Autoflower vs Feminized Seeds Explained | Differences of Cannabis Genetics

When growing cannabis, there are different types of seeds, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. In this blog, I will explain the differences between autoflowers, feminized seeds and F1 hybrids so you can make the best choice for your grow.

What are autoflower seeds?

Autoflower seeds are special cannabis seeds that enter the flowering phase regardless of the amount of light they receive. This means that they do not rely on a specific number of hours of light per day to flower. Autoflower seeds are particularly popular with beginners because they are easier to handle.

Advantages of autoflower seeds:

• Fast growing cycle : They usually only take 8-10 weeks from germination to harvest.
• Independent of the light cycle : You do not need to change the light cycle to initiate flowering.
• Compact size : Ideal for limited growing areas.

Disadvantages of autoflower seeds:

• Lower yield : Compared to feminized seeds, the yield is often lower.
• Lower potency : Autoflower plants tend to have lower THC levels.

Click HERE to learn more about growing autoflower cannabis seeds!

What are feminized seeds?

Feminized seeds are bred to produce almost exclusively female plants. Female plants are the preferred choice for cultivation as they produce the flowers that contain the highest levels of cannabinoids.

Advantages of feminized seeds:

• Higher yield : These plants produce higher yields on average.
• Higher potency : Feminized plants tend to have higher THC levels.
• No room for male plants : You don't have to weed out male plants that don't produce flowers.

Disadvantages of feminized seeds:

• Longer growing season : The growth and flowering phases are longer and require careful light control.
• Higher maintenance : Requires more attention and experience.

Click HERE to learn more about growing feminized cannabis seeds!

What are F1 hybrids?

F1 hybrids are the first generation of offspring resulting from the crossing of two different but stable parent plants. These hybrids combine the best characteristics of both parents and are known for their vigor and uniform characteristics .

Advantages of F1 hybrids:

• Higher yields : Thanks to heterosis (hybrid vigour), these plants often have a higher yield.
• Robustness : F1 hybrids are often more resistant to disease and stress.
• Uniformity : They grow more homogeneously and are therefore more predictable.

Disadvantages of F1 hybrids:

• Cost : Often more expensive than regular seeds.
• Availability : Not always easy to find.

The phase transitions in autoflower seeds

• Autoflower seeds automatically switch from the vegetative phase to the flowering phase regardless of the light cycle, so you don't have to worry about changing the light cycle.
• Feminized seeds require a light cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours dark to initiate the flowering phase, which means you need to monitor the light cycles carefully.

Tips for cultivation

• Maintain light cycles : Make sure you maintain the correct light cycle for each phase of your plant.
• Correct temperature : Keep the temperature constant to avoid stress.
• Control humidity : Make sure the humidity level meets your plants' needs at each stage.
• Adjust nutrients : Adjust nutrient supply to the needs of the plants at each growth stage.

cultivation timeline

phase	Autoflower	Feminized
germination	1-3 days	1-3 days
seedling phase	1-2 weeks	1-2 weeks
vegetative phase	2-4 weeks	3-16 weeks (depending on the light cycle)
flowering phase	5-7 weeks	7-10 weeks
total duration	8-10 weeks	12-26 weeks

Table: Comparison of yield and effect

feature	Autoflower	Feminized	F1 hybrids
yield	Low to medium	High	Very high
growing season	8-10 weeks	12-26 weeks	10-16 weeks
light requirements	Independent of the light cycle	12 hours of light/12 hours of darkness	Varies depending on genetics
power	Medium to high	High	High to very high
Size	Compact	Bigger	Medium to large
care requirements	Low	Medium to high	Medium to high
Effect	Balanced to energetic	Varies depending on the variety	Varies depending on the variety

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced grower, it's important to know the differences between autoflower, feminized seeds, and F1 hybrids to get the best results. Autoflower seeds are perfect for quick and easy growing cycles, feminized seeds offer higher yields and potency, while F1 hybrids are valued for their robustness and uniformity.

By understanding these differences, you can optimize your growing strategy and achieve the best yields !