Growing

Trichomes on Weed: What, Why, and How

Published

2 years ago

August 22, 2023

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Trichomes are the tiny but mighty powerhouses that give weed its unique properties. If you want a great harvest, you need to understand the basics of these microscopic structures. Learn how to treat trichomes and when they’re ready to harvest, and you can expect a stellar experience.

Trichomes are fascinating on many different levels. These dew-drop-like protrusions are gorgeous, but the real magic is inside. Their sticky contents are the source of all that is great about cannabis: cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. As a grower, it is essential to know about trichomes: Their development, function, and how they can improve your cannabis cultivation skills.

What are trichomes?

Trichomes are essential to the uniqueness, potency, and value of the cannabis plant. However, what are these tiny structures? The word “trichome” stems from the Greek tríkhōma, which means “hair”. This is a fitting name, as trichomes can seem like hairy outgrowths to the naked eye. They can be found not just on cannabis but on various plants, lichens, and algae.

In the cannabis plant, they serve as microscopic factories that produce the plant’s potent compounds, including cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), along with aromatic terpenes and other compounds that give weed its unique properties. They are the source of the sticky residue we call plant resin.

When do trichomes appear and what do trichomes look like?

Trichomes form in the earliest stages of a cannabis plant’s life cycle. However, they only become visible to us as the plant matures. A healthy trichome coverage can resemble a frosty, crystal-like coating that is particularly dense on the flowering buds. Their appearance and structure can resemble tiny mushrooms. Some trichomes feature a stalk extending from the plant’s surface with a gland head on its top, and inside, the fascinating process of cannabinoid synthesis occurs.

Like with almost all other parts of the cannabis plant, trichomes can vary significantly across different strains. The plant’s genetics influence its size, density, and quantity. This considerably affects the plant’s potency, aroma, and flavour profile.

The functions of trichomes for the cannabis plant

So, why does the cannabis plant form all these small appendages? Trichomes are mainly responsible for the plant’s cannabinoid and terpene production. They constantly synthesise and store an array of compounds. In their insides, the well-known THC and CBD and their chemical precursors THCA and CBDA are found, as well as lesser-known cannabinoids like CBG, CBC, and CBV, and hundreds of other metabolites and compounds.

The spectrum of compounds a trichome produces can be highly individual and significantly differ depending on the plant’s stage of maturity and genetic blueprint. This chemical cocktail acts as the plant’s natural defence mechanism. You can look at the trichomes as a protective shield, keeping threats at bay. For many herbivores, the contents of the trichomes taste bitter, and they quickly learn to stay away from them.

The trichomes’ spiky texture helps protect the plant from environmental stressors, like harmful UV radiation, acting as a natural sunscreen.

The benefits of trichomes for cannabis enthusiasts and growers

For cannabis growers, trichomes are one of the most essential plant elements to watch out for. The type and quantity of cannabinoids and terpenes produced can significantly impact a strain’s characteristics. This includes its potency, aroma, and flavour.

The composition inside the trichomes can make the difference between a mellow, relaxing strain and one that provides an energetic buzz. By selecting parent plants rich in trichome production, breeders can crossbreed strains to achieve a higher potency, specific flavour profiles, or tailored therapeutic benefits.

The appearance of trichomes is also crucial in determining the optimal timing of the harvest. Skilled growers are always in tune with trichomes’ life cycle and growth stages. Just by looking at them, they can pinpoint the perfect time to harvest their plants for maximum potency. Trichomes signal their maturity with visible changes — more on that below.

What are the four main kinds of cannabis trichomes?

1. Capitate-stalked trichomes

These are the most popular trichome types with their characteristic mushroom shape and comparatively large size. They consist of a stalk and a glandular head. They are approximately 50-100 micrometres (or microns) wide (0.05 – 0.1 mm) and can get 200-300 microns tall (0.2 – 0.3mm). This makes them visible to the human eye. Within them, they produce all cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Capitate-stalked trichomes are primarily responsible for the frosty appearance of weed.

2. Bulbous trichomes

These are the smallest trichomes, measuring about 10-15 micrometres. Due to their minuscule size, they are almost invisible to the naked eye. Under the microscope, they appear like little bubbles. Despite their size, bulbous trichomes cover the entire plant surface, including the leaves and stem, playing a crucial role in producing cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids.

3. Capitate-sessile trichomes

Capitate-sessile trichomes look a bit like button mushrooms under the microscope. They range between 25-100 micrometres and cover cannabis plants even more densely than their bulbous counterparts. Regarded as the second most prevalent trichome type, they are found on stems, leaves, and bracts. Although they manufacture cannabinoids and terpenes throughout the plant’s lifespan, the potency levels are not relatively as high as those of the capitate-stalked trichomes.

