This is a note from our sponsors.
You’ve just taken the first step into the exciting world of marijuana cultivation, and we’re here to ensure you succeed every step of the way.
Whether you’re a curious beginner or a budding enthusiast, our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about cannabis plants. From selecting the perfect strain to mastering the art of cultivation, we’ve got you covered.
Learn everything you need to know to grow marijuana and why Seed Supreme is our top seed bank choice!
What Factors Should You Consider Before Growing Weed
Start your marijuana cultivation journey with thoughtful planning. Consider these factors when starting to grow marijuana.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Growing
Indoor cultivation provides a controlled environment, allowing you to manipulate light, temperature, and humidity. This control can result in higher-quality buds but requires an initial investment in equipment like grow lights and ventilation systems.
Outdoor cultivation relies on natural sunlight and can yield larger crops due to the unlimited space and natural conditions. However, it’s essential to consider your local climate and potential pests or diseases that may affect your plants.
Strain Selection
Choosing the right strain when growing cannabis is a pivotal decision in your cultivation journey. Each strain offers unique characteristics regarding habitus, flavor, potency, and effects. Whether you prefer the relaxing effects of an Indica or the energizing buzz of a Sativa, research and select a strain that aligns with your preferences and growing conditions.
Cultivation Space
Assess your cultivation area before choosing your cultivar. This will allow you to choose a strain best suited for your space. You can then germinate enough seeds to properly fill a room, tent or closet without overcrowding
Legal Regulations and Local Laws
Before diving into cultivation and cannabis growing, familiarize yourself with the legal landscape of marijuana in your area. While some regions permit personal cultivation, others have strict regulations or outright bans. Understanding the legal implications ensures you stay compliant and avoid potential legal issues.
Soil and Nutrients
Decide what type of cultivation method suits your space and personal style. Soil is a great place to start, and choosing a high quality soil and organic nutrients will benefit both you and your plants, helping to develop terpenes and depth of flavor. Many indoor cultivators opt for soil-less substrates such as rockwool or coco, this allows for more precise feeding cycles and monitoring.
Watering and Maintenance
Consistent watering and maintenance are crucial for healthy plant growth. Overwatering or underwatering can lead to nutrient deficiencies or root rot. Develop a watering schedule and regularly monitor your plants to ensure they thrive.
Pest and Disease Control
Pests and diseases can wreak havoc on your cannabis plants if left unchecked. Implement preventive measures such as regular inspections, proper ventilation, and organic pest control to protect your plants from threats like spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew.
Harvesting and Curing
Knowing when and how to harvest your buds is essential for maximizing potency and flavor. Additionally, curing your harvested buds properly enhances their aroma and smoothness. Familiarize yourself with the signs of readiness for harvest and proper curing techniques to enjoy the best possible end product.
How to Grow Marijuana
Germinating Marijuana Plants
Starting with germination, you have a couple of options. The paper towel method remains a favorite among many growers. Place your seeds between two damp paper towels and keep them in a warm, dark place – preferably inside a ziplock bag (partially zipped).
This will help increase humidity and prevent germinated seeds from accidentally drying out. Then check daily, ensuring the paper towels remain moist until you see the seeds sprout.
Alternatively, plant your seeds directly into a seedling tray filled with pre-moistened soil, covering them lightly with a thin layer of soil.
Seedling Stage
Once your seeds have sprouted, they enter the delicate seedling stage. During this phase, handle them with care, ensuring they receive gentle light (avoid direct sunlight, as it may harm young plants). A sunny window can suffice, but if natural light is limited, consider using grow lights and seedling heat mat designed for young plants. Water lightly, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Vegetative Stage
The vegetative stage is a time of rapid growth. Your plants will begin to develop leaves, branches, and stems as they prepare for flowering.
To support this vigorous growth, provide them with 18+ hours of light daily. Alongside light, feed them a balanced nutrient solution rich in nitrogen to promote healthy vegetative growth.
Flowering Stage
As your plants mature, they naturally transition to the flowering stage when grown outdoors. For indoor cultivation, growers will need to restrict light from 18/6 to 12/12.
This phase requires a change in light cycle to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness to induce bud production. Monitor your autoflowering plants closely, as this is when they’ll require extra care and attention to thrive and produce high-quality buds.
