Before you set up your grow tent and connect the lamps, you face the most important decision — the seeds. They will determine what kind of yields you’ll get, how long the cultivation will take, and what effects you will achieve. In this article, we explain how to choose the right cannabis seeds for indoor growing, so you can avoid mistakes and enjoy healthy plants and abundant harvests.
Why is the choice of seeds so important?
Choosing seeds is the foundation of any grow. Even the best equipment, lighting, ventilation, and fertilizers won’t help if you start with weak or unsuitable genetics. Good seeds will provide you with vigorous plants, resistant to stress, diseases, and pests, while poor quality seeds may result in low yields, hermaphroditic plants, or even total crop failure.
Types of cannabis seeds — what’s worth knowing?
There are three main types of cannabis seeds available on the market:
Regular seeds — contain both male and female plants. They are mainly used by breeders and experienced growers who want to experiment with genetics or produce their own seeds. For indoor growers focused on yields, regular seeds are rarely recommended.
Feminized seeds — produce almost 100% female plants, which develop flowers rich in cannabinoids (THC, CBD, etc.). Feminized seeds are the best choice for beginners and growers focused on obtaining dried flowers.
Autoflowering seeds — bloom regardless of the light cycle. They are small, fast, and very forgiving, making them ideal for beginners or those with limited space.
How to match seeds to your indoor space and conditions?
When choosing seeds, consider the following:
Available space — check the height and width of your grow box. Indica-dominant or autoflowering strains are perfect for small grow tents because they remain short and compact. Sativa strains, on the other hand, grow tall and need more space.
Cultivation time — autoflowering plants are ready for harvest in as little as 9–10 weeks from germination, while feminized photoperiod plants need about 3–4 months.
Resilience — if you’re a beginner, choose strains known for their resistance to stress, nutrient deficiencies, or fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
Which strains to choose to start with?
For your first indoor cultivation, choose proven, beginner-friendly strains such as:
Northern Light
White Widow
Critical
Blueberry Auto
These are strains that combine high yields, good resistance, and relatively low demands.
Where to buy seeds? Trusted sources
Buy seeds only from reputable seed banks and stores. Avoid auctions and suspicious online offers. Recommended brands include Royal Queen Seeds, Sensi Seeds, Barney’s Farm, Dutch Passion, and Green House Seeds.
Genetics and reviews
Before buying seeds, check the genetics, read grow reports, and browse online reviews. Forums and grower groups are a great source of knowledge about how specific strains behave indoors.
Most common mistakes when choosing seeds
Buying cheap, unknown seeds
Choosing sativa strains for small tents
Underestimating cultivation time
Not checking the reputation of the seller
Summary
Choosing the right seeds is the first step to a successful indoor grow. Take your time, invest in good genetics, and enjoy healthy, lush plants and abundant harvests.
