Introduction to Cannabis Cultivation: Clones vs. Seeds
When embarking on the journey of cannabis cultivation, one critical decision you'll need to make is whether to start your grow from clones or seeds. This choice can impact your garden's trajectory, and it's vital to consider the pros and cons of each method to determine which aligns best with your cultivation goals.Considering Clones for Consistency
Cloning is the process of creating genetically identical plants from cuttings of an existing, mature plant. These "clones" will carry the same traits as their "mother," ensuring a crop that is consistent in quality and characteristics.Advantages:
- Guaranteed gender, as clones are always female.- No "germination hump;" they start as young plants, saving time.
- Exact replication of a plant's traits from potency to yield.
Considerations:
- Clones can carry pests or diseases from their mother plant to new environments.- Success depends on the health of the mother plant; any weaknesses will be passed on to the clones.
The Seed Route for Variety and Vigor
Growing from seeds can introduce a wider genetic variety to your cultivation efforts. Seeds can also demonstrate "hybrid vigor," meaning plants grown from seeds may potentially be more robust and resistant to diseases compared to clones.Advantages:
- Seeds eliminate the risk of importing pests or diseases that are common with clones.- Provides the opportunity to bring new genetics into your garden.
- Seeds growing into seedlings can result in stronger, more resilient plants.
Considerations:
- You'll face a mix of male and female plants unless using feminized seeds, necessitating sex identification and removal of males.- Starting from seeds means a longer process as you wait for germination and seedling development.