Our pick: Northern Lights Auto
Northern Lights Auto is the first choice for a new grower. It stays short, often under 3 feet, and finishes in about 8 to 10 weeks from sprout. The plant handles minor swings in temperature and feeding, grows one main cola with a few side branches, and fits a single 3-gallon pot. Expect an earthy, pine flavor and a calm body effect.
how long do autoflower seeds take to grow
Plant one seed in its final pot. Set the light to 18 hours on and 6 hours off. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
autoflower seed bank recommendations
How to choose autoflower seeds for beginners
- Pick a strain that finishes in 10 weeks or less from sprout.
- Match the listed plant height to your space, and choose a compact variety for tents under 5 feet tall.
- Set the light timer to 18 hours on and 6 hours off, since autoflowers flower by age, not by light cycle.
- Buy seeds with a visible batch or harvest date, then store the pack in a cool, dark place.
- Plant the seed in its final pot to avoid transplant shock.
- Keep a simple log of water, feed, and height so you can adjust the next run.
Comparison at a glance
- Northern Lights Auto: best first grow, short height, 8 to 10 weeks.
- Gorilla Auto: stronger potency, taller plant, 10 to 11 weeks.
- Royal Dwarf: smallest footprint, fast finish, modest yield.
- Big Devil XL Auto: larger yield, needs more light and space.
Alternatives worth a look
Fast Buds Gorilla Auto (best for potency)
Gorilla Auto suits a grower who wants a stronger effect and can manage a taller plant. It can reach 4 feet in good conditions and finishes in about 10 to 11 weeks. Feed it a light schedule and give it room to spread. The resin output is high, so keep humidity in check during late flower.
autoflower seed bank recommendations
Royal Queen Seeds Royal Dwarf (best for small spaces)
Royal Dwarf stays near 2 feet and finishes in about 8 to 9 weeks. It works in a small tent, a closet, or a balcony pot. Yield is modest, so plant two seeds if you need more flower. The plant takes light feeding and tolerates cooler nights.
Sweet Seeds Big Devil XL Auto (best for yield)
Big Devil XL Auto produces more flower than the other picks, but it needs a larger pot and stronger light. It can finish in about 10 weeks and may reach 4 feet. Use a 5-gallon pot and support the main branches as the buds gain weight. This strain is a better fit for a second grow after you learn the light schedule.
Start with Northern Lights Auto if you want one simple run. Move to Gorilla Auto for potency, Royal Dwarf for tight space, or Big Devil XL Auto for volume.