Growing cannabis plants takes some time, but if you’re new to it and want a quick and easy way to grow high-quality buds, you should try autoflowering seeds.
These seeds are bred to move automatically from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage without needing season changes, specific light cycles, or advanced techniques.
When choosing the best autoflower seed to grow, consider the seed’s genetics and yield potential, along with other important factors.
Among the many options, we’ve reviewed six of the best autoflower seeds, with Bruce Banner Autos topping our list.
You’ll also need some knowledge to maximize your yield and avoid the common mistakes many growers make with autoflower seeds. We share some tips in the later sections of this post. Let’s get started.
What are Autoflower Seeds?
Autoflower seeds are products of crossbreeding indica or sativa plants with ruderalis. Ruderalis is a wild type of cannabis native to Siberia and Northern Europe.
Unlike other seeds, autoflower weed seeds start flowering automatically, regardless of the light they get. Age rather than variations in light trigger flowering in autoflowers.
They’re also easier for beginners because they don’t need too much attention compared to photoperiod plants.
Autoflowering cannabis plants are usually short, typically 40–100 cm tall, making them ideal for discreet growers. In the sections that follow, we will review some of the strongest and highest-yielding autos to cultivate.
Best Autoflower Seeds: Our Recommendations
- Bruce Banner: Best autoflower seeds overall (Guaranteed germination).
- Gummibears: best for first-time growers, incredible yield
- Quarter Pounder: Highest THC levels (27%)
- White Widow: Long-lasting relaxation
- Gorilla Glue is a potent indica-dominant hybrid with a unique flavor
- Yumbolt Autoflower — Best 100% Indica
We’re sure you want to know more about these options before choosing one.
As for these six auto seeds, we review them based on genetics, benefits, potency, growing requirements, flowering time, and aroma.
1. Bruce Banner Autoflower: Best autoflower seeds overall
Alt: Bruce Banner autoflower cannabis plant
Pros
- Potent strain with 25% THC.
- Energy-boosting effects.
- Big yields when grown indoors.
Genetics
Bruce Banner autos is a Sativa-dominant weed strain. It’s a mix of the original
Bruce Banner and an unknown Ruderalis. This strain is an excellent choice for people who want a boost in energy and a feeling of euphoria.
Benefits
For growers, Bruce Banner is beginner-friendly, which is one of the reasons why it tops our list.
When consumed, this weed delivers euphoric energy that many users associate with a creative boost. And the high is long-lasting. It then wades into a deep relaxation feeling.
Potency
Being a strong weed strain, Bruce Banner has up to 25% THC. This high potency makes the effects of consuming the weed last longer. So, those who are new to taking marijuana will have to go slow on this one.
Growing requirements
As you’d expect from an autoflowering plant, the Bruce Banner auto grows quickly. It is a fantastic option for growers who want to grow a potent cannabis plant without the long wait.
But more importantly, this strain is among the autos that don’t require extensive training. With a balanced nutrient schedule, you should see consistent results.
Flowering time
When growing Bruce Banner autoflower cannabis seeds, expect the total time from seed to harvest to be between 8 and 10 weeks. Under the right conditions, this weed plant can yield up to 17 oz per square meter.
Aroma
With Linalool as its dominant terpene profile, the Bruce Banner delivers a rich, earthy base with a spicy kick.
When enjoying this weed, you will notice a distinct citrus aroma and undertones of diesel mixed with fruit.
2. Quarter Pounder—Highest THC Levels
Alt: Quarter-pound autoflowering cannabis plant
Pros
- Strains with the highest THC levels on this list — up to 27%
- Aromatic experience.
- Offer a well-balanced body high.
Genetics
Quarter Pounder autoflower comes from excellent Brazilian genetics, though its parent strains are not specified. It’s a Sativa-dominant hybrid but shows some Indica characteristics, especially in the plant’s structure.
Benefits
Quarter-pound autoflower seeds are suitable for growers of all experience levels.
And for recreational cannabis users, this strain delivers instant euphoric effects that lead to mood upliftment.
