BackBeginners-Infos

2- Don’t burn your plants with the lighting

3- Train your plants

4- Maintain proper air circulation

5- Choose space-saving pots

6- Select the ideal growing medium

7- Implement efficient nutrient management

8- Water little but often

9- Minimise the duration of the vegetative cycle

10- Expect realistic results

What type of strain should I choose for cold climates?

An obvious choice when selecting genetics that are resistant to adverse weather conditions are autoflowering strains, such as Auto Polar Gelato, Auto Tropicana Cookies, or Amnesia Auto. Thanks to their ruderalis lineage, which originates from regions like Siberia (where cannabis adapted to the adverse climate and different lengths of day and night), automatic plants are hardier and don’t depend on the photoperiod. In other words, they don’t have to wait for the days to become shorter to start flowering, so you can choose the 2 - 3 warmest months of the year for your grow: You can plant them in early summer and harvest them in early September, before it gets too cold and rainy, so you can harness the power of the sun in the months with the highest sunshine. The varieties known as ‘Fast’, ‘Early’, or ‘Fast Flowering’, with examples such as Early Top Skunk, Purple Punch Fast, or Critical Poison Fast, are also an innovative solution for growers looking to deal with low temperatures without sacrificing the quality of their crops. By crossing autoflowerings with photo-dependent plants, it was found that the new strains were still photo-dependent but with a faster flowering cycle of 6 - 7 weeks (i.e., 1 or 2 weeks faster than that of their conventional counterparts), which is a great advantage for cannabis growers in regions with short summers. You can also opt for feminised or regular strains, which are the ones that the majority of growers prefer because they produce a higher yield. Some of these varieties are highly resistant to cold and also have a fast flowering cycle, which can help reduce the risk of frost damage. If you don’t know the time of harvest outdoors, look to see how many weeks it takes for your plants to flower indoors: between 7 and 8 weeks is a good number, whereas 9 to 10, or more, means that the specific strain isn’t as suitable for harsh climates.

Other factors that influence the choice of seeds for cold climates

In addition to the type of seed and its flowering times, you also need to pay attention to other factors when looking for the best cannabis seeds for cold climates:

Genetics and adaptation

Always choose a genetic lineage that includes strains that evolved in harsher weather conditions, making them less susceptible to cold stress. For instance, Hindu Kush is native to the mountainous region between Pakistan and Afghanistan, an area known for its harsh climate. Some strains were also developed specifically for mountainous or northern regions, such as Nepal Gold or the Scandinavian genetics, which are better adapted to withstand low temperatures. Therefore, they are excellent for tolerating strong winds or severe thermal drops during the night.

Resistance to fungi and disease

Cold, when combined with frequent humidity, can increase the risk of diseases such as mould, botrytis (grey rot), or powdery mildew. It is crucial to choose varieties that have natural resistance to these diseases, such as Critical + 2.0 or Auto Fat Blueberry. It also helps to choose varieties with well-spaced, airy buds that can keep these annoying guests at bay in high humidity conditions.

Indica dominance

The compact and robust structure of indica strains is one of their main advantages for cold climates. These plants tend to grow shorter and with densely populated branches, which helps protect them from winds that could damage more slender varieties. And this dense foliage not only contributes to their leafy appearance, but also acts as a natural heat insulation layer.

Great resin production

The dense and resinous buds that some genetics produce not only contribute to their potency but also offer some protection against cold and humidity. Cannabis trichomes exist to protect the plant from environmental hazards such as cold, pests, or strong ultraviolet rays. Therefore, you can take advantage of the low temperatures to increase resin production using the plants’ reaction to stress. As a result, your harvest will be tastier, more potent, and of much higher quality.

Genetic stability

If you grow cannabis in an ideal environment, such as a controlled grow room, the strain’s phenotype will be fully expressed. But if you don’t have a stable variety, then it’s quite a different story. For example, genetics like Northern Lights, White Widow, or Afghan Skunk are known especially for their incredible yielding capacity even in cold temperatures. They derive from a robust genetic line that has been bred and refined over a long period, helping to ensure a consistent quality.

Purple strains

Another good reason to grow marijuana in cold climates is that you can get to witness the vibrant colours of the purple and blue varieties, such as Purple Kush or Gelato #33, which take on deeper tones when the cold is more intense. Exposure to low temperatures can induce oxidative stress in the plants, leading to an increase in the expression of genes associated with anthocyanin synthesis. This positive regulation results in a greater accumulation of these pigments, which work similarly to an antifreeze to safeguard cellular integrity, and which also cause an intensification in the colouring, with magnificent tones seen in the last weeks of flowering.

