Seed Dormancy

Seed dormancy is a physiological state in which cannabis seeds remain viable but do not germinate despite favorable conditions. This trait is controlled by genetic and environmental factors, including seed coat impermeability, embryo maturity, and hormone balance. Breeders and seed producers manage dormancy through stratification, scarification, and aging protocols to ensure consistent germination rates. Understanding dormancy mechanisms is essential for seed storage, breeding program timing, and commercial seed production. Seeds exhibiting strong dormancy can maintain viability longer under proper preservation conditions, making this trait relevant to both short-term and long-term breeding operations.

Breeders select for or against dormancy depending on production goals—shorter dormancy periods suit rapid breeding cycles, while longer dormancy supports extended seed bank preservation. Knowledge of dormancy genetics informs storage protocols and helps predict germination windows across generations.