Sponsored
Just Keep Swimming’: Ingleside Senior Swimmers Share Tips on Healthy Aging through Community and Daily Exercise
A range of community building and wellness opportunities abound at Ingleside, which has been recognized nationally for its inclusivity.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average human needs about 150 minutes of exercise per week to remain healthy as they age, but 80% of Americans aren’t checking that box.
And while there may be a plethora of reasons why “getting older” could impose on your ability to exercise as frequently as you should, three residents of Ingleside at King Farm – all 95 years young – are living proof that it is possible, and that there is no excuse.
The three neighbors, Sy Herman, Peggy Adams, and Bob Verkouteren, are using their daily commitment to swim together to encourage and inspire each other’s healthy living choices and well-being. After retiring to the Rockville, Maryland senior living community, Ingleside at King Farm, just outside of Washington, DC, the aquateers became friends through their shared love of aquatic fitness, realizing they also shared the same diligence in being at the pool each day before sunrise, meeting as early as 6:30 a.m. to swim laps.
“One morning I’m in the water and I find these two rascals here, and now we’re here together every day,” said Peggy. The friendship among the three seniors grew close over the past year ever since the trio made a deal that they would start each day at the pool before breakfast.
Science has proven that positive social relationships play a role in better health and life expectancy. Unlike forty percent of older adults in the U.S. who report chronic loneliness, Peggy, Sy and Bob, are a prime example of the positive impact meaningful relationships can have on maintaining a personal commitment to physical fitness and daily exercise.
Each morning, the seniors take turns using the fast lane at The Herman Aquatic Center at Ingleside at King Farm, challenging their endurance while also making use of water weights and other strengthening tools. The aquatic trio bonded over a shared commitment to physical exercise, community-building, and philanthropic work – all factors that health studies have shown contribute to longevity and increased quality of life.
“I took up swimming because it was a sport I could enjoy daily,” shared Sy. “I couldn’t play tennis and couldn’t play golf. So, I took up swimming, which has added years to our lives and life to our years!”
Fitness is an essential part of the Ingleside culture of living a healthy and engaged lifestyle. Ingleside’s state-of-the-art fitness facilities include a fitness center with robust programming and access to a physical trainer to tailor and support strength and cardiovascular training.
Not only does Sy use the various fitness amenities at Ingleside, but he’s also provided financial support and resources back into the senior living community to help better its aquatic facilities. Upon moving to Ingleside, Sy and his wife Sheila donated a gift to the Westminster Ingleside Foundation, with an amount specifically designated for the Aquatic Center. “It’s wonderful being here,” Sy said. “There are so many opportunities to be involved. I really love this place.”
A range of community building and wellness opportunities abound at Ingleside, which has been recognized nationally for its inclusivity.
Ingleside at King Farm, and it’s sister communities, Ingleside at Rock Creek, and Westminster at Lake Ridge were officially recognized when they received the 2023 SAGECare platinum-level lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) cultural competency certification. SAGECare is acknowledged as the foremost comprehensive, national cultural competency training program dedicated to improving the lives of older LGBT adults. Additionally, Ingleside participates in the Human Rights Campaign Foundation and SAGE’s Long-Term Care Equality Index (LEI), earning the designation as an “LGBTQ+ Long-Term Care Equality High Performer.”
“Ingleside has always been, and will continue to be committed to fostering a culture of health and inclusion,” said Christine L. Podles, MA, HSE, LNHA, Chief Operating Officer of Ingleside. “We recognize and celebrate each person’s individual uniqueness and strive to help them live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. It is a core value that we continue to ensure is ingrained into the fabric of the Ingleside family.”
Fitness helps lengthen lives. According to a study in Journal of Aging Research, those who exercise regularly—even for as little as three hours a week—can live up to almost 7 years longer than those who aren’t as physically active. The three swimming seniors made a pact that they would live long, healthy lives, making it to their 100th birthdays together.
“We will all be turning 100 years old within four months of each other, and I’m already sending out verbal ‘save the dates,’” said Peggy. The aquateer is already planning the party for the trio. “Mark your calendars for November 2027 – everyone is invited!”
