Seed Types

Seed types—regular, feminized, and autoflowering—represent distinct breeding classifications rather than terpene profiles, though each category influences cultivation practices that may affect terpene expression. Regular seeds produce both male and female plants and arise from unforced pollination; feminized seeds are bred to produce only female plants through selective breeding or chemical intervention; autoflowering seeds flower based on age rather than photoperiod, derived from Cannabis ruderalis genetics. These classifications are foundational to modern cannabis breeding programs and determine grower workflow, breeding strategy, and plant lifecycle. Understanding seed type is essential for both preservation of genetic lines and predictable cultivation outcomes.

Breeders select seed types based on their goals: regular seeds preserve genetic diversity and allow backcrossing; feminized seeds streamline production by eliminating male plants; autoflowering varieties enable multiple cycles per season and are used to create fast-finishing hybrids. Seed type choice directly impacts breeding efficiency and the stability of desired traits across generations.