4. Cystolithic trichomes

These trichomes are different from the other three types because they are non-glandular. This means they do not have a bulbous head to store plant chemicals. Instead, cystolithic trichomes resemble short spiky hairs and have a claw-like appearance. They have a microscopic length of about 50 microns and produce fewer chemicals than their bulbous and capitate-stalked cousins.

Monitoring the different stages of trichome growth

If you want to get the most out of your cannabis harvest, you should look closely at the development of the trichomes, especially on the flower buds. Checking their quality and colour will tell you exactly when the perfect harvesting window has opened.

You can get a general impression of the stage and quality of your trichomes by looking at them with the naked eye under sufficient lighting. Nevertheless, having a loupe or microscope in your grower’s toolkit would be best for closer inspection. Jeweller’s loupes are excellent for this.

There is also a range of digital microscopes available for this exact purpose. Macro lenses that can be attached to smartphones can also help here. The fascinating microscopic landscape of your favourite plant might also inspire you to do stunning macro-photography!

What do trichomes look like when ready to harvest? The three stages of trichome maturation

1. Clear stage

Trichomes start their life cycle looking like clear, tiny mushrooms. Clear trichomes indicate that the plant is still growing and has not yet reached its full potential. Harvesting your weed plants while the trichomes are still translucent would be somewhat early. Cannabinoids and other compounds have yet to be synthesised in more significant concentrations. These clear-headed trichomes might still produce effects but are less potent than their mature cousins.

2. Cloudy stage

As trichomes mature, they transition from a clear to a cloudy, milky white appearance. This is a telltale sign that the THC content is at its peak. If you harvest at this stage, your buds will evoke an intense, energetic high. However, other cannabinoids, like CBD, CBG, and certain terpenes, have yet to evolve. For a more complex profile, you might want around two weeks longer.

3. Amber/brown stage

During the final phase, trichomes become more colourful, shifting towards deep brown and amber hues, indicating the development of essential compounds. If you want to cultivate plants with a broad spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, this is the right stage to harvest your plants. Flowers with a plethora of amber or brown trichomes tend to have more relaxing, calming properties, which are ideal for recreational and medicinal users.

How to increase trichome growth?

It should be clear by now that keeping an eye on the trichomes is critical to an optimal cannabis harvest. Nevertheless, how to improve and optimise the production of this crystalline gold?

The first step towards a stellar harvest with the highest possible trichome quality is to choose the suitable strains for you. The latest developments in cannabis genetics have brought forth varieties geared towards optimal and dense trichome growth. The results are exceptional flowers with individual blends of fragrances, aromas, effects, and benefits.

Once you have decided to cultivate one or more strains, it is time to refine your growing techniques. Most growing instructions that aim for high quality and rich harvest, including high terpene levels, also focus on high trichome production.

Here are seven tips for growing techniques to boost your trichomes:

1. Choosing strains naturally high in trichomes

When maximising trichome production, selecting the appropriate genetics is crucial. Although all cannabis plants produce trichomes, some strains appear more frosty than others. These are the top five strains that produce an abundance of trichomes:

White Diesel: The lineage of this strain is quite potent, and during flowering, White Diesel Haze develops an abundance of trichomes that give the flowers a frosted appearance. It has a pungent Diesel aroma and provides an uplifting cerebral high.

Jack Herer: Well-known for its abundant resin production. Its genetics encourage significant trichome development, contributing to its reputation as a well-balanced strain that combines cerebral stimulation and physical relaxation.

Wedding Cheesecake: This strain boasts trichome-rich buds and a cannabinoid profile that is robust and complex. Its aroma is reminiscent of cheese but has a subtle sweetness that adds to its appeal.

N13 Kush: Known for its ability to produce heavy yields and powerful effects, N13 Kush features abundant trichomes production and is a homage to its Afghan genetics.

Sticky Orange XXL: An exotic cultivar that boasts oversized, resinous buds covered in a thick layer of trichomes with a distinctively citrusy flavour profile.

2. Lighting

Your choice and arrangement of lights can directly influence trichome development. As mentioned before, the trichome coverage works like a protective sunscreen for the plant; just like how our skin produces melanin as a shield against the sun’s damaging rays, cannabis plants ramp up their production of cannabinoids in response to UV-B exposure.

Growers utilise this behaviour to boost trichome production by maximising UV-B radiation. Light-emitting ceramic (LEC) and UV lights are the best tools. More on the perfect light conditions for weed here.

3. Environmental conditions

Trichomes love a balanced environment, and optimal environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity, and airflow, are vital. To optimise trichome production, it is recommended to maintain temperatures between 18°C during the evening and 23°C under the lights. Excessive humidity levels can dramatically increase fungal disease risk, and maintaining a relative humidity of around 50% is advised.