The aquateers plan to have their celebration at no place other than The Herman Aquatic Center. Sy shared, “We’re going to have a Century Club ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by music, dancing, and a great meal for the entire community.”
Sponsored
Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Louisiana’s largest cancer center is bringing care to you
Louisiana’s largest cancer center is bringing care to you
According to Dr. Constance Cole Blunt, medical oncologist and medical director of cancer prevention and outreach at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center in Baton Rouge, the best way to get people to screen for cancer is by participating in its Prevention on the Go program.
In Louisiana, where cancer rates clock in at over 40% higher than the national average, this approach isn’t just innovative – it’s necessary. Too often in Louisiana, cancer is caught at an advanced stage, drastically limiting options for care and treatment. Breast cancer is the second most diagnosed cancer in the state and has a particularly devastating impact – although Louisiana is ranked 28th in the nation for breast cancer incidence, the breast cancer mortality rate in the state is the second greatest in the country.
The factors driving these statistics are complex and interwoven with the daily struggles many Louisiana residents face in accessing medical care. Many don’t have adequate insurance and are unable to stay up-to-date on regular physicals and medical check-ups, let alone receive comprehensive cancer screenings. Rural communities struggle with transportation to far-away medical centers and a lack of access is compounded by a lack of awareness about prevalent cancers, symptoms and risk factors. These challenges are even more pronounced for communities of color in the state, who face higher rates of poverty and lower rates of health insurance coverage compared with their white counterparts. Alarmingly, Black women in Louisiana are diagnosed more frequently and are more likely to die from breast cancer than the national average.
As the largest cancer care organization in Louisiana, Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center builds its approach around addressing the unique barriers faced by communities across the state. The center brings together medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and strong partnerships with clinics and hospitals to deliver comprehensive cancer care and treatment to patients – all under one roof. Patients are supported by navigators who ensure they are referred to the appropriate mobile clinics and screening services in their own communities, and that high-risk patients are prioritized for doctor visits and have a plan for accessing them. Beyond medical treatment, patients grappling with a cancer diagnosis also have access to a full support system within the center, including a palliative care specialist to help manage pain, a therapist to support mental health during treatment and even a dietitian to ensure that they’re able to maintain a healthy diet outside of their treatment program.
“We want patients to be able to walk through the door – whether it be to manage a breast cancer diagnosis or to get a screening – and get the entirety of their care taken care of in this one location,” says Dr. Blunt. “For a state where we know funding, resources and access are limited, having a patient be able to access a one-stop-shop to manage their treatment definitely makes the burden of cancer care easier for them.”
However, when breast cancer is diagnosed at a later stage, even the most comprehensive treatment plan offers limited hope for a cure. That’s why Mary Bird Perkins is focused on going beyond treatment to address the problem at its root by expanding early detection and prevention efforts across the state.
In 2002, Mary Bird launched Prevention on the Go, a program designed to bring education and early detection services to locations where people live, work, worship, shop and play. As part of the program, Mary Bird drives their mobile clinic across the state, parking everywhere from church parking lots to workplaces and creating what Dr. Blunt calls a “low intimidation environment” where people can connect with healthcare providers in a familiar setting. The events offer cancer screenings, but also health history reviews and education about preventive care. They also often provide activities, food and cooking demonstrations for community members.
“Our mobile clinics give information about detection and prevention to people in a way that’s easy to digest and fun,” explains Dr. Blunt. “Some patients come back and get their screenings with us, but sometimes these events just jumpstart somebody’s health journey. Both are important.”
For Dr. Blunt, Mary Bird Perkins’ mission is personal. When she was in undergrad, her mother’s best friend passed away from advanced ovarian cancer — her first exposure to both cancer and hospice care.
“You don’t forget experiences like that,” says Dr. Blunt. “She was a working mom who gave everything to her children but had gone years without getting any cancer screenings. By the time her cancer was caught, it was very advanced.”