Harvesting
Determining the right time to harvest is crucial for potency and flavor. Look for signs of maturity, such as cloudy and amber trichomes and vibrant pistils. Typically, growers will de-leaf the plants and harvest them whole, allowing the drying process to take place before manicuring and separating the buds.
This method helps maintain the shape and appearance of the buds, avoiding unsightly flat spots that can occur with wet trimming. It also helps to slow the drying process, leading to a smoother smoke.Handle the plants gently to preserve the integrity of the trichomes during this process.
Drying
After harvesting, proper drying is essential to prevent mold and preserve potency. Hang your whole, de-leafed plants upside down in a dark, well-ventilated room with a standard temperature 60°F (15°C) at 60% humidity.
Allow them to dry for 7-10 days, checking regularly until the stems snap rather than bend. Once dried, you can then proceed with trimming and manicuring the buds to achieve the desired final product.
Curing
Curing is a critical step to enhance the flavor, aroma, and smoothness of your buds. Place your dried buds in glass jars, filling them about 3/4 full to allow for air circulation. Store the jars in a cool, dark place, opening them daily for the first week to release excess moisture.
Curing for at least 2-4 weeks will yield the best results, and opening the jar lid (burping) to release the fermenting gasses once a week, improves the overall quality of your buds.
Storing
Once cured, it’s time to store your buds for long-term preservation. Transfer them to airtight containers, such as glass jars with tight-sealing lids. Store these jars in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and moisture to maintain their freshness, potency, and quality for extended periods. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy your homegrown cannabis at its best whenever you choose to indulge.
What Equipment Do You Need?
Grow Lights
LEDs, HIDs or just a sunny spot in your yard provide essential light spectrums for growth. Choose based on your budget, available space, and personal preference.
Growing Medium
Soil remains a popular choice due to its simplicity and natural nutrient content. However, supplemental nutrients will still be required to ensure optimal plant health and growth. Alternatively, consider coco coir for a soilless option that retains moisture well and promotes robust root growth.
Hydroponic systems offer direct nutrient uptake but require precise management to maintain the correct nutrient balance and pH levels.
Nutrients
These are essential for plant growth and must be tailored to the specific needs of cannabis. Look for nutrients designed for cannabis cultivation, with differing NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium) values appropriate for each life stage.
During the vegetative stage, higher nitrogen levels are beneficial, while the flowering stage requires nutrients with lower nitrogen and higher phosphorus and potassium levels. Using the correct nutrient formulations at each growing stage is crucial to avoid impeding bud production and ensure healthy plant development.
Ventilation System
Proper ventilation helps regulate temperature and control humidity but does not entirely prevent issues like mold or mildew. Ventilation and environmental control are linked but distinct.
Use exhaust fans, intake fans, and ducting for effective air circulation. Consider also using an air conditioner to control heat and some humidity, and a dehumidifier if necessary.
Effective air circulation helps reduce microclimates around plant leaves, minimizing the potential for mold and mildew, but it doesn’t fully prevent these issues.
pH Meter
Monitor pH levels to ensure nutrient absorption. Cannabis prefers slightly acidic conditions. Adjust pH as needed for optimal growth.
Containers or Pots
Choose pots with good drainage to prevent waterlogging. Fabric pots encourage air pruning and healthier root development.
Pruning Shears
Pruning shears are essential for plant health and higher yields when used correctly. Pruning at specific intervals, rather than constantly, can improve airflow, redirect energy to buds, and minimize plant stress.
Over-pruning can negatively impact plant health, as cutting any part of your plant is stressful. There are low-stress training techniques that do not involve cutting, which can also be effective.
When done properly, cannabis can respond well to pruning, but this process is classified as “high-stress.” Invest in sharp, clean shears for precise cuts.
pH Up and pH Down Solutions
pH Up and pH Down solutions fine-tune water or nutrient pH. pH Up raises levels, and pH Down lowers them. Maintain optimal conditions for nutrient absorption by having both solutions ready.
Timer
Use a reliable timer for consistent grow light cycles. During flowering, maximize yields with a set schedule. Peace of mind comes from automated lighting cycles.
