Cannabis is legal for adults 21 and older in Washington, as the state one of the first in the nation to legalize adult-use cannabis. Residents can legally purchase cannabis seeds, but the ability to grow them at home depends on medical status. Recreational home cultivation is prohibited, meaning adults cannot legally grow plants for personal use. Registered medical patients, however, are allowed to cultivate at home within specific limits.
For those who qualify under the medical program, seeds are the starting point for personal cultivation. Collectors and enthusiasts also purchase seeds legally as souvenirs or for preserving genetics. With that in mind, here’s everything you need to know about buying cannabis seeds in Washington, including recommended strains for the climate, where to buy it, and what the laws saw, exactly.
Washington Cannabis Laws Explained
Washington was one of the first states to legalize cannabis when voters passed Initiative 502 (2012). The law allows adults 21 and older to possess cannabis and purchase products through licensed retailers overseen by the Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board (WSLCB). While recreational possession is legal, the rules for cultivation are very different depending on whether you are a recreational user or a registered medical patient.
Recreational Rules
Adults may legally purchase and possess up to 1 ounce of cannabis flower, 16 ounces of cannabis-infused edibles, 72 ounces of liquid cannabis products, or 7 grams of concentrates. However, recreational home cultivation is not allowed under Washington law. Growing plants at home for personal use is considered illegal, even though possession is permitted.
Medical Cannabis Rules
Washington’s medical cannabis program was first established in 1998 and is still active today. Patients with a qualifying condition and a valid medical authorization may register with the state’s voluntary patient database to access expanded rights.
- Medical patients are allowed to cultivate cannabis at home, subject to the following limits:
- Up to 6 plants per patient.
- Up to 15 plants per patient if recommended by a physician, with proper documentation.
- A maximum of 72 ounces of usable cannabis from a home grow.
Patients who choose not to enter the registry may still grow up to 4 plants but will not receive the higher allowances or certain legal protections.
Home Cultivation Conditions
All home grows must be conducted in a private space, and plants must not be visible to the public. Growing cannabis for sale without a license is prohibited and can result in criminal charges.
Hemp and Seed Legality
Hemp cultivation is legal in Washington under both state law and the federal 2018 Farm Bill. Cannabis seeds themselves are legal to purchase because they contain no measurable THC. They can be sold at licensed retailers or purchased online, but germination and cultivation are only legal for medical patients following state guidelines.
Where to Buy Cannabis Seeds in Washington
Cannabis seeds are legal to purchase in Washington, but home cultivation is only permitted for medical patients. This makes finding seeds slightly different from states where recreational growing is allowed. Some licensed dispensaries in Washington may carry seeds for qualifying medical patients, though availability often depends on the shop and local suppliers.
For many residents, especially collectors or patients seeking specific genetics, buying online is the easiest option. Seed banks such as Growers Choice Seeds ship directly to Washington with discreet packaging, offering a much wider variety than most dispensaries. Online stores typically stock feminized, autoflower, and regular seeds, giving buyers more flexibility in choosing cultivars that work best for the state’s damp climate.
Whether you choose to purchase from a licensed medical dispensary or an online seed bank, it is important to follow Washington’s cultivation laws carefully. Recreational users may legally possess cannabis, but they cannot grow it at home. Medical patients with authorization can grow within plant count limits, making seed selection an essential part of planning a compliant and successful grow.
Recommended Strains for Washington Growers
Washington’s Pacific Northwest climate is mild, rainy, and often damp, which presents challenges for outdoor cannabis cultivation. High humidity and frequent rainfall can lead to mold, mildew, and bud rot, making strain selection especially important for medical growers who are allowed to cultivate at home.
Mold-resistant cultivars are the best choice for outdoor growing, since they can handle wet conditions without losing yield. Autoflowering seeds are another smart option, as their shorter life cycles let plants finish before the heaviest fall rains. Many Washington patients also choose indoor setups to maintain control over temperature and humidity year-round.
- Blue Dream: A sativa-dominant hybrid known for its balanced effects and sweet berry flavor, this strain has THC levels around 18-24%.
- Wedding Cake: This sweet and potent strain is excellent for stress relief and has knockout THC levels of 24%.
- Gelato: This hybrid strain is quickly gaining popularity in Washington and is known for its citrus-esque aroma and high THC content.
FAQs
Can I grow cannabis outdoors?
For medical patients, yes, but plants must be hidden from public view.
Which strains grow well in Washington’s climate?
Washingtonians in the western part of the state may find that indoor growing is simpler and more effective, as the local climate tends to be cool and wet—even in the summertime. Additionally, indoor growers in Washington will find that they can control their indoor climate affordably thanks to the state’s relatively low electricity costs. Eastern Washington’s drier climate with hot summers can be suitable for outdoor growing, particularly for mold-resistant strains like Strawberry Cough and Chocolope.
Is it legal to buy cannabis seeds in Washington?
Yes. Cannabis seeds can be legally purchased in Washington, both online and from some licensed medical dispensaries.
Do dispensaries in Washington sell cannabis seeds?
Some licensed medical dispensaries may offer seeds, though the selection is often limited compared to online seed banks.
Legal Disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Cannabis seeds can be purchased in Washington, but home cultivation is only legal for registered medical patients within state limits. Federal law still classifies cannabis as illegal, so individuals should review both state and federal regulations before buying or growing.
