Welcome, cannabis cultivators, to our succinct guide on the best strains to grow in New Jersey's unique, humid subtropical climate. Here, we navigate hot summers, cold winters, and plentiful rainfall to discover cannabis strains perfectly suited to our Garden State's weather patterns. Read on to uncover our top picks for thriving cannabis plants that promise potent results in New Jersey's diverse environment. Let's get growing!
10 Best Strains To Grow In New Jersey
1. Super Skunk Auto
Super Skunk autoflower, an esteemed product of Dutch coffee shops, represents the evolution of the full-blooded Skunk strain, with an impressive lineage tracing back to a selected Afghan hash plant. A cross with a reliable ruderalis, this strain has become a favorite amongst growers and consumers alike for its ease of growth, distinct taste and aroma, and potent effects.
Growing in New Jersey
Super Skunk autoflower is a solid choice for cultivation in New Jersey, given the state's moderate climate and changing seasons. A sun-loving strain, Super Skunk autoflower embraces the warm, sunny summers of New Jersey, but also holds the flexibility to be grown indoors, making it an adaptable choice for the state's colder months. Additionally, this strain's manageable height and low maintenance requirements make it ideal for both novices and experienced growers, delivering large yields even in less-than-perfect conditions. Its short harvest cycle of around 12 weeks means growers can also enjoy multiple yields in a year, making it a very productive choice.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Super Skunk autoflower's aroma is an intriguing mix of fruitiness and earthy depth, with hints of lemon and tangerine coming through. This bouquet is beautifully rounded off with a distinct earthy/cheesy aftertaste, creating a unique flavor profile that keeps fans coming back for more. The smoke produced is thick and pleasant, adding another layer to the sensory experience.
In terms of effects, Super Skunk autoflower presents a remarkably balanced high. Thanks to its Indica-dominant genetics, it delivers a powerful head high followed by a pervasive, long-lasting body stone. It's known to increase sociability while also instigating a state of euphoria, making it a popular choice for social gatherings or solo relaxation sessions. The Indica element contributes to a relaxing high that's perfect for winding down and can help promote sound sleep. As with most cannabis strains, dry mouth, and eyes are the only notable side effects, easily remedied by staying well hydrated.
Super Skunk autoflower proves to be a versatile strain, both in terms of growth and consumption, with its rich heritage and unique features cementing its popularity in the cannabis community.
2. Pineapple Express
Pineapple Express strain, a fascinating cross between Trainwreck and Hawaiian, boasts an exotic touch and a unique, sweet taste that immediately transports your senses to a peaceful tropical island.
Growing in New Jersey
New Jersey, with its warm and humid climate, is an excellent place for growing Pineapple Express. This robust strain thrives in a variety of environments, but it appreciates the Garden State's long growing season. With its quick adaptability to small spaces, Pineapple Express is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation, making it a great choice for New Jersey's varied landscape. However, growers should remember to provide ample space as Pineapple Express plants can double in height during the flowering stage. It's worth noting, Pineapple Express features a short flowering time of just 55 days and can produce impressive yields of up to 550 grams per m2 in a SOG set-up. Outdoor cultivation can push this number even higher, reaching up to 800 grams per plant.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Pineapple Express strain is a connoisseur's delight, with a palette of flavors that are difficult to replicate. This strain immediately envelops you in a sweet, floral aroma, hinting at the tropical delights that lie within. A puff unveils a delightful combination of flavors, with pineapple being the most pronounced. Subtle notes of mango and cedar complement this, creating a full-bodied, tropical taste experience that lingers on the tongue.
Beyond its captivating smell and taste, Pineapple Express offers an unforgettable effect. With an average THC content of 20% and a CBD content of 0.3%, it delivers a potent yet balanced high. This unique combination induces a tranquil cerebral buzz that is both uplifting and slightly euphoric, resembling a journey to a serene tropical paradise. Its soothing effect helps in reducing pain, anxiety, and even chronic migraines. However, due to its potential to increase brain activity, it's advisable not to consume this strain just before bed. The exotic blend of sensations that Pineapple Express provides is truly an experience for those who appreciate the finer moments in life.