Mary Bird Perkins’ programming has made huge progress toward ensuring that these types of stories are less common. Since 2002, Prevention on the Go has provided more than 118,000 screenings in local communities and detected nearly 900 cancers. As a testament to their important work, Mary Bird Perkins is a recipient of Gilead Sciences’ Oncology Grant Program, an initiative aimed at advancing health equity for people impacted by cancer. In 2024, Gilead announced an overall commitment of $5 million in grant funding, spread across a number of different organizations, to support additional health equity programs globally. To date, it has awarded more than $18 million in health equity-related oncology grants for programs that advance health equity for disinvested communities.
This support has been integral in helping Mary Bird Perkins expand their Prevention on the Go efforts and expand their overall programming. “In cancer care, collaboration is really important,” Dr. Blunt emphasizes. “The more stakeholders we have at the table, the more resources we have. Partnerships help us improve access, make sure our technologies are up to date and continue to provide great care to the communities that need it. Support from organizations like Gilead allows us to put patient care first.”
Sponsored
Why converting USD to ETH could be a smart move ahead of the Metaverse Boom
The metaverse is now one of the hottest topics in the world of technological innovation and the future that is being painted is one where people can live, work, play, and even do business in fully realized virtual realities. With the metaverse still in the process of development, Ethereum and other cryptocurrencies are expected to become the main drivers of these virtual worlds.
For investors who want to capitalize on this imminent shift, USD to ETH would be a great place to start. Given the fact that Ethereum is the second largest cryptocurrency in the market, used in Decentralized Finance (DeFi), Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT) and Virtual Economies, it is well suited to act as the foundation for the metaverse.
What Is the Metaverse?
The metaverse is a virtual environment that is composed of multiple simulated worlds through which people can communicate in real time with the help of their avatars. Consider it as the virtual community that combines elements of social networking, gaming, AR/VR. Here, users can design and exchange virtual commodities, acquire and possess digital property and even earn their livelihood from virtual businesses.
Big tech companies like Facebook (Meta), Microsoft, and Google have also recently, announced their plans to pour billions of dollars into building the metaverse. As more companies develop infrastructure for this developing space, Ethereum is likely to be a major participant in the decentralized side of the metaverse economy.
Ethereum’s Function in Metaverse Environment
Ethereum isn’t only a cryptocurrency, but a blockchain that supports smart contracts, dApps, NFTs, and many other solutions. Its blockchain is the backbone of many of today’s most famous metaverse projects like Decentraland and The Sandbox. These platforms enable users to purchase virtual land, create digital artworks, and engage in virtual experiences all of which are executed on Ethereum’s blockchain technology.
This is so because Ethereum offers the capability for decentralized and programmable transactions that are crucial in the metaverse. For instance, NFTs which are digital assets that are one of a kind are mainly developed on Ethereum. It is not just the art that is being tokenized but also in-game items, virtual real estate, and even one’s virtual persona, thanks to the use of these NFTs. Thus, as the metaverse grows in size, Ethereum’s blockchain will most probably remain the primary platform for such operations.
Why is it important to Convert USD to ETH Now?
1. Venture Capital and the Ecosystem’s Growth: An Early Investment Opportunity
With the expansion of the metaverse, Ethereum’s use is also expected to rise in the future. Most metaverse platforms are built on Ethereum and make use of Ethereum as a means of engaging their virtual economies to buy and sell virtual properties or other digital assets. Now that one can invest in USD and convert it to ETH, investors can invest in Ethereum’s growing usefulness in this new realm before it becomes widely adopted.
Although the metaverse is still relatively nascent, it is estimated that the industry will be a multi-billion dollar market in the next few years. It will allow investors to invest now in Ethereum and be prepared for the future when the number of users in the metaverse will only grow and, as a result, the demand for ETH will also grow.
2. Ethereum’s Leadership in NFTs
NFTs are essentially an intrinsic part of the metaverse and Ethereum is the go-to platform for creating and trading NFTs. From artists and game developers to big brands, people are using Ethereum’s blockchain to create and sell NFTs of digital assets. Virtual clothes and accessories, in-game items, virtual lands, etc., will all form the base of the metaverse economy.
It is now possible to convert USD to ETH and use these funds to invest in this increasingly popular market, which is only likely to grow as the metaverse develops. Simply put, if you are planning on participating in the NFT market in any way – then owning ETH is mandatory.
