene is known for its spicy, peppery scent and is unique because it interacts directly with your body’s endocannabinoid system, making it great for managing stress and pain.

How to Choose Seeds Based on Terpenes

1. Decide on Your Desired Effects

Before you start browsing seed banks, think about the kind of high you’re after. Do you want to relax and melt into the couch, or are you looking for an energetic, creative buzz? Understanding the effects you’re aiming for will help guide you toward the right terpene profiles.

2. Check Terpene Profiles on Seed Listings

Many seed banks list the terpene profiles for each strain. When choosing seeds, take a look at the dominant terpenes to get a better idea of the strain’s flavor, aroma, and effects. This can help you find seeds that align with your goals, whether it’s for flavor, medicinal use, or just the kind of high you enjoy most.

3. Experiment and Find What Works for You

Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try out seeds with different terpene profiles to see which ones you like best. Some people love the uplifting effects of limonene-rich strains, while others swear by the relaxing qualities of myrcene. You’ll never know until you try, so mix it up and see what works for you.

In Conclusion

Terpenes play a huge role in shaping the flavor, aroma, and effects of your cannabis. By understanding which terpenes do what, you can make more informed decisions when selecting seeds for your next grow. So next time you’re browsing a seed bank, don’t just focus on THC and CBD levels—give those terpenes some attention, too! Whether you’re growing for flavor, relaxation, or creativity, the right terpenes can take your cannabis experience to the next level.

Contact Multiverse Beans for the Best Cannabis Seeds

Ready to start your next grow? At Multiverse Beans, we offer a huge variety of premium cannabis seeds with detailed terpene profiles, so you can find the perfect strain for your needs. Whether you’re after something relaxing, energizing, or packed with flavor, we’ve got you covered. Contact us for help choosing the best cannabis seeds for you, or check out our selection and get growing today!

One of my homies in a state that just approved adult use and cultivation legalization recently hit me up interdimensionally the other day with a thought-provoking question. He wanted to know about growing cannabis from clones or seeds; which one is better? 

“Well, there’s a lot that goes into that answer,” I beamed right back at him. I then suggested we hang out and hot-box the saucer, after I swung by his place and “abducted” him for a smoke and chat regarding his inquiry. Here is what we discussed, including the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Table of Contents

Brief History of Cannabis Seed & Clone Cultivation

Cannabis seed cultivation has been around for a very long time. Primitive and ancient farming societies in Central Asia [1] were cultivating cannabis seeds for fiber and medicine all the way back in almost 1015,000 B.C [2] [3]. That’s about the time my family and their friends started coming to your planet! Coincidence?

From there, nomadic groups took cannabis seeds with them across other parts of Asia and into Europe, and eventually the “New World” a few more thousand years after [3]. In the modern age, growing weed with cannabis seeds has spawned a new era of simple cultivation and very vast genetic diversity within regular and feminized varieties. 

However, cloning cannabis plants has also come around as another popular way to cultivate cannabis plants with modern horticultural advancements. 

The cloning process of taking a “cutting” of a plant’s branch in order to grow an identical offspring has, however, been around since Biblical times [4]. And since cannabis has been getting cultivated by humanoids for just as long as any other crop, it’s safe to say cloning weed plants has been going on for a long time, too–it just wasn’t as well-documented [2].

Growing with Cannabis Seeds: Advantages & Disadvantages

Specifically growing with cannabis seeds is a multifaceted process that starts with germination of the seed, aka activating the internal embryo inside the seed shell. Once the taproot emerges, it will then be time to provide water, light, fresh air, nutrients, and love according to whether you’re set up for indoor or outdoor cultivation. 

Cannabis Seed Cultivation Advantages

On top of inherent advantages such as ease of storage, longer viability, and genetic preservation, growing cannabis with seeds also has many other benefits:

    • Genetic Diversity – Cannabis seeds feature a wide range of genetic diversity that has been bred and preserved so that growers can select strains according to things like potency, terpenes, flavor, aroma, yield, and size.
    • Tap Root Development – Because cannabis seeds can only begin growing after germination, the taproot develops first. This typically results in a strong, more vigorous plant from the very beginning.
    • Availability – Almost any strain or type of cannabis seeds can be purchased online or in-person from seed bank brokers like MVB. The endless amount of selections is unmatched. This includes autoflower plants, which are able to grow easier by seed compared to clone. 
    • Legality – Cannabis seeds are legal to possess in every US state (regardless of state-specific legalization or adult-use laws) since they physically contain no THC.
    • Stronger Vigor – On top of having the taproot provide a firm base from which to continue to grow from, cannabis seeds have the potential for a better resilience against factors like mold, pests, and other deficiencies due to not having to undergo the initial stress of cloning.
    • A Fresh Start – Clones will inherit any developmental or genetic issues directly from the mother plant they were cut from. Cannabis seeds offer a fresh start with each new plant.
  • Less Diseases – Clones are at a distinct disadvantage due numerous factors that contribute to a high rate of diseases. Clone cutting and propagation weakens the plant’s immune system, while other factors, like improper or excessive handling, also introduce numerous disease-carrying pathogens.
  • Variable Yields – Clones usually offer the same traits as their mother, including harvest yield sizes. Cannabis seeds offer a variable amount in their end yield. Optimizing all sorts of factors like light, water, nutrients, pruning, testing, etc., can potentially lead to a larger-than-usual final yield.

