What are the Best Cannabis Strains for Beginner Growers?

All cannabis growers have one thing in common. They have a story to tell of their first attempt at growing the magical plant. Some will boast immediate success, while many others will describe the obstacles they had to overcome. But they all undoubtedly agree, it was an exciting adventure taking the leap into growing cannabis.

Envisioning the operation is one thing; expediting the plan is another. There are a few things a beginner grower should consider before popping a marijuana seed. How large is the grow space? Indoors or outside cultivation? What type of lighting for indoor? Additionally, new growers must consider substrate choices, nutrient formulas, and pest control. These are some relevant topics to be considered as the vision unfolds.

On the bright side, many of these controls are dependent on the type of cannabis seed a new grower experiments with. Fast-growing sativa genetics, thick-leafed indica-dominant strains, and hybrid varieties crossed to bring out delightful characteristics are some of the options that will need to be determined. Additionally, looking at photoperiod plants VS autoflowering cultivars will certainly sway a beginner grower’s thoughts on strain choices.

So, how does a new marijuana enthusiast know what the best strains are for beginner growers? The answer lies within the seed. Knowing a cultivar’s genetic background, growth characteristics, and cannabinoid profiles heightens success for first-time gardeners.

Which Type of Cannabis Genetics is Best for a New Grower?

Modern taxonomy of the genus Cannabis lists three species under its nomenclature classification: C. Sativa, C. indica, and C. ruderalis. Classifying the three species by this system is determined by their distinct differences in growth patterns, physical attributes, and most recently, by genetic research.

Cannabis Sativa

Sativa varieties have a reputation for their high production of flowers, seeds, and fibre. Many strains from this species produce incredible high yields and reveal euphoric tastes and smells. High THC content and other cannabinoid levels found in uplifting sativa gems make them a popular choice for both seasoned and beginner growers.

Many sativa strains are easy to grow. Just be aware that they grow fast and tall, with some reaching heights of 130 cm – 220 cm. It’s a good idea to plan for Low-Stress Training (LST) techniques such as trellising, staking, or pruning to control the wild growth. Before sprouting that first sativa seed, make sure to set up the grow environment appropriately.

Many popular sativa genetics for first-time growers to choose from are easy and fun to grow. The famous Blue Dream, Jack Herer, and Green Crack are ideal strains for newbies. The fast-growing plants are very sympathetic and resilient to new growers’ efforts, performing well in most environments. Hold on to your hat for the next few months, though. Growing sativa-dominant strains for the first time will be an exciting adventure as you learn how to control the magnificent species.

Cannabis Indica

The lovely indica genetics showcase flora in its fullest design. Dense, large fan leaves explode throughout stems and branches on these tropical bushes, defining exquisite plant structure in the vegetative stage. As flowering time unfolds, beginner growers will witness pure beauty as massive trichome-rich colas form throughout the plant. Profiles from indica genetics offer arrays of THC levels, terpenes, CBD, and other medicinal cannabinoids, providing a new grower with many options.

Prized cannabis indica strains that are easy to grow for first-timers include Northern Lights, Cannatonic, Afghani, and LA Confidential. These enjoyable indica dominant cultivars will quickly fill a grow room as they spread up and out. Make sure your grow environment is well-prepped for these luscious ladies.

Hybrid Genetics

Cannabis breeders have developed some sensational genetics in recent years crossing sativa and indica cultivars to attain desirable traits from both species. Fine-tuned breeding practices have led to the development of Cannabis Cup winning strains such as AK-47, Gorilla Glue #4, and Kandy Kush. These easy to grow hybrids provide beginner growers with the opportunity to produce tantalizing buds on their first planting attempt using world-renowned strains.

Cannabis Ruderalis

As the hardiest of all three species, ruderalis genetics give novice growers a quick glimpse of how the marijuana plant’s life cycle evolves. As they blaze through a life span based solely on time, autoflowering strains help teach intrigued students the fundamentals of cannabis plant development in a small space.

Ruderalis species are fast-growing, compact plants speeding through their life stage within 2 -3 months. There is little room for error after seed germination given the short lifecycle, but fortunately, autoflowers easily adjust to their environment, prospering with minimal care. If these rugged plants can withstand harsh conditions in Siberia, certainly they will flourish under the tender care of a first-time grower.

Beginner growers will enjoy germinating Godfather OG, Grape Ape, and Super Skunk auto-flowering seeds. These prominent ruderalis strains provide strong genetics to ensure a new grower’s success. Because of their overall small size and quick growing cycle, ruderalis genetics are a perfect choice for first-time growers to get their feet wet.

Which are Easier to Grow – Photoperiod or Autoflowering Strains?

Many photoperiod cannabis strains are easy to grow, particularly in an optimal environment. They are forgiving, especially during the vegetative stage as rapid new growth adjusts to first-time grower’s attempts. With proper lighting, nutrition, and climate controls, photoperiod strains such as White Widow, Sour Diesel, and Casey Jones are manageable for beginner growers.

Autoflowering cultivars, on the other hand, are extremely easy to grow but far less forgiving. Effects from an overload of nutrients, excess pruning/topping, overwatering, or stress-induced transplanting in early growth stages becomes very clear in a short time. Their quick-growing lifespan leaves little time for recovery. The old saying, ‘less is more’, should always be applied to cultivation methods when growing autos for the first time.

Choosing the Best Cannabis Strains for Beginner Growers

For anyone ready to jump into growing cannabis for the first time, the choices are vast in today’s bustling marijuana market. As science continues to uncover the magnificent attributes of cannabis plants, genetics will only improve. So, what are you waiting for?

Marijuana Grow Shop is proud to offer pristine genetics from the world’s most exclusive cannabis breeders. While it might be difficult for a novice grower to choose from all the popular strains available at MGS, our website filters will help you search for the easy to grow marijuana strain you have been dreaming about.