Minnesota's climate is characterized by cold winters and warm summers. It falls within the humid continental climate zone, which means it experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.
For cannabis cultivation, the outdoor growing season typically begins in the spring (around April-May) and extends through the fall (around September-October). This timeframe corresponds with the period when the risk of frost is lowest, and the amount of sunlight is sufficient for cannabis plants to grow and flower.
The warm summer months, usually June through August, are the most optimal for cannabis growth. This is when the plants experience vegetative growth, wherein they develop the leaves and branches that will eventually support their flowers.
As temperatures cool down in the fall, and the days get shorter, cannabis plants will naturally start to flower. It's important to harvest before the first frost, which in Minnesota can happen as early as October.
Taking this into consideration, here are 10 of the best strains to grow in Minnesota
Best Strains To Grow In Minnesota
1. Blackberry Kush
Introducing Blackberry Kush, an Indica-dominant hybrid with a distinguished lineage tracing back to the esteemed Kush family, this strain is celebrated for its alluring fruity flavors and deeply relaxing effects.
Growing in Minnesota
Blackberry Kush is an excellent choice for Minnesota's growers, thanks to its resilient nature and mold-resistant characteristics. Minnesota's climate is characterized by its warm summers and cold winters, and while cannabis cultivation might be challenging during the frosty winter months, Blackberry Kush can flourish during the state's warm growing season. This strain is particularly adaptable, making it a great pick for growers in this region who can leverage its resistance to mold in the region's high humidity conditions.
Remember that this Indica-dominant strain requires regular pruning due to its dense and bushy nature. Watch out for spider mites, and keep humidity levels low during the flowering stage to ensure optimal yield. With proper care, Blackberry Kush plants can thrive in both indoor and outdoor environments, adding a touch of vibrant color with their deep hues of purple and plum to any Minnesota garden.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
In terms of its sensory experience, Blackberry Kush is a delight for both the nose and the palate. It boasts a complex aroma profile, combining ripe, juicy summer berries with earthy Afghani sweetness and a pungent, refreshing fuel-like undertone that is characteristic of its Blackberry parentage. When it comes to flavor, this strain doesn't disappoint either. Expect to enjoy a sweet, mouthwatering berry taste, followed by a slightly chalky and earthy aftertaste.
Blackberry Kush's effects are equally impressive. After the first few puffs, users will experience an intense mental buzz, accompanied by feelings of euphoria, happiness, and inner peace. As an Indica-dominant strain, it provides profound body relaxation, making it an excellent choice for evening use when you're ready to unwind. Its therapeutic benefits shouldn't be overlooked either, as it has been praised for its potential to alleviate symptoms of chronic pain, muscle spasms, and mood-related disorders. Remember, though, moderation is key with this potent strain, and overconsumption could lead to side effects such as dizziness, dry mouth, or even paranoia.
2. Banana Kush
Banana Kush, a highly popular strain hailing from the sunny state of California, offers a balanced blend of Indica and Sativa properties, resulting in a relaxing yet creatively stimulating high. This strain, a cross between Skunk Haze and Ghost OG, is renowned for its sweet banana aroma and potent THC profile.
Growing in Minnesota
Given its hardiness and resilience against pests and mildew, Banana Kush is a fantastic choice for growers in Minnesota. Despite Minnesota's climate not resembling that of California's, Banana Kush can adapt to indoor cultivation exceptionally well. This strain is capable of thriving under a controlled environment, especially using hydroponic setups, which are ideal for Minnesota's colder months. Care should be taken to maintain low humidity levels to prevent powdery mildew. With regular maintenance and pruning, even the novice gardener can expect high yields from this strain. Remember, Banana Kush is a bit of a nutrient hog, so don't be afraid to feed it well.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
One of Banana Kush's most celebrated attributes is its unique aroma and flavor profile. As the name implies, Banana Kush emits a delightful, unmistakable scent of ripe bananas, intertwined with earthy Kush undertones. On the palate, it continues to please with a sweet, fruity burst of tropical tree fruit and, of course, delicious bananas.
