The cannabis seed is the biological foundation of every cannabis plant. It contains all the genetic information and nutrient reserves required for the development of a new plant.

Structure:

• Seed coat (testa): A hard protective shell that shields the seed from environmental influences and dehydration.
• Embryo: The developing plant, consisting of the embryonic root (radicle), the stem section (hypocotyl), and the first two leaves (cotyledons).
• Nutrient tissue (endosperm): Stores energy in the form of starches, proteins, and oils for the early stages of germination.

Germination:

Germination is triggered by moisture, which activates enzymes, suitable warmth – ideally around 23–25 °C – and oxygen. The radicle is the first part to break through the seed coat and develops into the primary root. The cotyledons then emerge and supply the young seedling until photosynthesis becomes established.

Quality and Storage:

Proper storage – cool, dry, and dark – is essential for maintaining seed viability. The genetic quality and stability of the parent plants also influence the characteristics and reliability of the resulting seedlings.

Types of Cannabis Seeds:

• Regular seeds: Can develop into either male or female plants.
• Feminized seeds: Are bred to produce almost exclusively female plants.

Cannabis seeds provide genetic diversity, unlike clones, which are genetically identical copies of the mother plant.