In Canada, the Cannabis Act permits anyone over the age of 18 years to grow up to 4 cannabis plants per residence for personal use.
If you’ve ever wanted to put your cannabis green thumb to the test but were intimidated by the seemingly complex nature of cannabis seeds, here’s a guide to getting started with cannabis seeds in Canada.
Male Vs. Female Cannabis Seeds
Knowing the difference between male and female seeds is the first thing you’ll want to understand.
During the seeding and vegetative phase, the two seeds are practically identical. However, there are a few distinct properties and unique physical characteristics to be aware of.
Male Cannabis Seeds
During the growth phase, male cannabis plants will grow a small bunch of flowers, resembling “balls,” that will eventually open to let their pollen out. This production of pollen is needed for natural reproduction and the breeding of new cannabis strains.
If you’re just looking to casually grow a stash for personal use, you’ll want to get rid of any male plants that sprout as soon as possible! If male plants pollinate your female plants, their flowers will just fill up with seeds.
Feminized Seeds
Female or feminized seeds produce buds, which are best for casual growers. They contain the most THC and grow the traditional cannabis flower that people picture.
The flowers don’t fully close and feminized seeds will provide you with a higher yield. A selective breeding method is used to produce seeds that will develop into female plants.
Growing a Cannabis Plant Indoors or Outdoors
Choosing to grow your cannabis seeds indoors or outdoors depends on your specific environment and preferences for the cultivation.
Here are a few things to consider for both methods of growing cannabis.
Growing Cannabis Indoors
Growing cannabis inside your home has become quite popular for many Canadians. Since we have four distinct seasons, growing cannabis indoors allows for easy year-round growth.
Where you choose to set up is flexible, it can be in your closet, cabinet, spare room, basement or elsewhere in your home. Wherever you have adequate space, you can tailor your equipment to fit.
One thing you’ll need to pay attention to is the light in your grow room. This can impact the quality and the quantity of your yield. If your plant gets light during a dark period, it can cause male flowers to sprout.
For indoor lighting, there are various grow lights to choose from including HID, fluorescent, LED or induction.
As for ventilation, cannabis plants will need fresh air to thrive and carbon dioxide is essential to the photosynthesis process. An exhaust fan can be used to help maintain a comfortable temperature for the plants. A light breeze circulating in the room will also strengthen the stems and decrease the risk of mould or pests.
Growing Cannabis Outdoors
The ability to grow cannabis outdoors depends on the climate in your area. With the weather we have in Canada, you’ll likely only be able to grow about one harvest per year.
When growing outdoors, you’ll benefit from the natural environment. Less tending will be needed with cheaper start-up costs since you won’t have to invest in much equipment, like lighting and ventilation. Outdoor growing usually provides you with a bigger yield as well.