But Banana Kush is more than just a treat for the senses. Its effects offer a well-rounded experience that caters to both recreational and medicinal users. The Indica dominance provides a soothing, relaxing effect, making it perfect for unwinding after a long day. At the same time, its Sativa component imparts a cerebral buzz, promoting creativity, social interaction, and mood uplift. Despite its potent THC levels, Banana Kush is known for its mellow, manageable effects, making it an excellent choice for those seeking relief from chronic ailments or those simply wanting to enjoy a pleasant, euphoric experience.
3. Hindu Kush
Hailing from the rugged mountain ranges bordering Afghanistan and Pakistan, Hindu Kush is a pure Indica landrace strain that's known for its deeply relaxing effects and ease of cultivation.
Growing in Minnesota
Minnesota's climate, with its hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, might seem challenging for cannabis cultivation. However, Hindu Kush's resilient and adaptable nature, honed in harsh mountain conditions, makes it a good fit. With its easy growth difficulty, Hindu Kush is suitable for growers of all skill levels, making it an excellent choice for Minnesotan cultivators. Though it prefers organic soil, its compact size and robust nature allow for successful indoor growth, an advantage during Minnesota's harsh winters. Indoor growth also allows for the application of SOG, ScrOG, or other higher-intensity training methods, which significantly boost yields.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Hindu Kush's scent is a delightful fusion of earthy tones, pine needles, and a sweet hint of citrus, thanks to the dominant terpene, Limonene. The fresh buds carry a sweet, slightly sour, and earthy aroma, laced with hints of incense and spice. Its flavor profile is an exotic mix of earthy taste, spice, citrus, and sandalwood, making every puff a sensory delight.
When it comes to effects, Hindu Kush stands in a league of its own. As a pure Indica strain, its effects are primarily body-focused. A calming wave of relaxation spreads throughout every joint and muscle, bringing about profound peace within half an hour of consumption. This potent strain also offers significant medicinal benefits, providing relief for chronic pain and other long-term illnesses.
Hindu Kush is a timeless classic, its enduring popularity a testament to its potent effects, unique flavor profile, and hardy nature. Whether you're a grower in Minnesota looking for a resilient strain or a cannabis enthusiast seeking a deeply relaxing experience, Hindu Kush has something to offer you.
4. Cheese
Cheese, a globally recognized strain, traces its origins back to the UK with an unmistakable aroma reminiscent of the cheese that inspired its name. This strain, adored by enthusiasts worldwide, has carved a significant place in the cannabis market, particularly in the Netherlands and the UK.
Growing in Minnesota
For cannabis growers in Minnesota, Cheese strain promises a rewarding cultivation experience. Despite Minnesota's sometimes challenging climate, Cheese's high mold resistance lends itself well to this location, where late summer rain can be a common occurrence. Furthermore, Cheese's versatility means it can thrive both indoors and outdoors, making it an ideal choice for Minnesota growers. Indoor growers should be prepared for the strain's signature potent aroma during the flowering stage, which can be managed with a robust carbon filter. The strain's bushy stature and ability to grow quite tall, especially when outdoors, are worth noting. Pruning is advised for better light penetration and to keep the plant manageable and compact.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
With Cheese, expect a sensory experience that matches its name. Initially, you might be taken aback by the pungent and cheese-like aroma. However, once you've embraced this unique scent, you'll find that it's part of what makes Cheese so unique and memorable. The flavor profile does not disappoint either - it strikes a balance between spicy and earthy undertones, offering a rich, satisfying experience akin to enjoying a well-aged cheese. It's a taste that's as intriguing as its aroma and one that leaves an indelible impression on your palate.
As for the effects of Cheese, they are just as enticing as its aroma and flavor. Cheese provides a euphoric high that stimulates the brain while inducing a state of full relaxation. Regular users find this strain perfect for unwinding after a long day. Its potent effects can also offer long-lasting relief from chronic pains and are beneficial for those struggling with insomnia. However, first-time users or those with low tolerance are advised to approach Cheese with caution due to its potential side effects such as dry eyes, dry mouth, and at high doses, anxiety, paranoia, and dizziness.