Cannabis Seed Disadvantages

Compared to clones, cannabis seeds do offer a few differences that can be used to make your decision of whether to grow with seed or clone. 

  • Phenotypes Can Change – Seeds often produce different phenotypes, or traits, of the plants, such as color, terpenes, and aroma. It may be difficult to guarantee duplication in subsequent batches or grows.
  • Germination & Seedling Process – Growing directly from cannabis seeds requires proper germination and seedling care in order to get your plant started off on the right track. On top of being another process to perform during cultivation, the extra 2-3 weeks of immediate seedling care post-germination will result in a final harvest that takes a little longer than if grown from clone.
  • Sexing Feminized seeds are abundantly available and a great way to avoid pollination or sexing, however if choosing regular seeds to cross-breed strains or produce seeds specifically, it will require the pollen of a male. Otherwise, male plants must be removed from the growing area before they pollinate female plants and can potentially create undesirable and seed-riddled hermaphrodite plants.

Cannabis Clones: Advantages & Disadvantages

Keeping a mother plant ensures the same traits will live on in her offspring–the clone cutting. The cutting is a literal cut from a mother plant that is then cultivated in its own container and soil. Mother plants can keep a particular strain of cannabis alive for years–even decades–while producing an abundance of clones. 

Cannabis Clone Advantages

Cannabis clones guarantee the mature (at least 2-3 months old) mother plant’s identical genetic traits will continue to be passed on to each clonal generation. Here are some advantages when it comes to vegetative propagation, aka growing, with cannabis clones:

  • Uniformity & Predictability – Cannabis clones replicated identical traits and features of the mother plant they were cut from. This includes uniform appearance, aroma, taste, shape, grow patterns, potency, and yield in every harvest. This can also be a bonus because the amount of grow space needed for each clone will always be identical and known. 
  • Faster Grow Time – By skipping the germination and seedling phase, clones are already in the vegetative stage and capable of quicker harvests.
  • No Sexing or Pollination – The process of pollinating female plants or removing male plants before their pollen sacs interfere with the development of the female plants does not ever occur when using cannabis clones to grow weed.

Cannabis Clone Disadvantages

Growing your own weed with cannabis clones compared to cannabis seeds can be a better option for a variety of reasons already discussed. It’s often just a matter of needs and preference. That being said, here are several disadvantages to growing weed with clones:

  • Limited Genetics & Variety – Whatever traits and genetics are produced by the mother plant herself, the clones will always inherit. There is no variety and what you see is what you get. This includes final yield as well. 
  • Vulnerability to Pests & Disease – In addition to inheriting identical genetics and traits from the mother plant, clones will also inherit any pests, diseases, or mutations as well [2].
  • Root Development – The lack of a taproot foundation within the clone structure can lead to a weaker growing structure and development.
  • Cloning Stress – The act of cloning puts stress on both the mother plant and the clones if not done properly and delicately. This is another factor that can affect proper development and growth vigor.
  • Loss of Function Gene – As the mother plant continues to be cloned, the loss-of-function gene starts to become activated, resulting in “less robust” and reliable plants as generations continue [2].
  • Must Maintain a Mother Plant – If you plan to continue to cultivate your own clones, you must care for and maintain the mother plant as well for as long as you wish to do so.
  • Cost – If buying clones separately from a breeder, the cost can add up pretty quickly compared to the relative affordability of purchasing cannabis seed packs.
  • Legality – Technically, clones no longer meet the THC less than 0.3% legality since they are already in the vegetative stage compared to the physically dormant and legally-compliant status of cannabis seeds. This gray area can post legal concerns for anyone wishing to purchase or sell clones in a non-legal US state.

How to Choose Whether to Grow Cannabis Seeds or Clones

When choosing how to proceed with your cannabis cultivation plans, the humanoid home grower must consider all of the advantages and disadvantages of cannabis seeds and clones mentioned above.

If you’re more of a multidimensional explorer like me, with a mind that likes to tinker and create your own creations that grow into their own unique identity, seeds are the way to go. In contrast, if you’re looking for predictability, a clone cutting is going to produce the same results time-after-time. 