Thermometer and Hygrometer
Maintain an ideal growth environment with a thermometer and hygrometer. Aim for 70-85°F (21-29°C) temperatures and 40-60% humidity. Regular monitoring ensures thriving plants.
Tips for Growing Cannabis Seeds
Start with Quality Seeds
The foundation of successful growth begins with quality seeds, starting with healthy and viable genetics. Investing in quality upfront increases the likelihood of robust plants thriving throughout their lifecycle.
Editor’s Pick for Quality Seeds: Seed Supreme is committed to providing quality seeds at every stage of your cultivation journey. Their germination guarantee policy ensures you will get the best seeds.
Maintain Proper pH Levels
Consistency in pH levels is vital for effective nutrient absorption by your cannabis plants. Aim for a slightly acidic pH level, typically between 6.0 and 6.8 for soil growth and 5.5 and 6.5 for hydroponic setups. Regularly check and adjust pH levels using pH testing kits or meters to prevent nutrient lockout and encourage healthy growth.
Water Properly
Proper watering techniques are essential to avoid common pitfalls like root rot or nutrient deficiencies. Water your cannabis plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, allowing for adequate oxygenation of the roots. Ensure your containers have sufficient drainage holes to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to root problems.
Monitor Temperature and Humidity
Optimal temperature and humidity are critical for robust plant growth and resin production. Aim for a temperature range of 68-77°F (20-25°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night.
Humidity levels should be around 40-60% during vegetative and 40-50% during flowering. Utilize thermometers and hygrometers to monitor conditions and consider using fans for air circulation, and consider using A/C and dehumidifier to maintain ideal humidity levels.
Prune Regularly
Regular pruning is essential for promoting plant airflow, reducing pests and diseases risk, and directing energy towards bud production. Focus on removing dead or yellowing leaves and thinning out dense foliage to create a more open and light-penetrable canopy, leading to healthier and more productive plants.
Use Nutrients Wisely
Ensuring your plants get the right nutrients is important to helping them grow big and healthy. But it’s not just about giving them food, you need to use the right ones wisely!
Overdoing it with nutrients can do more harm than good, causing problems like nutrient toxicity. That’s why using the right mix of nutrients, like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is important. These are essential for your plants, helping them grow strong and healthy.
Follow the instructions carefully for the nutrients. A good idea is to start with half the recommended dose to see how your plants react, as some cultivars can be more sensitive than others. Then, gradually increase to the recommended dose as needed.
Keep a close eye on how your plants are doing to make sure they’re happy and healthy. Homegrown Cannabis Nutrients are a great option for your plants’ health and growth.
Control Pests and Diseases
Proactive pest and disease management are essential to safeguard your crop when growing marijuana seeds. Regularly inspect your marijuana plants for signs of pests or diseases and implement preventive measures such as neem oil treatments, insecticidal soaps, or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs or predatory mites. Cleanliness and proper ventilation also play a vital role in preventing fungal diseases.
Be Patient
Patience is a virtue in cannabis plant cultivation. Each growth stage, from germination to harvest, requires time and attention. Resist the urge to rush or make hasty decisions, as this can lead to mistakes or suboptimal results. Trust the process, adhere to best practices, and savor the experience of nurturing your cannabis plants to maturity.
Educate Yourself Continuously
The realm of cannabis cultivation is continually evolving, with new techniques, strains, and research emerging regularly. Dedicate time to educate yourself through books, online forums, tutorials, and connecting with fellow growers. Continuous learning enhances your skills and equips you to adapt to new challenges and innovations.
Harvest at the Right Time
Timing your harvest correctly is paramount to maximizing potency, flavor, and yield. Use a jeweler’s loupe or microscope to examine trichomes on the buds. Look for a milky-white appearance with some amber trichomes for peak THC levels and a balanced high. Harvesting too early or too late can diminish the quality and potency of your final product, so patience and careful observation are key.
Popular Weed Strains to Grow
Selecting the right cannabis seed strain is a pivotal decision for any cultivator, as each strain offers a unique blend of flavors, effects, and growth characteristics. Here are five popular weed strains worth considering for your cultivation journey, with detailed descriptions of their key attributes.