4. Growing supplements

Healthy plants mean a healthy harvest! Just as you would take your vitamins, certain supplements and organic fertilisers can give your weed an extra trichome-boosting push. Some supplements you might want to add to your soil contain amino acids and lactic acid bacteria.

Molasses are also a great source of sugars that can provide the energy for trichome production. Always remember that cannabis will need different supplements throughout the different stages of plant development.

5. Defoliating

Defoliating ensures that lower buds get more light, removes non-essential leaves and helps the plant direct its resources towards flower formation and trichome development. However, be warned, as excessive pruning can stress your plant and hamper its growth.

6. When to flush based on trichomes

Growers recommend flushing your plants with generous amounts of clear water throughout your cultivation cycle. Flushing helps remove the medium’s unwanted salt residue, which can leave an unpleasant taste in the finished harvest.

7. Curing

Curing has a tremendous effect on trichome development. Excess moisture is removed in this phase, and the compounds change composition, helping trichome preservation. Initially, trichome levels decrease, but after the eighth week of curing, they return even more robust. During the curing process, relative humidity should be maintained between 45% and 55%. The temperature should be between 20-22°C.

Proper curing does not just maintain trichomes; it amplifies them, contributing to a more fragrant, potent cannabis harvest.

Trichomes, more than just a resin gland

Trichomes, the minuscule structures on cannabis responsible for producing cannabinoids like THC and CBD, terpenes, and flavonoids, play a crucial role in a plant’s potency and aroma. The appearance of trichomes, and their transition from clear to amber, are vital indicators for optimal harvest time.

The concentration of compounds within the trichomes depends on the cannabis strain and growing conditions. Their maturation process, which involves turning from clear to a cloudy or amber hue, indicates the peak time for harvest. The transition to amber can take several weeks, depending on the strain and environmental factors.

To optimise trichome production and preserve potency during harvesting, you should maintain balanced environmental conditions, provide adequate UV-B light, and apply proper supplements. After harvesting, you can further increase the potency of the cannabinoids in the trichomes by curing your buds properly for several weeks or even months.

Do you have any tips about improving the trichome contents? Let us know in the comments below!

Disclaimer:

Laws and regulations regarding cannabis cultivation differ from country to country. Sensi Seeds therefore strongly advises you to check your local laws and regulations. Do not act in conflict with the law.

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Durga Mata

Connect to cannabis history with three legacy strains from Paradise Seeds

Published

59 minutes ago

March 31, 2025

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Unparalleled genetics from one of Europe’s oldest seed banks let you grow a piece of the past.

Cannabis culture has undergone a massive transformation in the past decade. Shifting legalization laws have caused a sea change, taking the plant and those who grow it out of the dark corners and into the sun. As the weed world enters this bright new era, it has never been more important for passionate growers who care about the plant to connect to the history of cannabis. It’s vital for anyone who takes growing seriously to remember how cannabis culture owes what it is today to the ingenuity and bravery of talented breeders in the past.

The team at Paradise Seeds are just that sort of growers. As one of Europe’s oldest seedbanks, they carry a torch from a time when passionate people, not profit, ran the cannabis world. Their genetics have been charming critics and customers for decades, and now home growers in both Europe and the United States can finally experience the legendary quality of their feminized cannabis seeds for themselves.

We went deep with Paradise Seeds on three of their famous legacy strains, Wappa, Durga Mata, and Dutch Dragon, and we’re excited to give you the inside scoop into the history that makes these strains so special, as well as a couple of tips for how to grow these standsout strains for yourself. Afterward, stick around for a tour through the storied history of Paradise Seeds and the company’s visionary founder, Luc Krol.

Durga Mata

Indica | 22% THC | 55-60 day flowering time

Paradise Seeds growing — Image courtesy of Paradise Seeds.

Durga Mata is the end result of Paradise Seeds founder Luc Krol’s quest to breed a strain that is tough enough to endure both hostile climates and the missteps of inexperienced growers. For the genetic stock for such a creation, he turned to the Hindu Kush region and landrace strains. All indica strains trace their lineage back to the region, where the harsh environment and low average temperature bred hardy plants.

The strain that would become Durga Mata is the direct descendant of two landrace strains, one from Afghanistan, the other from the Himalayas. The result? A tough-as-nails strain that’s easy-to-grow nature and famous resilience has earned a spot in cannabis history.

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Durga Mata draws its name from the warrior form of the Hindu Goddess Parvati, a nod to both the strain’s geographic origins and how Durga Mata’s original mother towered over other plants in the first test grow. The iconic name helped popularize the strain through word of mouth, and before long, Durga Mata was a highly sought-after strain for both growers and consumers.