It’s also important to consider the availability, cost, and legal implications involved. Cannabis seeds are always legal (like hemp) with no gray area, so there’s the satisfaction of knowing that what is getting shipped to you can’t potentially get you into trouble. This is especially true for anyone in a state that hasn’t yet passed their home cultivation laws yet, like my humanoid friend.

Speaking of trouble, I’d better drop him off back at his place to digest all of this information–and take out the trash–before he gets an earful!

Contact Multiverse Beans 

Multiverse Beans is your go-to source for the very best cannabis seeds online. We offer a wide selection of high-quality cannabis seeds to suit all of your needs. Visit our catalog or reach out to us directly to explore our diverse range of strains, including autoflowering varieties for easier growth. Grow with confidence knowing that our seeds are legally compliant and backed by our commitment to providing top-notch customer service. Don’t wait any longer to embark on your cannabis cultivation adventure – join the Multiverse Beans community today!

References

References

  1. Russo, E. B. (2007). History of cannabis and its preparations in saga, science, and sobriquet. Chemistry & Biodiversity, 4(8), 1614–1648. https://doi.org/10.1002/cbdv.200790144
  2. Adhikary, D., Kulkarni, M., El-Mezawy, A., Mobini, S., Elhiti, M., Gjuric, R., Ray, A., Polowick, P., Slaski, J. J., Jones, M. P., & Bhowmik, P. (2021). Medical Cannabis and Industrial Hemp Tissue Culture: Present Stathttps://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2021.627240us and Future Potential. Frontiers in Plant Science, 12, 627240. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2021.627240
  3. Russo, E. B., Jiang, H.-E., Li, X., Sutton, A., Carboni, A., del Bianco, F., Mandolino, G., Potter, D. J., Zhao, Y.-X., Bera, S., Zhang, Y.-B., Lü, E.-G., Ferguson, D. K., Hueber, F., Zhao, L.-C., Liu, C.-J., Wang, Y.-F., & Li, C.-S. (2008). Phytochemical and genetic analyses of ancient cannabis from Central Asia. Journal of Experimental Botany, 59(15), 4171–4182. https://doi.org/10.1093/jxb/ern260
  4. Salisbury, F. B. (2000). Biology of Cloning: History and Rationale. BioScience, 50(8), 636. https://doi.org/10.1641/0006-3568(2000)050[0636:BOCHAR]2.0.CO;2

Growing cannabis can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but any seasoned grower knows that with great plants come great pests. Whether you’re cultivating indoors or outdoors, pests can quickly wreak havoc on your hard work if they’re not kept in check. Luckily, we’ve got your back! This guide will help you identify the most common cannabis pests and give you some tips on how to keep them out of your garden.

What Are the Most Common Cannabis Pests?

Cannabis plants are magnets for certain types of pests, but not all bugs are bad. While some insects like ladybugs can actually help protect your plants by eating harmful bugs, others, such as spider mites and aphids, will feed on your plants and reduce the quality of your crop. Here are some of the most common pests you’ll encounter:

1. Spider Mites

These tiny, eight-legged arachnids are one of the most notorious pests in cannabis cultivation. Spider mites are extremely small, often less than 1mm in size, but they can cause massive damage. They tend to hide on the undersides of leaves and spin fine webs across the plant (hence the name).

Symptoms:
  • Tiny white or yellow spots on leaves
  • Fine webbing on plants
  • Leaves turning yellow or brown

Prevention and Control:
Spider mites thrive in dry conditions, so increasing humidity can make it harder for them to survive. Neem oil, insecticidal soaps, or predatory insects like ladybugs can help control their population.

2. Aphids

Aphids are soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from cannabis plants, depriving them of vital nutrients. These pests come in a range of colors, including green, black, and white. They’re usually found on the stems and undersides of leaves.

Symptoms:
  • Curled or yellowing leaves
  • Sticky substance (honeydew) on leaves
  • Ants near your plants (they love feeding on honeydew)

Prevention and Control:
Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs or parasitic wasps into your grow space to help control aphid populations. Insecticidal soaps and neem oil sprays are also effective at keeping these pests at bay.

3. Whiteflies

Whiteflies are small, winged insects that resemble tiny moths. They feed on the sap of cannabis plants, similar to aphids, and can cause stunted growth if left unchecked. When disturbed, whiteflies tend to flutter around the plant, making them easy to spot.

Symptoms:
  • Yellowing or wilting leaves
  • White insects flying around when plants are disturbed
  • Sticky residue on leaves
  • Stunted plant growth
  • Leaves developing black or brown spots
  • Leaf edges curling upwards or downwards

Prevention and Control:
Sticky traps are an excellent way to catch whiteflies before they become a serious problem. You can also use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to reduce their numbers. Make sure to regularly check the undersides of leaves where whiteflies tend to hide.

4. Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are tiny, mosquito-like flies that lay their eggs in moist soil. Their larvae feed on organic matter and roots, which can cause damage to young cannabis plants. While the adults don’t directly harm the plants, the larvae can stunt growth and cause wilting.

Symptoms:

  • Small, black flies hovering around your plants
  • Mushy or discolored roots
  • Soil staying overly damp or developing a foul smell
  • Stunted growth or wilting in seedlings
  • Yellowing leaves

Prevention and Control:
Avoid overwatering your plants, as fungus gnats thrive in moist environments. Letting the top layer of soil dry out between waterings will help reduce the risk of infestation. You can also use sticky traps to catch adult gnats and introduce predatory nematodes to kill larvae in the soil.

5. Thrips

Thrips are tiny, slender insects that feed by scraping plant surfaces and sucking out the contents. They can cause significant damage to cannabis plants, especially if the infestation is severe. These pests are often seen crawling on leaves but are hard to spot due to their size.

Symptoms:
  • Silvery or bronzed patches on leaves
  • Black specks (thrip droppings) on leaves
  • Leaves curling or distorted

Prevention and Control:
Use sticky traps to monitor for thrips early on. Insecticidal soaps, neem oil, and introducing predatory mites can help keep these pests under control. Be sure to regularly inspect your plants to catch infestations before they get out of hand.

6. Caterpillars

Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. They may not seem like a major threat, but they can eat through cannabis leaves and buds, leading to reduced yields. Outdoor growers are particularly susceptible to caterpillar infestations.

Symptoms:
  • Chewed leaves or buds
  • Caterpillars or droppings on plants
  • Holes in leaves
  • Leaves turning brown around the edges
  • Buds becoming discolored or damaged
  • Webbing or silk-like threads on plants

Prevention and Control:
Manually removing caterpillars from your plants is one of the most effective methods of control. You can also use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), a naturally occurring bacterium that is toxic to caterpillars but safe for plants.

7. Mealybugs

Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that are covered in a white, waxy substance. They feed on plant sap, weakening the cannabis plant and leaving it more susceptible to disease. Mealybugs are slow-moving and are usually found on the stems and leaves of plants.

Symptoms:
  • White, cottony clusters on stems and leaves
  • Stunted growth
  • Honeydew on leaves, attracting ants
  • Leaves becoming distorted or curling
  • A sooty mold developing on leaves due to the honeydew

Prevention and Control:
Neem oil and insecticidal soaps can help eliminate mealybugs. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs to help keep them under control.

How to Prevent Pests in Cannabis Cultivation

Preventing pests is always better than dealing with an infestation. While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks, there are steps you can take to make your grow space less appealing to pests.

1. Maintain a Clean Grow Space

A clean grow space is a pest-free grow space! Regularly clean and disinfect your equipment, tools, and growing environment. Remove any dead plant material or debris that could attract pests.

2. Quarantine New Plants

If you’re bringing in new plants from a nursery or another grower, make sure to quarantine them for a few days before introducing them to your grow space. This will allow you to check for any pests before they spread to your other plants.

3. Inspect Plants Regularly

Make it a habit to inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests. Catching an infestation early is the key to controlling it before it becomes a bigger problem.

4. Use Beneficial Insects

Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs, predatory mites, or parasitic wasps to your grow space. These natural predators will help keep pest populations under control without the need for harsh chemicals.

Natural Pest Control vs. Chemical Control

When dealing with pests, you have two main options: natural or chemical control. Each has its pros and cons.

Natural Pest Control

  • Safe for plants and the environment
  • Supports beneficial insect populations
  • Slower to act
  • Reduces the risk of chemical resistance developing in pests
  • Helps maintain a balanced ecosystem
  • Can be used throughout the plant’s growth cycle

Chemical Control

  • Fast-acting
  • Can harm beneficial insects
  • Risk of pesticide residue on your plants
  • May require careful application and safety gear
  • Can lead to pests developing resistance over time
  • Often more costly in the long term due to repeated applications

While chemical control can be effective, it’s often best to start with natural solutions to avoid damaging your plants or the environment.

Contact Multiverse Beans for All Your Cannabis Growing Needs

Whether you’re dealing with pests or simply want to grow the healthiest cannabis plants possible, Multiverse Beans is here to help! We offer a wide range of high-quality cannabis seeds to suit all growers, from beginners to experts. Our team of experts is always available to provide guidance and advice on everything from pest control to maximizing your yield.

Contact us today; let’s grow together!

