Are autoflowers less potent?
In the early 2000’s when autoflowers first became commercialized those of us that were used to smoking photoperiods were quickly put off by the low THC levels and autos soon got a reputation as low potency weed. However, since then two whole decades of selective breeding and stabilization have occurred and today’s autoflowers are far superior. So, are autoflowers still less potent?
Why do people say that autoflowers are less potent?
Autoflowers are often considered less potent because of their origins. They stem from the Cannabis Ruderalis family, a subspecies known for its ability to flower based on age rather than light. Native to Siberia, Ruderalis is a small cannabis plant with relatively low THC levels.
To create the very first autoflower, the breeder Joint Doctor crossed a Mexican Sativa photoperiod with a Ruderalis to create the first ever commercialized autoflower ‘Lowryder’. While Lowryder was something of a revolutionary strain, many growers were disappointed with its 8-10% THC level. Lots of breeders came up with their own autoflower variations, but only in the last 5-10 years have autos began to close the potency gap between them and photoperiod strains.
How potent were the first autoflower strains?
The first commercial autoflower strain, Lowryder, was bred by Joint Doctor. It had a THC content of around 8-10%. This initial potency level contributed to the perception that autoflowers were less potent compared to traditional photoperiod strains.
Does this mean modern-day autoflowers are lower in THC?
No, certainly not. Some of today’s autos including our own Godfather OG can produce over 25% THC. However, if you compare a modern autoflower strain to its photoperiod counterpart, such as Gorilla Glue feminized versus Gorilla Glue autoflower, the THC levels will be marginally lower. However, the difference is now much smaller than it used to be. Back in 2003, the gap was around 60%, but today it’s less than 1-5% difference. In fact, if you compare a high-THC autoflower strain like Godfather OG auto to many feminized strains like White Widow or OG Kush, the autoflower would in many cases be more potent. It all depends on the specific strains being compared.
What can you do to increase potency?
Lighting
Using good quality, powerful grow lights will help you to maximize the potency of your autoflowers. High-intensity lights, such as LED or HID grow lights, will help your plants to absorb the necessary energy for healthy growth and resin production. Keeping a consistent light schedule throughout your grow and making sure they have the right light spectrum at each growth stage will also boost THC levels.
Nutrients
Autoflowers need a balanced mix of macro and micronutrients to thrive. Using high-quality fertilizers that contain a good NPK ratio such as 3:1:1 for the veg stage and 1:3:2 for the flowering stage. But remember autos are much smaller than photoperiods so be mindful not to over-fertilize, as this can harm the plants. Normally you would only need to give your autos between 1/8 and ½ of the photoperiod dose.
Hydroponics
Growing autoflowers in a hydroponic system might help you to achieve higher THC levels. This soil-less method ensures that plants receive the optimal amount of nutrients directly to their roots allowing for better control over the nutrient intake and environmental conditions, promoting faster growth and higher potency.
Avoid Stressing Your Plants
Minimizing plant stress is vital if you are trying to maximize potency. Stressful conditions, such as extreme temperatures, inconsistent watering, or physical damage, can reduce THC production, especially if they occur during the flowering stage. By maintaining a stable environment and handling plants gently, you can ensure they focus their energy on producing high-quality, potent buds. Remember autos only have short veg stages so you have a lot less time to play around with them doing things such as LST or topping when compared with photoperiods.
Harvest at the Correct Time
Timing your harvest correctly is critical for potency. Harvesting too early can lead to lower THC levels, while harvesting too late can degrade the quality of the cannabinoids. The best time to harvest is when the trichomes on the buds are mostly milky with a few amber ones. This indicates peak potency and ensures the highest THC content in your harvest.
What are the most potent autoflowering strains?
Godfather OG Auto
Godfather OG Auto boasts a THC content of 25-30%, making it one of the most potent autoflowers available. It yields between 350-450 grams and features a balanced 60% Indica and 40% Sativa mix. This strain is known for its powerful effects and robust growth.
Gorilla Glue Auto
Gorilla Glue Auto delivers a potent 23% THC and can produce an impressive yield of 500-600 grams per plant. With a 60% Indica composition, this strain is renowned for its sticky, resinous buds and strong, relaxing effects, making it a favourite among growers.
Auto Moonrocks
Auto Moonrocks is another highly potent autoflower, offering a THC level of 25%. It yields around 400 grams and is 80% Indica, providing a deeply relaxing experience. This strain is appreciated for its dense buds and high resin production, ideal for those seeking strong effects.
Autoflowers have evolved significantly, with modern strains offering impressive potency with some of our most recent creations including Gorilla Glue and Godfather OG capable of competing with most photoperiods on potency. In short, if potency is what you are after you can achieve this with autos, however, it’s all about strain selection. If you want to consistently produce the highest levels of potency where your plants consistently produce over 30% THC then photoperiods may be the better choice. However, with this you sacrifice the speed and convenience that comes with growing autoflowers.
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