What are cannabis seedlings?

A cannabis seedling is a young cannabis plant that has emerged from a germinated seed. In the so-called seedling stage, the plant has developed its first cotyledons, often followed by the first true leaves that are typical of the cannabis plant. This early stage is crucial for the healthy growth and later yield of the plant.

The seedling phase is a sensitive stage in the life cycle of the cannabis plant, as it lays the foundation for strong root development and a stable stem. To achieve the best results, optimal conditions such as the right temperature, a balanced pH value and sufficient light are essential.

Advantages of seedlings over cuttings

Growing cannabis seedlings offers several advantages over cuttings, especially for beginners:

1. Stronger root system: As seedlings grow from seed right from the start, they develop a stronger and deeper root system, which makes them more resistant to stress.

2. Genetic purity: Cannabis seeds provide a fresh genetic base, whereas cuttings can be more susceptible to diseases or weaknesses in the mother plant.

3. Flexible start: With seedlings, you can follow the entire life cycle of the plant from the beginning, which is particularly educational and gives you full control over the development of your plants.

4. Better adaptation: Seedlings adapt better to different environments and growing methods - whether in soil, hydroponics or another growing medium.

How to recognize high-quality seeds

You can recognize high-quality cannabis seeds by their brown to black color with white patterns, their hardness and a slightly shiny surface. Fresh seeds from a recent harvest offer the best germination capacity. Our carefully selected seeds lay the perfect foundation for your cannabis plants - from the first seedlings to the high-yielding harvest.

The perfect start: let the seeds germinate

Germination is the first and most important step on the way to a healthy cannabis plant. You don't need complicated equipment to germinate your seeds - just the right methods and a little patience.

The water glass method is a simple technique for germinating cannabis seeds. The seeds are placed in a glass of lukewarm water and soaked for 12 to a maximum of 24 hours. During this time, the seeds absorb moisture, which stimulates germination. Some seeds burst open in the water and show a small root, others then require the paper towel method for further germination. It is important not to leave the seeds in the water for too long, otherwise they may suffocate or rot. This method is particularly suitable for older or harder seeds to improve their germination rate. Continue with the water glass method:

1. Moisture: Place the cannabis seeds on a damp kitchen towel or cotton pad. Cover them with another damp cloth to ensure even humidity.

2. Temperature: Make sure that the ambient temperature is constantly between 20 and 25 °C. Too low a temperature slows down the process, while too high a temperature can damage the seed.

3. Darkness: The seeds should be kept in a dark place to achieve the best results.

4. Time: After about 1 to 3 days, the roots will begin to sprout. As soon as the seed has germinated and the seedling shows its first roots, you can carefully plant it in the growing medium.

With patience and the right care, this step lays the foundation for strong growth and a healthy plant.

How long does the seedling phase of cannabis last?

The seedling phase of cannabis plants lasts around 1 to 3 weeks and is crucial for later growth. During this time, the cotyledons form first, followed by the first true leaves, which are typical of cannabis. During this phase, the plant concentrates on building a strong root system, stabilizing the stem and forming leaves that begin photosynthesis. Optimal conditions in this phase lay the foundation for healthy plants and a good yield.

The ideal environment for the germination process

The germination process requires a carefully controlled environment. Keep the temperature constant at 20 to 25 °C and the humidity at 60 to 70 % to prevent the seeds from drying out. Light is not necessary during germination, but once the seedlings appear, they need moderate light, about 18 hours a day with an LED lamp. Choose a permeable growing medium such as potting soil or coco fiber and use water with a pH between 5.8 and 6.5. These basics create ideal conditions for healthy cannabis seedlings to develop into vigorous plants.

Planting seedlings correctly

As soon as your cannabis seeds have successfully germinated and the first small roots are visible, it is time to plant the seedlings in a suitable growing medium. Care must be taken when doing this, as the roots are sensitive and can easily be damaged if handled incorrectly.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparation of the medium: Choose a loose, well-aerated soil or a special substrate for cannabis seedlings. Make sure that the soil is slightly moist, but not too wet.

2. Prepare the hole: Make a small hole about 1 to 2 cm deep with a finger or pencil.

3. Insert the seedling: Carefully place the germinated seed in the hole with the root facing downwards. The cotyledons should be just above the soil.

4. Cover: Gently fill the hole with soil and press down lightly.

5. Watering: Water the soil carefully to set it without drowning the seedling.

This process ensures that your young plants acclimatize quickly and can continue their healthy growth.

Which containers and pots are suitable

Choosing the right container is crucial for the healthy growth of your cannabis seedlings, as it provides sufficient space for the roots and ensures good drainage. Growing containers are ideal for the seedling phase. They are compact, supply the young plants efficiently and, ideally, have drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Air pots or fabric pots are another excellent option. These ensure optimal aeration of the roots, promote faster growth and are particularly suitable for transferring the seedlings to larger containers later on. If you want to avoid repotting, you can place the plants directly in end pots, which should have a capacity of at least 5 to 10 liters.

Regardless of the choice of container, clean pots and a well-drained growing medium are essential to achieve the best results and provide optimal conditions for your cannabis seedlings.

When should you water cannabis seedlings?

Proper watering is essential for the development of your cannabis seedlings, as both too much and too little water can impair growth. Check the top layer of soil regularly - if it is dry, you should water, but only in small amounts and slowly so that the roots can absorb the water efficiently. Avoid permanently wet soil to prevent waterlogging and make sure the pH value of the water is between 5.8 and 6.5. Water more frequently in small amounts and adjust the intervals to the plant's reaction.

The right lighting

Light is also crucial for seedlings as it stimulates growth and promotes stability. Use a low wattage LED or fluorescent lamp and keep a distance of 30-50 cm to avoid overheating and burns. A light cycle of 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness is ideal, while autoflowering strains also thrive with a 20/4 cycle. Ensure an ambient temperature below 28 °C and sufficient air circulation to provide the plants with optimum care. This will create the best conditions for strong and high-yielding cannabis plants.