The Cheese strain is a classic cannabis strain offering a blend of unique flavors, robust growth characteristics, and a balanced high. Whether you're growing it in Minnesota or enjoying its distinct taste and effects, Cheese delivers a cannabis experience like no other.
5. Bubblegum
Bubblegum, a sweet-tasting strain with origins in Indiana, USA, has become a household name among cannabis enthusiasts. With its distinctive fruity flavors and easy cultivation process, it has won numerous awards, including three High Times Cannabis Cups, solidifying its status as a beloved strain among smokers.
Growing in Minnesota
Bubblegum is a perfect strain for cultivation in Minnesota. This is largely due to the strain's tolerance for moderate climates and its adaptability to both indoor and outdoor growing conditions. Given Minnesota's relatively dry summers and early falls, Bubblegum thrives outdoors in these conditions. Its flowering period, typically around 56 to 63 days, aligns well with Minnesota's growing season.
Indoor growers in Minnesota can also enjoy this strain, with its manageable height (between 80cm and 120cm) and resistance to mold making it a great choice for compact spaces. Its modest size also makes it an ideal candidate for SOG/SCROG setups, even when space is limited. However, growers should note that Bubblegum emits a very pronounced scent during flowering, which may require ventilation planning for indoor cultivations.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Bubblegum's allure lies not only in its cultivation characteristics but also in its unique sensory profile. Its aroma is distinctively sweet, reminiscent of candy-like scents. When crumbled, the smell intensifies, releasing a delightful blend of sweet berries and grapes, truly living up to its name.
As for its taste, Bubblegum indulges the palate with a sweet, fruity flavor that is a treat for cannabis users. The taste mirrors its smell, bursting with the flavors of sweet berries and grapes, reminiscent of actual bubblegum.
The effect of Bubblegum is equally enticing. As a hybrid strain, it offers a balanced effect that is both uplifting and relaxing. Users often experience a boost of energy and a surge of creativity, making Bubblegum a preferred daytime strain. It is also popular among introverts as it tends to make users more sociable and talkative, making it a great party strain.
Beyond recreational use, Bubblegum has found favor among medical marijuana users for its ability to relieve pain, reduce stress, and aid in treating anxiety and depression. Other reported uses include relieving symptoms associated with migraines, ADHD, and arthritis. However, like any strain, Bubblegum has some side effects including dry eyes and mouth, which can be easily managed with proper hydration.
6. Skywalker OG
Skywalker OG is a celestial hybrid that draws its lineage from Skywalker and OG Kush, offering a potent intergalactic journey of relaxation. As an enhanced version of the renowned OG Kush, Skywalker OG is admired for its high THC content, generous yield, and quality buds.
Growing in Minnesota
With Minnesota's diverse seasons, Skywalker OG can thrive in both indoor and outdoor settings. Its high resistance to mold makes it suitable for the state's humidity levels, especially during the summer. For the best yield, it is advised to grow this strain indoors due to Minnesota's short summer growing season. Given its forgiving nature and adaptability, Skywalker OG responds favorably to various cultivation techniques such as Super-cropping, topping, LST, SCROG, and SOG. However, growers should bear in mind the plant's need for ample space to achieve its maximum potential. Dense, large buds may also require extra support due to their size.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Skywalker OG presents a sensory voyage as grand as its namesake. Its aroma is a potent mix, beginning with a piney Kush scent that slowly morphs into a lemon with a hint of diesel. This tantalizing transition extends to its flavor, making each puff an exploration of varied taste landscapes.
As for the effect, Skywalker OG brings about a potent high that can make you feel as if you're floating in a galaxy far, far away. This strain excels in creating a relaxed state of mind and a euphoric feeling, perfect for winding down after a long day. It also carries strong narcotic properties, effectively easing pain and combating insomnia. However, users should tread lightly, as overconsumption could lead to dry mouth, increased appetite, and even potential paranoia or anxiety. Moderation is key when navigating Skywalker OG's powerful cosmic journey.
7. Amnesia Haze
Hailing from a diverse heritage of Thai, Hawaiian, and Afghani genetics, Amnesia Haze is a Sativa-dominant cannabis plant that has made a name for itself in the cannabis world due to its high yields, quality, and distinctive Haze flavor.
