Best Cannabis Autoflowering Strains of 2024

Autoflowering cannabis strains have become super popular because they're easy to grow, offer quick harvests, and produce excellent yields! And in 2024, breeders are really stepping up their game by bringing a fantastic range of options that cater to every grower and consumer out there. 

Whether you're after potent, resin-coated buds or soothing CBD strains, there's definitely something for everyone. In this guide, we'll explore some of the top autoflowering strains of 2024, each showcasing unique qualities — from high THC content to therapeutic benefits — that will truly improve your growing experience. Let's look at the advantages of some of the best autoflowering strains in 2024 and how you can choose them. 

Why Should You Grow Autoflowers?

If you're a beginner and have never tried growing cannabis plants before, you're probably wondering why you should even try autoflowers. Well, there are quite a few reasons, but here are a few:

1. Faster Turnaround Times

The short growing cycle of autoflowering cannabis strains is one of their most appealing traits. Unlike photoperiod plants, which take months to grow and flower, autoflowers are genetically programmed to flower automatically after a certain period of time, regardless of light cycles. This rapid increase has many benefits for both commercial growers and home growers.

In addition, autos can go from seed to harvest in as little as 8–10 weeks, and some strains even take just 7 weeks to fully mature. Growers can plant, cultivate, and harvest many crops at the same time it would take for one photoperiod plant to finish. For commercial producers, this efficient process allows them to stock more, eventually resulting in more profits. The same applies even for regular users as they want results quickly, just like growers. Autoflowers provide a quicker harvest without compromising the quality, which means that everyone's happy. 

Most importantly, you can harvest as many times as you want every year. Again, this has something to do with its fast-growing cycle. Unlike photoperiods that take a long time to flower, which usually results in fewer harvests, you can grow autos and harvest them quickly whether you're growing them indoors or outdoors. 

In an indoor setting, the autoflowers help the growers to grow all year long without worrying about the outside world and things like bad weather and light exposure. The short life cycle allows the growers to rotate the crops in a way that enables a continuous harvest schedule. In cold places, indoor autoflower growing is a practical way of keeping a healthy crop going all winter.

2. User-Friendly Growing Process 

Autoflowers are super popular simply because many growers love growing them. They are easy to grow and you don't need any special knowledge to harvest a decent yield every now and then. 

These varieties are bred especially to make cultivation easier and accessible to growers of all skills and levels. In case you have never grown cannabis before or even if you've been growing photoperiods for years and want to try something new, autoflowers are a very easy way to get a good harvest. Here's a closer look at why they are so easy to grow:

3. No need to manage light schedules

Autoflowers start to flower automatically when they are old enough, unlike photoperiod plants which rely on a light cycle, such as 18/6 for veg and 12/12 for flower. This means that you don't need to buy or manage timers to control the light schedule. Plus, you won't have to focus on fixing lights or blackout everything so the flowering phase stays uninterrupted.

This also means that you don't have to worry about light leaks. Photoperiod plants are sensitive and a little light leak in the flowering phase may stress the plant, delay flowering, or revert the plant back to vegetative growth. Since autoflowers start flowering due to their age instead of light, they don't care about light leaks.

4. Works well in any setting

You can use different types of grow setups for autoflowers. Indoors, they are ideal as they fit easily in closets and cabinets if you buy the right size. There are huge autoflowers too, so choose one that suits you. 

On the other hand, outdoor cultivation is possible too as autoflowers will grow in just about any area as they don't depend on the light cycle to start flowering. They will grow year-round in even mild climates.

5. Minimal maintenance required

Autoflowers require less attention than photoperiod plants, but they are often called “set it and forget it” strains. Because of their cannabis ruderalis genetics, they are tough plants that need little care. And, since they have a quicker life cycle and are smaller-sized plants, they require fewer nutrients.

6. Compact and Discreet

Photoperiod plants tend to be bigger than autos, with most strains hitting sizes between 2-3ft. As mentioned earlier, you get bigger autos too, but there are several smaller strains you can grow if you're looking to grow discreetly, whether you have little space or are worried about your prying neighbors. In addition, smaller size makes it easier to prune, train, and harvest.

As we move into 2025, autoflowering strains are not seen as a niche option anymore; they are a staple in the industry. Whether you are an experienced grower, a medical user, or a casual fan, the advantages of growing autoflowers make them an obvious choice for efficiency, quality, and satisfaction.

