Almost everyone knows CBD by now. But CBG? To many people it still sounds like a typo someone made. Yet CBG is exciting for anyone who has been interested in hemp and its cannabinoids for some time.
But what really distinguishes CBG seeds from CBD seeds? And which suit you, your level of knowledge and your expectations better? We look at this step by step here.
What is behind CBD and CBG seeds?
CBD and CBG seeds look quite similar at first glance. Both are hemp seeds that grow into plants with a very low THC content. The THC content is therefore much lower than in THC varieties. From a regulatory point of view, what matters is the THC content of the later plant, more on this below.
The big difference does not lie in the seed itself, but in the genetics. CBD seeds are bred to later produce as much cannabidiol (CBD) as possible. CBG seeds, on the other hand, focus on cannabigerol (CBG), a cannabinoid that usually only occurs in very small amounts in the plant.
“Mother of cannabinoids”, or CBG
CBG is something like the origin of many cannabinoids. In the young hemp plant, a large part of the cannabinoids is initially present as CBGA. CBD, THC and other cannabinoids later develop from it.
CBG varieties are deliberately harvested earlier or genetically optimised so that this conversion process is slowed down. The result: more CBG, less CBD or THC.
But this also means: CBG is more demanding and sensitive, which is why it is not yet as widespread as CBD.
The most important differences between the two
When you compare the two directly, clear differences quickly become apparent, on paper and in practice. In short: CBD is the all-rounder, CBG more the specialist.
- CBD seeds: established, stable genetics, easier to grow, greater variety, higher yields
- CBG seeds: newer on the market, more sensitive, lower yield, precise harvest window, special focus
Different cannabinoid profile after harvest
The difference shows in the flowers. CBD seeds grow plants whose flowers mainly contain CBD, like classic CBD flowers. In CBG flowers, CBG is the main cannabinoid. The Freedom Flower, for example, contains just under 10% CBG and under 0.02% CBD according to the product information.
Differences in cultivation: this is where the wheat is separated from the hemp
CBD seeds are now considered fairly uncomplicated. Depending on the setup, whether CBD indoor or CBD outdoor, good results can be achieved with stable varieties.
CBG seeds need more attention. The right timing plays a bigger role, the harvest window is smaller and mistakes affect the cannabinoid content more quickly.
- more planning needed
- more sensitive in growth
- lower yield
- better with experience in hemp cultivation
Which seeds suit you better?
The answer depends less on the trend than on how much growing experience you have.
CBD seeds are a good fit if you are looking for something proven and want to grow as uncomplicatedly as possible.
CBG seeds make sense if you have already grown hemp and want to try more demanding genetics.
Quality and safety: what to look out for
The same applies to CBD and CBG: bad genetics remain bad genetics. So look for transparent origin, stable varieties, clear THC information and realistic descriptions.
- reputable suppliers
- no exaggerated promises
- clear information on genetics
Typical mistakes when buying seeds
Some mistakes come up again and again when buying seeds. The good news: most of them are easy to avoid with a little knowledge and attention.
- looking only at the price
- confusing CBG with CBD
- underestimating the effort of growing
- ignoring the regulatory framework
What are the rules for cultivation?
What matters is not only the seed, but the later plant. In Switzerland, hemp plants and preparations with a total THC content of at least 1.0 percent count as narcotics. This is governed by the FDHA Ordinance on the Narcotics Lists (BetmVV-EDI, SR 812.121.11) in Annex 5, list d, as of 13 March 2026. Other countries have other limits.
There is no separate limit for CBG, but it is less common than CBD. That makes it all the more important to find out in advance about the rules that apply to you.
CBD or CBG: what remains in the end?
CBD is familiar, proven and versatile. CBG is exciting, new and aimed more at people who already have growing experience.
There is no right or wrong. Look closely at what you expect from the harvest and from growing. That is exactly what makes the world of hemp seeds so interesting: you can compare and find your own way.
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