Autoflower

Autoflowering cannabis strains begin automatically flowering and producing flower buds primarily based on their age, rather than changes in light cycles that trigger photoperiod varieties to bloom. Autoflowers transition from the vegetative growth stage into flowering on their own thanks to ruderalis genetics purposely bred into the plant's lineage.

Within 2-4 weeks after sprouting from seed, autoflowering cannabis begins flowering independently of the light schedule. Their accelerated maturation time from seed to harvest makes autoflowers ideal for outdoor cultivation in short seasons or climates lacking the long summer days required for photoperiod strains to fully flower before cold weather arrives. Autoflowers also enable multiple harvests per year indoors under lights.

However, traditional photoperiod cannabis generally has higher THC levels, larger possible yields, and more pronounced aromatic qualities versus autoflower strains. But for novice growers seeking fast, easy harvests or stealth outdoor gardens, autoflowers' automatic flowering and quick finish outweigh those limitations.