Factors to Consider When Picking Autoflowering Strains 

When choosing an autoflowering cannabis strain, it is necessary to assess several factors to ensure you make the right choice. And, they are:

1. Yield Potential

For numerous growers, yield is the greatest priority. Autoflowering strains typically produce smaller yields than photoperiod plants, as they are much smaller and have such a short life cycle. However, breeding techniques have come a long way and are still improving.

Choose a strain bred for higher production. For example, XXL strains can produce as much as a photoperiod plant. The breeders will clearly mention if the strain is capable of producing heavier yields. Some breeders will also call them “heavyweights”, so look for such strains. 

In any case, you will get more yields than photoperiods since you'll be able to plant more plants and harvest more in the same space available, so autoflowers can produce some serious yields if you know how to take advantage. You can also use training techniques like LST (low-stress training) or ScrOG (screen of green) with many autoflowering strains to ensure all parts of the plants get more light and produce more yields. 

2. Levels of THC and CBD

Whether you're going for photoperiods or autoflowers, you should always pick strains according to the effects you're looking for. If you're looking for high psychoactivity and want to feel the effects, then opt for a strain with above 20% THC levels. Gorilla Glue Auto and Gelato Auto are some examples.

On the other hand, strains high in cannabidiol (CBD) like Sweet Pure CBD will provide medical users with therapeutic effects without getting them high. You can also go for balanced strains like Cannatonic Auto that create a pleasant buzz, which is simply perfect for beginners. You can also use them during the day and still get a lot of work done. 

3. Growth Duration

Autoflowering strains have varied lifecycles based on genetics. If you want to grow your plant quickly, fast strains are a great choice as you can harvest them in just 8-9 weeks. Northern Lights Auto and Fastberry Auto are safe bets as they are perfect for growers with busy schedules or areas with short growing seasons.

Some autoflowers can take longer to grow, anywhere from 12–14 weeks, but will generally reward growers with even bigger yields or stronger cannabinoids. Amnesia Haze Auto and Critical Mass Auto are a few examples that can really hit you hard. 

4. Climate and Growing Environment

The success of your plants depends heavily on the environmental conditions of your growing setup as some strains work best in certain climates.

Indoor Growing: For indoor growing, look for strains that perform well in controlled environments. Compact plants are excellent options, such as Lowryder Auto, and others with low odor for discretion, such as Blue Mystic Auto. 

Also, if you live in an area with a warm climate, strains such as Tangie Auto or Zkittlez Auto are best grown in sunny warm climates for bigger harvests. For cooler climates, go for White Widow Auto. Or Northern Lights Auto. Ultimately choose larger, hardy strains regardless of region as you want them to grow big and reward you well for all your hard work.

5. Size and Discretion

The size of your plant may be a deciding factor depending on your grow area and privacy needs.

Small strains are ideal for growers who use a tiny indoor grow tent or balcony or like to keep things discreet. For example, Royal Dwarf Auto is a real treat if you want a strain that will stay under 2ft in height.

If you have more space, you can grow taller strains of autoflowering cannabis that can offer large yields like Super Lemon Haze Auto. 

6. Taste and Smell of the Buds

Having a good flavor and smell can elevate the experience of using your bud. Just like you eat with your eyes before tasting food, you devour the buds with your senses before smoking them up. A bud bursting with aromas will score high points much before you use it. 

Therefore, take a good look at the terpene profile of the strains before choosing anything. Terpenes don't produce any effects on their own — meaning you won't get high just because the strain has a lot of terpenes because the psychoactive effects depend on the THC content — however, they work together with the cannabinoids to enhance the effects, which is known as the entourage effect. 

Terpenes are also responsible for the taste and flavor of the buds. Think of them as the essential oils of the cannabis plant. So, if you're looking for citrusy strains, go for strains with a lot of limonene in them. Similarly, if you want floral strains, go for the ones with linalool in them, and so on. 

However, a garden or tent smelling wonderful isn't an option for every cannabis grower. Unfortunately, the more your garden smells like skunky cheese or a fruity berry or melon (which means you're doing really well), the more you could get into trouble, especially if you're in a region where cannabis isn't legalized. In such cases, go for strains that allow you to keep your operation discreet. Choose strains with low smell like the blue mystic auto for stealthy grows. 

7. Budget and Availability

The price of the seeds matters a great deal too. Strong auto-flower seeds can cost more because they will yield better and even be more potent than their cheaper varieties. Just remember that all expensive strains won't be spectacular and all cheap strains won't be bad either. Make sure that you go for good breeders as they really care about their reputation and won't sell seeds that aren't good. 