3. Skywalker OG
Skywalker OG, the stellar offspring of Skywalker and OG Kush, is a high-THC, Indica-dominant strain celebrated for its outstanding resin production, superior yield, and transcendent quality. This high-achiever among cannabis varieties makes it a highly sought-after seed in the UK and the USA.
Growing in New Jersey
Skywalker OG shows impressive adaptability and resilience, which makes it an excellent choice for cultivation in New Jersey. The Garden State's climate tends to be moderate with adequate precipitation, yet, just like Skywalker OG's optimal conditions, it also has periods of dry and warm weather. This strain is rather forgiving, able to withstand fluctuations, and can yield a fantastic crop with proper attention to prevent high humidity-induced mold growth.
Growing Skywalker OG in New Jersey offers a unique advantage - it lends itself well to indoor cultivation and is highly responsive to growth training techniques such as Super-cropping, topping, LST, SCROG, and SOG. It flourishes when given enough space, rewarding the grower with heavy, thick, and large buds, sometimes requiring additional support due to their size. With a flowering time of 50 to 65 days, New Jersey cultivators can expect multiple harvests within a year.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Skywalker OG makes an unforgettable sensory impression, showcasing a robust blend of flavors and aromas that elevate the smoking experience. As you inhale, a prominent piney Kush note, reminiscent of a forest after rain, mingles with hints of tart lemon and undertones of diesel, engaging the palate in an extraordinary dance of tastes. The transition of flavors from earthy to citrusy with a diesel finish is something that every connoisseur should experience.
On the effects side, Skywalker OG is no less impressive. The high THC content triggers a powerful, narcotic-like effect, bringing a sense of calm and euphoria that washes over you, making the pain disappear as if it never existed. It's the perfect strain to unwind after a long day and is highly effective in combating insomnia. But remember, Skywalker OG is a potent force, so moderation is key to avoid falling into the grip of potential side effects like dry mouth, eyes, and occasional munchies.
Skywalker OG is an otherworldly journey, combining superior genetics, outstanding growth characteristics, and a mind-blowing sensory experience. Whether you're a grower in New Jersey or a smoker seeking exceptional weed, Skywalker OG is a strain that deserves a place in your galaxy.
4. Strawberry Kush
A beloved hybrid hailing from the sunny West Coast, Strawberry Kush marries the classic genetics of OG Kush with the fruity East Coast favorite, Strawberry Cough. This unique combination gives rise to a potent and flavorful strain that's well-suited for relaxation and relief.
Growing in New Jersey
Strawberry Kush is a versatile strain that adapts well to a variety of environments, making it an excellent choice for cultivation in New Jersey. Despite the state's often unpredictable weather conditions, Strawberry Kush's resilient profile ensures that it can thrive in both indoor and outdoor settings. Given its preference for warm Mediterranean-like climates, a greenhouse set-up could be an ideal solution to Jersey's cooler temperatures. Coupled with Strawberry Kush's manageable size and legendary colas, it's a great choice for novice and experienced growers alike.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Strawberry Kush is a true treat for the senses. Its aroma is a captivating mix of dank earth and musk, carrying whispers of its OG Kush lineage. When it comes to taste, Strawberry Kush truly shines. Expect an explosion of sun-dried, sour-sweet strawberry candy, underscored by a hint of earthy herbs. This blend of flavors makes for a truly unique smoking experience.
As a predominantly Indica strain, Strawberry Kush delivers a calming and relaxing high. Despite its powerful relaxation properties, it also offers an uplifting euphoria thanks to its Strawberry Cough parentage. This combination makes it ideal for winding down at the end of the day, or for medical patients looking for relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. As with any high-THC strain, caution is advised for novices. Ensure you stay hydrated to counter potential dry-mouth effects and enjoy Strawberry Kush responsibly.
5. Blue Cheese Auto
Blue Cheese Auto, an indica-dominant hybrid, is an impressive offspring of the famous Blueberry Kush and Blue Cheese, with Ruderalis genes added for autoflowering capabilities. It's revered for its incredible taste, rapid flowering time, and easy cultivation that novice growers will appreciate.
