The Growth of Autoflowering Cannabis Culture in America

by Staff
January 4, 2024
in Culture
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In early 2023, the very first American Autoflower Cup was held in a place familiar to many cannabis enthusiasts, Los Angeles’s “Green Street.” The event is a testament to how far cannabis culture has come since the widespread legalization of cannabis in the vast majority of states in America. Its focus on autoflowering cannabis in particular shows how private breeders and cannabis breeding collectives have been pushing the boundaries of what is possible by crossbreeding indica or sativa with strains of cannabis ruderalis.

Through selective crossbreeding of these types of cannabis, breeders can produce unique “autoflowering” strains of cannabis that bud after set periods of time, rather than according to light cycles. This process can create satisfying autoflower strains that are known for being more potent and easier to harvest than regular cannabis strains. At the American Autoflower Cup, these strains were judged by industry professionals such as Jenny-Beth Dillis, Jessica Cueb, and Joey Burger. The strains were rated based on traits such as aroma, taste, and appearance and given awards in three categories: Best Autoflower Breeder, Best Autoflower Sativa Strain, and Autoflower Indica Strain.

The American Autoflower Cup follows in the footsteps of competitions such as the Autoflower World Cup, which was first held in Barcelona in 2021. However, the history of autoflowering cannabis in North America dates further back. Breeders first began experimenting with autoflowering genetics in ruderalis plants as early as 1970, with little success. History is a little fuzzy on the details, but it has been said that the United States government also collaborated with the University of Mississippi to conduct experiments with cannabis genetics, breeding sativa with ruderalis at one point. A breeder known by the alias “The Joint Doctor” claims to have used this strain as a basis for the experiments that led to the first commercially available autoflower strain, “The Lowrider.”

The autoflowering cannabis scene has since grown in the United States, resulting in the development of events such as the aforementioned American Autoflower Cup, which has played a significant role in bringing knowledge of autoflower strains to the forefront of cannabis culture. The event was developed by filmmaker Jeremy Norrie, a mainstay in local cannabis culture circles known for organizing other cannabis-related events such as the Secret Cup and the Chalice Festival. It is set to return in February 2024, with the competition currently accepting submissions from private breeders and breeding collectives alike. The next iteration of the event will feature guests such as host Adam III and judges Blazin’ Skywalker, Haylo Autoflowers, and Tyler B. (also known as Tango.Hotel.Charlie).

The event reflects the flourishing creativity and innovation within the cannabis breeding community, showcasing the advancements made in the development of autoflowering strains through meticulous crossbreeding. The competition not only celebrates the unique qualities of autoflower strains but also highlights the dedication of private breeders and collectives in pushing the boundaries of cannabis cultivation.

Tags: Adam III, Autoflowering Cannabis Culture i, Blazin’ Skywalker, Green Street, Haylo Autoflowers, LA Guestlist, Los Angeles, The Joint Doctor, Tyler B., University of Mississippi

1 Discussion on “The Growth of Autoflowering Cannabis Culture in America”

Jason Harvey says:

January 5, 2024 at 2:57 am

Thanks for sharing this amazing post! The growth of autoflowering cannabis culture in America reflects a dynamic evolution within the cannabis community, driven by factors such as convenience, accessibility, and a desire for diverse and innovative cultivation experiences. This trend is reshaping the way cannabis enthusiasts approach and enjoy the plant.

The Growth of Autoflowering Cannabis Culture in America

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The Growth of Autoflowering Cannabis Culture in America

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