While Durga Mata was bred with northern latitudes in mind, it grows fantastically in a variety of southern climates, and loves indoor growrooms as well. It likes to expand horizontally and doesn’t take up much vertical space, so Durga Mata is a prime choice if you prefer the SoG method.

“I wanted to produce a strain which came equipped with the armour to survive a growing season in the north of Europe – cannabis seeds which you could literally throw into the garden and leave them!”

Luc Krol, Paradise Seeds Founder & Durga Mata breeder

No matter your setup, climate, or skill level, this goddess of a strain will deliver colorful buds; you’d have to try to get this plant to fail, and even then, it’s possible Durga Mata will just keep growing.

Those who turn to cannabis seeking relief from chronic pain, insomnia, or a host of other medical issues gained a particular fondness for Durga Mata. The strain has an appealing flavor that has been likened to Turkish Delight candy and induces a potent, but uplifting body high that won’t leave you in an uncomfortable couch-lock stupor. Stress and anxiety are absolutely no match for the mother goddess either, so make sure to keep some stocked when tense times are on the horizon.

Durga Mata is a strain for everyone—a time-tested classic that’s been winning the hearts and minds of the cannabis world for decades. Order now and get Paradise’s matriarch planted in your garden as soon as you can, so you can experience a little piece of divinity for yourself.

Wappa

Hybrid | 24% THC | 55-60 day flowering time

Dubbed the “perfect hybrid” by the team at Paradise Seeds, Wappa is an incredibly popular strain across Europe, where its legend only continues to grow. Today, Wappa is famed for its sweet scent, big buds, and formidable potency, but it wasn’t always that way.

“From the start I had a feeling this plant was going to be a hit…”

Luc Krol, Paradise Seeds Founder & Wappa breeder

It took the strain a while to catch on when it was released in the late 2000s, but it started spreading by word of mouth, and when it finally exploded, Europe’s cannabis scene was changed for good. Wappa won the hearts of growers due to its ability to uplift the body and mind, an experience that begins not when you smoke the strain, but when you first experience its distinctively sweet aroma.

Wappa’s exact parentage is a closely guarded secret by the Paradise Seeds team, but one whiff of Wappa will let you know that there’s a whole bunch of Sweet Skunk in its lineage. Beginner growers will have a great time with Wappa—it’s a low-maintenance sort of strain that’s on the more resilient side. Experienced growers who are interested in doing some of their own breeding are also drawn to Wappa’s genetic stability, making it an excellent platform for developing your own crosses.

How are new weed strains created?

Wappa prefers a moderate climate and tends to grow wide and short, fitting well into grow rooms where space is at a premium. Paradise Seeds recommends you keep a support or two on hand just in case any of the horizontal branches get too laden with dense, frosted buds.

The strain’s incredible yield, combined with Paradise Seeds’ low prices, means that Wappa is one of the most budget-friendly strains on the market today. Order some now and see why Paradise Seeds’ “perfect hybrid” earns its title.

Dutch Dragon

Sativa | 22% THC | 60-65 day flowering time

An award-winning sativa that’s experienced a renaissance in recent years, Dutch Dragon is one of the brightest jewels in Paradise’s crown. Dutch Dragon began, like many Paradise Seeds strains, in the early 90s when Luc Krol began experimenting with seeds from a remote region of Swaziland that he acquired through a well-traveled coffeeshop connection. Those seeds eventually became Dutch Dragon, so named because of its soaring, magical high.

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Luc wasn’t completely happy with the strain, however, and set out to improve both Dutch Dragon’s yield and flavor. After a genetic infusion of Skunk and some Indian strains, a new version of Dutch Dragon was born. This rendition, released in 2002, snagged a Highlife Cannabis Cup victory and became one of Paradise Seeds’ signature sativa strains.

Just like its ferocious namesake, Dutch Dragon can grow to some prodigious sizes. Without intervention or training, Dutch Dragon plants can grow up to nearly 10 feet (3m) tall, so those with limited space will be best served by limiting vertical growth early.

“In the early days of Paradise Seeds, we were looking for a handful of statement strains which would lay down a marker for the company in the cannabis seed market…”

Luc Krol, Paradise Seeds Founder & Dutch Dragon breeder

The strain has an impressive yield when grown outdoors in warmer climates, but will still deliver a respectable crop of long, sticky buds when grown indoors or at northern latitudes. Compared to the other strains on this list, Dutch Dragon can be a bit trickier to grow, but intermediate or advanced growers need not fear this dragon.

Dutch Dragon is an unapologetic sativa that exemplifies the best qualities of the family. It’s earned a reputation as an excellent daytime smoke, with a crackling, energetic high that leaves your focus (mostly) intact. It has a strong lemon aroma but a softer flavor, where sweet notes come to the fore as a counterpoint to the sharp citrus, a flavor that drives real sativa heads absolutely wild.