Finally, the strain should be easy to buy — make sure it's from a trustworthy seed bank so you don't get fakes.

Now that we got all that out of the way, let's take a look at the best autoflowering strains in 2024. 

Best Autoflowering Cannabis Strains 2024

There are tons of autoflowers out there and you're free to choose any of them. However, these are our top picks. 

1. Strawberry Gorilla Auto

Strawberry Gorilla Auto is a lovely hybrid created by Fast Buds Seed breeders, offering massive yields and THC levels rarely seen in autoflowering strains. 

With its vigorous growth, this strain develops a classic Christmas tree shape, with a strong main cola and abundant side branches loaded with resin-covered buds. As a 55/45 Indica-Sativa mix, it produces dense, compact flowers with few small leaves, making it a delight to grow.

Be warned, though, as it has a strong aroma. You should ideally use carbon filters to mask it. Also, this isn't a beginner-friendly strain. It thrives with proper care, including good airflow and training techniques like tying and stretching to prevent mold in its dense buds. 

But if you get it right, Strawberry Gorilla Auto will reward you with top-notch flowers. You can expect it to be ready in just 10 weeks from germination. This strain delivers impressive yields of up to 450–600g/m2 indoors and 60–300g per plant outdoors in ideal conditions. 

The buds are coated in resin and have a strawberry lollipop scent that's hard to resist. The unique flavor profile includes strawberry and tropical fruit notes with hints of pine, blueberry, and guava. The plant also has a Skunk-like burnt taste from its Gorilla Glue lineage, complemented by a citrusy zing.

With THC levels hitting up to 27%, the effects are equally impressive. The high begins with a cerebral boost that inspires creativity and meditation, then transitions into deep physical relaxation. It's the perfect balance of Indica and Sativa, ideal for unwinding while staying functional throughout the day.

2. Gorilla Glue Auto

Gorilla Glue Auto is a powerful autoflowering strain with a THC content of 24-26%. The high THC gives you a strong, beautiful experience that lasts for a long time, making it suitable for people used to high doses. 

With under 1% CBD, this strain is much more recreational than medicinal. The focus is on euphoria and relaxation and less on CBD. However, don't underestimate the power of THC. Many people assume that only CBD has healing powers but THC has a lot more to it than meets the eye. If you're comfortable with high THC, Gorilla Glue can help you get a good night's rest. Users also state that this strain is simply perfect for muscle aches and spasms. In any case, talk to your physician if you want to use cannabis to heal any issues. 

Coming to the yields, with the right cultivation methods given that conditions are ideal, Gorilla Glue Auto can deliver very generous indoor yields of 450–600 gr/m². Because it takes up less space yet generates a good yield, it is manageable.

Outdoor plants can yield anywhere from 200-300 grams, depending on the amount of sunlight, quality of soil, and climate. 

Although the yields are high, Gorilla Glue Auto is a compact plant that reaches just 60–100 cm indoors and a maximum of 120 cm outdoors. This middle size is ideal for indoors, balconies, and camouflaged gardens outdoors.

The best part is that this high-yielding heavyweight will be ready to harvest in just 8-10 weeks from seed and is good for those wanting a quick return. You can harvest many times during the year, even if you live in a region with shorter growing times. 

If you're wondering about the flavor and aroma, you can expect an earthy flavor accompanied by pine and diesel. Gorilla Glue's rich scent is an aromatic standout in the cannabis world and you will be enchanted by its effects too. 

It has a deeply soothing and euphoric high with sedative properties making it ideal for relaxing after a hard day. Users say they feel “glued to the couch,” which is excellent for unwinding and deep relaxation.

If you're thinking about growing this strain, make sure you don't overfeed with nutrients. Use low to moderate nutrient levels during the vegetative stage, and increase them gradually until the plant starts flowering. During flowering, you might want to consider supplements like Calmag.

You should also employ training techniques like LST to allow more light to reach leaves and enhance the overall harvest. Don't use stressful training methods on autoflowers, as they have a short amount of time to grow and may not bounce back completely.

Gorilla Glue Auto is a top strain for 2024, due to its potency, flavor, and easy growth. Because of its autoflowering genes, even inexperienced growers can plant it and get great-quality buds without the hassle of photoperiod plants. Because it produces large amounts of trichomes, this strain is a favorite for concentrates. 

