Germination is a step that is often not given as much importance as the flowering stage by many growers in the cannabis cultivation journey. However, using high-quality seeds and proper germination techniques are the foundation for sturdy and resilient plants.
Our guide offers everything beginner marijuana growers need to know. We cover the best methods for germination and environmental factors that need to be controlled, and we also offer expert tips for tricky growing problems.
In addition, we also provide valuable information on where to get the best seeds to grow cannabis plants with significantly high potency yields.
There is much to cover. So, let’s go!
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Why Is it Better to Grow Your Own Cannabis Seeds?
If you are toying with the idea of growing cannabis seeds, then you might be wondering whether it is worth the hassle. There are plenty of benefits to germinating your own seeds. Here are the main advantages:
It saves money and maintains quality. Regular purchases from quality seed banks can be costly. Outdoor growing requires minimal investment, and despite the fact that indoor growing requires some initial equipment, it is still much cheaper in the long run.
You will have full control over the quality of your plants, and you can be sure that no harmful pesticides or chemicals are used. In addition, you can also oversee the curing process for a more aromatic and potent result.
What is great is that you always have a dependable supply of weed for your therapeutic or recreational needs.
Different Germination Methods
Understanding the different kinds of germination methods can help you to pick the right one for your skill level and growing setup.
Water
Placing the seeds in water is a straightforward way to germinate seeds that have hard shells or are older. For this you need to fill a glass or bowl halfway with warm water and drop the seeds into the glass.
The viable ones will sink over time. However, you should avoid soaking them for more than 24 hours.
After three to five days, the seeds germinate and crack open to reveal a tiny white root. When the cannabis roots are 1–2 cm long, the seedlings need to be transplanted to their final growing medium, like soil.
Wet Paper Towel
The wet paper towel method involves lightly wetting two clean paper towels with distilled warm water to create a moist environment. Place one paper towel flat, space the seeds on top, and cover them with the second paper towel.
The seeds should be kept in a container to maintain humidity. When the tap root is 1–2 cm long (a half inch), you can proceed with planting germinated seeds.
Soil
You can also plant straight into the soil. Directly germinating cannabis seeds into the soil is a less disruptive method. To do this, you need to use high-quality, pre-moistened soil that is also rich in nutrients needed during the first few weeks of growth.
Create shallow holes about 10–15 mm deep, place each seed in the hole, and cover it loosely with soil. You should lightly water the soil and place the pots in a warm spot.
This process is easier and less stressful on the plants. However, it can take longer for the seedlings to develop, at around 4–10 days.
Jiffy Pellets (Soil Plugs)
Jiffy pellets are made from peat and other materials that retain enough moisture to support young seedlings. Place the seeds in the small holes in the pellets, then mist them with a little bit of water and cover them to create a moist environment.
Stone Wool Blocks
You can use stone wool blocks for a more precise method. The blocks should be soaked in distilled water. Place one seed into the hole of each block, and then cover them.
The temperature should be kept at typical springtime conditions (22–25°C ) in order for sprouts to appear within 1–2 days.
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Environmental Factors
For healthy cannabis plant growth, it is important to provide seeds with the perfect environmental conditions.
Temperature
Young seedlings thrive in temperatures between 70-85°F (20-30°C). Higher temperatures above 90°F can cause stress, while anything below 60°F runs the risk of slowing growth and disease.
It is important to maintain a consistent temperature sweet spot, as unnecessary fluctuations can cause plant stress. Heat levels should be monitored with thermometers and kept at ideal levels using heaters and fans.
Nutrition
While seeds do come with the necessary nutrients needed to start germination, once their outer shell has been removed, they require additional nutrients.
The seedlings should be placed in a balanced, nutrient-rich environment that is not overly nitrogen-rich, as it can harm their growth. The nutrient solution should only be added a little bit at a time, along with distilled water.
Over-fertilizing can also damage their delicate root systems. If the seedlings are in the soil, ensure it isn't overly nitrogen-rich, as it can harm their growth.