Dutch Dragon’s fairy-tale is still going strong twenty years after it was first introduced, and will probably still be on top of the industry twenty years in the future as well. Click the link below to add your own page to Dutch Dragon’s legend.

A legend is born

Paradise Seeds is a unique organization in the cannabis world. They have been in official operation since 1994, making them one of Europe’s oldest seed banks and one of the oldest companies in the weed space generally. That sort of staying power is virtually unheard of in an industry that sees operations rise and fall with stunning regularity.

The team at Paradise chalks their remarkable longevity up to a sense of vision and purpose that flows from their founder, Luc Krol, on down. Paradise Seeds does not chase trends or easy money. They do not release strains to meet marketing moments, but when the strain meets their exacting standards. Their Northstar is the same as it was when Paradise was originally founded—a sheer, unbridled love of cannabis.

“I harvested it and smoked the buds with a couple of friends and that was it!”

Luc Krol, Paradise Seeds Founder

The Paradise Seeds story truly begins during the early 1980s in the suburbs of the Netherlands, when a teenage Luc got his start growing some cannabis seeds given to him by a friend after a vacation to the Caribbean island of Aruba. This first experience with cannabis inspired Luc to continue growing, a hobby that he pursued in his young adulthood when he moved from the suburbs into the squats of Amsterdam.

The squats gave Luc the open spaces and permissive environment he needed to lay the groundwork for Paradise. Amsterdam’s famous coffeeshops provided a fertile testing ground for new strains, and Luc quickly earned a name for himself as a master breeder with an innovative mind. Luc’s genetics were so popular that American growers would seek out his strains specifically, crossing the Atlantic just so they could smuggle seeds back to the West Coast, building his reputation internationally.

Paradise found(ed)

Paradise Seeds was officially founded to avoid legal trouble. A brush with the police caught Luc in hot water, but his lawyer recommended founding a legitimate company to protect himself and his investment. After filling out the paperwork to bring Paradise Seeds into the world, Luc found himself not only a free man, but one with a burgeoning cannabis business ready to explode into prominence.

The next decade saw a period of rapid growth for Paradise. They began filling their trophy case with cannabis cup victories for strains like Sensi Star and Dutch Dragon. That success gave the team the runway to briefly relocate to Switzerland, hoping to take advantage of favorable legal regulations that allowed for the tiny mountain nation to become an epicenter of cannabis culture.

That dream faded away in 2004 when legalization died in the Swiss courts, and a police raid left Paradise Seeds officially barred from the country. That wasn’t nearly enough to keep Luc and the team down, however. They headed back to Amsterdam, with fresh new strains and priceless experience to show for their Swiss years.

How the Dutch Spread Cannabis Across the World

Under Luc’s leadership, Paradise thrived once they returned to the Netherlands. The team at Paradise was able to play a direct role in nearly every major cannabis innovation of the new millennium. Luc was influential in the rise of feminized cannabis seeds, and later the popularization of autoflowering seeds. These two variations are now the industry standards, giving modern growers convenience that Luc could have only dreamed of back in the Amsterdam squats.

Coming to America

The 2010s saw nothing short of a revolution in cannabis. The rise of homegrowing, a new interest in medical cannabis, and changing legal regulations in North America meant that cannabis seeds were more popular than ever. The decade also saw Paradise grow to unprecedented heights, opening up a brick-and-mortar store in Amsterdam and supplying the biggest grow in South America with their seeds.

The 2010s also saw the rise of a cannabis community ready to come out into the open and spread their passion with the world. Increased research into medical cannabis was a huge part of the changing attitudes towards the plant, and Paradise responded by breeding high CBD strains specifically for medical patients to manage their symptoms and launching the Medical Cannabis Bike tour. This event would see Paradise and representatives from around the cannabis community bike across Europe, raising approximately half a million Euros for continued research.

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Paradise would also strengthen their international connections by partnering with one of the most famous names in cannabis, Tommy Chong. This half of the iconic stoner duo was looking for a collaborator to provide his fledgling company with top-quality genetics. Paradise jumped at the chance to work with the legend, and developed four strains in partnership with Chong, Mendocino Skunk, L.A. Amnesia, Auto Kong 4, and Blue Kush Berry.

“We only hook up with growers and seed companies with the best quality, because I am not going to put my name to anything else. That’s why I said yes when Paradise Seeds came to us with a proposition to work together because those guys make the best seeds.”

Tommy Chong, cannabis icon

Paradise’s 30th anniversary last year saw the company reach commanding heights in the cannabis industry, with an eye toward the future that has served them so well in the past. Luc Krol still gets his hands dirty in the grow rooms, most recently assisting in the development of Paradise Seeds’ Mendo Breath collection, and a slew of other strains that are still in development.