As you can see, growing cannabis in cold climates is not only possible, but can also be rewarding and even visually dazzling, provided you choose the right seeds and adopt the correct growing practices. Prioritise hardy and stable genetics that are adapted to cold temperatures and have a fast flowering cycle; and use a greenhouse, thermal covers, or mulching to optimise the growing conditions. With these strategies, you will maximise your chances of harvesting quality buds even in the most challenging situations. Good luck with your next grow and stay warm out there!

Feminised seeds are genetics designed to produce exclusively female cannabis plants. Before the arrival of feminised strains, growers used to use regular seeds – these are still used today for some purposes, but they’re not as efficient as feminised varieties when the ultimate goal is to harvest seedless buds. It’s just a question of functionality: using feminised cannabis plants means that growers no longer need to be careful to discard the males, which saves time and space. Feminised strains depend on the number of hours of light that they receive to start flowering. Both indoors and outdoors, these varieties will remain in their growing phase as long as they’re exposed to more hours of light than hours of darkness (for example 18/6). They will then begin to flower when the light cycle is changed to 12/12 indoors, or when the days start to get shorter outdoors.

Advantages of feminised cannabis seeds

• Control of plant size with the light cycle: As these strains are photo-dependent (they depend on the photoperiod to start flowering), you can easily control the size of your plants. If you grow indoors, just keep your lights on for 18 hours a day, followed by 6 hours of darkness. In outdoor grows, you can control the size of your plants by simply germinating your seeds earlier (April - May) or later (June - early July), weather permitting.
• Yielding capacity: Controlling the size of your cannabis plants will allow you to grow real trees in true American style (if that’s what you’re after) so your yield will be larger, providing you have enough space.
• You can implement pruning and training techniques like SCROG, LST, etc.

Disadvantages of feminised cannabis seeds

• The light cycle needs to be controlled: In indoor grows, it is essential to adjust the hours of light and darkness to promote the flowering. In outdoor grows, light pollution during the hours of darkness (lamp posts, neighbours’ lights, etc.), can disrupt the flowering.
• Longer growth cycle: Although they deliver a heavier yield, the life cycle of feminised seeds is longer than that of autoflowerings (especially outdoors), which can be an inconvenience for those looking for quick results.

What are autoflowering seeds?

Autoflowering seeds were developed from a ruderalis strain native to Siberia that adapted to the cold climate and short summers of the region. The main characteristic of autoflowering varieties is that they don’t depend on the amount of light that they receive to start flowering – they do so automatically around the fourth or fifth week of life. This type of genetics will be ideal for you if you’re looking to harvest in record time.

Advantages of autoflowering cannabis seeds

• Speed: Automatic strains are ideal for fast growth cycles, especially outdoors and in areas with cold climates and short summers.
• Ease of cultivation: The hours of light that the plants are exposed to don’t need to be controlled, so they’re a great choice for rookies.
• Discretion: Autoflowerings have a limited life span, so their vegetative period is reduced. Therefore, the final size of the plants is usually smaller than that of feminised seeds. This feature facilitates cultivation in reduced spaces, such as terraces and balconies.
• Life cycle: Autoflowers complete their life cycle (from germination to harvest) between approximately 8 and 11 weeks, depending on the variety. This gives you the possibility to grow several crops within the same season.
• Reduced risk of pests and fungi: As their life cycle is shorter, they are less likely to contract diseases, pests, or fungi.

Disadvantages of autoflowering cannabis seeds

• Lower yielding capacity: Generally speaking, autoflowering plants produce less buds than their feminised counterparts because their short life cycle doesn’t allow them to grow as much.
• Lower margin of error: Since they don’t depend on the light cycle to flower, any mistake in their growing process will be extremely costly. Unlike feminised strains, whose vegetative period can be as long as you like indoors (and also tends to be longer outdoors), autos have a limited lifetime from the moment they germinate. Therefore, this will make it harder for the plants to recover from any problems that may arise to successfully deliver a bountiful harvest.
• Pruning or training techniques aren’t recommended: These plants don’t have a vegetative period long enough for these practices to be effective.

There are a number of common mistakes that can be made when growing autoflowering seeds. Here are some top tips to avoid falling into them:

• Don’t do any transplanting: Plants could become stressed and stop growing. Place the seedlings in their final pots from the beginning.
• Don’t saturate the substrate with water: This mistake is quite common. Autoflowering strains are especially sensitive to overwatering since their roots may stop absorbing nutrients and their growth could be halted. Try to water less but more frequently, especially during the first 3 weeks of life.
• Use a more aerated substrate: than usual so that the plants can accelerate their metabolic processes and thereby make the most of every day of their short life.

