Cannabis seeds are the foundation of every cannabis plant. Without them, growers wouldn’t have access to the wide variety of strains that exist today — from uplifting sativas to relaxing indicas and balanced hybrids. Yet, despite their importance, cannabis seeds are often surrounded by questions: Why are they so expensive? Are they even legal? How do you know which ones to buy?

In recent years, the conversation around cannabis seeds has grown louder, thanks to changes in laws, increasing interest in home cultivation, and the rise of autoflower and feminized seeds. Whether you’re a beginner curious about germination or an experienced grower looking for long-term storage tips, this guide will answer the internet’s most common cannabis seed questions all in one place.

By the end, you’ll know why seeds matter, where to buy them, how to grow them, and which types are right for you.

Cannabis seeds are not just ordinary plant seeds — they are carefully bred genetics. Breeders spend years stabilizing strains to ensure consistency in yield, potency, aroma, and growth patterns. This work, along with limited supply, contributes to higher prices. On average, a single seed can cost anywhere from $5 to $20 USD, depending on rarity and breeder reputation.

Pro tip: Buying from a trusted shop like MJ Seed Shop means you’re paying for quality genetics, germination reliability, and free bonus seeds — which makes your investment stretch further.

Why Don’t Cannabis Seeds Always Germinate?

Even with the best genetics, not every seed will sprout. Factors like age, storage conditions, and germination method play a big role. Old or improperly stored seeds lose viability. Using methods like the paper towel technique or soaking seeds in water can boost success.

Most reputable seed banks, including MJ Seed Shop, guarantee high germination rates (often 90%+). Still, it’s smart to germinate a couple of extra seeds to ensure success.

Why Are Cannabis Seeds Illegal in Some Countries?

Cannabis laws vary wildly across the globe. In some countries, seeds themselves are legal because they don’t contain THC. In others, they’re considered the same as cannabis flower and tightly regulated.

For example:

• United States: The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp seeds, and cannabis seeds are often sold as “souvenirs” — but legality depends on your state.

• UK: Cannabis seeds can be sold legally, but it’s illegal to germinate them.

• Canada: Cannabis seeds are fully legal under federal law.

Always check your local laws before ordering cannabis seeds.

Why Are Cannabis Seeds Legal in the U.S. (Farm Bill)?

The 2018 Farm Bill defined hemp as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC. Because cannabis seeds themselves contain no THC, they fall under hemp classification. That means they can be legally sold as “hemp seeds” across the U.S.

However, germinating those seeds into plants may still be restricted by state cannabis laws. This gray area is why some seed shops emphasize “souvenir” or “collector’s” purposes.

Why Feminized Seeds Are Popular With Growers

In cannabis, only female plants produce buds. Regular seeds have a 50/50 chance of being male or female, meaning growers could waste time and resources on males they’ll later discard.

Feminized seeds solve this problem by ensuring 99% female plants, saving growers space, time, and effort. This makes them the top choice for beginners and commercial cultivators alike.

 Check out our Feminized Seeds Collection for high-yield strains perfect for beginners.

Where Do Cannabis Seeds Come From?

Cannabis seeds are produced when a male plant pollinates a female plant. The resulting seeds carry a mix of genetics from both parents. Breeders intentionally cross specific strains to create unique offspring with desirable traits — like higher THC, shorter flowering times, or improved resistance to pests.

Over time, careful selection stabilizes a strain, ensuring each seed grows into a plant with predictable characteristics. This is why buying from established seed banks is crucial — you’re getting genetics that have been tested and stabilized.

When purchasing cannabis seeds, it’s crucial to be aware of the legal regulations in your area. Laws can vary significantly between regions, affecting what is permissible. Ensure you are informed about the legal requirements to avoid any potential issues. Always purchase seeds from reputable sources that comply with local laws, and consider consulting legal experts if you’re unsure about the regulations.