1. Blue Dream from Homegrown Cannabis Co.
- Type: Sativa-dominant hybrid
- Flavor: A harmonious blend of sweet berries and herbal undertones
- Effects: Initially uplifting and cerebral, transitioning into a gentle body relaxation
- THC Content: Moderate (17-24%)
Growth: Versatile—thrives indoors and outdoors, beginner-friendly
2. OG Kush from Seed Supreme
- Type: Indica-dominant hybrid
- Flavor: Earthy, pine, and citrus notes
- Effects: Relaxing, euphoric, couch-lock potential
- THC Content: High (20-25%)
Growth: Indoor-friendly, dense resinous buds
3. Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) from Homegrown Cannabis Co.
- Type: Hybrid
- Flavor: Sweet, spicy, earthy blend
- Effects: Balanced high, cerebral to full-body relaxation
- THC Content: High (25-28%)
Growth: Adaptable, resilient—great for versatility
4. Sour Diesel from Seed Supreme
- Type: Sativa
- Flavor: Pungent diesel, citrus, earthy
- Effects: Energizing, enhances creativity and focus
- THC Content: High (20-25%)
Growth: Indoor thrive, regular topping increases number of buds
5. Northern Lights from Homegrown Cannabis Co.
- Type: Indica
- Flavor: Sweet, earthy, pine
- Effects: Deeply relaxing, ideal for evenings
- THC Content: Moderate to high (16-21%)
Growth: Resilient, beginner-friendly, compact stature, fast flowering
Best 2 Seed Banks: Where to Buy Cannabis Weed Seeds
- Seed Supreme – Best for Variety
- Homegrown Cannabis – Best for Beginner Growers
Top Seed Banks To Buy Marijuana Seeds
1. Seed Supreme – Best for Marijuana Seeds Variety
Seed Supreme stands out as a go-to seed bank for those who crave variety in their cannabis seeds. With an extensive catalog boasting thousands of strains, you’re bound to find something that piques your interest, whether you’re a novice or an experienced grower. The wide selection covers everything from classic favorites to rare and exotic strains, catering to all tastes and preferences.
Reputation
Seed Supreme has built a commendable reputation on strain variety. Growers explore and experiment with different strains, enhancing their cultivation experience. Whether you’re interested in germinating cannabis seeds, nurturing cannabis plants, or achieving optimal growth during the vegetative stage, Seed Supreme has you covered.
Seed Variety and Quality
Seed Supreme’s strength lies in unparalleled variety including thousands of strains, encompassing Sativas, Indicas, hybrids, and CBD-rich varieties. Each strain undergoes quality control to ensure viability, potency, and genetic purity. Seed Supreme provides the essential building blocks to grow marijuana, from seedling heat mats to LED grow lights.
Shipping and Delivery Policies
Seed Supreme offers worldwide shipping. They utilize discreet packaging to protect your privacy and arrive in pristine condition. However, it’s essential to be aware of local laws, while Seed Supreme provides top-quality seeds, compliance with legal regulations is crucial.
2. Homegrown Cannabis Co – Best for Beginner Growers
Homegrown Cannabis Co prioritizes quality over quantity. What they lack in quantity, they make up for in quality. Each strain in their curated collection undergoes meticulous quality control to ensure genetic stability, potency, and viability, making them a trusted choice for discerning growers.
Reputation
Their focus on curating a collection of high-quality, potent strains has resonated with growers who prioritize the quality of their harvests above all else. Many growers appreciate that they’re planting seeds from a reputable source that prioritizes quality at every step.
Seed Variety and Quality
While Homegrown Cannabis might not offer extensive variety, their curated selection ensures each strain meets quality standards. They offer a range of strains chosen for their exceptional quality and potency. Each seed from Homegrown Cannabis is of the highest quality for a high-THC strain or a CBD-rich variety.
Shipping and Delivery Policies
Homegrown Cannabis offers reliable shipping options. They utilize discreet packaging to ensure your seeds remain undamaged. While they aim for quick delivery, it’s always advisable to opt for tracked shipping to your order’s progress and updates. The customer service team is available to assist with any shipping inquiries.
Choosing the Right Cannabis Seeds for Your Needs
How to Choose the Best Cannabis Seeds
Selecting the right cannabis seeds is vital for a fruitful growing journey. Begin by determining the type of cannabis you prefer: Indica, Sativa, or hybrid. Indica strains induce relaxation, Sativas provide energy, and hybrids blend traits from both.
