Seed Selection 101: Embracing Local Potential for Beginner Cannabis Growers

Choosing Seeds: The Foundation of a Successful Grow

Hey everyone! Welcome to my little corner of the internet, where I’ll be documenting my cannabis growing journey. I’ve been growing cannabis for two years now, and I’m excited to learn alongside you as I write these blog posts and share what I’ve learned so far. If you’re new to growing cannabis, starting with the right seeds is crucial. That’s why, in this first post – “Seed Selection 101: Embracing Local Potential for Beginner Cannabis Growers” – we’re diving into something fundamental: choosing the right seeds and exploring the potential of growing what adapts best to your local environment!

Simple Vocabulary for Beginners

Before diving in, here are a few common terms you might encounter:

• Cultivar: A plant variety that has been produced by selective breeding.
• Germination The process by which a seed sprouts and begins to grow.
• Phenotype The observable characteristics of a plant (e.g., size, shape, color).
• Pollination The transfer of pollen from the male part of a flower to the female part (necessary for seed production).
• Genotype A plant’s genetic makeup.

First Seeds, First Lessons

When you’re just starting, it’s tempting to get caught up in the hype around exotic strains and award-winning genetics. I get it! But, and this is a big BUT, sometimes the best place to start is right where you are, with what you have access to. That might be the new Blueberry muffin seeds you just bought, or some seed that came off that old crusty nug your buddy gave you that smells like feet (what gifts may lay inside…)

Why Local Might Be Lovely: Leaning into Landrace Gardening

I’m really inspired by the work of Joseph Lofthouse and his principles of landrace gardening. The core idea is that plants adapted to your specific environment will often thrive better without a ton of fussing. Think about it: generations of plants adapting to the local climate, soil, and pests. That resilience is pure GOLD!

• Adaptation is Key: Plants already growing well in your area are pre-selected to handle the challenges of your climate (heat, cold, humidity, etc.). This can seriously reduce headaches and increase your chances of success, especially when starting out.
• Uniqueness: You might discover unique traits and terpene profiles in locally adapted plants that you won’t find anywhere else. This is where the personality comes from!
• Minimalist is More: You’ll focus less on the strain(cultivar) name and more on the plant itself, on its observable traits and strengths.
• Cost Savings: By selecting plants that are naturally suited for your environment, you can often cut costs on things such as fertilizers, pesticides, electricity, and water.

My Own Experiment:

My current grow is all about resilience. I’m starting with “Dutch Outdoor” cultivars, including Pamir Gold, a strain with roots in the western Himalayas and refined through breeding in the Swiss Alps. I’m also using Holland’s Hope, a reliable outdoor performer since the 1980s. To bring in some exciting flavors, I’m adding seeds from California, like Blueberry Muffin and Orange Creampop (both of which have reputations for quality and resilience). And for those humid New York summers, I’m incorporating Jamaican Lambs Bread. What I’m really searching for is a cultivar that can take whatever the unpredictable NY weather throws at it, while also delivering a fantastic taste and the effects I’m after.

Aside from attempting this with cannabis, I’m doing the same in my vegetable garden, specifically with carrots! I’m trying to grow my own super carrots that I can pick through the winter. Lofty pursuits maybe, but I smoke weed, man… Also, it’s year 2, and 4 carrots survived out of 100 carrots, 4 different cultivars, unprotected through the NY winter covered in snow! Progress!!!!

Finding the Right Fit: Climate Considerations

Think about where you live. Does the plant you are trying to grow come from the area you live in or a similar climate/grow environment? You’re setting yourself up for a smoother ride if you choose a strain that naturally aligns with your local conditions.

• Hot and Arid? If you’re in a hot, dry, and windy climate, an Indica-dominant strain might be a solid choice. Indicas tend to have a denser, bushier structure that can handle wind better and may be more drought-tolerant.
• Humid and Temperate? In a humid, temperate area, a Sativa-dominant strain might be a solid choice. Sativas tend to be more airy and better suited for environments that may have high humidity, while a smaller, denser Indica flower bud may more easily grow mold.

A Note About Indica vs. Sativa:

It’s essential to remember that the terms “Indica” and “Sativa” primarily describe growth structure, not necessarily effect. While there are general associations, you can’t assume an Indica will always be relaxing or a Sativa will always be energizing.

Add a Little Spice (Experiment!)

Okay, so I’ve been hyping up local adaptation, and for good reason, especially for beginners. However, don’t be afraid to experiment a little!

Sometimes, introducing genetics that aren’t perfectly suited to your area can lead to exciting results. It creates hybrid vigor – a boost in growth and resilience that can occur when you cross two different strains. Plus, it’s a way to bring in those terpene profiles you love!

Ever wonder what happens when you cross Banana OG with Roadkill Skunk and GMO? Something probably diabolically dank! Or maybe you don’t want all that stank because you have sensitive neighbors, or the laws may not be so lax about you carrying out your little backyard breeding project.

I can see it now… “I swear, officer, I just grow because it’s, like, a

science, man.”

How to Get Started

• Talk to Local Growers: Reach out to other gardeners in your area. They can offer invaluable advice on what strains thrive locally.

• Observe Your Environment: Pay attention to the weather patterns, soil conditions, and any challenges that local plants face.

• Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment (But Start Small): Try growing a few different strains, including one that’s well-adapted to your area and one that’s a bit of a wildcard.

• Document Everything: Keep a journal of your growing process, noting what works and what doesn’t. This will be your best resource as you continue to learn.

Cannabis Cultivar Recommendations by Zone:

Key to Understanding the List:

• Climate Zone: Think of this as the general weather patterns in your area (e.g., cold winters, hot summers). If you don’t know your zone, a quick online search for “USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map” will help.
• Photoperiod vs. Autoflower:
  • Photoperiod: Needs specific light/dark schedules to flower (usually 12 hours of darkness). Offers more control but requires more management.
  • Autoflower: Flowers automatically based on age, regardless of light. Best for short seasons or beginners.
• Mold Resistance: How well a strain resists developing mold, which is crucial in humid areas.
• Sunlight Hours: Average daily sunlight during the growing season.
• To help find the best time to start my grow either indoors or outdoors and what zone and elevation I’m in I typically use www.timeanddate.com/

Cannabis Cultivar Recommendations by Environment:

1. Cool/Cold Climates & Short Growing Seasons (Zones 3-6)

• Challenge: Short summers, risk of frost, unpredictable weather.
• Best Approach: Fast-flowering, resilient strains. Autoflowers are generally a great choice.
• Sunlight: Minimum 6 hours (ideally more). Supplement with grow lights if needed.

Strain	Type	Notes
Autoflowers
Northern Lights Auto	Autoflower	Classic, hardy, finishes quickly. A reliable choice for beginners.
Royal Dwarf	Autoflower	Very compact, extremely fast flowering. Good for tight spaces or guerrilla grows.
Lowryder	Autoflower	One of the original autos. Very short lifecycle.
Quick One	Autoflower	Another rapid autoflower, known for its speed.
Early Photoperiods
Frisian Dew	Photoperiod	Mold-resistant, finishes early. A solid choice for damp climates. Needs to be started indoors early.
Durban Poison	Photoperiod	A landrace strain known for its resilience and early finishing. Tends to be tall can be difficult to manage. Needs to be started indoors early.

2. Temperate Climates (Zones 7-8)

• Challenge: Moderate conditions, but potential for humidity or late frosts.
• Best Approach: More flexibility, but still prioritize mold resistance.
• Sunlight: 8+ hours

Strain	Type	Notes
Photoperiods
Blue Dream	Photoperiod	Popular, relatively easy to grow, high yields. Can be prone to mold in very humid areas.
Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)	Photoperiod	Potent, flavorful. More sensitive to humidity, requires good airflow; be aware of potential mold issues.
OG Kush	Photoperiod	Classic. Needs stable conditions to thrive. Best for experienced growers in temperate climates.
Wedding Cake	Photoperiod	High THC, good yields, relatively easy to grow.
Autoflowers
Amnesia Haze Auto	Autoflower	Sativa dominant, long flowering period. Can be more susceptible to mold than the other autoflower strains, so care should be taken in humid climate and seasons.

3. Warm/Mediterranean Climates (Zones 9-10)

• Challenge: Intense heat, long growing season.
• Best Approach: Sativas often thrive. Focus on heat-tolerant strains.
• Sunlight: 10+ hours

Strain	Type	Notes
Sour Diesel	Photoperiod	Thrives in warm climates, strong aroma, energizing effects.
Lemon Haze	Photoperiod	Uplifting, loves sunshine. A classic sativa.
Acapulco Gold	Photoperiod	Resilient landrace, heat-tolerant.
Super Silver Haze	Photoperiod	Another sativa that performs well in long, sunny seasons. Very potent.
Jack Herer	Photoperiod	Famous sativa, well-suited for experienced growers in warm climates. Some phenotypes can be difficult to manage.

4. High Elevation (Mountainous Regions)

• Challenge: Intense UV, cooler temperatures, short growing season.
• Best Approach: Hardy strains that can handle UV and temperature swings. Autoflowers for guaranteed quick harvests.
• Sunlight: Intense; choose strains that are known for handling high UV.

Strain	Type	Notes
Hindu Kush	Photoperiod	Landrace strain, hardy, resilient, used to extreme climate.
Afghan Kush	Photoperiod	Similar properties to Hindu Kush.
Auto strains that thrive and are popular in colder climates can also be used at high elevations.

Important Considerations and Actions:

• Your Microclimate: Even within a zone, conditions vary. Observe your specific yard.
• Soil Quality: Well-draining soil is a MUST. Amend with compost and perlite.
• Watering: Water deeply but infrequently. Avoid overwatering.
• Nutrients: Use quality nutrients designed for cannabis.
• Pest/Disease Patrol: Regularly inspect plants. Act early to prevent problems.
• Strain Research: Always research the specific breeder and strain you choose. one breeders OG may grow differently to another. Look for grow journals to see how others are growing it in similar climates.
• Local Laws: Always follow all local and federal laws regarding cannabis cultivation.

Let’s Learn Together!

I’m just starting out on this journey, and I’m excited to share my experiences with you. I hope this post has given you some food for thought as you choose your first seeds. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and learn along the way.

What are your experiences with seed selection? Do you have any tips for beginner growers? Please feel free to share in the comments! Happy growing!