3. Zkittlez Auto

Zkittlez Auto Contains THC Levels of 20-23%, so it's formidable enough that anyone with a low threshold might be able to handle it but not enough to overwhelm an experienced user. With a CBD content of about 1%, the therapeutic effects are gentle and can relieve your stress-relieving tension but not so much that it dominates the euphoric uplifting high.

Having said that, you should look at other strains with less THC if you're a beginner. Once you get used to high THC, you can use Zkittlez Auto. 

If you're looking to grow this flavorful strain, remember that it goes from seed to harvest in only 9–10 weeks. This brief flowering time gives you the opportunity to savor its colorful fruity buds, whether you're a home grower with just a few plants or a commercial producer with thousands of plants. 

If you're growing indoors, this baby is capable of producing between 400 and 500 grams per square meter, so you'll get consistent yields and a big harvest. Outdoors, plants provide 50-200 grams per plant and that depends on the climate, care, and sunlight.

Coming to the flavor and aroma, Zkittlez Auto has a very unique sweet, fruity, candy-like flavor profile. The mix of berries, tropical fruits, and citrus gives the smoke a flavor that's as good to sniff as it is to consume.

This strain gives you a nice high and also makes you relaxed on a mental and physical level. A gentle buzz is ideal for chitchatting, working on creative projects, or unwinding, without feeling too stoned.

In short, Zkittlez Auto is favorable because it is easy to grow and produces high-quality buds. Anyone can confidently grow Zkittlez Auto, whether you're an expert or a novice! The flavor of the strain is sweet and candy-like and its effects are balanced, making it popular with every user. The quick-growing cycle and really good yields make it a popular choice and a great autoflower in 2024. 

4. Green Poison XL Auto

Green Poison XL Auto takes the classic Green Poison Auto to new heights — literally. Developed by Sweet Seeds, this strain was created by selectively breeding the tallest plants over several generations. 

The result? An extra-large autoflowering cannabis variety that's now available as feminized seeds. Compared to its predecessor, Green Poison XL Auto grows about 25% taller, offering significantly larger harvests. 

These third-generation autoflowers can reach heights of 80-125 cm, making them a terrific choice if you want more bang for your buck. Outdoors, each plant can yield 60-250g, while indoor setups can produce an impressive 450-600g/m2 — all within just 8 weeks from seed to harvest.

Since the buds are loaded with resin, Green Poison XL Auto boasts a rich and complex profile. Expect sweet, fruity flavors with hints of Skunk layered over a floral backdrop. With THC levels ranging from 15% to 20%, it delivers a balanced, powerful effect that's perfect for both relaxation and productivity.

If you're looking for a quick and high-yielding cannabis strain that doesn't skimp on flavor or potency, Green Poison XL Auto is undoubtedly a no-brainer. This incredible strain combines high potency with an enjoyable smoking experience, making it a top pick for growers and users alike.

5. Northern Lights Auto

Northern Lights Auto should be at the top of your list if you're looking for an easy-to-grow strain that's tough as nails. This resilient Indica hybrid is a dream for beginners and delivers generous yields with effects that can lock you to the couch. 

By enhancing its already legendary resistance, this strain thrives in both hot and cold conditions and requires almost no upkeep. It's an old-school classic with a powerful, long-lasting high that'll knock you off your feet.

When it comes to the buds, they are frosty, airy, and shaped like elongated acorns, with swollen calyxes poking out all over. Trichomes coat every inch of the flower, making it a fantastic choice for hash makers who favor dry sifting.

The flavor leans towards savory, with a rich, earthy base complemented by notes of pepper, spice, and a mild fruity undertone. While not overly pungent, Northern Lights Auto delivers a spicy kick that matches its knockout potency.

Take one hit, and you'll feel the potent Indica effects kick in almost instantly. Northern Lights Auto delivers a fast-acting body high that grows heavier with each puff, eventually leaving you in full couch-lock mode.

It's perfect for unwinding after a long day, binge-watching your favorite shows, or falling into a deep, restful sleep. Save this strain for evening use when you're ready to check out completely.

This strain grows between 90 and 120 cm tall. Its compact structure and short internodal spacing make it easy to maintain. Expect thick, Indica-style leaves, a strong main stem, and hardy side branches that support a heavy load of top-tier buds.

This strain performs well indoors and outdoors, especially in colder climates with short summers or frequent rain. Under ideal conditions, you can expect the yields to reach an impressive 500–600 g/m2. It is also suitable for a Sea of Green setup. 