Where the next thirty years will take Luc, the team at Paradise, and the rest of the weed world remains to be seen, but one thing is certain; there are few organizations who can claim even a fraction of their experience and passion. Both European and American growers curious as to the vast history of cannabis, or even just a desire to grow incredible weed, will be hard-pressed to find a provider of seeds with more knowledge and respect for the plant and the culture that supports it than Paradise Seeds. Click the link below to make your order and bring your grow one step closer to paradise today.

If you’re curious to read more about the fascinating history of Paradise Seeds and their incomparable founder, Luc Krol, you can read all about their thirty-year history on their website. You can also follow them on social media to keep up to date with new events, partnerships, and strains. Happy growing!

Availability subject to law.

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feminized seeds

Six high-THC strains from ILGM that you need in your garden

Published

2 weeks ago

March 14, 2025

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Tolerance-testing seeds from the team of master growers.

ILGM, the home for cannabis growers of all stripes, has been having a banner year. They’ve rebranded, revealed a fresh new look, and launched a bevy of new features designed to make it faster and easier for cannabis home growers to connect to quality seeds and cultivation knowledge. Not only does ILGM feature dozens of strain options with reputable, reliable genetics, they’ll ensure you have the resources to make your grow a success with an iron-clad germination guarantee and the option for a one-on-one online consultation with a master grower.

We have a selection of six of ILGM’s most potent and popular high-THC feminized strains, all available to order right from their website and delivered to your front door. Any one of these all-stars is well worth your time and growing energy, so make sure to snag your favorite, or order the whole set and make your grow the chillest place in town.

Granddaddy Purple strain

Purple Urkle x Big Bud | Indica | 25% THC | 77 day flowering time

high-thc strains — Image courtesy of ILGM.

A favorite of growers just starting on their cultivation journey, Granddaddy Purple teaches the ways of cannabis growing with a steady certainty reminiscent of learning to fish from your elderly relatives. Granddaddy Purple is a high-yield, indica-like strain that has potential to produce up to 510 grams of gorgeous purple buds per meter of growing space.

This strain is an excellent candidate for both indoor and outdoor grows thanks to its robust nature and resistance to disease, but make sure to keep an eye on both the humidity and temperature of your growing area when cultivating Granddaddy Purple—like any gentleman of a certain age, this strain loves to complain about the weather.

Although the parentage of Grandaddy Purple is somewhat disputed, ILGM’s rendition of the strain is a cross between Purple Urkle and Big Bud, two potent indica-likes that passed their powerful genetics onto their progeny. This crossbreed resulted in a virtually pure indica, ideal for end of the night relaxation when the only thing left to do is de-stress.

The strain can produce buds with up to 25% THC, making Granddaddy Purple an excellent choice for those turning to cannabis to relieve pain or help treat other medical ailments. Order your seeds from ILGM today so you can start relaxing sooner.

Do-si-dos strain

GSC x Face Off OG | Hybrid | 25% THC | 63 day flowering time

Do-di-dos exploded onto the cannabis scene almost a decade ago and has been winning the hearts and minds of growers and critics alike, even earning the coveted Leafly Strain of the Year award back in 2021. Do-si-dos is an indica-leaning hybrid with the potential for incredible potency—buds can reach 30% THC in ideal conditions, and most Do-si-dos plants will test between 24-28%. Do-si-dos can stand up to either indoor or outdoor growing situations, but it prefers climates that average between 70 and 80℉.

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Do-si-dos is a knockout strain in more ways than one—not only is its fearsome potency strong enough for the most experienced cannabis consumer, it looks absolutely stunning on the grow as well. Bright, verdant greens, pops of lavender and amber highlights all make Do-si-dos liable to become the belle of your garden. When it comes time to enjoy this wonder strain, you can look forward to a sweet, floral aroma with spicy undernotes.

Consumers of Do-si-dos frequently report that the strain excites creativity, elevates the mind, and induces a pleasantly tingly body high. This strain can seemingly do it all, and the best way to find out for yourself if Do-si-dos lives up to the hype is to order some from ILGM today.

LSD strain

Mazar-I-Sharif x Skunk #1 | Hybrid | 24% THC| 61 day flowering time

This indica-dominant hybrid originated in the Netherlands, where it’s intense, euphoric mental high was likened to the street drug LSD, aka acid, by some folks that had experienced them both. The comparison stuck, and LSD is still one of the premier strains for creatives and dreamers looking to tune in, turn off, and drop out.

LSD is a cross of Mazar I Sharif, an Afghani indica, and super-strain Skunk #1, a power-couple of a pairing that resulted in one of the most potent strains on the ILGM roster, with up to 24% THC. This strain certainly is not for the faint of heart, but those with the tolerance to tango with LSD will find it to be a strain unlike any other.

