Alabama's subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot summers, offers an excellent growing conditions for several cannabis strains.
This article will highlight the 10 best strains to grow in Alabama, focusing on those that are resistant to mold, mildew, and can thrive in the state’s warm and humid conditions.
Best Strains To Grow in Alabama (Our Picks)
1. Blue Dream
Blue Dream is a popular Sativa-dominant hybrid cannabis strain with its origins in California, known for its high THC content and therapeutic benefits.
Growing Blue Dream in Alabama
Alabama has a warm and humid climate, which is ideal for growing cannabis plants that are resistant to mold, like Blue Dream. This strain is not only easy to grow, but it is also known for its high yields, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced growers in the region.
When grown outdoors in Alabama, the yield can reach a staggering 700 grams per plant. Furthermore, Blue Dream is resistant to mold, which is a common issue in humid climates like Alabama.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Blue Dream has a complex yet straightforward fruity aroma and taste, thanks to its Blueberry genetics. It delivers intense notes of blueberry and lemon, with hints of vanilla and mango, making it incredibly pleasing to those with a sweet tooth.
When it comes to its effects, Blue Dream offers a powerful and extensive high that impacts both the body and mind. Initially, the Sativa-dominant characteristics create a mental high that is cerebral and intensely uplifting.
However, as time passes, these effects subside, and you begin to feel the benefits of its Indica genetics - a mood-boosting buzz that gradually turns into a full-body stone.
This balanced effect makes Blue Dream a favorite among both medicinal and recreational users, providing relief from pain, anxiety, depression, and insomnia without making you feel tired or anxious.
2. Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies, commonly known as GSC, originated from a cross between Durban Poison and OG Kush by collectors in San Francisco Bay, California. It is favored by many for its delicious taste, and medicinal properties.
Growing Girl Scout Cookies in Alabama
Alabama has a suitable environment for growing Girl Scout Cookies. Since GSC seeds can be grown both indoors and outdoors, growers in Alabama have the flexibility of choosing the method that suits them best.
However, due to the sometimes unpredictable weather patterns in Alabama, indoor growing may offer more control over the environment.
GSC seeds are easy to grow and can yield up to 500 grams per m² indoors and between 550 and 650 grams outdoors.
Moreover, Girl Scout Cookies has a relatively short flowering time of 7-9 weeks, which means growers in Alabama can expect to harvest around mid-April if growing outdoors.
In addition, GSC plants are medium-sized, making them ideal for indoor growing spaces. Lastly, it is a suitable candidate for different growing techniques such as "Screen Of Green method" or LST, which can help optimize the yield.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Girl Scout Cookies has a unique and delightful aroma that resembles freshly baked cookies. The smoke is smooth and soft, making excessive coughing rare.
The flavor profile of GSC is a mix of spicy and sweet with mint and earthy undertones, making it a real treat for the palate. The effects of GSC are both physically and mentally noticeable.
Initially, a tingling sensation warns of the strong effects to come. It then induces a cheerful, relaxed, creative, and soothing high.
Physically, it provides a sense of relaxation which can be a relief for those suffering from chronic pain. However, it is advisable to have food at hand as "munchies" are a common side effect of this strain.
3. Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel, hailing from the sunny west coast of California, is a top-notch Sativa dominant strain known for its uplifting high and unique flavor profile.
Growing Sour Diesel in Alabama
If you're in Alabama, Sour Diesel is a pretty solid choice for your garden. Alabama's warm climate and long growing season give you an edge in nurturing this beauty.
Being a relatively easy strain to grow, it's also a good pick for beginners. While this strain usually flourishes in warm, sunny environments, it's versatile enough to grow indoors if you're not keen on sharing your secret with the neighbors. Just make sure you've got some room because these plants can get tall!
Smell, Taste and Effect
Sour Diesel has a strong diesel smell right off the bat, but give it a moment and you'll catch those softer, citrusy undertones.
The high of this strain hits quick and gives you a burst of energy and creativity that lasts for hours. Perfect for day use or when you need to get your social game on.
