How To Choose Marijuana Seeds Strains

If you’ve read our Basic Marijuana Growing Guide, you’ll already know that the types of marijuana seeds that you use will depend upon several different factors. There’s no way for us to know your preferences regarding the type of flavor and high you want to experience from your seeds. Nor, do we know your budget. So, we’ll approach the topic by providing you with a close look at each of the factors that we mentioned in our Basic Guide. You’ll discover the difference between Indica and Sativa marijuana strains. We’ll also explain the different characteristics of the strains as well as the growing environment.

Indica Versus Sativa Strains

The broadest categories for types of marijuana are Indicas and Sativas. Each category can be further broken down into hundreds of strains. Indicas are short with thick-looking leaves and usually require up to 8 weeks to fully mature. Sativas grow taller and have longer, thinner leaves. They can take nearly 16 weeks to mature. A lot of indoor growers prefer Indicas because they’re shorter and less conspicuous.

Height And Yield

Under normal circumstances, Sativas will usually grow taller than Indicas. Their height will ultimately depend on the amount of light they receive, whether it’s natural or artificial, type of soil, and whether it has received enough water through the germination and flowering stages. When fully grown, they can reach heights up to 20 feet. The yields also vary between Indicas and Sativas. Typically, Indicas have a higher yield and take less time to mature. As a result, indoor growers who plant and harvest throughout the year can turn over a greater number of crops.

Taste And Smell

If you’re experienced with smoking different types of marijuana, you’ll probably be able to quickly identify the tastes between Indicas and Sativas. That said, smells and tastes of both can cross a wide range and even overlap. For example, some Indicas can sometimes have a skunk-like smell to them. However, other Indica strains can taste sweet or fruity, very much like Sativas. On the other hand, some Sativas have a distinct earthy quality to their taste. The only true way to know whether you’ll enjoy a particular strain is to try it.

Potency And Type Of High

Both Indicas and Sativas can be equally potent. What influences the level of potency is the manner in which the crop is grown. We discuss this at length in a few of our detailed guides such as our Germination Guide. Briefly, the water your marijuana seeds receive, when they’re harvested, and how they’re dried and cured all play important roles.

The type of high you’ll experience can be dramatically different. Indicas usually deliver a “body stone” that provide a relaxing, laid-back sensation. It can even cause a feeling of drowsiness. A lot of people who use marijuana for medicinal purposes prefer Indicas for this reason. By contrast, Sativas deliver a buzz that affects the brain. You’ll feel more energetic, be able to think quickly, and may even have hallucinations.

Growing Indoors Or Outdoors?

If you’re growing your seeds outdoors, you’ll need to consider how long they’ll take to mature. Some locations don’t experience seasons that are long enough for certain strains. Remember, Sativas can take up to 16 weeks until they’re ready to harvest. That can be a problem if you’re growing outdoors in an area that has shorter seasons. If you’re growing indoors like we do, the length of the season doesn’t matter. As long as you can simulate the climate your marijuana seeds require, you’ll be fine.

As you can see from above, choosing the right marijuana seeds is largely about identifying your preferences. If you’re just starting out as a grower, experiment with different strains. You can select from a wide assortment of the best seeds here. As you gain experience, you can start growing hybrids to enjoy the best of both worlds.