Light
Proper lighting is also essential. At the seedling stage, most indoor growers use low-intensity grow lights such as fluorescent or LED lights. These should be placed 15 cm over the plants.
If you are an outdoor grower, you should aim to provide a mix of light and shade for the first few hours each day to limit excessive UV exposure and help the seedlings move to the vegetative stage successfully.
Moisture
Water content is another vital factor that needs to be carefully managed in the early stages of development.
It is important to keep the growing medium moist without causing waterlogging, as this can stunt growth or cause root rot. The amount of water added to the growing medium needs to be carefully measured and evenly distributed. You can use a simple measuring cup for this.
You can use products like a humidity dome for moisture retention, or cost-effective methods like covering the medium with plastic wrap can achieve similar effects. This approach supports a higher germination rate and healthier plants.
Airflow
Proper ventilation and fresh air are also important to produce healthy plants that have sturdy stems to support dense leaf and bud growth. Airflow can be managed with the help of oscillating fans, which reduces the risk of mold.
Space
The amount of space needed for each plant needs to be estimated before germinating cannabis seeds. Crowded seedlings may compete for resources, leading to weak, spindly plants.
You can start with individual containers, such as solo cups or red solo cups, which provide each cannabis plant with enough room during its initial stages.
When the seedlings outgrow their containers, you can transplant them carefully into a larger pot with sufficient room for root expansion.
When and How to Transfer Your Seedling to Soil?
When your seedlings reach a certain stage, it is important to transfer them to their final growing spot. Waiting too long can lead to a tangled root system and stunt their growth.
You should move new seedlings to the soil when the roots begin to show a little bit through drainage holes. Having a few sets of around 4-5 true leaves is another sign that transplanting is needed. This stage usually happens 7-10 days after germination.
You need to prepare the final growing medium by filling a larger pot with moist, airy soil. Poke holes to make space for the root ball. Then, gently remove the plant, and take care not to damage the stem when handling the roots or surrounding soil.
Place the plant root ball in the hole and keep the leaves above the surface. Once this is done, you can loosely cover the roots with soil.
Water the soil to stabilize the roots, and place the young seedlings in a dark place away from direct light for 24 hours in a moist place to further minimize the stress of transplanting.
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Tips for First-Time Growers
Now that we have covered all the basics of germinating cannabis seeds let us walk you through a few expert tips.
To grow successfully, choose dark seeds with darker coatings, as these are more likely to sprout.
Maintain a temperature range of 71–77°F and keep the humidity within 57–67% during the critical first 1–3 weeks.
Avoid using municipal tap water as it may include chlorine and other chemicals.
It is helpful to create a gentle airflow using a small oscillating fan. This helps the seedlings develop stronger stems and reduces the chance of fungal problems.
When applying the paper towel method to germinate cannabis seeds, avoid over soaking the towels, as this can cause the seeds to lose the ability to absorb oxygen.
If you are planting directly into the soil, do not use compacted soil, as this can also hinder the sprouting and germination rate.
Easy to Grow Cannabis Seeds
If you are new to cannabis germination, then the following seed options are perfect for you, as they are easy to grow, resilient and adaptable to different growing conditions.
Northern Lights
This weed strain is known for its earthy aroma and delivers deeply relaxing sedative effects. The seeds of this variety germinate quickly within 24-48 hours and ideal conditions of temperatures between 70-85°F and humidity levels of 60-70%.
They can adapt to cold climates and harsh conditions and produce dense, resin-filled buds. You can expect indoor yields to reach up to 600 grams per square meter with this plant.
Blue Dream
Blue Dream seeds grow well in warm and humid conditions. With a temperature range of 72-78°F and humidity around 70%, you can expect Blue Dream seed to sprout within 24-48 hours.
This strain is simple to grow and performs well indoors, producing yields between 430-600 grams per square meter. This sweet berry-flavored delight offers soothing effects and physical relaxation.
