When it comes to growing cannabis, one of the first decisions you’ll face is whether to go with autoflowering (autos) or photoperiod strains. Both have their pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends on your growing style, environment, and personal goals. In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between the two, compare their benefits and drawbacks, and help you decide which type is the best fit for you. And yes, I’ll sprinkle in a few personal anecdotes along the way.
What Are Autoflowering Strains?
Autoflowering cannabis strains are bred to switch from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage automatically, based on their age rather than light cycles. This trait comes from their Cannabis ruderalis genetics, a hardy subspecies of cannabis adapted to short summers and long daylight hours.
Pros of Autoflowering Strains
- Faster Growth Cycle: Autos typically go from seed to harvest in 8–12 weeks.
- No Light Cycle Worries: They’ll flower regardless of light exposure.
- Compact Size: Ideal for small grow spaces or stealth grows.
- Beginner-Friendly: They’re forgiving and resilient.
Cons of Autoflowering Strains
- Smaller Yields: Due to their short lifecycle and smaller size.
- Limited Training Window: Less time for recovery after training techniques.
- Lower THC Potential: Some strains may have lower potency compared to photoperiod strains.
My first grow was an autoflowering strain because I wanted a quick, low-stress introduction to cannabis cultivation. I was amazed at how fast it went from seedling to harvest, but I did feel a little disappointed by the smaller buds. Still, it was a great confidence booster! If you want more information on autoflowering genetics, see here.
What Are Photoperiod Strains?
Photoperiod cannabis strains rely on specific light cycles to transition from the vegetative stage to flowering. Outdoors, this happens naturally with seasonal changes, but indoors, growers control light cycles manually.
Pros of Photoperiod Strains
- Bigger Yields: Photoperiod plants have more time to grow and develop larger buds.
- Better Control: Growers can control the length of the vegetative stage.
- Higher Potency: Many photoperiod strains have higher THC levels.
- Cloning Potential: Easy to create clones from mother plants.
Cons of Photoperiod Strains
- Longer Grow Cycle: Can take several months to complete.
- Light Dependency: Requires precise control of light cycles.
- Less Forgiving: Mistakes with light leaks or stress can reduce yields.
After growing a few autos, I decided to try my hand at a photoperiod strain, Blue Dream. The patience required was intense, but when I finally harvested those massive, resin-covered buds, it felt like hitting the jackpot. If you want more information on photoperiod genetics, see here.
Key Differences Between Autos and Photoperiod Strains
1. Light Requirements
- Autoflowers: Flower regardless of light exposure. You can run lights 18-24 hours a day for maximum growth.
- Photoperiod: Require 12 hours of uninterrupted darkness to flower.
2. Growth Cycle
- Autoflowers: Typically 8–12 weeks from seed to harvest.
- Photoperiod: Can take 3–6 months depending on the vegetative stage.
3. Yield
- Autoflowers: Smaller yields per plant.
- Photoperiod: Larger yields, especially when grown outdoors.
4. Training Techniques
- Autoflowers: Limited window for training; stick to low-stress techniques.
- Photoperiod: Can handle high-stress training like topping and super cropping.
5. Potency
- Autoflowers: Generally lower THC levels, though modern genetics are closing the gap.
- Photoperiod: Often higher THC levels and more complex terpene profiles.
Which Strain is Right for You?
Choose Autoflowers If:
- You want a quick harvest.
- You have limited space or are growing stealthily.
- You’re a beginner looking for a forgiving grow.
- You want multiple harvests per season.
Choose Photoperiod Strains If:
- You want maximum yields and potency.
- You’re growing outdoors in an ideal climate.
- You have the patience for a longer grow cycle.
- You want more control over plant growth.
Pro tip: If you have the space and resources, why not grow both? Autos can provide quick harvests while your photoperiod plants are still in the vegetative stage.
My Experience Growing Both Autos and Photoperiods
When I first started growing cannabis, autoflowers felt like the perfect training wheels. They were quick, resilient, and didn’t punish me too harshly for my mistakes. But once I got the hang of things, photoperiod strains became my go-to for their sheer yield and potency.
One season, I decided to grow both simultaneously in my grow tent. The autoflowers gave me a quick harvest while the photoperiod plants continued to grow. It was the best of both worlds, and my stash jars stayed full for months.
Best Practices for Growing Each Type
For Autoflowers:
- Start them in their final pots to avoid transplant shock.
- Use light, well-draining soil.
- Stick to low-stress training (LST) only.
- Keep lights on for 18–24 hours daily.
For Photoperiods:
- Be precise with your light cycles.
- Use training techniques like topping and ScrOG.
- Monitor for light leaks during the flowering stage.
- Be patient—good things take time.
Conclusion: Autos vs Photoperiod – The Final Verdict
At the end of the day, both autoflowering and photoperiod strains have their strengths and weaknesses. Autos are perfect for beginners, stealth grows, or anyone looking for a quick harvest. Photoperiod strains, on the other hand, are ideal for growers who want to maximize yields, control every aspect of the grow, and aren’t afraid of a longer timeline.
If you’re still undecided, why not try growing both? Start with an autoflower to build confidence and enjoy a quick harvest, then challenge yourself with a photoperiod strain for a rewarding, high-yielding grow.
No matter which route you choose, remember: every grow is a learning experience. Enjoy the process, celebrate your wins, and don’t stress too much over the hiccups. Happy growing!
