Feminized vs. Autoflower Cannabis Seeds: Which is Right for Your Grow?

What Are Feminized Seeds?

Feminized cannabis seeds are selectively bred to eliminate male chromosomes, meaning nearly 100% of the resulting plants will be female. Since only female cannabis plants produce flower, feminized seeds are preferred for both personal and commercial grows that prioritize yield and cannabinoid content.

Benefits of Feminized Seeds:

• No need to identify and remove male plants
• Maximized canopy space and flower production
• Predictable harvest outcomes
• Ideal for photoperiod-controlled environments

Feminized seeds are photoperiod-dependent, which means they require a change in light cycles (typically 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness) to initiate flowering.

What Are Autoflower Seeds?

Autoflowering cannabis seeds are bred with Cannabis ruderalis genetics, allowing them to flower automatically based on age rather than light schedule. Most autoflower strains begin flowering 2-4 weeks after germination, regardless of the photoperiod.

Benefits of Autoflower Seeds:

• Shorter grow cycle (often 8–11 weeks from seed to harvest)
• No need to adjust light schedules
• More harvests per year are possible
• Compact, hardy plants ideal for small or outdoor grows

Autoflowers are especially attractive for newer growers, seasonal outdoor cultivators, or those seeking faster turnaround between harvests.

Which Seed Type Is Better for Commercial Grows? It depends on the operation. Large-scale indoor or greenhouse facilities with precise light control often choose feminized seeds for higher yields and strain consistency. Outdoor and high-turnover facilities may prefer autoflowers for quick harvests and ease of cultivation.

Key Differences at a Glance:

At Symple Seeds, we provide a carefully curated selection of both heirloom and hybrid strains, ensuring that growers of all levels find the perfect genetics for their needs. Whether you seek the pure, traditional lineage of an heirloom strain or the enhanced capabilities of a modern hybrid, we’ve got you covered.