Growing in Minnesota
While it's true that Amnesia Haze has a penchant for growing tall and tends to be more susceptible to bud rot, don't let these characteristics deter you if you're located in Minnesota. This state offers a unique advantage with its warm and dry summers, which are perfect for the outdoor cultivation of this strain.
Amnesia Haze thrives in large pots or directly in the ground, growing up to 2 meters, and even reaching 2.5 meters in extreme cases. The key to a successful harvest in Minnesota is to keep an eye on the weather changes, ensuring the plant is not exposed to late-season rains that could increase humidity levels and lead to bud rot.
Feminized Amnesia Haze seeds are versatile and can adapt to different growing mediums including soil, hydroponics, or coconut. Regular pruning and sufficient ventilation are recommended to manage their height, and extra support may be necessary to prevent branches from breaking under the weight of its large buds.
Indoors, expect a flowering period of about 9 weeks, while experienced growers can reap up to 600 to 650 grams per square meter. Outdoors, in a favorable climate like Minnesota's, the yield can go up to an impressive 800 grams per plant.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Amnesia Haze is a feast for the senses, with a strong and captivating aroma that is powerfully earthy, sharp, and pepper-like, topped with an assortment of citrus fruits. Its delightful lemon nuances make it a perfect strain to start the day, uplifting your mood with every puff.
On the palate, Amnesia Haze offers a robust flavor that mirrors its scent, leaving a tangy citrus aftertaste that lingers.
But it's the effects of Amnesia Haze that truly sets it apart. It offers an energetic and positive high, which as the name suggests, can cause temporary memory loss, creating a wonderfully relaxing experience. The high can be described as mildly psychedelic or "trippy," encouraging daydreaming and creative thinking. It's perfect for daytime use, allowing you to forget your worries and enjoy blissful laziness without the urge to sleep.
In a medical context, Amnesia Haze can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety disorders. Its euphoric and stimulating effects create an unforgettable experience, earning its place among the most celebrated cannabis strains in the world.
8. Bubba Kush
Bubba Kush, a renowned Indica-dominant strain, emerged from the heart of Los Angeles in the 90s, thanks to a grower known affectionately as "Bubba." This high THC, easy-to-grow strain, offers a delightful mix of coffee, chocolate, and classic Kush flavors, inviting cannabis enthusiasts into a calm, slightly euphoric state.
Growing in Minnesota
With a flowering time of just 8 to 9 weeks, Bubba Kush is an excellent choice for cultivators in Minnesota. Minnesota's climate often presents a short growing season, making this strain's quick maturation period a huge plus. Bubba Kush's robust Indica characteristics also make it a hardy choice capable of withstanding some of the unpredictable weather that Minnesota sometimes brings.
Bubba Kush is quite versatile and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. When grown outdoors in Minnesota, the flowering period coincides perfectly with the onset of cooler fall temperatures, potentially enhancing the strain's beautiful purplish hues. Its compact size, between 120-180 cm outdoors, makes it manageable even for beginners. For indoor growers, Bubba Kush's modest height, usually 70-120 cm, makes it suitable for limited spaces.
Regardless of the method of cultivation, Bubba Kush offers a bountiful yield. Indoors, growers can expect a substantial 500-600 grams per m² under ideal conditions. Outdoor cultivators might see an impressive 800 grams per plant. Therefore, this strain is rewarding not only for its quality but also for its quantity.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Bubba Kush is a sensory delight. Its unique aroma is a delightful blend of rich coffee, creamy chocolate, and the distinctive Kush scent. This combination is captivating and lures you into wanting to experience more.
Upon tasting, Bubba Kush's complexities truly shine. The same chocolate and coffee notes present in its aroma are beautifully translated onto the palate, joined by subtle earthy nuances that further amplify the Kush lineage's signature flavor.
