Cannabis seeds are the source of new, genetically distinct cannabis plants. They are produced by female plants after a male plant pollinates them.
A viable seed looks brown with white stripes and is hard to the touch. It is also very fragile at this stage. This is why most growers use the paper towel method to germinate their seeds.
Benefits
Cannabis seeds are a great source of dietary fiber, protein and fatty acids like omega-3s and omega-6s. They also contain high levels of antioxidants, chlorophyll and immune-stimulating secondary plant compounds. These substances support the body’s healing process, and strengthen the immune system.
These seeds also help maintain a healthy heart, as they contain the amino acid arginine and other compounds that aid in blood flow. They also contain nitric oxide, which helps relax the muscles and widens blood vessels to promote healthy circulation. They are a great option for those who want to reduce the risk of heart disease.
Feminized marijuana seeds produce only female plants and are the recommended choice for beginner growers. They help you avoid wasting 50% of your space on male plants and ensure that the females don’t pollinate each other, which would cut your yield by 80-90%. They are easy to grow and produce a large harvest in about 4-6 weeks.
Medicinal properties
Cannabis is a flowering plant with several medicinal properties. It is often consumed to relieve pain and anxiety, and it can be used as a sleep aid. It is also known to stimulate appetite, improve mood, and promote healthy skin and hair.
The seeds of the hemp plant are a good source of fatty acids, protein, and vitamins. They are also rich in minerals such as magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, and calcium. The seeds also contain antioxidants, which can help prevent diseases like heart disease.
The cannabis seed market is segmented by nature, type, and distribution channel. The regular seed segment dominates the market, followed by feminized and autoflowering seeds. The specialty stores segment exhibits the fastest growth in the market, owing to their detailed product specification and expert guidance to customers. The other segment includes wholesalers and distributors. The global cannabis seeds market size is expected to grow in the forecast period. This is due to the increasing use of cannabis seeds in various applications.
Germination
In order for a seed to start growing into a full-grown plant, it must first sprout. This process is triggered by warmth and moisture. It is very important to make sure the seeds are properly stored, as well as providing the proper environmental conditions for germination.
If the seeds are not properly soaked, or the growing medium is too dry, it can delay or even prevent germination. Seeds can also fail to sprout if they are planted too deep, which hinders root development as the young roots need adequate oxygen to get started.
The easiest way to germinate cannabis seeds is to put them in a glass of water. The water should be warm and preferably slightly acidic. The seeds should be left to soak for a few days, and then carefully transferred into pre-prepared soil pots. Alternatively, you can use stone wool blocks to create an ideal environment for the seeds, which will keep them moist and warm without needing to be regularly watered.
Storage
The conditions in which cannabis seeds are stored can have a significant impact on their viability and longevity. Ideally, they should be kept in cool, dark, and dry storage. This is the same environment in which they are found in nature, but a lot of people don’t realize that storing seeds in a refrigerator can have an adverse effect on them. This is because the fridge is usually very cold, but it also experiences fluctuating moisture levels whenever the door is opened and closed.
This can cause the seeds to use up their nutrient stores before they ever see soil, which can result in a lower germination rate. Storing seeds in a cool cabinet or drawer with stable temperatures can be just as effective. Some growers also find that gently scratching the ridge on the seed with a Stanley blade helps it to absorb moisture and begin germination. This technique works especially well for older seeds that have developed an extra tough outer shell over time.