If you're a newbie, tread lightly; that 20% THC content might sneak up on you. Don't worry about getting paranoid or stuck in a couch-lock, this strain is all about the good vibes.
4. Northern Lights
Northern Lights is a classic strain that originates from Afghani Indica and Thai Sativa hybrids, popularized by 'King of Cannabis' Nevil Schoenmakers in the 1980s.
Growing Northern Lights in Alabama
This strain is well suited for growing in humid conditions because its buds are large and densely packed, but not so dense that mildew becomes a problem. Additionally, its hardy genetics allow it to grow in colder and more damp climates, similar to the Netherlands and the UK.
This makes Northern Lights a great option for growers in Alabama, where the summer is warm and humid, but there can be colder temperatures in other seasons.
Smell, Taste and Effect
When dried, Northern Lights releases a delightful honey-musk aroma, refined by a note of wild juniper and Afghani. This strain is known for its strong Indica effects, which are mainly physical.
Depending on the amount consumed and your mood during the day, it can relax, calm down, tire, sedate, and sometimes even cause a couch-lock effect.
This makes Northern Lights especially suitable for winding down after a busy day and less appropriate for strenuous activities. Common side effects include dry eyes and mouth, which can be easily remedied by drinking enough water.
5. Gorilla Glue
Gorilla Glue is a potent, balanced hybrid known for its high THC levels and beautiful buds.
Growing Gorilla Glue in Alabama
Growing Gorilla Glue in Alabama is a solid choice for both novice and experienced cultivators. Thanks to its quick flowering time of eight to nine weeks, this strain is an excellent fit for Alabama's long growing season.
The humidity levels in Alabama can be quite high, especially in the summer, but Gorilla Glue is fairly resilient to mold and pests. Using the SCROG method can further maximize your yields.
Expect up to 750 grams per plant when grown outdoors, making it a great option for those looking to get the most out of their Alabama garden.
Smell, Taste and Effect
Gorilla Glue's scent resembles freshly roasted coffee with earthy undertones. When you take a hit, you'll immediately notice its rich diesel and pine flavors, followed by a tangy-sweet aftertaste that lingers.
This strain also packs a punch. With THC levels that can reach up to 28%, even seasoned users should approach it with caution.
You'll feel its effects almost instantly, offering a balanced blend of Sativa and Indica characteristics. Expect a wave of euphoria and mental stimulation at first, followed by a relaxing body high that might make you want to sit down and take it easy for a while.
6. Jack Herer
Jack Herer is a popular strain with roots in the Netherlands, known for its balance between Sativa and Indica properties and its medicinal potential.
Growing Jack Herer in Alabama
Jack Herer can handle the heat and humidity that Alabama summers can throw at it. While it's not a native Alabama plant, its preference for warm, dry climates make it a good fit.
And if you're in an area with a bit more rain, consider using a greenhouse to keep things dry. The plants don't give off a strong smell until after harvest, so you can grow them without drawing too much attention to your garden.
With high yields and sturdy branches (though you'll want to give them some support), it's a solid choice for both new and experienced growers.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
When it comes to aroma and flavor, Jack Herer is a complex experience. You'll notice fruity, lemony tones blended with earthy and skunky notes. Depending on the particular seeds, you might also detect hints of sandalwood or pine.
The smoke is thick and lingers, offering a potent high that's both cerebral and physical. You won't feel glued to the couch, but you'll definitely be relaxed.
It's a great choice for kicking back and watching a movie, as it'll keep you interested but not too buzzed to follow the plot. Even with low levels of CBD, many people find relief from stress, anxiety, and pain. Just keep some water handy, as it can leave you feeling a bit parched.
7. Amnesia Haze
Amnesia Haze, a popular strain with origins tracing back to Thai, Hawaiian, and Afghani genetics, is a top choice for cannabis enthusiasts worldwide.
Growing Amnesia Haze in Alabama
Amnesia Haze is pretty forgiving for beginners. Its short flowering stage, about nine weeks, makes it easier to harvest before the colder weather sets in.