3. Enhancements in the Scalability with Ethereum 2.0
The second one is Ethereum which is in the process of shifting to Ethereum 2.0, an enhancement plan to enhance the network’s capability, security, and power usage effectiveness. One of the major changes is the transition from the Proof of Work (PoW) to the Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus algorithms that will enable Ethereum to clear more transactions at a lower fee.
This is important for the future development of Ethereum in the metaverse as this upgrade will be necessary. More and more users and applications are connected to Ethereum’s network, and thus scalability becomes a crucial factor.
4. Hedge Against Inflation and Fiat Devaluation
The increasing rate of inflation and devaluation of fiat currencies has raised the importance of investing in other assets such as USD to ETH. Ethereum is a cryptocurrency like any other and as such works beyond the conventional financial systems, offering a decentralized and deflationary model to conventional fiat money. As the value of the US dollar changes, it is for this reason that Ethereum has the potential of rising in the digital economy making it a good store of value for the future.
Sponsored
Best Seed Banks: Reputable Vendors to Legally Buy Cannabis Seeds in the USA
Looking for the best seed banks? Check out our top six picks. Get the highest quality cannabis seeds today and start your gardening journey.
Finding the best seed banks for autoflower and feminized seeds is a challenging task, as you have to take into account many factors to figure out which cannabis seed bank has the potential to work for you.
And if you add that you need seeds with a germination guarantee, things get even more complicated. But growing cannabis seeds shouldn’t be a chore. It should be quick, fun, easy, and highly rewarding.
We want to take some of that pressure off, so we’ve researched, tested, and compared the best seed banks that ship to US customers, starting with our top choice: Seed Supreme.
Let’s see which seed banks are the best and deliver to US growers.
Best Seed Banks Top Picks
- Seed Supreme – Best Seed Bank Overall (Guaranteed Germination)
- ILGM – Buy 10, Get 10 Free Autoflower Seeds
- Homegrown Cannabis Co. – Best In-House Genetics + Grow Guides
- Seedsman – 21+ Years of Experience in the Cannabis Industry
- DNA Genetics – Most Awarded Online Seed Bank
- Herbies – Best Customer Support Team
It was challenging to decide on the top 6 as there are many amazing choices.
Still, after careful consideration and a lot of time spent comparing them, I found that these are the reputable seed banks offering feminized and autoflower seeds and the best overall experience.
1. Seed Supreme – Best Seed Bank Overall
Pros
- Over 2000 feminized seeds + autoflower seeds
- Free shipping on orders over $90
- 90-day germination guarantee
- Free seeds with every order
- Super stealthy worldwide shipping
Seeds Variety 4.9/5
There are over 2000 marijuana seeds to pick from at Seed Supreme. Out of all the seed bank options we checked out, their selection is the most impressive.
You’ll find over 1500 feminized seeds and over 500 autoflower seeds at this seed bank. They also have special categories for other types of marijuana seeds, like high THC levels, and high CBD making it easy for you to find what you need.
Deals and Discounts 4.9/5
Seed Supreme always has some kind of promotion to help you find the perfect autoflower weed seeds for a better price. Right now, they have a special deal where you Get 20% OFF + free seeds with every order.
You’ll get 4 free seeds on orders of $50 or more, 6 for $100+, 8 for $150+, or 10 for orders of $200 or more.
Germination Guarantee 4.9/5
They have one of the best guarantees of germination we’ve ever seen. They offer 90 days, and the guarantee starts the day after delivery.
You can make one claim for each order, and you’ll have to provide images of all seeds (germinated and ungerminated), and proof of date.
Customer Reviews 4.9/5
This cannabis seed bank has great reviews for both feminized and autoflowering cannabis seeds. They show reviews for each strain but not an overall score for the entire seed bank. This makes it easier to understand how each strain served a previous customer.
They include an amazing feature on their site that allows you to filter based on strain rating. This makes it easy to find strains with the best feedback and make the right choice with your purchase.
The reviews show that most customers have a positive sentiment for this seed bank’s seeds. Others have expressed how efficient they are in handling any problems with their seeds and praise their customer support.
Summary
If you’re looking for the best feminized and autoflower seed bank, then Seed Supreme is the perfect choice. They have the highest number of weed seeds of all kinds and provide high-quality services.
