Cannabis Seeds

Buying cannabis seeds in the UK: legality, delivery & what to expect

Cannabis seeds are legal to buy, sell, own and transport in the UK. However, they are illegal to germinate unless you have a Home Office licence.

Many UK growers order seeds online for convenience, privacy and access to a wider choice of genetics than most local shops can offer. Online ordering is typically the simplest way to compare seed types, strain traits and suitability for UK growing.

Delivery & discretion

Online seed orders are commonly shipped in plain, discreet packaging. Delivery expectations vary by destination, but growers choose online ordering for convenience and privacy.

Choosing cannabis seeds for UK conditions: indoor vs outdoor

UK growers often deal with short summers and unpredictable autumn weather. Choosing the right genetics is key to reliable results, especially for outdoor harvest timing.

Indoor cannabis seeds for UK growers

Indoor growing is popular across the UK because it avoids weather risk and allows consistent results year-round. UK indoor growers commonly choose high-THC feminised seeds for maximum yields, or autoflower seeds for faster and simpler grows.

Outdoor cannabis seeds for UK growers

Outdoor growing in the UK is possible, but genetics matter. Autoflower seeds are widely used because they finish faster than photoperiod strains, improving the chances of harvesting before the worst autumn weather arrives.

Outdoor photoperiod feminised strains can succeed in good summers (especially in southern regions), but timing and weather always add some risk.

Why UK growers favour autoflowers outdoors

Autoflowers flower automatically without needing a change in daylight hours. Their speed makes them a strong option for UK outdoor conditions, particularly where the season is shorter.

UK climate & growing reality: what affects outdoor success

Regional climate differences influence which cannabis seeds perform best outdoors in the UK. Indoors, growers can succeed nationwide with the right setup and genetics.

Northern UK & Scotland

Shorter summers and earlier autumn conditions can make it harder for outdoor photoperiod plants to finish reliably. Many northern outdoor growers prefer autoflowers, while indoor growing remains the most consistent option.

Southern UK

Southern regions often have slightly longer seasons. Outdoor feminised strains can finish successfully in good years, while autoflowers remain the most reliable option for quicker harvests.

Cannabis seed types explained: feminised, autoflower & regular

Feminised cannabis seeds

Feminised seeds are bred to produce female plants. They are the most popular choice among growers due to reliability and ease of use.

Autoflower cannabis seeds

Autoflowers flower automatically and are known for speed and simplicity. They’re well suited to UK outdoor conditions and are popular with beginners.

Regular cannabis seeds

Regular seeds produce both male and female plants. They’re typically chosen by experienced growers or breeders making their own crosses.

High-THC, CBD & medical cannabis seeds: choosing by effects

Some growers prioritise strong psychoactive effects, while others prefer CBD-rich or low-THC options. Modern genetics allow both feminised and autoflower seeds to reach very high THC levels in good growing conditions.

CBD-rich strains provide low-psychoactivity options. Special cannabinoid varieties (such as CBG or THCV) are also available for growers seeking specific traits.

Frequently asked questions about cannabis seeds

Are cannabis seeds legal in the UK?

Cannabis seeds are legal to buy, sell, own and transport in the UK, but illegal to germinate without a licence.

Are autoflower seeds easier to grow in the UK?

Autoflowers are widely considered easier because they flower automatically, grow quickly, and can be more reliable outdoors in short UK summers.

How long do cannabis seeds last?

Stored in a cool, dry and dark place, cannabis seeds can remain viable for several years.

What is the difference between autoflower and photoperiod varieties?

Photoperiod plants begin flowering when daily light hours decrease. Autoflowers flower automatically without needing a change in light cycle.

Not sure which cannabis seeds to buy? Start here

• If you’re new to growing: Autoflower seeds are the easiest and fastest option.
• If you grow indoors: Feminised or autoflower seeds both work well.
• If you grow outdoors in the UK: Autoflower seeds offer the most reliable harvest.
• If you want medical or low-THC options: Choose CBD-rich or special cannabinoid strains.

Use our Seedfinder tool

For tailored recommendations, use our Seedfinder tool. It asks a few quick questions about your grow environment, experience level and preferences (traits, speed, effects, flavour) and suggests strains that match your setup.

Prefer personal advice?

Our customer service team can help you choose seeds based on your goals and growing conditions, and answer questions about seed types and strain characteristics.