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LSD is a forgiving strain to grow, with a natural resistance to disease giving it the resilience to grow outdoors in a variety of climates. The plants tend to be short and low maintenance, so indoor growers who may not have much space should take a serious look at LSD as a way to maximize THC production in a limited space. LSD has a “sweet and sour” aroma, with notes of citrus, skunk, and pine, and it tastes just like it smells. Order yours from ILGM and you’ll be blasting off with your favorite psychedelic record before you know it.

Green Crack strain

Skunk #1 x Unknown Indica | Sativa | 20% THC| 63 day flowering time

Sometimes strain names demand longwinded explanations that reveal their origins; not so with Green Crack. World-famous rapper and cannabis aficionado Snoop Dogg gave this strain its evocative moniker due to its energizing, focusing high that can give you the energy to conquer the day and then some. This sativa-like won’t put you to bed, or make it so you can’t focus on your tasks—on the contrary, you may very well find that a bit of Green Crack can sub in for your 2:30 p.m. caffeine break to help you rally and finish your day strong.

Green Crack is a relatively straightforward strain, but beginner growers without much equipment may encounter setbacks. Indoor or outdoor grows can support Green Crack plants, so long as there is a controlled humidity level and ample vertical space for the strain to expand into.

Green Crack can reach heights of around 5’5” with tight packed buds, meaning it is one of the biggest yielders ILGM has available, with up to 795 gr/m² potential yield. That’s enough Green Crack to make you want to throw your coffee maker away for good, and ordering from ILGM is how you start.

OG Kush strain

Chemdawg x Lemon Thai x Hindu Kush | Hybrid | 27% THC | 63 day flowering time

OG Kush is a venerable legacy strain famous in all corners of the weed world for its euphoric and sedative effects, impressive potency, and genetic resilience. Dozens of popular strains have some OG Kush in their lineage, making OG Kush a great strain to grow for those with an interest in cannabis history or those wanting to experiment with breeding their own strains.

The strain is an indica-dominant hybrid with a distinctive aroma comprised of citrus, pine, and diesel notes. OG Kush owes its unique terpene profile to a rockstar genetic line descended from Chemdawg, Lemon Thai, and a Hindu Kush plant brought to the US from Amsterdam.

While rewarding, OG Kush can be a challenge to grow—it likes the heat and humidity and generally can’t handle lower temperatures. ILGM recommends growers who don’t live in a warmer, tropical climate keep the strain indoors lest they risk mildew, pest infestation and even crop failure. In the proper climate, however, OG Kush is a fast growing plant that will produce a respectable yield of lime green buds in as little as 63 days.

OG Kush contains up to 27% THC and can help with appetite-related issues, earning it a reputation for an excellent medical as well as recreational strain. If any of the uses for OG Kush sounds up your alley, order from ILGM now and get growing.

GSC Extreme strain

OG Kush x Durban Poison | Hyrbid | 30% THC| 63 day flowering time

GSC Extreme is ILGM’s high-THC rendition of the classic GSC strain. It looks, smells, and tastes just like the original GSC, but with a super-charged THC percentage that makes it a must-grow for all fans of the original, or high-THC strains in general. GSC Extreme can have up to 30% THC, an earth-shattering amount that may just remind you of your very first time smoking cannabis. This strain is a day ender, inducing deep relaxation in both the mind and the body, helping you relax and put your worries to bed.

GSC Extreme is a 50/50 hybrid descended from OG Kush and Durban Poison, giving the strain a balanced high that is reminiscent of both its famous parents. ILGM recommends GSC Extreme for novice growers due to its low-maintenance nature and robust resistance to infestation, mold, and disease.

For best results, however, make sure you give your plant plenty of room to stretch out both vertically and horizontally. GSC Extreme can be a pretty tall drink of water, but if you give it the room it needs, you’ll be rewarded with delicious, high-potency buds that all your friends will be begging for. Click below to see just how extreme this strain can really be.

These strains are just a sample; ILGM has a huge high-THC strain selection on their website that must be seen to be believed. While you’re there, make sure to check out all the new features that make the new ILGM much more than a seedbank. They have tons of expanded growing content, both articles and videos, and plenty of tools to help your grow go smoothly. In addition to their AI-powered assistant, growers can set up a one-on-one video call with master breeders on the ILGM team to directly troubleshoot problematic plants and share growing knowledge. Head over now and take your grow to the next level with ILGM.

In addition to their website, you can also follow ILGM on Facebook, YouTube, and X/Twitter to keep updated with growing events, giveaways, and new strain drops.

Availability subject to law.

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420 events

ILGM’s Home Grow Tour 2025

Published

4 weeks ago

March 6, 2025

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ILGM and Leafly are coming to a city near you to celebrate the passion we all share for growing cannabis.