>>Check the best price for autoflowering cannabis seeds at Seed Supreme.
2. ILGM – Buy 10, Get 10 Free Autoflower Seeds
Pros
- Free US shipping on all orders
- Guaranteed delivery
- Guaranteed Germination
- 24/7 growing support
- Buy 10, get 10 free autoflower seeds
Cons
- Not an affordable option
Seeds Variety 4.8/5
ILGM has around 200 weed seeds in its collection, and it’s neatly divided into Feminized quality seeds, Autoflower seeds, High THC content high-quality seeds, regular seeds for Beginners, and Medical cannabis seed options.
While they don’t have as many autoflowering seeds as other seed banks on this list, they have high-quality seeds from each category.
You will find all the popular autoflower seeds you could possibly want to try growing, including popular but hard-to-find choices like White Widow autoflower seeds.
Deals and Discounts 4.9/5
The most amazing promotion going on right now on autoflowering seeds at ILGM is their Buy 10, get 10 free autoflower seeds one.
You can pick from a pretty wide range of seeds, both feminized and autoflowering seeds, and for every 10 you buy, you’ll get another 10 for free.
And if you subscribe to their mailing list, you’ll also get $10 off your next order.
Germination Guarantee 4.9/5
They recommend that you follow their in-depth germination guide to ensure that your autoflower seeds flower and grow, especially if you’re new to growing cannabis.
If you’ve followed their guides and still your autoflower seeds have yet to grow, you can contact them, and they will give you replacement options.
No matter how high-quality seeds are, there’s no way to guarantee that you won’t get a dud or two, but don’t throw them out; ILGM might want them to analyze them and see how they can improve.
Also, the replacement autoflower seeds will be from the same strain as the ones that didn’t sprout; you won’t be given lower-quality seeds as replacements.
Customer Reviews 4.9/5
ILGM is beloved by all the customers who have bought feminized or autoflower seeds from them. They have an overall score of 8.9 out of 10 from 31607 user reviews, which is really impressive.
Summary
If you want to pay less and get more, then try buying your autoflowering seeds from ILGM because they have an epic BOGOF deal of buy 10, get 10 free right now.
>>Check the best price for autoflowering cannabis seeds at ILGM.
3. Homegrown Cannabis Co. – Best In-House Genetics + Grow Guides
Pros
- Strains & advice from Kyle Kushman + many others
- 12 packs for $99
- Coupons for free seeds, shipping, and courses
- Packs of 12, 24, 36 & 48, with seeds from $7.92
- Free shipping
Cons
- Support team answers in 24-48 hours by email
Seeds Variety 4.8/5
While they have only about 200 seeds, they are all of the utmost quality. Their in-house genetics are created by famous cannabis growers with countless awards (think Kyle Kushman, Nikki & Swami, Victoria Rouland, etc).
The around 200 seeds are divided into new strains, beginner seeds, deals, best sellers, and feminized and autoflowering seeds.
Deals and Discounts 4.9/5
At Homegrown Cannabis Co., you’ll find plenty of amazing deals on feminized and autoflowering seeds.
They have BOGOFs on selected strains, 12 packs for $99, packs of 12, 24, 36, and 48 autoflowering seeds with 3 varieties each starting from $7.92, as well as free shipping, seeds, and courses.
Germination Guarantee 4.9/5
They offer a 90-day guarantee from the day after delivery, and you get one claim per order.
You’ll have to provide an image of the autoflower cannabis seeds on a damp paper towel/an appropriate container and prove that you’ve followed the germination and storage guidelines.
Customer Reviews 4.8/5
With over 5000 user reviews, Homegrown Cannabis Co. scores an impressive 9.6/10 overall.
Summary
Homegrown Cannabis Co is a great choice if you’re looking for an autoflower seed bank that has award-winning seeds and all the popular options, all at really great prices.
>>Check the best price for autoflowering cannabis seeds at Homegrown Cannabis Co.