Germinating cannabis seeds is the crucial first step to cultivate success for your own homegrown weed. No matter what strain or type of cannabis seed you choose to grow, if you don’t prepare and germinate your seeds correctly, it’s all going to be a huge waste of time and money.As a pretty seasoned traveler of both time and space, I’ve been able to see and interact with so many lifeforms. But as you can guess, the life of cannabis seeds really seems to interest me the most! I’ve seen several different ways to germinate cannabis seeds in the Multiverse, but let me share with you some sure-fire methods that I use to germinate all of my favorite varieties of weed seeds.

Table of Contents

  1. What is Cannabis Seed Germination?
  2. How Do I Germinate Cannabis Seeds?
  3. How Can I Ensure My Cannabis Seeds Germinate Properly?
  4. Contact Multiverse Beans for the Best Cannabis Seeds Online
  5. References

What is Cannabis Seed Germination?

Inside the shell of your cannabis seeds are dormant organisms that need to be “activated” in order to grow into the leafy and flower-packed cannabis plants we all know and love. 

Cannabis seed germination requires the following elements in order to be successful: 

  • Air
  • Distilled water or diluted hydrogen peroxide solution
  • Warm heat source (preferably in the 70-80°F range)
  • Darkness
  • A cup, seed tray, or 3-5 gallon pot (for autoflower seeds) full of high-quality, moistened soil to transplant taproot 

How Do I Germinate Cannabis Seeds?

Germinating cannabis seeds can be performed in several different ways. Just like with almost every other step involved in cannabis seed cultivation, almost every humanoid grower and breeder seems to have their own particular method. However, here we will discuss the most proven, efficient, and easiest ways to do so. 

Preparing Cannabis Seeds for Germination

Before actually germinating your cannabis seeds, it’s important to get them in a viable state beforehand. If your seeds were in a refrigerator, take them out a good 24 hours ahead of time. 

If frozen, take the container holding your beans out of the freezer and place it on the kitchen table or other undisturbed surface in a room temperature environment. Keep them there for 24 hours, then open the lid to let some air in for another 12 hours or so. 

If your seeds have been chilling out in a drawer or container because you just got them a few weeks to months ago, they should be good to use immediately once you are ready to germinate them.

Also, when germinating cannabis seeds, be sure to pick up a jug of distilled water from any grocery or drugstore. Distilled water has a neutral pH that will not adversely hurt germination. I don’t recommend using tap water to germinate, but if you do, be sure to check the pH level with a test strip or testing device beforehand. Tap water that’s too acidic or alkaline has the potential to affect germination. 

Paper Towel Method of Germinating Cannabis Seeds

The first method of germination that we will cover is the paper towel method of germination. This specific method is one that Uncle Paulie and myself don’t recommend to use, but we are including it here in case you want to use it yourself. 

Materials needed:

  • 1 roll paper towels
  • Distilled water
  • 2 plates or plastic baggie
  • Drinking glass or shot glass
  • Tweezers (optional)
  1. To begin, soak your already room temperature cannabis seeds in a small drinking glass or shot glass of distilled water for 12-24 hours ahead of time. This practice is good at softening the outer seed coating for more efficient germination. The seeds should eventually sink to the bottom. If they still continue to float after 12-24 hours, they may unfortunately prove to be duds.
  2. Remove the seeds (with tweezers or fingers) from the glass after 12-24 hours and place them on top of two moist paper towels. It’s important that the paper towel be moist/damp rather than soaked. Continue to use distilled water for this step also.
  3. Lay another layer of two moist paper towels over the first two.
  4. Place between two plates – one upside-down, the other right-side up – to create an enclosed, dark environment. Some humanoids also place the paper towels into a plastic baggie sealed most of the way.
  5. Keep your plates or baggie-enclosed cannabis seeds in a dark, moist environment that stays around 70-80°F to mimic spring-like environmental conditions. Dark environments have been scientifically shown to help with speedier, more efficient germination. [1]
  6. Check the seeds regularly to ensure a moist environment is maintained. If not, gently apply distilled water to the paper towels via a spray bottle if absolutely necessary should your seeds now be dried out.
  7. Typically, after about 5 days, a tiny taproot will emerge from the shell of the seed. You will then need to transfer your freshly germinated cannabis seed to a small plastic cup or seed tray full of slightly moist soil mix. Just make a ¼ inch hole with a pen or pencil and place the seed with the taproot facing down. 
  8. After about a week max, you should see the seedling sprout in the container. From here, you will need to transplant your seedlings into bigger pots just before the roots start to poke out of the perforations at the bottom. This is at about the 2-3 week mark.

1% Hydrogen Peroxide Method

Using a 1% diluted solution that consists of distilled water and hydrogen peroxide has been proven to germinate cannabis seeds faster. It also has shown in scientific studies to be able to help germinate seeds that are 5 years or older [2] [3]! Here we will detail how to proceed with this method at home.