Feminised or autoflowering: What type of seed is best for you?

The choice between autoflowering and feminised seeds depends on your objectives, experience, and growing conditions.

Autoflowering seeds are for you if…

• You need fast results.
• You live in a cold region with short summers, where the bad autumn weather arrives early.
• You want to reduce the risk of pests, fungi, and diseases.
• You only have a reduced growing area, such as a balcony, a terrace, or a generous sized window.
• You’re looking for discretion. Autoflowering strains are ideal for urban growers.
• You don’t want to be keeping an eye on the photoperiod indoors, or you’re unable to avoid light pollution outdoors.
• You want to have several growth cycles during the outdoor season.

Feminised seeds are for you if…

• You’re looking for a huge yield.
• You want greater control over the size of your plants.
• You’d like to apply pruning or training methods to maximise your yields.
• You’re going to grow indoors. Although autoflowering genetics can also be grown indoors, they require a cycle of 20 hours of light and 4 hours of darkness (throughout the whole cycle) for optimal results. Therefore, they might not be the most efficient choice when it comes to saving energy and money on the electricity bill.
• You’re an advanced grower and you want maximum control over the growth cycle – with feminised seeds, you can customise the growing process as you wish and take full advantage of the space and resources.

Conclusion

In the wide expanse of the cannabis universe, there isn’t any one format that’s better than the others – it’s just a matter of choosing those seeds that meet your needs and help maximise your growing experience. If you’re ready to start or want to explore your options, visit our Linda Seeds catalogue, and discover the perfect strain for your next grow.

Light is another factor to consider. The UV rays contained in sunlight can damage seeds by altering their molecular structure. This is why we recommend storing seeds in opaque containers to protect them from light.

Temperature also plays a critical role. Temperatures that are too high can deactivate the enzymes needed for germination, while temperatures that are too low can slow down the seeds' metabolism, preventing them from germinating properly.

By understanding these principles, you can appreciate why effective seed storage is essential. It maintains a delicate balance between these factors to ensure that seeds remain in perfect condition until you're ready to grow them. The following section will provide you with details on how to apply this knowledge in the practical storage of your cannabis seeds.

Materials needed for storage

Effective cannabis seed storage requires the right equipment and an understanding of the scientific factors involved.

Airtight storage containers

The choice of storage containers is crucial. Opt for glass jars or airtight plastic boxes. These containers must be airtight to prevent moisture from penetrating. The presence of water can cause seeds to germinate prematurely or mould. Opaque containers offer additional protection against UV rays, which can damage seeds.

Labeling and management

Organized management is essential. Label each container with the variety name, storage date and other relevant information. This makes it easier to manage your collection and quickly locate the seeds you need for your crops. Clear marking is an essential habit for any serious grower.

The importance of a hygrometer

For accurate storage, a hygrometer is an essential tool. This instrument measures the relative humidity in your storage containers. It allows you to monitor and adjust humidity to maintain an optimal environment for your seeds. With a hygrometer, you can prevent mold and ensure the long-term viability of your seeds.

Steps to efficient seed storage

Effective cannabis seed storage is a delicate process that relies on a thorough understanding of seed biology. To ensure long-term viability, follow these essential steps.

Seed preparation

Before storing seeds, make sure they are completely dry. Residual moisture can cause mildew. To dry the seeds, place them on a paper towel tray in a cool, dry place. Once completely dry, transfer them to airtight containers.

Humidity and temperature management

Precise control of humidity and temperature is essential. Maintain a relative humidity of 5-10% to avoid premature germination. Temperature should be maintained between 5 and 7 degrees Celsius. Higher temperatures can deactivate the enzymes needed for germination, while lower temperatures slow down seed metabolism.

The importance of freezing

For long-term storage, freezing is an option. However, it must be done with care. Place seeds in an airtight container to prevent frost from forming. Make sure the temperature remains stable during freezing and thawing. We also strongly recommend vacuum-sealing the seeds if you want to freeze them long-term.

Monitor and adjust

Monitor your storage containers regularly. Use a hygrometer to measure relative humidity. If necessary, adjust humidity levels by adding or removing desiccants. Keep an eye on temperature to maintain a stable environment.

Long-term storage

For those looking to store their cannabis seeds over an extended period, freezing is an option to consider. However, this method requires a thorough understanding of seed biology and a precise procedure. In this case, it makes more than sense to vacuum pack the seeds to avoid any losses.

