Top 10 High Times Cannabis Cup Award-Winning Seeds
Contents
- The History and Significance of the Cannabis Cup
- A Round-up of Our Favorite High Times Best Seeds
- 1. Skunk #1
- 2. Royal Gorilla
- 3. Jack Herer
- 4. Girl Scout Cookies
- 5.Super Lemon Haze
- 6. Northern Lights
- 7. Master Kush
- 8. Amnesia Haze
- 9.Super Silver Haze
- 10. MK Ultra
- Different Factors to Consider When Buying Cannabis Seeds
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I buy High Times Cannabis Cup-winning seeds?
- Are there different categories for Cannabis Cup winners?
- Sources
Prestigious events like the High Times Cannabis Cup have long been celebrated as the ultimate stage for showcasing the best cannabis strains and seeds.
The High Times Best Seeds have not only earned the admiration of judges and enthusiasts but have also left a lasting impact on the cannabis industry.
From legendary strains that have become household names to lesser-known gems that hold a special place in the hearts of connoisseurs, we’ll explore the award-winning seeds that you might want to consider when growing marijuana.
We confirmed Cup wins on the breeder’s own site for Skunk #1, Jack Herer and Northern Lights (Sensi Seeds). For the rest, the award history is widely repeated but we couldn’t confirm it from the breeder, so we say so below.
Legal note: Buying seeds and growing cannabis is only for adults 21 and over where state law allows it, and home-grow rules differ by state. Under federal law, marijuana is still a Schedule I drug outside a state medical license or an FDA-approved drug.
The new federal hemp definition in P.L. 119-37 also excludes viable seeds above 0.3% total THC from hemp, with parts of that change taking effect December 11, 2026, per the Congressional Research Service.
Photo from Alaska Public Media
The History and Significance of the Cannabis Cup
The Cannabis Cup is a storied institution in the world of cannabis, with a rich history and enduring significance.
High Times started the competition in Amsterdam in the late 1980s, and it grew into a widely known contest for cannabis products.
Over the years, it grew in scale and prestige, attracting participants and judges from around the world. The event features judges who sample and vote for their favorite marijuana varieties, with coveted cups (trophies) awarded to the overall winners.
It’s not just a competition; it’s a celebration of cannabis culture and innovation.
Breeders often promote a Cup win for years afterward, which is why the award shows up on so many seed listings.
Moreover, it has helped destigmatize cannabis and highlight its positive attributes, contributing to the ongoing global acceptance of marijuana.
A Round-up of Our Favorite High Times Best Seeds
The search for Cannabis Cup winners can be overwhelming. To make things easy, this guide presents a round-up of the top cannabis seeds and marijuana strains worth looking at.
1. Skunk #1
Often credited as an early High Times Cannabis Cup winner, Skunk #1 is a top pick for those who want to buy seeds with a storied past.
Sensi Seeds lists it as a Cannabis Cup winner and says the original skunk hybrids combined landraces from Central and South America, Afghanistan and Thailand.
Skunk #1 marijuana seeds produce robust plants with dense buds. Sensi rates its flowering time as short, which suits indoor growing.
It is known for a pungent, skunky aroma and flavor.
Users often describe a balanced high that mixes energizing and relaxing effects.
2. Royal Gorilla
A strain often listed among Cup winners (unconfirmed by us), Royal Gorilla is part of the Royal Queen Seeds collection.
It is sold as a balanced hybrid with high THC, though THC levels vary by grower and batch.
Seller listings put it at medium height with large yields and a fall outdoor harvest. Real results depend on your setup. Royal Gorilla is a true gem among cannabis connoisseurs.
3. Jack Herer
Photo from Reddit
A Cannabis Cup winner according to Sensi Seeds, Jack Herer from Sensi Seeds grows well indoors and in sunny climates.
Often described as a blend of Haze, Northern Lights #5 and Skunk #1, Jack Herer is a classic.
Sensi describes it as a balanced 50/50 hybrid with high THC and heavy resin production.
While the exact height can vary, Jack Herer is rated by Sensi as a tall plant, so it needs vertical space indoors.
Sensi rates its flowering period as short and its yield as heavy. Sensi also notes the Dutch authorities approved it as a medicinal cannabis strain.
4. Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies is one of the best-known modern strains and is often listed among Cup winners (unconfirmed by us). Its lineage is commonly given as OG Kush and Durban Poison, but there’s no official breeder page to confirm it.
Indoor cultivators of Girl Scout Cookies cannabis seeds can expect resin-coated buds. Flowering time and yield figures vary by seller and growing conditions, so check the seed listing.
Beyond its recreational appeal, Girl Scout Cookies is popular with recreational users. No strain has been proven to treat chronic pain, nausea or depression; talk to a doctor about those.
5.Super Lemon Haze
Photo from Reddit
This sativa-dominant autoflower version of Super Lemon Haze aims to keep the original’s character with a simpler grow. The original is often listed as a Cup winner (unconfirmed by us). THC levels vary by grower and batch.
Super Lemon Haze autoflowering seeds are commonly said to descend from Super Silver Haze and Lemon Skunk.