How Do I Make My Own 1% Diluted Solution to Use?

According to the cultivation experts at DeBacco University, making your own 1% hydrogen peroxide solution doesn’t have to be difficult.

  1. Purchase a 16 fl oz bottle of hydrogen peroxide from your local drug store or online.
  2. You will need to make the solution 3x less strong by diluting it with 32 fl oz.
  3. This will create 48 fl oz of 1% diluted solution to use for germination. [4] You may not need to use all the entire diluted solution once it’s created.

Check out a video demonstration here. 

Once the solution is ready to go you will need to do the following:

Materials needed:

  • 1% hydrogen peroxide/distilled water solution
  • 1 roll paper towels
  • 2 plates or plastic baggie
  • Drinking glass or shot glass
  • Tweezers (optional)
  1. Soak seeds 12-18 hours overnight in the 1% solution in a glass or shot glass overnight in a dark, room temperature area.
  2. Remove the seeds from the solution and rinse well with just distilled water.
  3. From here, the method is very similar to the other paper towel method above. The main difference will be that the taproot should emerge somewhere sooner (24-72 hours), so be on the lookout for it!

Germinating Autoflower Seeds Directly into Soil

Autoflower seeds are a great way for anyone to cultivate cannabis at home. There is, however, one big difference when germinating autoflower seeds compared to photoperiod seeds. 

Transplanting autoflower seeds into soil post-germination can all too often shock them unnecessarily. This can stunt their growth considerably, starting at the very beginning of their life! 

To avoid shocking your autoflower seeds, just germinate them directly into the soil and pot they will be growing in during their entire lifespan as a best practice.

Materials needed:

  • Premium potting soil mix
  • Distilled water
  • 3-5 gallon pot per each seed being germinated
  • Spray bottle
  • Measuring tape or ruler
  • Pencil
  • Marker or tape
  1. Soak your autoflower seeds for 12 hours overnight in distilled water.
  2. Fill your pots with premium soil mix and ensure they can drain well and are of a lighter consistency.
  3. Be sure to not use any nutrients at this point in the seed/plant’s life cycle.
  4. Take the measuring tape and marker or small piece of visible tape to mark on the pencil where a ½ inch is. 
  5. Use the pencil to make a small indentation in the soil up to where the ½ inch line you just marked on it is. This ensures you will not insert the seed too deep.
  6. Insert the seed into the holes you have made and tuck them in slightly with soil all around once inserted.
  7. Lightly mist the soil to ensure the top is moist and not soaked or muddy.
  8. From this point on you can place the pots in the tents you’re going to be growing in to germinate. Anywhere else is fine, so long as they’re in an undisturbed, warm (70-80°F), and dark environment. 
  9. In about 2-7 days the seed should be germinated. 
  10. Try to not bother the germinating/germinated seed to let it establish itself with roots into the soil.
  11. When the seedlings start to rise out of your soil with their first sets of tiny leaves, begin to expose them to the normal 18-20 hours of light they will need throughout their entire cultivation cycle.

How Can I Ensure My Cannabis Seeds Germinate Properly?

As mentioned, when dropping a nice chunk of humanoid change on cannabis seeds and growing equipment, it’s vital to conquer the very first phase the right way. Here are a few more tips to ensure your cannabis seeds germinate properly:

  • Select high-quality seeds from reliable, well-reviewed breeders and seed banks. Inferior seeds simply don’t have reliable genetics home growers can rely on.
  • Ensure your seeds are stored properly ahead of time to avoid damaging them before germination.
  • Germinate seeds sooner than later. Holding onto seeds for prolonged periods of time in excess of a year can begin to greatly degrade them unless stored properly.
  • Use distilled water to germinate instead of tap water. Distilled water features:
    • Reduced amounts of impurities for a cleaner medium.
    • Neutral pH level.
    • No chlorine or other chemicals that can be harmful.
    • Reduced chances of fungi or algae issues.
  • Keep your 1% hydrogen solution away from light in order to not degrade it.
  • Avoid handling the cannabis seeds until ready to begin the process of germination.
  • Maintain darkness during germination as much as possible.
  • Maintain a “springtime” environment (70-80°F). Some people use warming pads near the germinating seeds to boost the temperature if needed. 
  • Always be delicate and use extreme care when transporting germinated seeds into soil containers or small perforated cups.

Once you perform the process of germination once, it eventually becomes second-nature, making all of your next home grows easier and easier. Abide by the processes and tips detailed above and you’ll be on your way to seeing those little beans you bought grow up to be vigorous and dank! 

