The Difference Between Cannabis Seeds and Clones

Leading the high life has never been as exciting as it is today. Widespread legalization of cannabis has helped so many people cope with chronic pain, and it has enabled people to enjoy their soothing habit in more ways than one. However, there comes a time in every experienced stoner’s life to consider doing it all from scratch. Growing your own plants and perhaps even turning it into a lucrative (and legal, imagine that!) business is a dream for many. The starting dilemma you’ll face concerns the way in which you’ll grow your plants once you find a reputable supplier.

There are two main methods to consider: growing your plants from cannabis seed, or using cuttings, also known as clones, to grow your plants from the mother plant. Both have their merits and drawbacks, and you’ll find them both rewarding and potentially successful if you invest enough time and effort into the endeavor. To help you make the right choice for you, here are a few factors to consider.

The genetic versatility of seeds

Once again, it’s time to express our gratitude for the legalization of cannabis. It has enabled us to purchase seeds from a wide array of vendors all over the globe. That simple fact alone is perfect for introducing genetic variety into your own strains. As an experienced stoner, you already know what kind of plants you prefer, and you can try to source those plants’ seeds from your trusted vendors. Then again, you can also ditch the comfort zone and try combining the genetic material from different plants. 

This creativity will let you explore your preferences even further. Sure, you might discover that the end product isn’t as effective or that the flavor needs improving, but you also have the chance to develop your own delicious strain. That’s often what inspires people to give seeds a go even if they start with clones.

The reliability of clones

For starters, using cuttings lets you choose precisely the plant from which your clones will come. In essence, you will ensure that your plant is female, thus producing the buds you need for superb cannabis products. For that very reason, many prefer using cannabis clones for growing their plants from quality sources, which come with the guarantee to be female. 

Reputable sellers have a wide array of clone varieties you can choose from, so you can both ensure the quality and the flavor of your future plant. By eliminating the guesswork from the entire process, you’ll have an easier time growing your first batch of pot from clones.

Seeds as the durable choice

By nature, stable seeds typically produce resilient plants with stronger roots. This alone makes your seed-based plants easier to nurture, and they’ll use the nutrients from the soil more easily. Both of these perks will allow your plant to remain sturdier and less prone to bugs and mites. 

Of course, under the right circumstances and with the right level of care, the same can be achieved with clones, but seeds make it easier to ensure these qualities in your plant. For beginners, this makes it easier to avoid mistakes in the cultivation process. 

Time-efficiency with clone cultivation

One of the main reasons so many growers will rely on clones in their private collections, and even when selling, is the quick availability. Right off the bat you get access to a predictable plant, always female, that you know precisely in which stage of growth it is. 

Cloning helps you skip those initial, grueling cultivation stages of seeding. In that sense, it’s not just time-efficient, but also budget-friendly, since taking care of your clones requires less time and smaller investments. Seeding takes as long as 6 weeks when done outdoors, and there’s no guarantee your seeds will germinate at all. With cuttings, you make the process far quicker, simpler, and significantly more predictable. 

The factor of quality in both options

When you combine genetic versatility from seeds, the ease of cultivation from clones, and the time it takes for both to yield results – you know that quality isn’t a promise every time. Of course, if you purchase seeds from a reputable seller, you’ll get your money’s worth. Then again, if you clone a plant you know to be exquisite, you’re as good as set for your smoking needs.

However, quality is a relative notion. You’ll refine your taste over time, and you should always make room for improvement. Perhaps how you tend to your plants, be it from seeds or clones, will make a difference in the final product. So, as much as you care for the source of your cannabis, you should devote equal attention to your own capabilities to cultivate your plants. 

There you have it, dedicated stoners. Take your time before you settle on the choice, and if you can, you can dabble in both options to see which is better for your own environment and your specific goals. Both are great for personal use and sharing with your friends, but they have their unique challenges, hence the need to educate yourself before buying. Let this guide help you make the most buzz-worthy choice.