If you’ve explored the world of cannabis cultivation, you’ve likely come across the term autoflowering strains (also known as autos or automatic strains—they all mean the same thing). Whether you’re a beginner grower or a seasoned cultivator, autoflowering cannabis has carved out its own special place in the grower community. But what exactly are autoflowering strains, and why are they so popular? In this guide, we’ll break it down in an easygoing, informative way.
What Are Autoflowering Strains?
photoperiod cannabis plant next to an autoflower cannabis plant
At their core, autoflowering cannabis strains are types of cannabis plants that automatically switch from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage based on age, rather than relying on light cycles. Traditional photoperiod cannabis plants require a shift in light exposure (typically 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness) to trigger flowering. Autoflowers, on the other hand, do their thing on their own schedule.
Why Do Autoflowers Flower Automatically?
Autoflowering strains are primarily derived from Cannabis ruderalis, a variety of cannabis native to regions with short growing seasons and long daylight hours, like Russia and parts of Eastern Europe. This hardy plant adapted to flower quickly and independently of light cycles, ensuring it could reproduce before the harsh winters set in.
My first attempt at growing cannabis was with a photoperiod strain, and let me tell you—timing the light cycles was nerve-wracking. I was constantly worried about light leaks and accidentally messing up the cycle. I have had a few plug-in timers break, leaving the lights on 24/7 and ruining the flowering period of my plants.
When I discovered autoflowers, it felt like a cheat code. No more worrying about light schedules and faulty timers, just water, feed, and let them grow!
Benefits of Autoflowering Strains
Autoflowering strains aren’t just a novelty; they come with some real perks for growers.
1. Faster Growing Cycle
Autoflowers typically have a shorter life cycle compared to photoperiod plants. Many autoflowering strains are ready to harvest in as little as 8-10 weeks from seed. This makes them ideal for impatient growers (like me) or those trying to squeeze in multiple harvests in a single growing season.
2. Smaller and More Manageable Plants
Autoflowers tend to stay smaller, which makes them perfect for indoor grows, small spaces, or stealth cultivation. If you’re limited to a closet grow or a tiny balcony, autoflowers are your best friend.
3. No Dependence on Light Cycles
As mentioned earlier, autoflowers don’t require specific light cycles to flower. You can keep them under 18-24 hours of light a day from seed to harvest, and they’ll still flower when they’re ready.
4. Hardy and Resilient
Thanks to their ruderalis genetics, autoflowering plants are generally more resistant to pests, mold, and environmental stress. They’re forgiving for beginner mistakes, which is why they’re often recommended for first-time growers.
Drawbacks of Autoflowering Strains
Of course, autoflowers aren’t perfect, and they do come with some limitations.
1. Some Strains have Smaller Yields
When breeders first started working with autoflowers, the plants were shorter and thus had smaller yields. However, advancements in genetics have led to some super high-yielding autoflower strains in recent years that grow just as big as photoperiod plants.
2. Less Time for Recovery
If you accidentally damage or stress an autoflowering plant, it has much less time to recover because of its fixed life cycle. Every day counts in an autoflower grow.
3. No Cuttings – More Expensive
If you take cuttings from an autoflowering plant the lifespan will not reset, the cuttings will flower at the same time as the mother plant. So you have to start from seeds every time when using autoflower plants. This is a lot more expensive for some growers who like to keep mother plants and use their own cuttings.
I once snapped a main branch on an autoflower while trying to bend it for low-stress training. With a photoperiod plant, I could have just extended the veg stage to let it recover. But my poor autoflower soldiered on with a lopsided canopy—it still yielded some decent buds, though!
Best Practices for Growing Autoflowers
While autoflowers are relatively easy to grow, there are a few tips that can help you maximize your results.
1. Choose the Right Medium
Autoflowers thrive in light, airy soil with good drainage. Many growers opt for a mix of coco coir and perlite for optimal results.
2. Avoid Transplanting
Autoflowers don’t like being transplanted. Start them in their final pots to avoid root shock and stunted growth.
3. Don’t Overfeed
Autoflowers have smaller root systems and typically require less nutrients than photoperiod strains. Start with a lighter nutrient mix and adjust as needed.
4. Use Proper Lighting
While autoflowers don’t depend on light cycles, they still benefit from strong, consistent lighting. LED grow lights are an excellent choice.
5. Be Gentle with Training Techniques
If you plan to train your autoflowering plants, stick to low-stress training (LST) techniques like bending branches. Avoid high-stress methods like topping unless you’re very experienced.
Popular Autoflowering Strains
If you’re curious about trying autoflowers, here are some crowd favorites to get you started:
- Auto Blue Dream: Known for its balanced effects and high yield.
- Auto Northern Lights: A classic strain, easy to grow, and very forgiving.
- Auto Gorilla Cookies: Potent and resin-packed buds.
- Auto Amnesia Haze: Great for a daytime boost with its energetic effects.
Are Autoflowering Strains Right for You?
At the end of the day, whether autoflowers are right for you depends on your goals and growing setup. If you’re looking for a quick harvest, have limited space, or want a more forgiving growing experience, autoflowers are an excellent choice. However, if you’re chasing massive yields and have full control over your growing environment, photoperiod strains might still have the edge.
Final Thoughts
Autoflowering cannabis strains have revolutionized home growing, offering a low-maintenance, fast-growing option for growers of all skill levels. They might not replace photoperiod strains entirely, but they certainly have earned their place in every grower’s toolkit.
So if you’re on the fence, grab some autoflower seeds, set up your grow space, and give them a shot. You might just find yourself falling in love with their simplicity and efficiency. Happy growing!