Contact Multiverse Beans for the Best Cannabis Seeds Online 

Ready to start growing your own cannabis plants? Whether you’re a seasoned grower or just starting out, Multiverse Beans offers a wide selection of premium cannabis seeds to suit your needs. From indica to sativa, autoflowering to photoperiod, Multiverse Beans has you covered.

To get started, browse our online cannabis seed bank, or contact us directly. Our friendly team of experts is here to assist you with any questions you may have and to help you select the perfect seeds for your cultivation goals.

Don’t waste any more time and money on subpar cannabis seeds. Trust Multiverse Beans for the best cannabis seeds and start your growing journey today!

References

  1. Washa, B. B. (2014). Potential of the Dark as a Factor Affecting Seed Germination. International Journal of AgriScience, 4, 478-485. [URL: https://api.semanticscholar.org/CorpusID:85680157]
  2. Sorokin, A., Yadav, N. S., Gaudet, D., & Kovalchuk, I. (2021). Development and Standardization of Rapid and Efficient Seed Germination Protocol for Cannabis sativa. Bio Protoc, 11(1), e3875. doi:10.21769/BioProtoc.3875. [PMCID: PMC7952943] [PMID: 33732764]
  3. Sorokin, A., Yadav, N. S., Gaudet, D., & Kovalchuk, I. (2020). Transient expression of the β-glucuronidase gene in Cannabis sativa varieties. Plant Signaling & Behavior, 15(8), Article ID. DOI: 10.1080/15592324.2020.1780037.
  4. DeBaccoUniversity. (2022, July 20). Improved Cannabis Seed Germination with Hydrogen Peroxide.Youtube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KPzfZ_xFXtE&ab_channel=DeBaccoUniversity

Home growers have a few different choices of what cannabis seeds they wish to cultivate to harvest. However, the very first decision the home grower must make is whether to grow female plants with feminized seeds or to buy cannabis seeds in their regular state in order to embark on their own cannabis cultivation projects. 

Though these two different cannabis seed types both grow into cannabis plants once germinated, they are very different from one another in many different aspects. 

Feminized Seeds & Regular Seeds Both Grow Weed

My buddy Billy Pilgrim has been traveling through multiple dimensions and multiverses his entire life. Basically, the guy lives in multiple realities at the same time–for better or for worse. 

For example, at this very moment, Billy is growing beautiful female plants with feminized seeds inside of the geodesic dome that he lives in. The other reality of Billy’s multi-faceted life is that he’s simultaneously using regular seeds to breed his own cannabis seeds in a completely different place and dimension altogether!

Both types of cannabis seeds ultimately give humanoid growers the ability to cultivate their own cannabis plants in different ways–without any requirement to exist in multiple dimensions like Billy and I do! 

Cannabis Seeds Were Only Regular Seeds Until Recently

Since the beginning of cannabis cultivation several thousand years ago [1], cannabis seeds now known as regular seeds were the only seed type, since feminized cannabis seeds did not come around until just a few short decades ago. Regular seeds are then available as photoperiod seeds and autoflower seeds.

How Are Regular Seeds Produced?

Regular seeds are produced through the natural reproduction and pollination process of a female plant by a male cannabis plant. Like in the wild, male cannabis plants release pollen, which is then used by the breeder to fertilize the flowers on the female plant. This leads to the production of regular seeds. 

Regular Seeds Can Become Male or Female Plants

Once in the vegetative growth stage, plants created by regular seeds have the potential to grow into either a male or female plant. According to many breeders, the consensus ratio for males/female plants is typically in the 50/50 male-female range for regular seeds.

Sexing Cannabis Plants Grown from Regular Seeds

Male cannabis plants can grow from regular seeds as well. These are less desirable to most growers not concerned with breeding work due to their very low potency and very sparse bud structure compared to female flowers. 

Sexing a cannabis plant refers to establishing whether you have a male or female plant. Male cannabis plants are typically identified by their round and oval-shaped pollen sacs that develop along their stems early in the vegetative stage (4-6 weeks) and are removed entirely from the growing area. 

According to one study, “microscopic analysis of male and female [cannabis plants] revealed that their reproductive commitment may occur as soon as the leaves of the fourth node emerge [2]. 

This ensures that pollen from those sacs will not unintentionally pollinate any nearby female plants, whose own pre-flowers develop small, white pistils instead of pollen sacs– which will very negatively affect their optimal potency and bud structure. [3] 

Feminized Seeds are Made to Produce Only Female Plants

The development of feminized seeds–now the top selling variety of cannabis seeds sold in the United States–changed the entire cannabis industry with an easier method to cultivate cannabis. In addition, the more-desirable buds of the female plants can be produced with much higher end yields than previously experienced with just regular seeds. Feminized seeds are also available as photoperiod and autoflower seeds

How Are Feminized Seeds Made?