Growing in New Jersey
With its auto-flowering characteristics, Blue Cheese Auto is an excellent strain to grow in New Jersey's variable climate. Despite the state's seasonal changes, this strain remains resilient and produces a bountiful yield. It is adaptable to both indoor and outdoor cultivation, although outdoor growers in New Jersey will benefit from Blue Cheese Auto's ability to withstand colder temperatures.
Due to its compact size, it is ideal for discreet cultivation, perfect for more suburban or urban environments found in New Jersey. Growing this strain in pots of 10-20 liters with a 30% mix of coconut chips enhances aeration, accelerating the plant's metabolic processes. Furthermore, Blue Cheese Auto doesn't demand heavy fertilization, making it easier for first-time growers.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Blue Cheese Auto is a feast for the senses. Its aroma is a fragrant blend of berries and cheese, setting it apart from other strains and making it an unforgettable experience for cannabis connoisseurs. It features a surprisingly fruity flavor with an underlying classic Blue Cheese aftertaste that creates an exquisite combination, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a rich taste.
But Blue Cheese Auto is more than just its captivating taste and smell. Its effects provide an uplifting experience, making it a fantastic strain to unwind after a long day. Blue Cheese Auto hits the right notes in potency and duration, leaving you feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. Apart from the typical dry eyes and mouth, this strain does not have any significant side effects, which is a bonus for those who enjoy indulging in it.
For those seeking to grow a strain with a fantastic yield, taste, and relaxing effect in New Jersey, Blue Cheese Auto could be your top choice. Its adaptability to different environments, coupled with its autoflowering nature, makes it an attractive option for growers of all experience levels.
6. Trainwreck
Trainwreck, hailing from the famed "Emerald Triangle" of Northern California, is a potent blend of Thai Sativa, Mexican Sativa, and Afghani Indica, renowned for its refreshing citrusy aroma, tantalizing taste, and relaxing yet uplifting effects. This iconic strain takes you on a wild ride of euphoria and creativity, making it a cherished choice among recreational and medical users alike.
Growing in New Jersey
Trainwreck is a dream come true for cultivators in New Jersey. Its remarkable resistance to mold and mildew, coupled with a commendable yield, makes it a favorite among local growers. In spite of its Sativa-dominant nature, Trainwreck exhibits a delightful Indica quality in its growth pattern. Even though it requires ample space to fully flourish due to its stature, the strain adapts well to New Jersey's environment.
In New Jersey's humid continental climate, proper indoor management of humidity levels is necessary to avoid damage to the plant. This can be achieved through proper ventilation and dehumidifiers. Additionally, growers should use soil rich in nutrients like calcium and magnesium and employ trimming and training techniques, like SCROG, to manage its height and promote better yields.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
What sets Trainwreck apart is its unique blend of aroma and flavor. With the first whiff, you're greeted by a delightful mix of sharp, sweet citrus intertwined with earthy, pine-like undertones. This culminates in a refreshing, lemon-lime sourness that teases the senses, making it a strain you'd recognize anywhere.
The tasting experience parallels the aroma, boasting a vibrant, lemony zest with a hint of sweetness. It may transport you back to your childhood, the flavor evocative of the lemon candies you relished in your younger days. This exceptional taste stems from the THC-drenched buds, brimming with a resinous sparkle.
Trainwreck's effects are just as memorable as its flavor profile. With THC levels reaching up to 20%, it offers a potent and balanced high. It catapults you into an intense euphoria, stimulating creativity and eliciting enduring happiness. It also carries a soothing full-body experience, a tribute to its Indica genetics.
Medical patients often choose Trainwreck to alleviate issues such as ADHD and PTSD. It serves as a potent stress reliever, fostering positive thinking and mental clarity. Its wide-ranging relaxing properties also provide relief for those grappling with joint pain, muscle spasms, or chronic pain, making it an exceptional strain for pain relief. However, remember to keep the dosage in check, especially if you're sensitive to THC, as excessive consumption may lead to paranoia or anxiety.
7. Bubba Kush
Born in the bustling city of Los Angeles in the 1990s, Bubba Kush, an Indica-dominant hybrid of Afghani x OG Kush, has since captivated the hearts of cannabis connoisseurs with its compelling fragrance, taste, and potent effects.