4. Seedsman – 21+ Years of Experience in the Cannabis Industry
Pros
- 650+ strains from 25+ seedbanks
- Delivers to 190+ countries, including the US
- 420 promo – spend $50, get free 3-pack
- 10% off F1 strains for Siblings’ Day
- 4.5 based on 5,868 reviews
Cons
- No refunds, all sales are final
Seeds Variety 4.8/5
They have over 650 different strains from over 25 seedbanks ready for you, out of which you can find feminized, autoflowering seeds, big yields, high CBD, mold-resistant, very high THC, and regular seeds.
Deals and Discounts 4.9/5
This 420 you can celebrate at Seedsman as they have a great promotion where if you spend $50 on feminized or autoflowering seeds you’ll get a free Seedsman 3-pack of feminized or autoflower cannabis seeds. If you spend $75, you’ll also get an additional free Atlas Seed 2-pack.
For Siblings’ Day, you can also get 10% off F1 strains.
If you want even more promotions, you can get the Pick & Mix deal at any time.
Germination Guarantee 4.8/5
They don’t have a 100% guarantee; they have a 90% one from all their suppliers as they say its plant material and can’t be completely guaranteed.
You have 60 days to submit a complaint, and for this, you’ll need to complete the termination form, give them your order number, tell them how many of which strain(s) have failed, explain your germination methods, and offer photo or video evidence.
Freebies are not eligible for replacement, nor are replacements, as if you are consistently having issues, they will assume that the issue lies with your process, not the feminized/autoflowering seeds.
Customer Reviews 4.8/5
Around 6000 users have left reviews about their overall experience with Seedsman and have rated it a 4.5 out of 5.
Summary
If you want to buy feminized or autoflowering seeds and start growing cannabis plants, you can always turn to the experts.
Seedsman has been in this business for over two decades so they can help provide you with premium autoflowering seeds and help give you the necessary information to grow some amazing cannabis plants with high yields.
>>Check the best price for autoflowering cannabis seeds at Seedsman.
5. DNA Genetics – Most Awarded Online Seed Bank
Pros
- 10% off your first order
- Free shipping on orders over $100
- Over 200 awards
- Buy 20 autoflowering seeds, get 24 seeds
- Lucrative VIP program
Cons
- No germination guarantee
Seeds Variety 4.8/5
DNA Genetics was founded in 2004 by two Americans but in the Netherlands, as it was the only legal place to buy seeds at the time, but for the past 4 years, they’ve been legally selling in the US as well.
While their US website isn’t as generous as their international one yet, you can still find all their award-winning genetics for feminized and autoflowering seeds. You have other 50 amazing strains to choose from.
Deals and Discounts 4.9/5
There are several deals you can take advantage of at DNA Genetics. You can buy the new feminized seed pack bundle of 3Peat, HG23, RP43′, and Skywalker Kush for $100.
If you spend over $120 on any DNA Genetics feminized or autoflowering seeds and you’ll receive 6 fem seeds of Strawberry Sorbet for free.
There’s also a free seed promo where when you buy a 5-pack, you’ll get 6 seeds, buy 10, get 12, buy 15 get 18, and buy 20, get 24 seeds.
Germination Guarantee 4.5/5
DNA Genetics doesn’t have a germination guarantee in the regular sense. While other companies that reside in the US provide germination guarantees, DNA Genetics doesn’t have one that’s easy to find because they’re afraid of the current legislation.
They state in their footer that all the fem and autoflower weed seeds are to be bought as collectible adult souvenirs to help preserve genetics for future generations and not for growing marijuana plants.
Customer Reviews 4.8/5
They showcase a couple of positive user reviews on their website, but not all of them.
With a quick search, you can find plenty of good reviews, which makes sense taking into account how many awards they’ve won for the quality of their fem and autoflower weed seeds.
Summary
If you want to buy your seeds from an autoflower seed bank that has over 200 awards for its new and outstanding genetics, then DNA Genetics is a great option.
>>Check the best price for autoflowering cannabis seeds at DNA Genetics.
6. Herbies – Best Customer Support Team
Pros
- 2 to 5 days US deliveries
- 24/7 customer support
- Double Boost Promo: 3+3, 5+5, 10+10
- Newly launched US website
- Guaranteed delivery
Cons
- The germination rate guarantee only 70%
Seeds Variety 4.7/5
While their US division only has around 200 fem and autoflower strains, their international website has 1500+.