Up until European cannabis breeders began to experiment with cannabis plant genetics in the 1980s and ‘90s, feminized seeds did not even exist. 

Feminized seeds were developed by letting a female plant continue flowering several weeks longer than needed. This stress was noticed to cause male flowers at the very end of the cycle. Because these male flowers could no longer pollinate themselves, the “female pollen” from these late-blooming male flowers was then collected and used to fertilize with another female plant, which then produced feminized seeds. 

Because both parents of a feminized seed are ultimately female plants, it all but ensures (99%) each seed they produce will be a female plant with female buds, also referred to as sinsemilla.

Modern Feminized Seed Breeding

Nowadays, stressing a cannabis plant isn’t the de facto way to get feminized seeds, which are typically produced by breeders in two other ways that studies have shown as “effective in the induction of male flowers” [4]:

Pros & Cons of Regular & Feminized Seeds for a Newer Grower

Ok, so you’ve decided to buy cannabis seeds and start growing some of your own weed, but you’re still not sure which seed type dimension you want to exist in. Let’s do a comparison of both cannabis seed types to fully evaluate which one you should choose.

What Are the Advantages of Growing Weed with Feminized Seeds?

There’s a lot of reasons growers both new and old choose to cultivate feminized seeds.
Besides the obvious, there’s a few other reasons you may want to know as well. Take a look below!

What Are Some Disadvantages of Feminized Seeds?

Though many growers both new and old opt for feminized seeds to cultivate their own weed, this cannabis seed type still has a few slight disadvantages:

What Are the Advantages of Growing Weed with Regular Seeds?

Since we covered the ins-and-outs of feminized seeds, let’s discuss some advantages that regular seeds provide growers and breeders with.

What Are Some Disadvantages of Regular Seeds?

Because of the binary nature of regular seeds, they also offer some disadvantages to the newer home grower as a result. However, for any experienced humanoid breeder or grower, these are merely things to keep in mind when cultivating regular seeds.

Should I Grow Feminized Seeds or Regular Seeds?

Most humanoids I know only live in one dimension–the one where they are familiar with their immediate environment and most of what it takes to interact within it. The same goes for growing weed–seriously!

Knowing how to cultivate cannabis with either feminized seeds or regular seeds can make all the difference in what kind of dimension you want to grow in and what it takes to manage your cannabis plants should you choose either type. 

New Growers Should Choose Feminized Seeds

For a grower new to the entire experience, feminized seeds have been developed especially for you. This is so that you may gain a solid understanding of the vegetative, flowering, and other processes of growing weed, without any need for sexing or breeding your plants. This takes a lot of extra time, effort, and anxiety out of the equation, and allows for you to just focus on growing good weed!

Breeders & Experienced Growers Looking for A Challenge Cultivate Regular Seeds

For any grower wishing to gain an understanding of how to grow weed the way people have for thousands of years, regular seeds are your jam. Taking part of the sexing, pollination, and breeding aspects of regular seeds takes you into an entirely different dimension of cultivation that you just can’t get with feminized seeds.

Either way, Billy and I will continue to use both seed types to grow our own out-of-this-world weed, while you figure out which dimension you want to be in! 

Contact Us

If you have any questions or need further information about choosing between feminized and regular cannabis seeds, feel free to reach out. We’re always here to help you make the best decision for your cultivation needs! Check out our online seedbank to buy cannabis seeds today.

Email: support@multiversebeans.com
Phone: (530) 433-9409 – text or call!

Stay Connected!
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We look forward to assisting you on your growing journey!

References

  1. Pisanti, S., & Bifulco, M. (2019). Medical Cannabis: A plurimillennial history of an evergreen. Journal of cellular physiology, 234(6), 8342-8351.

2. Moliterni, V. M. C., Cattivelli, L., Ranalli, P., et al. (2004). The sexual differentiation of Cannabis sativa L.: A morphological and molecular study. Euphytica, 140, 95–106. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10681-004-4758-7

3. Thomas, B. F., & ElSohly, M. A. (2016). The botany of Cannabis sativa L. The analytical chemistry of cannabis, 1-26.

4. Flajšman, M., Slapnik, M., & Murovec, J. (2021). Production of Feminized Seeds of High CBD Cannabis sativa L. by Manipulation of Sex Expression and Its Application to Breeding. Frontiers in Plant Science, 12, 718092. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2021.718092

5. Punja, Z. K., & Holmes, J. E. (2020). Hermaphroditism in Marijuana (Cannabis sativa L.) Inflorescences – Impact on Floral Morphology, Seed Formation, Progeny Sex Ratios, and Genetic Variation. Frontiers in Plant Science, 11, Article 718. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2020.00718