How Long Do Cannabis Seeds Take to Grow? (Complete Seed to Harvest Timeline)
How Long Do Cannabis Seeds Take to Grow? (Complete Seed to Harvest Timeline)
One of the most searched questions about cannabis seeds is:
How long does it actually take from seed to harvest?
The answer depends on the type of cannabis seeds you choose, your grow environment, and your overall cultivation strategy.
At Discount Cannabis Seeds, we help growers understand realistic timelines so expectations match reality. This guide breaks down every stage — from germination to harvest — so you know exactly what to expect.
Quick Answer.
On average:
- Auto flower cannabis seeds: 8–12 weeks from seed to harvest
- Photoperiod cannabis seeds: 12–20+ weeks depending on veg time
- Outdoor UK grows: Typically April–October (5–6 months total cycle)
- Now let’s break it down properly.
Stage 1: Germination (1–5 Days).
This is when the seed cracks and the taproot emerges.
What happens:
- The seed absorbs water
- The shell splits
- The taproot appears
- Most healthy cannabis seeds germinate within 24–72 hours.
- Older seeds may take slightly longer.
Stage 2: Seedling Stage (1–2 Weeks).
After sprouting, the plant enters the seedling phase.
You’ll see:
- First true leaves forming
- Small vertical growth
- Root system establishing
- This stage is delicate but crucial. Overwatering is the most common mistake.
- Timeline: 7–14 days.
Stage 3: Vegetative Stage (2–8+ Weeks).
This is where growth accelerates.
- The plant focuses on:
- Leaf production
- Stem thickening
- Branch development
- Root expansion
- The length of this stage depends on seed type.
- Veg stage is fixed (usually 2–4 weeks)
- Plants automatically switch to flower based on age
- Photoperiod Cannabis Seeds:
- Veg duration is controlled by light cycle
- Can be 2–8+ weeks depending on grower choice
- Longer veg usually means larger plants and potentially bigger yields.
Stage 4: Flowering Stage (6–12 Weeks).
Once flowering begins, the plant focuses on bud development.
Auto Flower Seeds:
- Total lifecycle usually 8–12 weeks from seed
- Flowering lasts roughly 5–8 weeks
Photoperiod Seeds:
- Flowering begins after switching to 12/12 light cycle
- Usually 7–11 weeks depending on genetics
Indica-dominant strains often finish faster.
Sativa-dominant strains may take longer.
Indoor Timeline Summary.
Auto Flower Cannabis Seeds:
Germination: 2–5 days
Seedling: 1–2 weeks
Veg + Flower: 6–9 weeks
Total: 8–12 weeks
Germination: 2–5 days
Seedling: 1–2 weeks
Veg: 2–8 weeks
Flowering: 7–11 weeks
Total: 12–20+ weeks
Outdoor growing in the UK follows the natural season.
Typical cycle:
- Germinate indoors: March–April
- Transplant outdoors: May
- Vegetative growth: May–July
- Flowering: August–October
- Harvest: Late September–October
- Total timeline: 5–6 months.
- Weather and strain choice heavily influence finish time.
Several factors can extend or shorten the cycle:
1. Genetics.
Fast-flowering strains finish quicker.
Some sativas require longer flowering.
2. Vegetative Duration.
Longer veg = longer total cycle.
3. Environment.
Temperature, lighting and stress affect development speed.
4. Training Techniques.
Heavy training may slightly extend veg time.
5. Seed Type.
Auto flower cannabis seeds are fastest.
Photoperiod seeds offer more control.
Fastest Option: Auto Flower Cannabis Seeds.
If speed is your priority:
Auto flower cannabis seeds are the fastest route to harvest.
Benefits:
- No light cycle change needed
- Short lifecycle
- Compact growth
- Ideal for small tents
Perfect for beginners or multiple yearly runs.
Highest Yield Option: Photoperiod Seeds.
If maximum yield is your goal:
- Photoperiod cannabis seeds allow:
- Extended vegetative growth
- Larger plants
- Greater canopy control
- They take longer but often reward patience.
Common Grower Timeline Mistakes.
❌ Expecting harvest in 6 weeks
❌ Ignoring veg time in planning
❌ Switching to flower too early
❌ Rushing drying and curing
Remember: drying and curing adds 2–4 weeks after harvest for best results.
If including curing:
Auto flower:
8–12 weeks grow
2–4 weeks drying & curing
= 10–16 weeks total
Photoperiod:
12–20+ weeks grow
2–4 weeks drying & curing
= 14–24+ weeks total
Patience improves quality.
Cannabis seeds are not fast crops compared to vegetables — but they are predictable.
When you choose the right genetics and manage environment properly, timelines become consistent.
Understanding realistic expectations prevents frustration and improves planning.
Grow cycles reward patience and preparation.
Why Shop With Discount Cannabis Seeds?
Choosing the right cannabis seeds makes planning easier.
At Discount Cannabis Seeds, we offer:
Carefully Selected Cannabis Seeds.
Stable genetics with predictable flowering times.
Transparent Strain Information.
Clear lifecycle expectations.
Competitive Pricing.
Quality cannabis seeds without inflated branding costs.
Discreet Worldwide Delivery.
Secure packaging and reliable shipping.
Grower-Focused Support.
Helping you choose seeds that match your timeline and environment.
“Auto flowers finished exactly on time.” – James, Manchester
“Photoperiod strains had predictable flowering.” – Sarah, Bristol
“Great timeline consistency.” – Tom, Leeds
“Clear expectations and reliable results.” – Alex, London
Consistency builds confidence.
Ready to Start Your Next Grow?
Explore stable, reliable cannabis seeds at:
https://www.discountcannabisseeds.co.uk
Choose your timeline. Grow with confidence.
Written by Molly – Discount Cannabis Seeds
Molly specialises in cannabis seed genetics, lifecycle planning and grow strategy. Her focus is helping growers understand realistic timelines and choose genetics that align with their goals.
Her mission is simple:
Make cannabis seed selection clear, predictable and practical.
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