Unlike feminized seeds, regular seeds can grow into either male or female cannabis plants. Therefore, they are a better choice for growers looking to start breeding. They also reduce the stress associated with hermaphrodite plants during the growing process.
This makes them popular among breeders. However, they can be challenging to grow for beginners.
They are cheaper
Regular seeds are cheaper than feminized seeds, as they do not come with the added cost of sexing male plants. They also perform the way nature intended and offer breeders an opportunity to create unique strains with specific qualities, such as higher THC or CBD levels.
Generally speaking, a batch of 10 regularly germinated seeds should give about 50% female and 50% male plants. However, this is not always the case. For this reason, it is best to purchase more seeds than you need to account for any males that you will have to cull.
Plants grown from regular seeds are usually hardy and stress-resistant. They can withstand changes in photoperiod, poor water conditions, and over fertilization without showing any male characteristics (hermaphroditism). While breeding may be difficult for novice growers, it is an exciting adventure that most agree is well worth the effort. Breeding can result in more robust yields and improved potency. This is particularly true when you combine two strong strains to produce a hybrid.
They are easier to breed
The most obvious advantage of regular seeds is that they produce a larger percentage of female plants than their feminized counterparts. This means that you can easily double your yields if you grow them with the same amount of space as feminized seeds. This is a huge benefit because it will save on substrate and other cultivation products, and you’ll have fewer male plants to remove.
It’s also much easier to breed regular seeds than feminized ones. This is because you can use a technique called “brush pollen” to achieve fertilisation. This involves brushing pollen from a male plant against a female plant to create a hybrid seed.
This is an easy way to produce a new strain, and it’s perfect for those who want to experiment with different genetics and phenotypes. It’s also a good idea for those who are looking to learn the skills of breeding at home, as this can be very rewarding in the long term.
They are more stable
If you are looking for a stable cannabis plant, then regular seeds are the best option. Unlike feminized seeds, which produce on average about 50% male plants, regular seeds produce female plants that are stronger and less likely to become hermaphrodites when stressed during the growing process.
Another advantage of regular seeds is that they can be bred to produce new strains. This is important for growers who want to create unique and high-quality marijuana varieties. The breeding process is not a complicated one, and it can be done by home growers with a little bit of experience.
However, the disadvantage of regular seeds is that they are more susceptible to pests and diseases than feminized seeds. For this reason, they are often treated with pesticides and fungicides to prevent disease outbreaks and improve germination. However, high levels of these chemicals can cause side effects. Moreover, they can also interfere with the natural immune system of the plant.
They are easier to germinate
While regular seeds may seem less “pure,” they offer many advantages. For example, they can help you practice growing and develop your skills. They also make it easier to breed and create new strains. In addition, they are more stable and can be used to produce clones for later growth.
Choosing the right seeds for your grow will depend on several factors, including the strain, source, and germination method. Start by selecting a strain that has a high rate of germination. Look for a dark, teardrop-shaped seed with splotches or stripes of different brown and black colors. Avoid seeds with a pale or green color, as they are less likely to germinate.
Soak the seeds in distilled water for 24 hours. This will help the seeds absorb oxygen and prevent them from drowning. Do not soak seeds for longer than this, as they will deprive them of the air needed to grow. Then, place the seeds in a damp paper towel and store them in a plastic container at a warm temperature until they sprout.