High yields make it appealing too; indoors you could get up to 650 grams per m2, and outdoors even up to 800 grams per plant. Autoflower seeds are available, so if you're new to growing, it can be a less daunting experience.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
When you first encounter Amnesia Haze, your nose is hit with a blend of earthy and peppery tones. As for the taste, Lemon flavors stand out, making it an enjoyable smoking experience from start to finish.
The effects will make you start feeling upbeat and energetic but also a little spaced-out and daydreamy. It's like being in a creative brainstorm session without the pressure.
Amnesia Haze can even help lift your mood if you're feeling down or anxious.
8. Pineapple Express
Pineapple Express is a popular feminized cannabis strain resulting from a cross between Trainwreck and Hawaiian, known for its large yield, delicious tropical taste, and high THC content.
Growing Pineapple Express in Alabama
Pineapple Express is a sturdy and adaptable plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. Its ability to adapt quickly to small spaces makes it a good option for indoor growing, where the climate can be controlled.
Additionally, Pineapple Express has a relatively short flowering time of only 55 days, which means growers in Alabama can harvest before the onset of any adverse weather conditions.
A crucial tip for growing in Alabama is to ensure good ventilation, as thick buds of Pineapple Express can smell quite a bit during flowering.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Pineapple Express has an aroma which is a delightful blend of tropical and floral scent, almost like sticking your nose into a fresh pineapple. Light it up and you'll find the taste doesn't disappoint either.
It hits your tongue with a mix of sweet, floral, and sometimes even cedar or mango undertones.
This strain packs a THC level of around 20%, offering a high that's both uplifting and relaxing. You'll feel the cerebral buzz pretty quickly, lifting your spirits while easing your body into a relaxed state.
It's a unique kind of chill that helps with pain and anxiety, although it's probably not the best choice for a bedtime smoke due to its tendency to keep your mind active.
9. White Widow
White Widow is a legendary Dutch strain that originated in the '90s, famous for its high THC content and balanced hybrid genetics.
Growing White Widow in Alabama
White Widow is a fantastic choice for growing in Alabama's warm climate. The strain thrives in warmer conditions, so you can expect it to reach its full potential here.
In the Alabama sun, this plant can shoot up to a staggering 2 meters and offer incredible yields, possibly as high as 700 grams per plant. Given that it's low maintenance and easy to grow, it's great for both novice and seasoned growers.
You'll want to plant your seeds around May or June and plan for an early autumn harvest.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
White Widow offers a unique blend of earthy, woody, and slightly spicy notes that make every puff an experience. The smell is sweet yet strong, almost inviting you to take a hit.
Once you do, you'll feel an uplifting euphoria that urges creativity and conversation, making it ideal for social settings. But be cautious; too much and you'll find yourself locked to the couch in a relaxed haze.
It's also a go-to for many dealing with chronic pain or insomnia. Side effects are minimal but may include dry mouth or eyes, so keep some water handy. Rarely, some users might experience mild paranoia or dizziness.
10. Purple Kush
Purple Kush is a pure Indica strain with roots tracing back to Central Asia and Northern California, making it a classic choice for those seeking a potent, long-lasting effect.
Growing Purple Kush in Alabama
Purple Kush is a good match for Alabama's warm and humid climate. The strain boasts a high mold resistance, which is ideal for Alabama's humid summers.
While it thrives in a drier, cooler environment, Purple Kush is versatile and hardy, capable of handling Alabama's varied weather.
Since the plant stays relatively small and bushy, topping 60 to 80 cm, it's also easy to manage indoors if the outdoor environment isn't quite right.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Purple Kush is loved for its unique combination of earthy sweetness and fruity undertones. The smell is similarly captivating, with a fragrant mix of sweet and earthy notes that fills the room.
Purple Kush is popular for its powerful effects as well. With a THC content that can reach up to 27%, this strain offers a full-body relaxation that melts into a euphoric couch lock.