Leafly and ILGM have teamed up to bring you a one-of-a-kind road trip across America, designed to bring cannabis enthusiasts together for unforgettable experiences and valuable learning opportunities. We’re hitting the road in ILGM’s revamped Airstream Bambi—the “home on the road”—to celebrate home growing and their refreshed identity.

“At ILGM, we call our online community the ‘Home of the Growers’ for a reason. Growing cannabis is in our DNA. It’s what makes our green hearts beat faster.”

Trekking from the West Coast to the East Coast, ILGM is bringing the Home Grow Tour to six iconic cities along the way, each with its own unique cannabis culture and stories to tell.

They’ve curated each stop to reflect the many perspectives that enrich our community, creating a space to celebrate as we continue writing the broader narrative of cannabis with one another. During the tour, the Airstream will act as ILGM’s mobile hub for Grow Workshops, cultivation Q&A’s, podcasts, exclusive seed deals, and, most of all, to connect with you, our fellow growers.

Let’s come together face to face, learn from each other, have fun, and celebrate the art of cultivation on the 2025 ILGM Home Grow Tour.

Find ILGM here

You won’t want to miss this! Take a look below to see if the Home Grow Tour is stopping in your city. Expect unique experiences tailored to the local vibe and culture at every stop.

March 15 & 16, 2025

The six-week-long journey across the country begins in Los Angeles at Rolling Loud, as an homage to music, hip-hop culture, and cannabis.

March 22 & 23, 2025

ILGM’s “State of U.S. Home Growing Market” report published last year pointed out the increasingly important position of women in the cannabis home growing community. As we leave the big city, we head to Palm Springs for a refreshing weekend retreat highlighting and celebrating the women who push our cannabis community forward.

Join us for a series of curated events at Arrive Hotel as ILGM provides starter grow workshops for women, and we explore the relationship between cannabis and mindfulness and enjoy the artistic contributions of female artists.

Get ready for the ultimate cannabis road trip, powered by Leafly

Power up your cannabis experience: shop deals near you, find new strains, and order weed for pickup or delivery—all at your fingertips—download the Leafly app today! Plus, sign up for the Leafly newsletter to receive exclusive offers from ILGM and more trusted brand partners, expert advice, and the latest strain info—all at your fingertips.

Phoenix: Surprise details to be announced

March 29 & 30, 2025

As the Home Grow Tour continues through the desert, Phoenix provides the ideal backdrop to recognize all of the ways we “grow” as cannabis enthusiasts. With its active community of home growers, Phoenix is the ideal place to settle down for a weekend dedicated to cannabis home cultivation.

What we’ll be doing is still a surprise but rest assured—ILGM is cooking up something special for their Phoenix visit. Stay tuned to find out what’s in store for this special community get-together. More information to be announced soon!

April 5 & 6, 2025

As the Airstream makes its way through Colorful Colorado, ILGM is getting acquainted with the great outdoors with a weekend of camping at Boulder’s Adventure Lodge. Do we know anything better than the combination of enjoying the best cannabis and the outdoors have to offer? We don’t think so!

From growing workshops and sunrise salutations to fun outdoor activities like hiking and sitting beside the campfire, escape into the wilderness and inspire a deeper appreciation for nature, cannabis, and our community. An event specially designed for the ILGM community: their loyal customers and ILGM forum users, and those who think a weekend socializing with like-minded cannabis connoisseurs is the best it can get.

April 12 & 13, 2025

Chicago is a city all its own, but its rich culinary scene has remained a defining element throughout history. We can’t think of a better place to explore the connection between cuisine and cannabis!

Find ILGM at a soon-to-be-announced location for an experience blending education and indulgence, with delectable infused cocktails and meals to try out for yourself along the way.

April 19 & 20, 2025

The Home Grow Tour is hitting New York City on the weekend of 4/20 as the final stop. NYC is a famous melting pot and the perfect city to celebrate the diversity of cannabis culture.

The first stop is the MARY Fest in Brooklyn to check out the many intersections of cannabis in our cultural landscape. On 4/20, our community’s biggest day of the year, ILGM will finally settle down for a local celebration of cannabis culture at a surprise location, so stay tuned for more details.

ILGM wants to share their passion for home growing with existing and new generations of home cultivators. Join Leafly and ILGM in this shared passion, learn with us, explore with us, and express your love for cannabis with us.

Coming together with one another, each with our own unique knowledge and experience: This is how the cannabis community has always grown. Different cultures, histories, and communities shape every journey that makes up this larger family.

Check here for more information on the ILGM Home Grow Tour 2025. To keep updated on all things ILGM, you can head to their website or follow them on Facebook and Instagram. You can also head to their YouTube channel for high-quality home-growing videos. Happy growing and see you on the road!

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