Controlled freezing

Freezing can maintain seed viability for many years, even decades, if carried out correctly. However, it is essential to control every aspect of this process. Place the seeds in an airtight container, distributing them evenly. Ensure that the temperature remains stable during freezing, around -20 degrees Celsius.

Avoid frost formation

Frost can irreversibly damage seeds. To avoid this, make sure the container is airtight and the seeds are completely dry before freezing. Vacuum packaging prevents the smallest traces of frost from setting in. When defrosting, avoid handling the seeds until they have reached room temperature.

Using liquid nitrogen

Some professional growers opt to use liquid nitrogen for long-term preservation. This method is reserved for experts, as it requires delicate handling of cryogenic substances.

Long-term preservation requires careful attention to detail to ensure that your seeds remain viable for many years to come. The following section will provide you with further tips on how to avoid common storage mistakes and maintain the quality of your seeds over the long term.

Tips and mistakes to avoid

Storing cannabis seeds can be tricky, and even small mistakes can have a significant impact on long-term viability. Here are some common tips and mistakes to consider.

Limit container opening

Every time you open a container, the seeds are exposed to air and moisture, which can dry out or contaminate them. Open containers only when you're ready to use the seeds. Avoid frequent inspection, as this increases the risk of contamination.

Use desiccants

To control humidity, you can add desiccants such as silica gel to storage containers. These agents absorb excess moisture, maintaining an optimal level for storage. Be sure to use desiccants designed for this purpose.

Avoid contamination

Contamination of seeds can lead to mold and mildew problems. When handling seeds, make sure your hands and the tools you use are clean. Avoid touching seeds with dirty fingers.

Label correctly

Incorrect labelling can lead to confusion or loss of track of your varieties. Use clear labels with the variety name, storage date and other relevant information. Make sure the label ink is water-resistant.

Seed cellar storage

For serious seed collectors, investing in a seed cellar may be an option. These controlled spaces offer optimal storage conditions in terms of humidity, temperature and protection from light. They are particularly useful for those with large collections of precious seeds.

In conclusion, the effective conservation of your cannabis seeds is a key element for any amateur, enthusiast or knowledgeable grower. Understanding the underlying scientific principles, choosing the right equipment, managing humidity and temperature, and avoiding common mistakes are all crucial steps in ensuring that your seeds remain viable and ready to germinate when you need them.

At Linda Seeds, we understand the importance of your precious seeds. That's why we're committed to providing high-quality varieties to enrich your collection. Our genetics experts work tirelessly to bring you the very best in cannabis genetic diversity. Please visit our online store to explore our selection of premium cannabis seeds.

Best wishes to you and your precious seeds, and see you soon at Linda Seeds!

You've probably heard of scrogging during your career as a cannabis enthusiast, right? If you're into cannabis cultivation, you'll come across the word "scrog" a lot. It stands for "Screen of Green", a particular technique of cultivation that involves using a so-called scrog net to extract a higher yield from your plants indoors.

A similar method is the Sea of Green technique. The goal is the same: to get a higher yield per square meter during your grow.

Who comes out on top in "sog vs. scrog" always depends on the grower's situation.

One thing is for sure: Both methods are not for beginners!

Here you will first learn the most important details about scrogging and how it can help you take your yield to the next level.

Scrogging, also known as Screen of Green, is often used synonymously and describes a method where a net or grid (called "SCROG net") is stretched between your cannabis plants and their light source. With this net you make sure that all shoots grow the same length. Furthermore, through the net, all your cuties will get an equal amount of light. Instead of a single main shoot, as in standard grow, scroggening creates a multitude of colas. Cola is a botanical term that defines the flowering site of a female cannabis plant.

This method is especially effective if you have a small number of plants, as you increase the chance of a high-yielding grow.

One of the key techniques in scrogging for cannabis is "topping". This is a kind of training for the plant, where you prune the main shoot of your cuties to encourage the formation of several side shoots. You can then topping the two new main shoots again to get four main shoots and so on.

This technique is so useful in combination with the ScrOG method because it helps to evenly distribute plant growth across the ScrOG network. Topping encourages the plant to produce more side shoots, which can then be passed through the ScrOG net, resulting in a more even distribution of light and thus more yield.

Be sure to do topping late in the growing season. This means less stress for your plants. Also, by then most of the shoots should have already grown through the net, so you won't have any problems with interlacing.

Another well-known method is the so-called "lollipopping". Here you remove all shoots and leaves below the net during the first weeks of flowering. This way, your sweethearts will fully concentrate on forming flowers and making the best use of the available light.

