While the use of clones has dominated the largely commercialized cannabis industry, there is a marked shift occurring, with many experienced cultivators showing growing interest in the use of seed propagation. The reasons behind this trend are manifold and provide food for thought for cultivators and consumers alike.
Tradition and Trust
Traditionally, cannabis was preserved and propagated through seeds, a practice that dates back hundreds of years. The seasoned cultivators who still adhere to this principle believe in preserving the ritual and functionality associated with seeds. They trust the genetic makeup of seeds over clones, often citing that seed-grown cannabis plants are more robust and disease-resistant.
Genetic Diversity and Adaptability
Clones, genetically identical plants, provide consistency that the commercial market requires. However, this uniformity in genetics has its disadvantages. A single disease can wipe out an entire crop because of the inherent lack of diversity. Seeds, in contrast, allow for genetic variations that make each plant unique and offer adaptability to different growing conditions, creating a more resilient and diverse crop of plants.
The Art of Breeding
Skillful cultivators enjoy the art of breeding, which involves selecting seeds from plants that exhibit desired traits, such as higher yield, disease resistance, potent effect, or attractive appearance. Through controlled breeding, these cultivators can develop new, unique strains that expand their offerings and appeal to a wider range of consumers.
The Legal Angle
In some states, such as Oregon, even though clone production is legal, only seeds are allowed to be sold to the public. This can fuel a grower’s interest in seeds, as it presents an opportunity to tap into the consumer market directly.
The Story of Sustainability
An unexpected advantage to the seeds over clones is sustainability. Seed production is a natural process that requires less intervention and resources than cloning and avoids the use of plastics for rooting plugs.
- Saving Costs: Producing seeds and raising them to maturity can be more cost-effective than maintaining mother plants for clones, thereby reducing overheads considerably.
- Environmental Impact: With climate change becoming a significant concern, the lower carbon footprint of seed propagation highlights another compelling reason to favor seeds.
Conclusion
In pursuing an industry for everyone, the community of breeders, growers, and consumers alike will find value in preserving the age-old tradition of propagating cannabis from seeds, promoting diversity, and sustainability in the process. The application process for a medical marijuana card should consider these factors, allowing for a diverse range of products for the consumer.