As an autoflower, it moves from seed to harvest faster than most photoperiod strains, with moderate yields.
Super Lemon Haze Autoflower is versatile and can thrive in various conditions, but it truly shines in warm, Mediterranean-like climates.
When growing outdoors, ensure protection from heavy rain or frost to safeguard your precious auto Super Lemon Haze harvest. Greenhouse cultivation is also a viable option.
6. Northern Lights
Photo from Reddit
Sensi Seeds’ original Northern Lights is listed as a Cannabis Cup winner and described as 90% indica. The seeds linked here are ILGM’s version, so traits can differ.
The Northern Lights strain stays fairly compact and flowers quickly, according to Sensi. Yields depend on your setup.
Northern Lights has an earthy, sweet aroma.
Consumers of Northern Lights can anticipate an array of euphoric, happy, and relaxed sensations, sometimes leading to a peacefully sleepy state.
7. Master Kush
Photo from MSNL
Up next on our list of the High Times Cannabis Cup champions is Master Kush. It is often listed as a Cup winner from the early 1990s (unconfirmed by us). It’s an Indica-dominant hybrid; THC varies by grower and batch.
Master Kush is known as a productive plant, though yield figures vary by seller and setup.
Cultivators of Master Kush generally get a fairly quick flowering period for an indica-dominant strain.
8. Amnesia Haze
If you’re looking for Cannabis Cup winners with Sativa-dominant genetics, Amnesia Haze is a popular choice. It is often listed as a Cup winner (unconfirmed by us).
Amnesia Haze autoflower cannabis seeds stay smaller than the photoperiod original. Check the seller’s listing for timing and yield, and expect real results to vary.
Users usually describe an energetic, uplifting high that can feel giddy and social.
9.Super Silver Haze
Photo from Reddit
Continuing this compilation of High Times Cannabis Cup winners is Super Silver Haze, a well-known sativa-dominant strain often listed as a Cup winner (unconfirmed by us). THC varies by grower and batch.
It may not be the best option for novices, since Haze strains tend to flower slowly and grow tall.
Super Silver Haze is usually described as uplifting and energizing.
10. MK Ultra
Wrapping up this guide for the best High Times seeds is MK Ultra, an Indica-dominant strain often credited to T.H.Seeds and listed as a Cup winner in the indica category (unconfirmed by us).
It is commonly described as a G13 and OG Kush cross that produces dense buds.
MK Ultra can be grown indoors or outdoors.
Different Factors to Consider When Buying Cannabis Seeds
To help you narrow down your choices, below are other things to consider when choosing from the variety of High Times seeds.
- Seed Bank Reputation: Research the seed bank carefully, read reviews, and consider its track record. A reputable seed bank will offer quality genetics and reliable customer service. Be cautious of unverified or obscure platforms that sell cannabis seeds.
- Cultivation Environment: Some strains thrive indoors, while others are better suited for outdoor cultivation. Ensure your chosen strain aligns with your growing space, climate, and resources.
- Growing Difficulty: Consider your level of experience as a grower. Some strains are more forgiving for beginners, while others may require advanced cultivation skills. Choose strains that match your expertise to maximize success.
- Feminized vs. Regular Seeds Feminized seeds are typically easier for beginners because they produce female plants, eliminating the need to identify and remove males. Regular seeds offer breeding possibilities but require sexing plants.
- Yield and Harvest Time: Different strains produce varying amounts of cannabis, and harvest times can range from a few months to longer. Consider your desired yield and patience for the flowering period.
- THC and CBD Content: Check the cannabinoid profile of the strain. Some strains are high in THC, which causes the high, while others have more CBD, which isn’t intoxicating. Seed listings are estimates; actual levels vary by grower.
- Aroma and Flavor: Consider the aroma and flavor profiles that appeal to you. Cannabis strains offer a wide range of scents and tastes, from fruity and sweet to earthy and spicy. Select strains that match your preferences.
- Budget: Finally, consider your budget. High-quality seeds may come at a premium price, but investing in reputable genetics is often worth it for a successful harvest. Balance your budget with your desire for top-notch seeds.
Conclusion
In a world filled with choices, choosing a cannabis strain and seed bank is no walk in the park. Especially if you’re a novice, you might end up being overwhelmed with the long list of alternatives.
A good way to filter the results is to limit your search to High Times Cannabis Cup Winners, specifically those you can buy from reputable seed banks. An award is one signal of a strain’s reputation, but your results will depend on the seed source and how you grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy High Times Cannabis Cup-winning seeds?
Yes, many seed banks sell strains linked to Cup wins. Buying and growing them is legal only for adults where your state allows home growing.
Are there different categories for Cannabis Cup winners?
Yes. Cup events have had separate categories, such as indica, sativa, hybrid, CBD and concentrates.
Sources
- Skunk #1 Regular Seeds, Sensi Seeds
- Jack Herer Regular Seeds, Sensi Seeds
- Northern Lights Regular Seeds, Sensi Seeds
- Changes to the Statutory Definition of Hemp and Implications for Agricultural Policy, Congressional Research Service
