Quick Verdict
ILGM is the best seed bank for beginners. Their 100% germination guarantee, extensive grow guides, and responsive customer support make them ideal for first-time growers. However, experienced growers often criticize the genetics as "white-label" or inconsistent, and prices are higher than competitors like NASC or Seedsman.
Overview
ILGM (I Love Growing Marijuana) was founded by Robert Bergman, a Dutch grower with over 25 years of experience. The seed bank has built a massive following, particularly among beginners, thanks to their educational approach and risk-free germination guarantee.
Based in Amsterdam, ILGM ships worldwide from multiple distribution centers, including one in the United States for faster domestic delivery. They're one of the most marketed seed banks online, which is both a strength (brand recognition) and a point of criticism (some view them as more marketing than substance).
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 100% germination guarantee (no questions asked)
- Free "Grow Bible" and extensive guides
- Responsive customer support
- US shipping from domestic warehouse (5-7 days)
- Beginner-friendly strain selection
- Bitcoin discount (10% off)
Cons
- Higher prices than competitors
- White-label/S1 genetics (not original breeders)
- Inconsistent phenotypes reported
- Limited selection vs Seedsman
- No original breeder packs
Seed Selection
ILGM offers around 100+ strains, which is modest compared to Seedsman's 4,400+. However, their focus is on beginner-friendly, high-success strains rather than exotic genetics.
Categories include:
- Feminized seeds — Most popular, guaranteed female plants
- Autoflower seeds — Good selection for quick harvests
- Mix packs — Variety packs for experimentation
- High THC — Strains like Gorilla Glue, Bruce Banner
- High CBD — Medical-focused options
Important note: ILGM genetics are "white-label" — they don't carry original breeder packs. This means you're getting ILGM's version of popular strains, not the original genetics from breeders like Mephisto or Barney's Farm.
Shipping & Packaging
ILGM ships from multiple locations including a US-based warehouse, which is a major advantage for American customers:
- US orders: 5-7 business days (from domestic warehouse)
- International: 10-25 business days
- Free shipping: On orders over $150
- Stealth packaging: Discreet shipping with no indication of contents
- Guaranteed delivery: Reship if order doesn't arrive
Packaging is discreet and professional. Seeds arrive in labeled plastic vials inside crush-proof packaging.
Payment Methods
ILGM accepts multiple payment methods:
- Credit/Debit cards — Visa, Mastercard (may be declined by some banks)
- Bitcoin — 10% discount when paying with crypto
- Bank transfer — Available for larger orders
- Cash by mail — Accepted but slower processing
No PayPal is offered. Credit card payments are processed through a third-party to avoid issues with cannabis-related transactions.
Germination Guarantee
ILGM's 100% germination guarantee is their biggest selling point and one of the best in the industry:
- If seeds don't germinate, they'll replace them for free
- Follow their recommended germination method
- Provide photos as proof
- No time limit mentioned (reasonable timeframe expected)
Based on user reports, ILGM generally honors this guarantee without hassle. This is a major reason beginners choose ILGM despite higher prices — the peace of mind is worth it for first-time growers.
Reddit Reputation
ILGM has a mixed reputation on Reddit's growing communities:
What r/microgrowery says:
- 👍 "ILGM is great for beginners. The germination guarantee gives peace of mind."
- 👍 "A little spendy but they stand by their products."
- ⚠️ "Overpriced for what you get. White-label genetics, inconsistent phenotypes."
- ⚠️ "Once you know better, you shop at NASC or Multiverse."
The consensus: ILGM is excellent for beginners but experienced growers prefer seed banks with original breeder packs like NASC, Seeds Here Now, or Multiverse Beans.
Alternatives to ILGM
Consider these alternatives based on your priorities:
NASC
Original breeder packs, 2-5 day US shipping, great freebies
Multiverse Beans
Best for Mephisto/Night Owl genetics, PayPal accepted
Seedsman
Largest selection (4,400+ strains), but slower US shipping
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ILGM legit?
Yes, ILGM is a legitimate seed bank with a 4.7/5 Trustpilot rating from 17,000+ reviews. They've been in business for years and consistently honor their germination guarantee.
Does ILGM ship to illegal states?
Yes, ILGM ships to all 50 US states. Seeds are sold as "adult novelty souvenirs." However, germinating seeds may be illegal in your state — always check local laws.
How long does ILGM shipping take?
US orders typically arrive in 5-7 business days from their domestic warehouse. International orders take 10-25 business days.
Does ILGM accept credit cards?
Yes, ILGM accepts Visa and Mastercard. However, some banks may decline the transaction. Bitcoin is accepted with a 10% discount.
Are ILGM seeds good quality?
ILGM seeds are decent quality for beginners. However, experienced growers often criticize them as "white-label" genetics with inconsistent phenotypes. For premium genetics, consider NASC or Seeds Here Now.
Final Verdict
ILGM earns our "Editor's Choice" for beginners — not because they have the best genetics, but because they offer the best experience for first-time growers. The germination guarantee, educational resources, and responsive support reduce the risk of your first grow failing.
However, if you're an experienced grower looking for original genetics from top breeders, ILGM isn't the best choice. You'll find better value and authenticity at NASC, Multiverse Beans, or Seeds Here Now.