Although the scrog technique is mainly used for indoor growing, you can also use the method outdoors. However, with outdoor scrog, you'll have to take into account some additional factors, such as weather conditions and animal damage. Still, it can be an effective way to maximize the growth of your plants and increase your yield.

Of course, you're eager to know the approximate yield per plant indoors. It's hard to make that general statement. The final yield depends on a variety of factors, such as the quality of the seeds, the type of care and the environment.

Advantages and disadvantages of the scrogging method

To give you a better overview, we have listed the advantages and disadvantages of the method.

Advantages of the scrogging method

• Optimal light distribution: The even height of the shoots in the SCROG method ensures that the light is optimally distributed. Thus, all your sweethearts have a chance to receive an even amount of light.

• Increased yield: Scrogging can increase the yield per plant. The even light distribution and the training of the plants by topping and lollipopping contribute significantly to this.

• Efficient use of space: SCROG netting allows you to use space efficiently by growing plants horizontally. This is especially useful in smaller growing spaces such as closets or storage rooms, with little floor space.

• Better control: Scroggen gives you better control over the development of your plants. You can actively intervene to control and optimize growth.

Disadvantages of the scrogging method

• Time investment: The SCROG method requires a lot of attention, patience and time investment. Weaving the shoots into the net and plant care during the growth process are activities that eat up a lot of time.

• Difficult to handle: Scrogging requires some skill and care. The process of weaving the shoots into the net can be difficult and tedious. Therefore, if you're a beginner, avoid the scrog method.

• Stress on the plants: The various techniques of scrogging, such as topping and lollipopping, can cause stress to the plants. So if you're not careful here, you can potentially hurt your loved ones.

• Only suitable for certain strains: Not all cannabis strains are suitable for scrogging. Photoperiod strains give much better results than autoflowering strains. Strains with strong stretch, i.e. strains that grow taller and more sparse, are better for scrogging.

Now you know the pros and cons of this method. But that's not quite enough for a successful scrog grow. So what about cannabis seeds for scrog growing? Which ones are eligible, and which ones are not?

Choosing the right seeds for scrogging

Choosing the right seeds is a critical factor in the success of your scrog grow. Generally, seeds from cannabis strains that have a pronounced side shoot formation and respond well to training are suitable.

Indica-dominant strains are often ideal for scrogging, as they usually grow bushy and produce a high number of side branches. Sativa-dominant strains can also be used, but often require more intensive training and management.

Note that autoflowering cannabis seeds tend to be less suitable for scrog cultivation due to their fast growth and short lifespan. Control is difficult and the plants do not like the net. Therefore, as a beginner, it makes more sense for you to start with photoperiod varieties.

Ultimately, the choice of scrog growing seeds depends on your individual preferences and goals. However, with the right scrog growing seeds and with careful care, you can reap the full benefits of scrogging.

Which cannabis strains are best?

Cultivating multiple seeds when growing scrog in the same scrog system allows for a variety of flowers. Choose strains with similar heights to minimize the effort.

We can recommend Green Gelato. It is known for its easy maintenance, dense flowering, and unique terpene profile. Her minimal leaf formation and dense flower clusters are perfect for the scrog method.

Otherwise, OG Kush would be a good choice. Her nodes have enough spacing, which makes her ideal for scrogging. Multiple toppings allow each location to reach its full potential and truly create an entire carpet of Kush. This strain produces uniformly large and dense buds, requires little maintenance, and delivers a high yield - perfect for scrogging!

Green Gelato by Roayl Queen Seeds

Here is a useful Scrog guide

A scrog net is the linchpin of scrogging. It provides even exposure for plants, improves air circulation, and provides structure for branches.

How to use the scrog net properly

Be sure to stretch the grow net properly. Arrange the branches so that they can easily intertwine with neighboring plants.

Hang your light source at a height that is sufficient for the light to be evenly distributed over the net.

The distance between the net and the plant should be 20 cm starting from the base of your plants. Start scrogging as soon as your cuties come into contact with the net.

Weaving the shoots into the net is a method of low stress training (LST). You carefully weave the shoots into the net, ensuring horizontal growth.

Important: Remember to do the process gently so as not to injure the plant and avoid unnecessary stress!

On the subject of watering: it is advisable to install a drip irrigation system or use a watering wand, this makes watering much easier and is not as time-consuming as using a watering can.

Remember, however, that drip irrigation is unsuitable if you fertilize organically!

