Autoflowering cannabis seeds are a type of cannabis seed that produce plants that automatically start flowering without the need for a change in light cycle. Unlike regular cannabis seeds, which require a reduction in daylight hours to trigger the flowering stage, autoflowering seeds will start flowering on their own, typically after a certain number of weeks.

Autoflowering plants are the result of crossbreeding cannabis plants with a wild cannabis subspecies known as Ruderalis, which naturally starts flowering based on age rather than light cycles. This trait has been bred into modern autoflowering cannabis strains to create plants that start flowering automatically, regardless of the light cycle.

The main advantage of autoflowering cannabis seeds is their speed of growth and ability to produce multiple harvests per year. They have a shorter life cycle compared to regular or feminized seeds, often completing their growth and flowering in around 8 to 10 weeks. This makes them a popular choice for growers looking for fast and easy cultivation.

Additionally, autoflowering plants are generally more compact and resistant to environmental fluctuations, making them suitable for outdoor growing even in regions with shorter summers. They are also less affected by light pollution, making them ideal for indoor cultivation.

However, autoflowering plants tend to be smaller in size and yield smaller quantities compared to regular cannabis plants. The shorter life cycle also leaves them less time to recover from any mistakes or stress during cultivation. Moreover, since autoflowering strains are relatively new, the genetic diversity and availability of different strains can be limited compared to regular cannabis seeds.

Overall, autoflowering cannabis seeds provide a convenient and efficient option for growers who prioritize speed and ease of cultivation, but sacrifice some yield and genetic variety.