Finding the right seed bank can feel like navigating a jungle. You want top-tier genetics, guaranteed germination, and fast shipping, but the internet is flooded with options. Two of the biggest names you’ll likely encounter are I Love Growing Marijuana (ILGM) and Growers Choice Seeds (GCS).

Both are heavyweights in the US market, but they cater to slightly different types of growers. In this guide, we’re putting them head-to-head to help you decide which one deserves a spot in your garden.

ILGM: The Heavyweight Champion for Beginners

Founded by expert breeder Robert Bergman, ILGM has built a massive reputation on one simple promise: making growing easy. They don’t just sell seeds; they sell success.

The Pros:

• The Ironclad 100% Guarantee: This is ILGM’s "ace in the hole." If a seed doesn’t pop, they replace it. No questions asked. For a beginner worried about wasting money on duds, this peace of mind is unbeatable.
• Free Shipping: No matter how small your order is, shipping to the US is free.
• Beginner Support: Their website is a treasure trove of knowledge (the "Grow Bible") and their support team is known for actually helping with grow questions, not just order issues.
• Mix Packs: Indecisive? Their curated "Mix Packs" (e.g., "High Yield Mix" or "Berry Mix") let you try multiple strains at a discount.

The Cons:

• Price: Premium service comes with a premium price tag. However, their "Buy 10 Get 10 Free" (BOGO) deals often bring the price-per-seed down significantly.
• Curated Selection: They focus on the most popular, stable genetics (White Widow, GG4, Super Skunk). If you are looking for an obscure, ultra-rare landrace strain, they might not have it.

Growers Choice Seeds: The Specialist Contender

Growers Choice Seeds has carved out a niche by offering a massive library of genetics, including some hard-to-find medicinal strains. Like ILGM, they ship from within the US, which avoids the headaches of customs seizures.

The Pros:

• Incredible Variety: GCS has an impressive catalog. They really shine when it comes to specific medicinal needs (high CBD, specific terpenes) and niche strains that other banks don't carry.
• Single Seeds: Unlike ILGM, which typically sells in packs of 5, 10, or 20, Growers Choice often allows for smaller quantities, which is great if you just want to test one single seed of a new strain.
• Lab-Tested Genetics: They place a heavy emphasis on the science behind their seeds, often providing detailed lab reports on THC/CBD levels.

The Cons:

• 90% Guarantee: While 90% is good, it’s not 100%. If you buy 10 seeds and 1 fails, you might not be covered.
• Shipping Costs: You usually have to pay for shipping unless you hit a high order minimum (often around $200).
• Customer Service: Online reviews regarding their response times can be mixed compared to ILGM’s highly-rated support team.

The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?

Choose ILGM if:

You are a beginner, a bulk buyer, or someone who wants a hassle-free experience. If you want to ensure that every dollar you spend results in a plant, ILGM’s 100% germination guarantee and free shipping make them the safest bet in the industry. Their "Mix Packs" are also the best way to start your first grow.

Choose Growers Choice Seeds if:

You are a medicinal user or an experienced grower looking for a specific, rare strain. If you are hunting for a very specific terpene profile or a rare CBD strain that ILGM doesn't carry, GCS is a fantastic resource. The ability to buy smaller pack sizes is also a plus for those running "pheno hunts" or small experiments.

Final Thoughts

You can't really go wrong with either. Both ship from the US, both have solid genetics, and both are miles ahead of the shady overseas seed banks of the past. However, for that extra layer of security and value—especially for your first few grows—ILGM usually takes the crown.

Happy Growing!