While it can help stimulate your appetite, some users admit that taking Quater Pounder helps with migraines.
Potency
Packing the highest THC level of up to 27%—the highest so far in our list—we recommend this marijuana strain for consumers who need a long-lasting high.
Quarter Pounder Auto delivers potent bud, considering the low CBD content of 0.7%.
Growing requirements
When growing Quater Pounder autoflower seeds, we recommend you use organic fertilizers—perlite, coco coir, or peat moss—to enrich your substrate.
Nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are particularly important during the flowering stage. The soil’s pH should be kept at 6.2–6.5 and the hydrophilic medium at 5.5–6.1.
Keep in mind that this weed strain has mid-resistance to mildew, pests, and botrytis.
Maintain temperatures of around 68–75°F when growing Quarter Pounder autoflower. Keep the humidity around 55–65% during the vegetative state. Reduce it to 35–45% during flowering.
Flowering time
The quarter-pound autoflower takes from 10 to 12 weeks from seed. The crops grow larger than most autos, reaching heights of 5–7 feet tall in perfect conditions.
You can achieve a yield of 10–14 oz./m2 indoors and 17–21 oz./plant outdoors.
Aroma
The frosty white trichomes from Quarter Pounder Autos provide a sweet yet citrus smell and taste.
The best way to describe the aroma is that it’s similar to freshly picked oranges and lemons. If you love an aroma of earthy sharpness with every exhale, the Quarter Pounder is a fantastic marijuana strain in that regard.
3. Gummibears: Best for first-time growers
Gummibears are autoflowering cannabis plants.
Pros
- Amazing yield potential.
- Sweet taste.
- Harvest in 12 to 14 weeks.
- Uniquely ideal for new growers.
Genetics
Crossing the sweet, fruity goodness of Mythic OG and Atlas Star resulted in the Gummibears autoflowering strain.
Benefits:
Considering its compact size (an average of 75 cm in height), this strain is ideal for growers with limited space.
This weed delivers a gentle, uplifting euphoria, perfect for boosting creativity or feeling happy during a rough day.
Potency
The Gummibears autoflower strain isn’t particularly a highly potent weed. With the THC level starting at 16% and hybrid traits, it’s perfect for when you want to uplift your mood without feeling lazy from its effects.
Meanwhile, depending on the cultivation, the THC level can go up to as high as 26%.
Growing requirements
These seeds have a short and easy growing period, making them ideal for beginners and experienced growers.
They are naturally mold-resistant, so you can spend more time caring for your plants and worrying less about pests.
Flowering time
Gummibears auto plants mature in 8 to 10 weeks, after which you’ll reap the rewards. In a successful outdoor grow, the yield potential is over 6 ounces per plant.
Aroma
The terpene profile of Gummiebears weed is a mix of myrcene, limonene, and caryophyllene. This influences the super-sweet yet slightly spicy aroma of this marijuana.
4. White Widow: Long-lasting relaxation
Alt: White Widow Autoflower Cannabis Plant.
Pros
- Moderate THC level of 19%
- Woodsy and earthy flavors
- Bigger indoor yields
Genetics
White Widow autoflower seeds originated from combining Brazilian and Indian landraces for a balanced hybrid with euphoria-inducing and stress-relieving effects.
Adding ruderalis genetics changed the ratio to 65% indica and 35% sativa. It also created a faster-growing version while maintaining the original’s fragrance and potency.
Benefits
White Widow autoflower is a high-quality strain that combines both sativa and indica effects in a balanced way.
Some consumers say it helps to boost energy and reduce anxiety. The indica properties in this strain help you relax.
This is a great weed plant for beginners. It’s easy to grow and resistant to mold.
Thanks to the indicia’s predominant properties in its structure, White Widow autos have thick foliage and will not exceed a height of 3.6 feet, which is perfect if you have limited space to grow.
Potency
Although its average THC content is around 19%, it’s a go-to cultivar for recreational users. This cultivar predominantly contributes to deep cerebral capabilities.
