Growing cannabis isn’t rocket science. However, many factors can determine whether a crop is top-shelf or bottom of the barrel. Growing medium, nutrient dosage, and the types of insects around can all play a part. The plant’s lineage is also crucial. That’s why many farmers take plenty of time to decide which cannabis seeds or clones they want to grow.
Sure, finding a random seed in a bag of flower may lead to an impressive result (just look at Chemdawg). But most pot growers consider a number of things when choosing what to plant. This often includes the way the plant will grow, the terpene and cannabinoid profiles, and how the plants will ultimately be used (smoking, extraction, etc.).
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It’s also crucial to procure genetics from a reputable source. Much like livestock or show dogs, cannabis breeders work tirelessly to ensure their seeds and clones are the cream of the crop—literally. And in cannabis, trust is everything, so a breeder having a strong reputation for good genetics is key.
Cannabis seeds vs clone
Pot plants come from one of two places: seeds or clones. Seeds are created when a female cannabis plant is exposed to the pollen from a male plant.
Every seed offers a unique phenotype, capturing characteristics from both parents. But like a human baby, you won’t quite know what you’re getting until the plant matures. Most hobby growers and beginners start from seed because they’re easier to procure and offer variety in the garden.
Clones are cuttings taken from “mother” plants. They provide more consistent results than seeds and are great for growers who want to know precisely what they’re getting. Clones also offer peace of mind, as the mother plant has likely been thoroughly vetted. Large-scale commercial cultivators typically opt for clones for this reason.
Cannabis seed banks
If you’re looking for quality cannabis seeds, these distinguished breeders have proven themselves to be purveyors of top-shelf pot. Make sure to consider whether you want regular, feminized, or autoflower seeds. Here’s the difference:
- Regular cannabis seeds may be male or female. They’re ideal for people who may want to breed.
- Feminized seeds are bred to produce female plants. While there’s a slim chance a plant could still end up as a male, feminized seeds typically offer great results for smokable bud.
- Autoflower seeds mature based on time, not light cycles. They tend to produce smaller plants that grow quickly, making them ideal for growers lacking space or who want a fast turnaround.
From heirloom legacy genetics to potent autos, here are five cannabis seed companies to check out.
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Blimburn
Blimburn is a Barcelona-based seed bank popular with growers around the world. The company offers every type of weed seed you can think of in a variety of strains. Whether searching for classic cultivars like Blue Dream or hype strains such as Mimosa, you have the pick of the litter at Blimburn. The company also has its own line of nutrients, offering a one-stop shop for growers.
Humboldt Seed Co.
Based in the famed Emerald Triangle but renowned across the globe, Humboldt Seed Co. is a cannabis genetics juggernaut. Trusted by big-name weed brands and home growers alike, the revered seed bank is well-known for its terpene-rich varieties. Humboldt Seed Co. is relentless in its quest for quality, engaging in massive annual phenohunts where the very best plants are picked for production. This includes the recent collab between Michelin-starred Lazy Bear and cultivators Sonoma Hills Farm.
Fast Buds
If you’re in the market for autoflowers, Fast Buds is the brand for you. An American Autoflower Cup winner, the brand offers a robust selection of strains that’ll satisfy any smoker. Feminized seeds are also available, but Fast Buds is typically recognized for its autos. While based in the Czech Republic, the company has a strong U.S.-based team set to assist growers with any and all questions along their journey.
Tangled Roots
The Emerald Triangle is known around the world for its cannabis. Tangled Roots aims to share the Northern California legacy by offering varieties from craft cultivators in the region. Huckleberry Hill Farm, Redwood Roots, and Canna County Farms are just a few of the red-hot growers making their genetics available for the first time on this platform. Secure the latest and greatest strains while supporting family farms with Tangled Roots.
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Zamnesia
One of the top cannabis seed banks in Europe, Zamnesia has been making a splash stateside thanks to its impressive menu. The brand has regular, feminized, and autoflower seeds available—all at reasonable prices. The company has its own in-house genetics and partners with brands like Sensi Seeds and Royal Queen to supplement the catalog. Zamnesia also has an online grow shop to ensure customers have everything they need to succeed.
Cannabis seeds for all
The legalization era has seen a boom in the number of weed seed companies, but the majority of the big players have been in the game for decades. More boutique breeders like Bulletproof, Farmhouse Studio, and FLVR Bank are starting to make waves, bringing fresh, new varieties to the cannabis marketplace. Whichever path you take, it’s clear there are plenty of top-shelf seeds to pick from.