Gorilla Glue
This strain thrives in multiple growing environments and can yield as much as 1.5 pounds per plant in outdoor settings, with THC levels as high as 28%.
Its sticky buds have earthy flavors mixed with chocolate and coffee notes and deliver strong, relaxing, and euphoric effects to combat stress and chronic pain.
OG Kush
This strain can germinate quickly in less than a day under ideal conditions. It is suitable for indoor and outdoor cultivation and can yield up to 500 grams per square meter indoors.
Its earthy and piney taste accompanies strong body relaxation and mental clarity and makes it suitable for recreational and medicinal purposes alike.
White Widow
White Widow is a strain that adapts easily to different growing conditions and mediums. It can yield up to 600 grams per plant outdoors.
White Widow offers a blend of pine, spice, and fruity flavors, with effects that uplift energy initially and culminate in gentle relaxation and eventually end in a gentle relaxation.
Where to Buy the Best Weed Seeds to Grow?
Now that we have walked you through the cannabis seed germination process, it is time to buy the best quality seeds on the market. You can find strains of the highest genetic quality and purity at the following seedbanks.
Seed Supreme – Best seed bank overall
Homegrown Cannabis Co. – Best seeds for beginners
Royal Queen Seeds – Ideal for High-quality hybrid strains
Seedsman – Perfect for feminized seed growers
ILGM – Most affordable seed options
Seed Supreme - Best Seed Bank Overall
Pros:
10% discount for first-time buyers
4.000+ unique weed strains from over 1,500 breeders
Germination guarantee on all orders
High CBD and THC seed options
Cons:
Live Chat is not always available
Seed Supreme is our top pick as the largest supplier of premium marijuana seeds in the United States.
They offer over 4,000 strain options from more than 1,500 renowned breeders, and their catalog includes high-CBD seeds, auto-flowering and feminized varieties, fast-growing options, and high-yield strains.
You can find popular choices such as Gorilla Glue #4, Northern Lights, and Acapulco Gold here, along with a 10% discount for first time customers.
All of their seeds come with a 100% Germination Guarantee, larger orders qualify for free seeds, and delivery is designed to be both quick and discreet.
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Homegrown Cannabis Co. - Best Seeds for Beginners
Pros:
Save 10% on your first order
A 12-pack of weed seeds is available for $99
Germination Guarantee valid for 90 days
Collaborates with Victoria Rouland and Kyle Kushman
Cons:
Limited payment options
At Homegrown Cannabis Co. you can find high-quality seeds at affordable prices, with many autoflower, and feminized options that are lab-tested for quality.
The company also collaborates with well-known cannabis activist Kyle Kushman and works alongside several respected breeders.
This store houses best-selling strains such as Jack Herer, Critical Purple, Jealousy Glue, and Skunk Fast Version, all of which are backed by a Germination Guarantee. The site adds new seed varieties almost daily, so there's always something fresh to discover.
Additionally, new customers can enjoy a 10% discount on their first weed cultivation course at Oaksterdam University. There are also plenty of BOGO deals and 12-pack seed options starting at $99.
>>Check out the best price for weed seeds at Homegrown Cannabis Co.
Royal Queen Seeds – Ideal for High-Quality Hybrid Seeds
Pros:
Over 37,000 customer reviews, averaging a 4.7 out of 5 rating
Free shipping with an average delivery time of seven days
25% monthly discounts
Free seeds on orders above $30
Cons:
Limited variety of CBD seeds
Royal Queen Seeds is a seed bank that caters to growers who appreciate high-quality hybrid seeds. The company is known for its fast and discreet delivery, and it offers free seeds for all orders that exceed $30.
There are also monthly discounts of 25% are available on their bestsellers, and additional savings are available through the Growers Club.
Their catalog includes F1 hybrid strains like Medusa F1 and Epsilon F1, prized for their high THC yields, alongside CBD-rich varieties such as Medical Mass and Painkiller XL.
