The global cannabis seed market is experiencing a surge in growth, with projections reaching $6.5 billion by 2031, according to Allied Market Research. This rapid expansion is fueled by a global shift in legislation, making cannabis seeds more readily available to consumers.
In Germany, for example, the recent legalization of home cultivation for up to three cannabis plants per person has spurred a surge in demand. A YouGov poll reveals that 7% of Germans have already purchased cannabis seeds or clones since legalization, and an additional 11% plan to do so in the future. This increase in demand has directly benefited European seed banks.
Across the Atlantic, the U.S. is witnessing similar trends. With 24 states and Washington D.C. having legalized adult-use cannabis, home cultivation is gaining momentum. The DEA’s clarification in 2022 that cannabis seeds are legal under U.S. law due to their low THC content has further boosted seed sales. Seeds are classified as hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill, making them legal nationwide.
A Harris Poll survey underscores the appeal of growing cannabis from seeds, with 61% of cultivators expressing preference for this method. Additionally, 81% of consumers believe that all Americans should have the right to grow cannabis at home, and 62% say they would rather cultivate their own plants than purchase marijuana from a store. Of those who have grown cannabis at home, 34% cite feeling safer consuming home-grown flower compared to store-bought products. This shift towards home cultivation is a major factor driving the growth of the cannabis seed market.
The global legal landscape surrounding cannabis is evolving rapidly, and with it, the demand for cannabis seeds is expected to continue its upward trajectory. As more jurisdictions embrace legalization and home cultivation, the cannabis seed market is poised for continued growth and innovation.