Growing in New Jersey
Bubba Kush shines brightly in the Garden State, New Jersey. This Indica-dominant strain proves a sturdy match for the region's varying climate. Thanks to its compact size and bushy nature, it holds up well against the occasional strong winds, while its robust genetics can handle the varying seasonal temperatures.
Given its relatively short flowering period of 8 to 9 weeks, growers can look forward to an early to mid-October harvest, perfect for avoiding the cold New Jersey winter. With Bubba Kush's generous yields, an impressive 800 grams per plant when grown outdoors, cultivators can look forward to a hearty harvest.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
On opening a jar of Bubba Kush, your senses will be immediately greeted by the unique aroma it exudes, a captivating blend of chocolate and coffee with that signature Kush scent. Upon consumption, this strain doesn't disappoint as its flavor profile matches its aroma, enveloping your taste buds in a complex blend of earthy and sweet notes.
But the allure of Bubba Kush doesn't stop at its delightful smell and taste. This strain carries a potent THC content of around 20%, ensuring a powerful and long-lasting high. This high typically manifests as a soothing body relaxation coupled with a slight euphoric buzz, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in. As with any strain, it's important to stay hydrated to avoid common side effects like dry mouth and eyes.
Whether you're a beginner cultivator in New Jersey or a seasoned smoker seeking a strain with a unique taste and a strong, relaxing high, Bubba Kush offers a rewarding experience. The legendary status it gained in the LA hip-hop scene in the 90s has certainly stood the test of time. Bubba Kush continues to be a beloved strain in cannabis collections across the globe.
8. Cherry AK
Cherry AK feminized is an enthralling Sativa-dominant hybrid born from the famed AK-47 strain, characterized by its robust growth, fruity flavor profile, and potent effects.
Growing in New Jersey
In the context of New Jersey's unique climate, Cherry AK feminized seeds are a fitting choice for aspiring growers. Due to its versatility, this strain flourishes in a wide range of environmental conditions, making it well-suited for the state's humid subtropical climate. Despite occasional cold snaps and fluctuations in temperature, Cherry AK shows resilience and promises satisfactory yields even under less than ideal conditions. Indoor cultivation is highly successful, but the strain also thrives outdoors, particularly in the warmer months between May and October. Given its modest height of 120 cm to 180 cm indoors and up to 200 cm outdoors, it's easily manageable within New Jersey's residential gardens.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Cherry AK truly stands out with its unique aroma and flavor profile. As the name suggests, a delightful burst of sweet cherry is the predominant aroma, underscored by a rich, earthy base and subtle spicy notes. Upon exhale, there's a surprising hint of creamy sandalwood and even a whiff of diesel and tree fruit that teases the palate.
The effects of Cherry AK mirror its robust genetic lineage and tantalizing taste. Packing a high THC level of up to 25%, this strain delivers a potent, mood-enhancing experience that helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. The Indica component in its genetics offers a calming effect, easing bodily discomforts such as chronic pain, fatigue, and muscle tension. Beyond its medicinal benefits, Cherry AK serves as an excellent social lubricant thanks to its uplifting effects, while also helping to sweep away any negative thoughts. Use it in moderation, and you can enjoy the full range of its effects with minimal side effects, usually limited to mild dehydration of the mouth and eyes.
Created by legendary breeder Kyle Kushman, Cherry AK feminized brings together a high THC level, strong effects, and effortless cultivation. The result is an enticing strain that's as easy to grow as it is enjoyable to use, with a delightful cherry flavor that sets it apart.
9. Gelato
Gelato, a strain stemming from a sweet combination of Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint Cookies that originated in the Bay Area, this feminized cannabis seed offers a complex, sweet, and satisfying experience.
Growing in New Jersey
Gelato is a remarkably resilient plant that is suitable for a wide range of climates, making it ideal for New Jersey's diverse weather patterns. With its forgiving nature, it's an excellent choice for both first-time growers and seasoned cultivators looking for a rewarding new challenge. New Jersey's typically humid, temperate summer climate mirrors the Mediterranean climates that Gelato loves, allowing outdoor growers to achieve impressive yields.