Also, it thrives in gardens that see frequent pests or unpredictable weather. Its natural resistance to bugs and diseases makes it ideal if you live in colder, rainier climates. To maximize yields, push the nutrient levels, but remember to flush two weeks before harvest to preserve the clean, earthy flavor of the buds.

6. Fat Bastard

This is an excellent strain by Blimburn Seeds. Don't let the name fool you — it's not just a funny label; it's a seriously potent autoflower that packs a punch. It's a hybrid of Goldmember and Monkey Spunk and is all about big yields, crazy aromas, and serious THC content that'll leave you impressed.

Fat Bastard Auto is a balanced Indica-Sativa hybrid, offering an explosive growth cycle. Indoors, you can expect up to 600 g/m2; outdoors, it can produce up to 300g per plant. That's a lot of bud for a plant that only takes 8-10 weeks to mature. Talk about efficiency!

And coming to the good stuff — the buds. Fat Bastard Auto delivers spongy flowers covered in resin, which is perfect for making concentrates that smell like heaven. Its aroma combines fruity notes with a Skunk background, giving it a unique, potent presence.

And the effects? Expect THC levels between 30% to 38%. It's a balanced high — mentally stimulating with a euphoric kick but still mellow enough to relax you physically. It's the best of both worlds, making it perfect for any time of day.

7. Tropicanna Poison XL Auto

This one's a gem if you're a fan of bold colors and high THC content. If you love strains with a cool appearance, it won't disappoint. It's the auto-flowering version of Tropicanna Poison F1 Fast Version, and it packs a potent high with its gorgeous red hues and a THC level that can reach up to 24%.

This strain is the result of crossing Tropicanna Cookies and Red Poison Auto. Tropicanna Cookies combines the citrusy tang of Tangie with the sweetness of Girl Scout Cookies, while Red Poison Auto introduces a deep red color and resin-heavy buds. 

The result? It is a beautiful hybrid that shows off incredible color in about 85% of the plants grown.

This strain is also known for its high resin production and generous yields, making it a great choice if you want to maximize your space. The harvest, which takes roughly eight weeks from germination, is quick and rewarding.

When it comes to flavor and aroma, Tropicanna Poison XL Auto doesn't hold back. The sweet, tropical mango notes dominate, balanced by earthy, woody, and skunky undertones, making it a truly unique experience.

BONUS: Lemon Auto CBD

Last but not least is a CBD strain, the Lemon Auto CBD. If you're looking for an autoflowering strain with a therapeutic twist, look no further than this strain by Philosopher Seeds. As their first automatic CBD strain, it features a 1:1 THC to CBD ratio, making it perfect for enjoying the benefits of both cannabinoids without the overpowering THC high.

This strain is the result of crossing the legendary Amnesia and Juanita la Lagrimosa. It grows vigorously and is ready for harvest just 70 to 75 days after germination. You can enjoy potent buds in just over two months!

The plant resembles the Amnesia Hollands Cut, with a tropical Sativa vibe. It has an average internodal distance and solid branching, so expect strong growth. If planted directly in the ground or in a greenhouse, the main stem can exceed 1 meter tall, making it a showstopper in your garden.

Lemon Auto CBD is also easy to grow indoors or outdoors and produces a yield of around 500 g/m2. The big buds are covered in trichomes and have an intense lemon aroma that will awaken the senses. Some phenotypes even feature a delicious cherry scent.

With a balanced 1:1 THC to CBD ratio (around 8% each), the effects are ideal for therapeutic reasons. You can improve your mood or relax without an overwhelming head high, enjoying the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects that other high-THC strains bring.

So, if you're after an autoflowering strain that's easy to grow, quick to harvest, and offers therapeutic benefits with a refreshing lemon twist, Lemon Auto CBD is an excellent choice. 

Summary: Best Autoflowering Strains of 2024

Whether you're a seasoned grower or just starting with a low-maintenance option, the autoflowering strains of 2024 have something special for everyone! With their speedy growth cycles, impressive yields, and a wonderful variety of effects, these strains are sure to make a splash in both home gardens and dispensaries. 

From the powerful Fat Bastard to the soothing Lemon Auto CBD, they promise to enrich your growing journey and deliver top-notch buds for any occasion. So, if you're excited to elevate your cannabis cultivation, these autoflowering strains are absolutely worth a look. So, what are you waiting for?