Since the US website is around two years old, we expect to see most autoflower seeds moved from one website to the other in the future.
Deals and Discounts 4.8/5
The reputable seed bank has an interesting promotion on fem and auto-flowering strains called the Double Boost Promo. For every three seeds you buy, you’ll get three free, for every 5, 5 free, and for every ten you buy, ten free.
Germination Guarantee 4.7/5
Herbies US has a maximum germination rate of 70%, so they expect that out of every 10 seeds, at least 7 will germinate.
If you get a lower rate than that, they will replace your seeds, but you need to prove that if you’ve followed the grow guide and made sure that you improved your chances of sprouting.
Customer Reviews 4.8/5
While the European website has thousands and thousands of positive reviews, the US one has a great score of 4.68/5.00 but out of only 246 reviews this far.
Summary
If you want to feel like royalty and always be offered help, even without having to ask for it, try shopping for fem or autoflower seed at Herbies as they have the best customer support team we’ve ever seen.
>>Check the best price for autoflowering cannabis seeds at Herbies Seeds.
Top Seed Banks: Choosing Criteria
When it comes to selecting the perfect seeds for your cannabis garden, there are many factors to consider.
From the flowering stage to the distinct citrus aroma you crave, finding the right seeds can be an exciting journey for any cannabis enthusiast.
So let’s explore the key criteria to keep in mind when choosing your fem or autoflower seed from the best US seed banks.
Pricing
Price shouldn’t be, but often is, an important factor when purchasing cannabis seeds.
While you want to ensure you’re getting top-tier seeds, you also need to find a balance between quality and affordability.
Look for seed banks that offer competitive pricing without compromising on genetics.
Seed Bank Reputation
Reputation speaks volumes in the world of cannabis cultivation.
Opt for seed banks like Seed Supreme that have stellar reputation among growers.
Reputable breeders are known for their high-quality seeds and excellent customer service, ensuring a positive experience from purchase to harvest.
Shipping and Payment Options
For growers worldwide, convenient shipping and payment options are crucial.
Look for seed banks that offer worldwide shipping and a variety of payment methods, making it easy to receive your seeds no matter where you are.
Breeders
The “pedigree” of the breeders behind the seeds can greatly influence the quality of your harvest.
Seek out seed banks that collaborate with reputable breeders known for their expertise and dedication to producing top-notch genetics.
Guarantees & Benefits Offered
A reliable seed bank will stand behind its products with guarantees and benefits.
Look for assurances such as guarantees of germination and additional perks like freebies or discounts with your purchase.
Grow Kits
For novice growers or those just looking for convenience, some seed banks offer grow kits.
These kits often include everything you need to start your cannabis garden, from seeds to nutrients and grow guides.
Cannabis Seeds Variety
Variety is always an important factor when it comes to cannabis cultivation.
Choose seed banks with an extensive collection of strains, including indica, sativa, and autoflowering varieties, ensuring you find the perfect seeds for your preferences.
>>Check the best price for autoflowering cannabis seeds at Seed Supreme.
Factors to Consider When Buying Cannabis Seeds
Several factors come into play when selecting cannabis seeds:
Growing Season & Preferred Climate
Consider your local climate and growing season to choose seeds that thrive in your environment.
THC Content
Determine the desired THC potency of your harvest and select seeds with the appropriate cannabinoid profile.
Growing Difficulty
Assess your skill level and choose seeds that match your experience, whether you’re a beginner or seasoned grower.
Effects
Consider the desired effects of the strain, whether you seek relaxation, euphoria, or therapeutic benefits.
Tips and Techniques for Successful Cultivation
Cultivating cannabis is an art and a science, requiring attention to detail and a deep understanding of the plant’s needs at each stage of its life cycle.
Whether your autoflowering plants are grown indoors or are tending to photoperiod seeds outdoors, these tips and techniques will help you achieve a bountiful harvest of high-quality buds.
By following these tips and techniques, cannabis cultivators of all levels can achieve successful harvests of flavorful, potent buds.