>>Check out the best price for weed seeds at Royal Queen Seeds
Seedsman – Perfect for Feminized Seed Growers
Pros:
Use the WELCOME10 promo code to save 10%
Access over 7,700 verified customer reviews
Affordable Pick+Mix packages
A variety of helpful resources on growing marijuana
Cons:
Shorter product pages
Seedsman is another reputable seed bank choice that sells an extensive variety of seeds. They are a trusted choice and have earned a 4.5/5 rating from nearly eight thousand verified reviews.
They offer one of the widest varieties of marijuana seeds here, including auto-flowering, feminized, and regular seeds for both new and experienced users. Some of their most popular bestsellers include Pineapple OG, Banana Biscotti, Purple Oreoz, and Cherry Punch.
The company frequently provides discounts of up to 50% on selected strains, with offers updated monthly. They also have discounted rates on Pick+Mix orders.
>>Check out the best price for weed seeds at Seedsman
ILGM – Most Affordable Seed Options
Pros:
Get $10 off your first ILGM purchase
Benefit from free shipping across the USA
Find budget-friendly tools and grow kits
Benefit from Buy 1 Get 1 deals
Cons:
Does not have its own weed seeds
Last but not least on our list is ILGM, which offers a wide product range, including high-THC strains, high-yield options, and fast-growing seeds.
They host popular strains such as White Widow, Sour Diesel, Super Skunk, Northern Lights, Jack Herer, and Afghan. What is great is that you can buy these strains in convenient grow kits. For instance, the Beginner Grow Kit features twenty White Widow seeds, marijuana fertilizer, and a nutrient pack for optimal growth.
First-time shoppers will be pleased to know that they can get a $10 discount on their first purchase, and there are many buy 1 get 1 promo deals frequently offered here.
>>Check out the best price for weed seeds at IGLM
FAQs
For more information on germinating cannabis seeds, why not read our common FAQ section?
How Long Does It Take to Germinate Cannabis Seeds?
Cannabis seeds usually germinate within 24 to 72 hours. However, in some cases, it may take up to 7 to 10 days for the seedlings to fully emerge. Factors such as seed quality, environmental conditions, and the germination rate also play an essential role in the timeline.
Do Cannabis Seeds Germinate Better in Light or Dark?
Cannabis seeds can germinate in a dark place, but light becomes more important as seedlings develop. For strong indoor growth, most cultivators use grow lights once the seeds have sprouted to promote healthy development.
How Long After Planting Germinated Seeds Do They Sprout?
Once you plant germinate seeds, sprouts can appear anywhere from a few days to two weeks. During this period, it is important to offer the seedlings the ideal growing conditions, especially for the critical first week.
Where Can I Get the Best Cannabis Seeds?
To get the best results, always purchase all the seeds you need from reputable seed banks or breeders, such as the ones on our top list like Seed Supreme, ILGM and Seedsman which offer a wide variety of seeds with high genetic quality and purity.
How Often Should You Water Weed Seeds During Germination?
Water the seeds regularly to keep the growing medium moist without flooding it. During germination, a spray bottle can help by allowing you to lightly mist the soil or growing medium for consistent hydration.
Which Cannabis Seeds Germinate the Fastest?
The speed of germinating cannabis seeds varies depending on the strain. Generally, high-quality weed seeds tend to germinate faster.
Final Notes
In our guide on how to germinate cannabis seeds, we touched on a wide range of important topics, and we also provided a list of the best seed banks in the cannabis industry. Seed Supreme stood out for its amazing variety of unique and high-quality seeds.
The seedling stage of a cannabis plant is quite short, but it is also one of the most crucial phases of a plant's growth. Getting the growing conditions just right during this part of a plant's life is the key to producing cannabis plants that are healthy and productive.
We hope that the information and tips on cannabis seed germination that we have shared will be of great use to you on your weed cultivation journey.
Happy Growing!