Growing requirements
Growing White Widow auto-feminized seeds indoors gives you complete control, but you have to keep the temperature between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Using hydroponics can enhance flavor and fragrance, but soil works well too.
Consider the climate when growing outdoors. It’s best to plant after the frost melts, typically in April.
Flowering time:
The flowering time of this autoflower strain is between 6 and 8 weeks. It has the shortest maturity timeline on this list.
The indoor yield potential is fantastic—you can expect around 15.8 ounces per square meter. Outdoors, this strain can deliver 2.8 ounces per plant.
Aroma
The White Widow autoflower strain has a sweet, fruity aroma from the dominant myrcene terpene. This sugary scent is followed by a spicy tone, creating a smell similar to a damp forest floor.
5. Gorilla Glue: a potent hybrid with a unique flavor
Alt: Gorilla Glue #4 Autoflower Cannabis Plant
Pros:
- 24% THC
- 8 to 10 weeks flowering time
- Beginner-friendly strain
- It induces deep relaxing effects, making it ideal for bedtime.
Genetics
Gorilla Glue #4 (GG4) is another high-quality autoflower to grow. It’s a potent indica-dominant hybrid with a unique flavor.
It is a product of crossing the original Indica-dominant GG4 strain and a ruderalis cultivar.
Benefits
Gorilla Glue is known for its deep relaxation effects. Consuming this weed can help ease tension and achieve that deep rest or “me-time” after a long day.
Potency
Gorilla Glue is a potent weed strain, with THC levels going up to 24%. The seeds maintain their indica traits, growing into thick foliage, heavy buds, and broad, fan-shaped leaves.
They produce a sizeable apical cola at the top, with clusters of resin-covered buds growing below, all coated in trichomes.
Growing requirements
To keep your Gorilla Glue #4 autoflower plants healthy, maintain temperatures between 70 and 79 °F and humidity at 40% during early growth and up to 60% during flowering. Use a pH range of 6.2–6.5 in soil and 5.5–6.1 in hydroponics.
Flowering time
Thanks to their ruderalis traits, these plants start flowering 2-3 weeks into their growth cycle.
After germinating your auto-gorilla Gorilla Glue seeds, you’ll only need to wait about 8–9 weeks until they’re ready for harvest.
Aroma
This weed has a scent of fresh earth mixed with kerosene and a sour-sweet twist.
On exhaling, you’ll notice hints of pine and wood, with subtle notes of used coffee beans, citrus, and chocolate lingering in the background.
6. Yumbolt Autoflower—Best 100% Indica
Alt: Yumbolt Autoflower Cannabis Plant
Pros:
- Exotic genetics
- An impressive blend of terpenes.
- Uplifting euphoria
Genetics
Yumbolt autoflower seeds come from crossing Yumbolt and Lowrider 2. This strain became notably popular after winning the Best Indica award at the 2001 High Times Cannabis Cup.
Benefits
When consumed, the weed starts with euphoric bliss and ends in deep relaxation, making it ideal for nighttime use as it helps many users drift off to sleep within an hour or two.
Potency
This cultivar contains up to 24% THC and roughly 0.7% CBD. The body high from this potent auto-weed stain is calming and sleep-inducing.
Many growers cultivate Yumbolt auto seeds for their reported therapeutic benefits.
Growing requirements
When growing Yumbolt auto seeds, watch your plants closely for signs of infection or pests and act quickly if you notice any issues.
Avoid chemicals and use organic alternatives instead. As the plants mature, provide occasional macronutrient doses. Some growers also use foliar sprays.
Indoors, you’ll have more control and a better chance of success since these plants only grow 2–4 feet tall.
Outdoors, expect yields of around 12 ounces . per plant and about 14 ounces . per square meter indoors.
Flowering time
The flowering phase lasts around 2 weeks. After germination, the plants take 7–8 weeks to develop fully.
Each stage of Yumbolt autoflower seeds’ growth is fast: germination takes 1–2 weeks, the seedling phase lasts 2–3 weeks, and the vegetative stage is about 3 weeks.