Watch the natural growth of the branches to force your loved ones in one direction as little as possible. Each square of netting should ideally accommodate a single branch. After scrogging, plants might appear stressed, but recover quickly with adequate light and water. Readjusting the net after 2-3 days will help ensure optimal results.

Note: It is critical that you switch to a 12/12 light cycle to send the plants into bloom. However, don't do this until your net or grid is almost completely filled!

Here's a list of paraphernalia to help you get the most out of your scrogg:

• Scrog net
• Scissors (preferably special harvesting scissors)
• Disposable gloves
• Plant binder
• Pots

If you need the right utensils for your next grow, feel free to stop by our grow store.

Low strees training (LTS) method

In the beginning is the germination. For any cannabis cultivation, the cannabis seeds must be germinated at the beginning. There are different methods for this, each of which has advantages and disadvantages and is more or less suitable for beginners. In this text you will learn what you need to successfully germinate your weed seeds. The methods are presented one by one and described in detail. Also about said advantages and disadvantages you will learn everything worth knowing in this text.

It is important not to make any mistakes when germinating cannabis seeds, as this lays the foundation for the later development of the plant. Mistakes in germination can in the worst case negatively affect the size of the later plant or even ensure that your project fails right at the beginning, if the cannabis seeds do not germinate at all. In addition to the correct methodology, the most important thing is to create the ideal conditions for the germination of the seeds. These conditions are similar for all methods. For seeds need a humid, warm (but not too hot) and dark environment to start the germination process. Also, the quality of the seeds matters. You should always use high-quality seeds from established seed banks to increase your success rate. Ultimately, however, it is always possible that individual seeds will not germinate, regardless of the conditions and your abilities. Don't let this discourage you, because it's natural - after all, this is organic material you're working with. However, don't worry too much about the quality. The seeds from the growers available in our store always have a germination rate between 90 and 100%.

These are the methods to germinate cannabis seeds

Before covering the methods in detail, here's an overview of the existing methods. Cannabis seeds can germinate in kitchen paper or in water. But germinating cannabis seeds directly in the soil is also feasible. Another popular method is germination in jiffies or so-called peat swell balls / peat swell pots. Regardless of the medium in which you germinate the cannabis seeds, however, there are a few things to keep in mind. Follow our instructions to germinate your cannabis seeds.

Cannabis is a dark seedling, so it doesn't need direct light exposure to start the germination process. The temperature of the medium in which you germinate the cannabis seeds should be between 20 and 25 degrees. At higher or lower temperatures, there is a risk that the seeds will not sprout. Optimal is 24 degrees. Furthermore, the humidity is crucial. Only when the seeds are supplied with sufficient moisture, they initiate the germination process. Therefore, you should regularly check the moisture content of the germination medium and add new water if necessary. Germination usually takes only a few days. After 5 to 10 days at the latest, seedlings should have developed from the seeds. However, sometimes there are outliers that do take longer and germinate only after two or three weeks. The process can not be accelerated, but the better the required conditions are met, the earlier germination should occur.

Germinate hemp seeds in kitchen paper

For the first method of germinating hemp seeds, use kitchen paper. This involves placing a sheet of kitchen paper on a straight surface, on which the seeds are placed a few centimeters apart from each other. Then a second sheet is placed over it as a cover. Now it is important to keep both cloths moist at all times. However, they should also not be so wet that drops form. After a few days, the seeds should have opened and developed about 2 to 3 mm long root tips, they are ready to be inserted into the soil. To do this, for example, with your finger, or even better with tweezers, drill holes 5 to 10 mm deep in the soil and gently place the seedlings inside. When doing this, make sure that the root should be directed downwards and the casing of the seed should point towards the surface of the soil. The advantage of this method is that you need nothing more than kitchen paper. Besides, you can always control the development of the seeds by covering the upper sheet of kitchen paper. The disadvantage is that you have to handle and plant the very young seedlings. If you do not handle them carefully enough, they can be damaged, which can affect their later development or even cause them to die. Instead of kitchen paper, other similar materials can be used, such as cotton swabs or otherwise absorbent paper.

The water glass method - germinating cannabis seeds in water.

Another method to germinate your seeds is the water glass method. As you guessed correctly, this involves placing the seeds in a glass filled with water to germinate. The water should have a temperature of 22-24 degrees Celsius. Warmer water contains less oxygen, which can cause germination to fail. After two to three days, the seeds should open and small root tips should emerge. As with the kitchen paper method, they are ready for planting once the roots reach a length of 2 to 3 mm. When removing the seeds from the jar, you should be extremely careful and not use your fingers. A pair of tweezers or a sterile spoon is suitable for this purpose. Planting is done in the same way as described above. In a way, this method is very convenient, but it is not very efficient. The risk that some seeds will not germinate here is the highest. Opinions differ as to whether the water jar should be in the light or in the dark. Ultimately, however, both should be possible. Timing is also important. If the seeds remain in the water too long, the seedling will be damaged and die.