If you’re growing indoors, consider strains that are more compact and suited to confined spaces. For outdoor growers, choose strains more resilient to pests and weather conditions.
Lastly, consider the THC and CBD levels of the strains you’re interested in. THC produces psychoactive effects, while CBD offers therapeutic benefits without the high.
Advantages/Benefits of Choosing Cannabis Seeds
Investing in top-notch cannabis seeds brings multiple benefits. Quality seeds have higher germination rates, ensuring successful growth. They yield healthier plants with better potency and yields. Upfront investment in quality seeds saves time, money, and effort in the long term.
Attributes that Differentiate Quality Seeds
When purchasing cannabis seeds, it’s helpful to look for dark-colored seeds with firm shells, as these are often more viable. However, some high-quality seeds may not fit this visual criterion.
Reputable seed banks provide detailed information on genetics, THC/CBD levels, and growing traits, which is crucial for making informed decisions. If you receive seeds that don’t visually match the ideal, refer to the information provided by the seed bank and focus on their reputation and the details about the seed’s genetics and growing traits.
Best Practices for Growing Cannabis
Best Way to Germinate Cannabis Seeds
Germinating cannabis seeds is the first step in your growing journey. One common method is to start by soaking your seeds in water for 12-24 hours until they sink to the bottom. However, this step is optional and not preferred by all growers.
You can directly place the seeds directly between moist paper towels and keep them in a warm, dark place, as we have mentioned, using a half open ziplock bag. Check the seeds daily and ensure the paper towels remain moist. Once the seeds have sprouted, they are ready for planting.
Prerequisites and Precautions for Cannabis Cultivation
Before starting your cannabis grow, assess the space, time, and resources needed. Ensure a sweet spot environment with proper light, ventilation, and temperature control. Invest in quality soil or nutrients for healthy growth.
When growing cannabis, always prioritize safety. Secure the growing area away from children and pets. Handle plants with care, avoiding overfeeding or overwatering to prevent issues like nutrient deficiencies.
Marijuana Seeds FAQ
What Is the Difference Between the Indica and Sativa Strains?
Indica strains are known for their relaxing and sedative effects. They often produce a “body high” that can help with pain relief, insomnia, and relaxation. Sativa strains, on the other hand, offer energizing and uplifting effects. They typically produce a “head high” that can enhance creativity, focus, and mood. Hybrid strains combine traits from both Indica and Sativa strains, offering a balanced effect that can vary depending on the specific genetics.
How Do I Store Cannabis Seeds Properly?
To maintain the viability of cannabis seeds, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a refrigerator. Place the seeds in an airtight container or vacuum-sealed bag to protect them from moisture and light. Proper storage can extend the seeds’ lifespan and ensure they remain viable for future growth.
How Long Does It Take for Cannabis Seeds to Germinate?
Cannabis seeds typically germinate within 24-120 hours, depending on various factors such as the strain, the age of the seeds, germination method, and environmental conditions. Some seeds may sprout as quickly as 24-48 hours, while others may take up to a week or more. It’s essential to be patient and provide a consistent, warm, and moist environment to encourage germination.
What Nutrients Do Cannabis Plants Need?
Cannabis plants require a balance of primary nutrients: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), often referred to as N-P-K. Additionally, they need secondary nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, along with micronutrients such as iron, zinc, and copper. Using a balanced nutrient formula designed for cannabis cultivation can help ensure your plants receive all the essential nutrients they need to thrive.
Conclusion On How To Grow Marijuana
The standout brand that excels is Seed Supreme. It offers high-quality seeds of varied strains at competitive prices, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced growers. Their commitment to quality is evident in the seeds they provide, ensuring a higher germination rate and healthier plants.
Whether you’re looking to grow Indica, Sativa, autoflowering or hybrid strains, Seed Supreme has something for everyone. Their attention to detail, quality, and customer service set them apart as the winning choice in the cannabis seed market. Choose Seed Supreme for a rewarding and successful growing experience
Disclaimer: This article does not encourage readers to grow marijuana where it is not legal to do so. It is highly recommended to check legal questions before purchasing these products.