In New Jersey, planting Gelato seeds in May will result in a bountiful harvest by late August or September, right before the colder fall weather sets in. Due to its moderate height and ample space between branches, Gelato is relatively easy to manage, even in smaller indoor spaces. The plant’s resistance to common diseases and pests makes it particularly suitable for the region's varied climate.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
One whiff of Gelato is sure to entice you. This strain boasts a unique and complex aroma that combines a sweet dessert-like smell with hints of mint, citrus, and lavender. Its scent is as indulging as an Italian gelateria, giving a subtle clue to its flavor profile.
On tasting, Gelato reveals its full charm. Your palate will experience an explosion of flavors - from sweet citrus to indulgent cookie notes and earthy undertones. This combination of flavors works together to create a truly delicious and satisfying experience.
Gelato's effects are as unique and complex as its flavor. With a high THC content of up to 21%, Gelato provides a balanced high that stimulates creativity while also offering a soothing and relaxing experience. It is ideal for unwinding after a long day, yet stimulating enough to ignite your artistic side. However, as the effects are quite potent, it's best to start with smaller doses and gradually adjust to find your perfect balance.
Although it hits hard and fast, Gelato is known for its smooth smoke that minimizes the chance of harsh side effects. Some users report an amplified psychedelic effect, making the overall experience quite intense. Yet, the most common side effects are merely dry mouth and eyes, easily managed with hydration and comfort measures.
In summary, Gelato is a truly indulgent strain that combines easy cultivation, delicious flavors, and unique effects. The sweet notes of its smoke are just the cherry on top of the relaxation and creative boost it offers, making it a beloved choice among many.
10. OG Kush
Hailing from California with a mysterious lineage but undeniable appeal, OG Kush is a strain that has made waves in the cannabis community for its powerful effects, robust growth, and fantastic flavor profile.
Growing in New Jersey
Though its native environment may be the sunny beaches of California, OG Kush can still flourish in the Garden State. With New Jersey's warm summer temperatures, this strain can thrive during the outdoor growing season, as long as careful monitoring and maintenance are practiced. However, as OG Kush prefers to be grown indoors, cultivating this strain in a controlled environment, such as in a hydroponic system, could be a more practical approach. This way, cultivators can control the temperature and humidity levels to prevent mildew, mites, and other diseases to which OG Kush is susceptible. Just remember that this beauty can reach quite a height, even indoors, so ensure enough space for optimal development.
One of the shining attributes of OG Kush is its high yield, making it a valuable choice for both commercial and hobby growers in New Jersey. Indoor yield typically ranges from 425 to 550 grams per m², while outdoor growers can expect up to 550 grams per plant. Coupled with a relatively short flowering period of 8 to 9 weeks, OG Kush could be an appealing option for those looking for a rewarding and manageable growing experience.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
OG Kush is known for its unique and complex aroma and flavor profile. It carries a distinctively woody and earthy scent, beautifully intertwined with a refreshing splash of lemon and a hint of pine oil. A whiff of this aromatic strain will make any cannabis enthusiast eager to give it a try.
Upon smoking, you'll find its taste aligns perfectly with its aromatic profile - earthy and piney with a subtle hint of wood. The surprising note of petroleum adds a bit of mystery, leaving a pleasing yet pungent aftertaste that keeps you coming back for more.
But the experience of OG Kush isn't all about its appealing smell and taste. The effects of this strain are as remarkable as its other traits. Being a hybrid with a high THC content (up to 26%), OG Kush offers a potent, euphoric high that sets in quickly and lingers. Alongside the energetic Sativa effects, there's also a calming Indica influence that induces a sense of bliss and relaxation. Just bear in mind that high doses can lead to dry mouth, dry eyes, or even paranoia and anxiety. Thus, moderation is key, especially for beginners.
All in all, OG Kush stands out as a strain that combines a delightful sensory experience with robust growth and a rewarding yield. This strain has a lot to offer, whether you're growing it in New Jersey or enjoying its intriguing taste and powerful effects anywhere else.