Germinating cannabis seeds in the soil

You can also plant your cannabis seeds directly into the soil. This has the advantage that you do not have to touch the young seedlings again. This eliminates a potential source of damage. Fill your pots with sterilized growing soil and add water so that the soil is well moist. Then, using your finger or tweezers, drill a hole 5 to 10 mm deep and carefully place the seed inside. Cover the seed loosely with soil and make sure the soil does not dry out over the next few days. For this, it can be helpful to cover the plant pot with plastic wrap, but it should have some holes for ventilation. You can poke these holes in the foil with a toothpick, for example. This keeps the moisture in the soil longer. After about 4 to 10 days you should see the result in the form of a small seedling breaking through the soil to the surface. Continue to provide a humid climate and after a few more days you can transplant the seedling including the surrounding soil into a larger pot.

This method has the advantage that the seedlings are hardly exposed to stress during their first days. However, you will have to be patient a little longer to observe the results of your seeds. But in general, this method has very good chances of success if you keep the soil nice and moist.

Germinating hemp seeds in rockwool

A professional medium to germinate hemp seeds is rockwool. This is thin threads of solidified volcanic magma. For cultivation, rock wool blocks are available in different sizes. This variant is especially recommended if you want to grow later in hydroponics, whatever kind. Rockwool does not contain any nutrients, so it must be prepared before it is used for germination and growing. In other words, a special, light fertilizer solution must be prepared. You need to adjust the pH and EC (conductivity) value of the solution and soak the rockwool in it. The EC value of rockwool is neutral, which means that the nutrient supply can be controlled very precisely. Rockwool has a natural pH of 7-8, which you should lower to 5.5. You can achieve this by soaking the rockwool in pH adjusted water. Then you should administer a fertilizer solution with a TDS of 600 per million.

Now, using a pointed knife or tweezers, drill a small hole in the wool block and insert the seed so deep that you can't see it. From now on, it is a matter of keeping the humidity of the rockwool constant. This is best done in a closed container, such as a bowl covered with plastic wrap (again, make small holes with a toothpick) or an indoor greenhouse. However, make sure to air the container once a day.

With this method, very good results can be achieved, but it is more suitable for advanced growers, because on the one hand you need some equipment and on the other hand a certain knowledge of how to handle it, moreover, the necessary measuring devices are expensive to buy.

A disadvantage of rockwool is that its production requires a lot of energy and thus pollutes the environment.

Germinating cannabis seeds in jiffy / peat pots

Another popular and for beginners the safest method to germinate your cannabis seeds is the use of so-called Jiffys or peat pots. These are small plates surrounded by a net, filled with peat (recently also with coco), fertilizer and minerals and sterilized. Put them in water so they can soak up moisture and expand into a small cylinder. Then press the seed into the opening at the top about 4-8 mm deep into the substrate. Now store the jiffy swell pot at the ideal temperature if possible and in a container that prevents moisture from escaping, such as a mini-greenhouse for growing plants. After a few days a small seedling should rise to the surface and a little later the first roots will penetrate the outer net of the peat well ball, usually this happens at the bottom first. Now you can move the seedling together with the jiffy into a larger pot. Be careful with the young plant and do not overwater the soil in the beginning, because the Jiffy retains moisture for a long time.

This method offers very good success rates and is easy to practice. Thanks to the high nutrient content of the jiffy, the roots develop quickly and quickly become strong. The disadvantage is that you have to buy Jiffys for this, however, you can order them easily and cheaply on the Internet, for example, at Linda Seeds:

• Jiffy peat swell pot 41 mm
• Jiffy peat swell pot 33 mm
• Jiffy peat swell pot 24 mm

Common beginner mistakes when germinating cannabis seeds

Even though most of the methods presented are relatively straightforward, they harbor many sources of potential mistakes. As mentioned at the outset, it is exceedingly important that the temperature does not fall below or exceed the limits mentioned. But temperature fluctuations should, at best, be avoided altogether. This is best achieved with the use of a heating mat and by positioning the seeds in a place that is not exposed to large temperature fluctuations. For example, a storage room or a larger built-in cupboard is suitable for this.

