Limited Edition Seeds are used to describe feminized or crossbred varieties of a particular breed of cannabis. In other words they are a mixture of two distinct species with one variety having been crossed with another to create a new plant, or sometimes both plants are grown from one plant that has been crossbred. Some feminized cannabis plants will have a stronger, more powerful aroma than the original plant. This is due to the feminization process which consists of removing the male portions of the plants. Removing these parts results in the plant producing a stronger fragrance and often resulting in a darker more intense colouration to the buds.
The flowers of the hybrid cannabis plant will be cross-accumulated with feminized buds to create an overall crossbred effect. Crossbreeding with indicas produces flowers that possess the same characteristics as sativa flowers but with a stronger, more intense aroma. Indicas are the most popular of the many different types of limited edition seeds for the consumer to choose from.
There are two main sources where limited edition seeds can be purchased from. These are garden centers and through the internet. Where possible purchase from a reputable dealer that can offer a refund if the seeds don’t thrive. It is also important to purchase from breeders who can provide a history of healthy, crossbred plants to the buyer. Many breeders will be able to provide information on their female plants along with their genetics and hybridization information.
Most feminized cannabis seeds are not true genetics. They are plants that have undergone some alteration at the pollen and embryo stage. Crossbreeding cannabis plants will result in noticeable hybridization at the pollen level however the chance of true genetics being present is very slim. The chance of crossbreeding is increased when female plants are taken from one parent and placed into another.
The best way to identify true genetics is to look at the flowering aprox or the time when the plant starts to bloom. If you see this in your sample then it is likely that the plant has been crossbred. Some examples of flowering aprox include Sativa and Haze. Crossbreeding plants such as these can produce very successful flowering aprox plants that are very attractive and will suit an indoor garden. However it is usually better to obtain a purebred from a reputable breeder that can provide a guarantee.
Most feminized seeds (male plants) have a fruity aroma and full bodied with a sweet, woody flavor. The best time to harvest your feminized plant is just before midsummer as the blooms become more plentiful. Make sure to remove all the blooms on maturity. Harvesting during a cold frost can cause the plant to become damaged and even killed.
Many feminized seeds (male plants) will have different smells from the pungent aromas of the crossbred plants. When harvesting the flowers try to pick the ones with the most intense fragrance. It is often worth it to harvest late in the season when the aroma is at its height. In autumn make sure to pick the flowers from the base rather than the stalk, because the scent of older scents is stronger. The flowering aprox should be on or near the ground rather than hanging by the stem.
Some of the best fragrances are produced from Indicum seeds (shadegreens). These resinous plants come in a lovely assortment of colors. Pink, purple, red, orange, yellow and black colored varieties are available with various combinations of aromas. Harvest your feminized flowers on molars, as the resinous oils will create a delicious, fruity aroma. Harvest as soon as the flowers open to avoid over saturating the leaves. There are some excellent ways to store your feminized (crossbred) kush blends.