So, as there is a huge variety in strains and hybrids, there is a huge amount of variation in seeds, with more developing all the time. There are consistent characteristics that buyers should look for when shopping for seeds.
The following is a good place to start when separating the good seeds from the bad.
Color
Color matters. The best weed seeds are brown, whether it is a light shade of brown or darker on the scale. This indicates that the seed is mature and fully developed. If they are green, it means that the seeds were harvested too early, and less likely to germinate properly.
In addition, another way you can tell you have a good seed is that it will have a shimmer to its shell, as opposed to a dull look. This is an indication of good seed health.
Age
For the best germinating results, you want seeds that are less than a year old for sowing. With seeds this young, you will get faster, better results when germinating. The older the seeds, the less the chances you will have for successful germination. The best seeds are typically firm, and do not crumble when handled or squeezed.
Furthermore, while you might be tempted to use the loose seeds from a convenient batch of flower you might have, you are better off going to a seed bank. Professional seed banks offer high-quality, investing considerable time, money, and breeding into developing the genetics of seeds. with high germination potential, which will in turn produce the best cannabis.
Sources: Leafly, Way of Leaf, Herb