Furthermore, it is important to maintain the correct humidity of the germination medium. While it is central to not let the medium dry out, too much humidity can also affect the germination of your cannabis seeds and cause a fungal infection. Your substrate (if you're using a method other than the water glass method) should only be well moist, but never dripping wet. When in doubt, familiarize yourself with how much water your substrate can handle before planting the seeds.  

Another source of error is transplanting the seeds. The root tips have microscopic hairs that you can easily injure if you touch the seedlings with your fingers. Therefore, it is better to use tweezers and touch the seedlings only on the hard shell of the seed. Do not squeeze too hard, otherwise the seed may break and the necessary protection of the young plant is lost. So a delicate touch is required! Finally, you should hold back on fertilizing. All common growing media except rockwool carry enough nutrients for the first days. Therefore, you should not add fertilizer, as it will harm rather than help the seedlings. You should also hold back with the lighting in the beginning. In the seedling stage it is sufficient to use a small fluorescent lamp. Only when the plants form the first serrated leaves, you should switch to a more potent lamp. Otherwise you will achieve the opposite and the young plants will suffer a light shock, stop growing and die.

And finally, above all, you need patience. Give your seeds the time they need to germinate. Constantly checking to see if anything has sprouted yet can be detrimental to the germination process. You can find everything you need for successful and uncomplicated growing in the online store of Linda Seeds. All beginnings are difficult, but the proof of the pudding is in the eating! Good luck!

Although cannabis has been known to mankind for thousands of years, it was mainly the recent decades that brought about a different social approach to the plant. After cannabis had enjoyed increasing popularity since the hippie movement in the 1960s and 1970s, the political and social framework has also increasingly changed since the 1990s. This article reviews the most significant players and the evolution of the major seed banks and strains, without which the diversity of today's cannabis supply would be unthinkable. 

 

The Climate is Changing

Movies like Reefers Madness are entertaining in showing how uptight cannabis has been for a long time. While weed was demonized for most of the 20th century, a sudden shift in thinking, so to speak, took place starting in the 1990s. The reasons for this are many and complex, but among the most important are, on the one hand, the medical use of cannabis, the first considerations regarding legalization, and the emergence of an industry and with it the recognition of a great economic potential.

 

Increasing scientific consideration of the subject helped to draw a realistic picture of cannabis use and its classification, for example, in comparison with the use of other drugs such as alcohol or tobacco. In addition, such scientific research has made it clear how many people are already using cannabis anyway.

 

Medical use and decriminalization

Various clinical studies have investigated the medical potential of cannabis, and prescription use was introduced in California, for example, as early as the mid-1990s. Nevertheless, the pressure to prosecute recreational users was still enormous. Other countries were also considering medical legalization or even legalization for recreational use. In Canada, Spain and Australia, a new approach to cannabis and other drugs was being discussed. However, this has not yet led to large-scale legalization; only reforms have been sought. In Holland, in particular, cannabis was decriminalized as early as the 1970s. The possession of small amounts was no longer prosecuted and the establishment of coffee shops where cannabis could be bought and consumed was tolerated. However, cultivation of larger quantities of cannabis remained illegal, leading to a procurement paradox for coffee shops and the so-called backdoor issue: cannabis could be sold legally in the front. How it got into the coffee shop or where the weed and hashish was sourced from was ignored. Accordingly, a productive black market developed, which supplied the coffeeshops and still does today - with all the disadvantages, such as violent, organized crime, which actually does not fit the scene of cannabis lovers at all.

 

 

USA strains in Holland - a perfect breeding ground

In Spain, too, there has been a more liberal approach to cannabis since the 1990s. Smaller quantities for personal use were usually no longer prosecuted and cultivation for personal use as well as consumption in private rooms was tolerated. The last decade has also seen the emergence of cannabis social clubs, associations in which members work together to grow plants for personal use.

Amsterdam - the breeders' place of desire

Foundation for future generations

Great diversity 

Ways of consumption

Mushroom regions of Mexico

Current use

Cultivation with mushroom cultivation box

Which variety is well suited for outdoor cultivation?

Autoflowering strains work anytime

Especially fast flowering strains

Outdoor classics

Growing, but where?

Flowering & yield

The origins of the two varieties

The effects of cannabis 

The aromas

How do you consume them? 

• Add the substances to your diet (cookies, gummy bears, cakes ...etc.). 
• Vaporize with a vaporizer. 

Effects and differences

• Low blood pressure
• A faster-than-average heartbeat
• An increasingly dry mouth
• dry eyes
• Occurrence of dizziness

Practical Tips 

The method of consumption

The THC dose 

Where does such a strain come from?

Fundamental characteristics of the Runtz Strain marijuana