The effect of Bubba Kush is a testament to its strong Indica dominance. With a THC content averaging around 20%, this strain delivers a powerful, long-lasting high. Users can expect to feel a wave of tranquility and slight euphoria, making it the perfect strain for relaxing evenings. It's the kind of strain you'd want after a long day, where all you desire is to unwind on your couch, let go of your worries, and sink into a state of calm and contentment. Despite its potency, side effects are typically minimal, with dry eyes and mouth being the most commonly reported. By staying well-hydrated, these minor discomforts can be easily managed.
9. Blueberry CBD
Blueberry CBD, a unique combination of Blueberry F2, OG Kush CBD, and Afghan CBD, delivers a power-packed medicinal punch with a delightful blueberry flavor.
Growing in Minnesota
Blueberry CBD is an excellent strain to grow in Minnesota due to its ability to thrive in various climates. Minnesota, with its temperate to slightly cooler environment, is an ideal location for this sturdy plant. Although late frosts can be a concern, this strain's resilience and compact growth pattern allows it to withstand colder temperatures. The plant height reaches up to 140 cm indoors, making it a manageable size for indoor growth during harsh winters. Outdoors, in the Minnesota summer, the plant can grow up to 160 cm. With a flowering time of 60-65 days, growers can expect beautiful purple-bluish buds to develop, exuding a sweet blueberry aroma.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Blueberry CBD is well-known for its sweet and fruity aroma, reminiscent of a fresh blueberry patch. Upon smoking, the strain releases a delightful blend of flavors - sweet, woody, and an underpinning of blueberries, finished off with a hint of pine. The low THC content ensures a mild and soft effect after smoking, making it an excellent choice for those seeking the medicinal benefits of cannabis without an intense psychoactive experience.
With a CBD to THC ratio of 16:1, Blueberry CBD is especially favored for its potential to alleviate stress and depressive feelings. Regular usage can potentially keep these feelings at bay, providing a calming, happy, and focused state of mind. While minor side effects such as dry eyes or mouth may occur, they are easily managed by staying well-hydrated.
In essence, Blueberry CBD is a strain that beautifully combines the therapeutic benefits of CBD, ease of growth, and a delightful sensory experience.
10. Strawberry Kush
Strawberry Kush, a beautifully aromatic hybrid born out of a cross between East Coast classic Strawberry Cough and the iconic OG Kush, is a versatile strain notable for its high THC levels and the resilience of its feminized seeds.
Growing in Minnesota
Growing Strawberry Kush in Minnesota might seem challenging due to the state's cooler climate. However, with the strain's adaptable genetics and the controlled environment of indoor cultivation, Minnesota growers can find success with this beautiful plant.
Minnesota's summer is typically warm and humid, which is not ideal for Strawberry Kush's preference for low humidity. This makes indoor cultivation or greenhouse setups a better choice. Indoor grows also provide a controlled environment where the strain's preferred conditions, including temperature and humidity, can be regulated.
Strawberry Kush's compact size makes it a manageable strain for indoor growth. It responds well to various training methods such as SOG and ScrOG, making the most of limited space and optimizing yield. Despite Minnesota's less-than-ideal outdoor conditions, the robust and resilient nature of Strawberry Kush ensures growers will still enjoy a satisfying harvest.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Strawberry Kush truly stands out with its intoxicatingly sweet and aromatic profile. It presents a rich, earthy musk that entwines perfectly with the distinct scent of strawberry, making each whiff a sensory delight. Upon combustion, this strain releases a delightful flavor reminiscent of sun-dried strawberry candy, underscored by a skunky, herbal undertone that adds depth to the overall experience.
The effect of Strawberry Kush is a testament to its potent Kush lineage. Users can expect a deeply relaxing, full-body high that takes effect swiftly and lingers for an extended period. It’s perfect for unwinding at the end of a long day and may leave you comfortably couch-locked if you indulge a bit too much.
Despite its substantial Indica influence, Strawberry Kush also sparks a pleasant cerebral stimulation, uplifting the mood and potentially bringing about waves of euphoria. This makes it a versatile strain, suitable for both recreational and medicinal users. The latter group, in particular, may find relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and even chronic pain. However, those with lower THC tolerance should approach Strawberry Kush with caution to avoid potential side effects like dry mouth, increased appetite, and the possibility of anxiety or paranoia.