Whether you prefer autoflower strains for their convenience or photoperiod seeds for their diverse range of flavors and effects, a combination of knowledge, experience, and dedication will ensure a rewarding cultivation experience.
Germinating Seeds
Germination is the crucial first step in the journey of every cannabis plant. For autoflowering plants, which have a predetermined flowering period, it’s essential to start with healthy seeds.
To germinate autoflower seeds successfully, place them between two layers of moist paper towels in a warm, dark location.
Check regularly for signs of sprouting, and once the taproot emerges, carefully transfer the seedling to a well-draining soil medium.
Seedling Care
Once your seedlings have emerged, provide them with gentle care and optimal growing conditions to promote healthy growth.
Autoflowering plants tend to have rapid growth, so ensure they receive ample light, preferably 18-24 hours per day, to fuel their development.
Keep the environment warm and humid, but avoid overwatering, as soggy soil can lead to damping off and other issues.
Vegetative Stage
During the vegetative stage, cannabis plants focus on building robust foliage and root systems.
Whether you’re cultivating indica plants or sativa dominant strains, it’s crucial to provide them with the right balance of nutrients and light exposure.
Autoflowering plants may have shorter vegetative periods compared to photoperiod plants, so monitor their growth closely and adjust feeding and watering accordingly.
Consider low-stress training techniques to encourage lateral growth and maximize light exposure.
Flowering Stage
As your plants transition into the flowering stage, adjust their light cycle to mimic the natural progression of the seasons.
For autoflowering plants, this switch occurs automatically, typically around 3-4 weeks after germination.
Yes, an autoflower seed will reach flowering stage automatically.
Indica dominant strains may have shorter flowering periods compared to sativa varieties, so be prepared to adjust your expectations accordingly. This makes Indica autoflower strains the best autoflower seeds.
During this phase, female plants will develop resinous buds with distinct flavors and aromas, whether it’s the earthy flavor of an indica dominant strain or the citrusy notes of a sativa.
Harvesting, Curing, and Storage
Harvesting is the culmination of months of hard work and dedication, but it’s essential to approach it with care to preserve the quality of your buds.
Autoflowering plants may offer multiple harvests throughout the growing season, providing a continuous supply of fresh flowers.
When harvesting, pay attention to the trichome development and choose the optimal time based on your desired THC content and delicious flavor profile.
Once harvested, cure the buds in glass jars, burping them regularly to release excess moisture and enhance flavor. Store your cured buds in a cool, dark place to maintain their potency and freshness for months to come.
>>Check the best price for autoflowering cannabis seeds at Seed Supreme.
FAQs
As you embark on your seed-buying journey, consider these frequently asked questions:
Do Seed Banks Offer Discreet Shipping?
Most seed banks prioritize discreet packaging to ensure privacy and security for customers.
Is it Legal to Mail Seeds to the US?
Cannabis cultivation laws vary depending on which state you’re in, but purchasing cannabis seeds for souvenir or novelty purposes is generally legal in the US.
What Cannabis Seed Bank Has the Best Genetics?
Homegrown Cannabis Co. and DNA Genetics have the best genetics.
Look for seed banks with a reputation for collaborating with top breeders and offering high-quality genetics.
What Is the Most Famous Seed Bank?
Seed Supreme and Crop King Seeds are the most famous seed banks, but there are others that share this spotlight for their exceptional genetics and reliable service, so explore customer reviews and recommendations.
Do Seed Banks Offer Germination Guarantee?
Many seed banks offer germination guarantees, providing peace of mind for growers.
How Long Do Cannabis Seeds Last For?
Cannabis seeds can remain viable for several years, when stored properly in a cool, dark, and dry environment.
Final Verdict
With an extensive range of seed banks to choose from, selecting the best one for your needs requires careful consideration of factors like reputation, genetics, and customer service.
By prioritizing these criteria and exploring customer reviews and recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to cultivating a successful cannabis garden with the right seeds in hand.
No matter if you’re into photoperiod strains or autoflower options, how much yield you expect, or if you want to reach flowering times multiple times a year, there’s a seed bank for you.
And, growers, if you still need to figure it out, that perfect seed bank for all your needs is Seed Supreme.