Autoflowering varieties (Autoflowering) are a very popular category in cannabis cultivation, especially for novice growers and those looking for a quick harvest. Below is a detailed description of Autoflowering varieties:
Characteristics of Autoflowering Varieties
Autoflowering: instead of relying on photoperiod (i.e., the number of hours of light per day) to initiate the flowering phase, autoflowering varieties automatically flower based on the age of the plant. While traditional cannabis varieties require a photoperiod of 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness to induce flowering, autoflowering varieties usually enter the flowering phase automatically after a 3-4 week growing period.
Short Growing Cycle: autoflowering varieties typically have a shorter growing cycle, with seed-to-harvest typically taking only 8-10 weeks. This allows growers to harvest multiple times throughout the year.
Adaptable: Autoflowering varieties are usually adaptable and can grow in a variety of environmental conditions, including varying light conditions, temperature and humidity. They are particularly well suited for indoor growing and small growing spaces.
Smaller plants: Autoflowering varieties usually have smaller plants, which makes them ideal for growing indoors or in areas where space is limited. This characteristic also makes autoflowering varieties less noticeable and more suitable for hidden plantings.
Advantages of autoflowering varieties
Simplified growing process: Since there is no need to regulate the photoperiod, autoflowering varieties simplify the growing process, making them suitable for novice growers and growers without specialised knowledge.
Rapid harvest: The shorter growing cycle means that harvests can be obtained more quickly, which is very attractive to growers who want to see results quickly.
Multiple harvests: Due to the short growing cycle, growers can plant and harvest multiple times during the year, increasing yields.
Suitable for a wide range of environments: autoflowering varieties are able to adapt to a wide range of light conditions and climates, allowing them to grow well in different environments.
Disadvantages of autoflowering varieties
Lower yields: autoflowering varieties usually have smaller plants, with a relatively low yield per plant. Although this can be compensated for by multiple plantings, the yield from a single harvest is still limited.
Uncontrollable flowering time: As the flowering time is fixed, growers are unable to extend the growing period by adjusting light to increase plant size and yield.
Low THC content: some autoflowering varieties are low in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and may not be as potent as some traditional varieties. However, there are now many autoflowering varieties with higher THC content.
Common autoflowering varieties
Lowryder
Characteristics: One of the earliest autoflowering varieties with short, fast-growing plants.
Growth cycle: 8-9 weeks.
Effects: Mild high for relaxation and daily use.
Amnesia Haze Autoflower
Characteristics: Combines the efficiency of Amnesia Haze with the convenience of Autoflower.
Growth cycle: 10-12 weeks.
Effects: Intense euphoria and energy boost for daytime use.
Northern Lights Autoflower
What: Based on the genetics of Northern Lights, it is easy to grow and has a high yield.
Growing cycle: 8-9 weeks.
Effects: Intense body relaxing and calming effects, suitable for evening use.
Blueberry Autoflower
Characteristics: Combines the sweet aroma of Blueberry with the fast growth of Autoflower.
Growth cycle: 8-10 weeks.
Effect: Balanced physical and mental relaxation, suitable for evening use.
Tips for growing autoflowering varieties
Choose high quality seeds: Select high quality autoflowering seeds from a reliable seed bank to ensure germination and genetic stability.
Appropriate soil and containers: Use light and well-drained soil and choose containers that are appropriate for the size of the plant. As autoflowering varieties are fast-growing, it is best to plant them in their final containers at an early stage to avoid transplanting.
Suitable light: Although autoflowering varieties are not sensitive to photoperiod, adequate light still contributes to healthy plant growth. 18-24 hours of light is recommended for indoor growing.
Careful Watering and Fertilisation: Autoflowering varieties have a small root system and care needs to be taken to avoid overwatering. Use a balanced nutrient solution and avoid over-fertilising.
Maintain a stable environment: Try to maintain a stable temperature and humidity to avoid extreme environmental changes that can affect plant growth.
Summing up
Autoflowering varieties are the preferred choice of many cannabis growers due to their simplified growing process, fast growth cycle and adaptability. Although single yields and THC content may be low, with proper cultivation methods and multiple grows, efficient