The cannabis seeds industry is thriving due to the growing popularity of legal weed and the expansion of retail stores. However, the growth of this market has faced some setbacks recently.
There are several types of cannabis seed – regular, feminized, autoflowering and CBD. Understanding the differences between these seed types will help you choose the best seeds for your grow.
Germination
Cannabis seeds need to germinate in order for them to grow into a full-grown plant. This is the first step in their lifecycle and requires a lot of attention and precision.
A seed will need water, warmth, and air to sprout a small taproot and then begin growing leaves. In the right conditions, this process should be triggered within 12-36 hours of moisture being introduced.
Germination of cannabis seeds is relatively easy and can be done in several ways. However, it is best to stick with a method that has proven successful time and time again.
Soil
A cannabis seed is a delicate organism and needs to be protected from any interference. The most natural way to do this is by germinating your seeds in soil.
Soil contains minerals and microbes that help your plants develop. It also has the perfect temperature for germination.
Potting soil is the best for germinating cannabis seed because it has the right acidity and a good balance of nutrients. The pH level of potting soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
Light
Cannabis seeds contain all the genetic information needed to germinate and grow into a plant. To sprout, a seed must receive light (in the right spectrum), moisture, and temperature.
The first signs that a seed has sprouted are the emergence of the first white tap root, or radicle. It will push its way deeper underground in search of more water, and send up a shoot that will eventually become the first leaves of the plant.
This stage of growth lasts for about 2-3 weeks indoors and up to 6 weeks outdoors, depending on the strain. After the seedling grows a strong root system, it will transition to the vegetative stage, where it produces leaves for photosynthesis. The vegetative stage will last from 3 to 16 weeks.
Temperature
Temperature is one of the most important factors to consider when germinating cannabis seed. Overall, seeds need temperatures between 70degF-90degF (21degC-32degC) to germinate properly.
Seed germination can be compromised by low or high temperature, too much moisture and lack of air. In fact, many growers will germinate their seeds indoors before they go outside to maximise their germination rates.
Some growers find that jiffy pods, coffee filters and rock wool cubes work well for cannabis seeds. However, the Dutch Passion team have seen cases of seed germination issues when growers use these methods incorrectly.
Water
Cannabis seed requires a certain amount of water to germinate and grow healthy. Experienced cannabis growers know that overwatering seeds can stunt growth and even kill them, while overwatering plants can cause rot in their roots.
To avoid this, it’s important to water only the amount of soil your plant needs, not more than 25% of its pot volume. This way, the water will drain away without soaking the soil to excess.
It’s also important to use the right type of water when you’re growing your cannabis plants, as tap water and river water differ a lot. Moreover, it’s important to check the pH and EC levels of your water so that your plants can absorb all the nutrients they need.