The total time from seed to harvest is 8–10 weeks.
Aroma
Growing Yumbolt auto seeds indoors fills the room with rainforest-like pine, berries, and spice scents. After harvesting, the aroma is sweet and mossy, with pine and fruity flavors when smoked.
What Makes Auto Flower Seeds Unique?
The unique thing about autoflowering seeds is their rapid growth. Unlike regular cannabis seeds that need specific light cycles, autoflower seeds begin flowering automatically after 2-4 weeks.
This fast growth means a quicker harvest so cultivators can enjoy their yields sooner.
These seeds are an excellent choice for beginner growers or anyone looking for an easy, low-maintenance cultivation experience.
Improving yields for Autoflower seeds: Helpful Tips
Autoflowers grow fast, usually finishing in 8 to 10 weeks. So, when giving nutrients, start with a small amount and add more as the plants grow to avoid overfeeding them.
Autoflowering cannabis plants are usually smaller, but they still need enough space to spread out and for air to move around them. This helps prevent mold.
Avoid using stressful methods like cutting the tops of the plants or even other techniques like Screen on Green (SCroG), where you set up a horizontal screen or trellis above the plants and train the branches to grow horizontally through the screen.
It is best to plant the autoflower seeds (preferably in an organic soil mix) and wait for the magic to happen.
Benefits of Autoflower Seeds
Many home growers who started with autoflower seeds would admit that it was a perfect way to begin their cannabis cultivation journey.
In a recent online post with 1,900 views, we saw that most beginner growers admit that although autoflowers can’t be cloned, they are an easy way to start growing and get good yields.
If you choose to grow autoflower seeds, here are some of the benefits you’ll enjoy:
- No light control needed: With autoflowers, you don’t need to control the light cycle to make them flower. This means you don’t need an expensive, light-proof grow box or light timers. Even a balcony with some nighttime light can work.
- Quick harvest: Regular cannabis can take months to grow, but autoflowers can be ready in 8 to 11 weeks. You can harvest 4 to 6 times a year instead of once or twice, which is great for outdoor and indoor growers.
- Tough plants: Autoflowers are harder than regular cannabis plants and can better handle environmental changes. They have genes from industrial hemp, which help them survive in harsh conditions. This makes them ideal for mild climates.
- Indoor friendly: They are usually smaller than regular cannabis plants. This makes them good for indoor growing, especially if you want to keep your plants hidden.
- Stealthy growth: Not everyone can grow cannabis openly. Autoflowers are discreet and can grow quickly in a closet or other private spot.
- Easy feeding: Autoflowers often need fewer nutrients than regular cannabis plants. Start with a quarter of the recommended dose and gradually increase it. Too many nutrients can harm your plants, so starting low and going slow is better.
Final Verdict
Everyone has to start somewhere, but knowing where to begin with growing cannabis can be challenging.
Thankfully, autoflowering plants take care of themselves. Just plant the autoflower seeds (preferably in organic soil) and watch them grow.
You can’t go wrong with any of the seeds suggested in this guide. But if you’re still unsure which autoflowering seed to pick, we highly recommend Bruce Banner from HomeGrown Cannabis as it is the easiest to grow.
FAQs
Are autoflowers better than photoperiods?
In terms of easy growth and fast results., autoflowers are better than photoperiods. However, photoperiod plants are better for those who want bigger harvests, stronger effects, and more control over the growing process.
Do autoflowering seeds yield more?
Regular autoflowering plants are small, producing between 10 and 50 grams per plant. The highest-yielding autoflower plants vary depending on growing cannabis conditions, genetics, and the expertise of the cultivator.
How long do autoflowers take to germinate?
Autoflower seeds usually sprout in 2 to 7 days. However, the time it takes can depend on the age of the seeds, the growing conditions, and how you start the seeds. Ensure you provide good conditions and be patient while waiting for them to grow.
This content is brought to you by the FingerLakes1.com Team. Support our mission by visiting www.patreon.com/fl1 or learn how you send us your local content here.