Hola, cannabis enthusiasts! Welcome to our tour through the best cannabis strains for New Mexico's diverse climates. From the hot Sonoran Desert to the tropical south and the high-altitude air of New Mexico City, our land offers a unique playground for cannabis cultivation. This article will guide you through top cannabis strains that thrive in New Mexico’s distinct regions, providing cultivation tips, and a peek into their aroma, flavor, and effects. So, prepare for a journey into the heart of cannabis cultivation, uniquely tailored to our beautiful New Mexico.
Taking this into consideration, here are 10 of the best strains to grow in New Mexico.
Best Strains To Grow In New Mexico
1. Jack Herer
ack Herer, a popular strain hailing from the Netherlands in the mid-1990s, is a tribute to the well-known cannabis activist and author, with a heritage that includes Haze, Shiva Skunk, and Northern Lights #5 genetics. A favorite in Dutch coffee shops and well-regarded for its medicinal properties, Jack Herer combines the best of Sativa and Indica, offering a balanced effect and high therapeutic potential.
Growing in New Mexico
Jack Herer is an ideal choice for growers in New Mexico, given its preference for warm, dry climates similar to the Mediterranean coast. Its robust nature ensures a generous yield, with plants thriving under the Mexican sun. In these conditions, Jack Herer develops into large, productive trees. Moreover, it's a discreet strain, with its aroma only becoming noticeable after a good post-harvest ripening. While it's a nutrient-hungry plant, the returns on the yield are well worth the investment, with outdoor cultivation potentially yielding 600 to 700 grams per plant. Although it's a reasonably compact strain, growers should provide support for the branches to prevent snapping due to the plant's heavy buds.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Jack Herer is often celebrated for its complex and enjoyable aroma and flavor profile. The initial taste is a delightful blend of Indica and Sativa, with earthy and skunky undertones intermingling with sweet, fruity notes. Subsequent flavors can remind one of lemon, sandalwood, or even a pine forest, depending on the specific seeds. The smoke is heavy and tends to linger, making Jack Herer an excellent choice for a laid-back social setting or an immersive movie night.
Beyond its taste, Jack Herer's effects are equally noteworthy. Users experience a pleasant balance of a full-bodied stone and a cerebral high. Although the stone effect is dominant, it won't induce couch-lock, making Jack Herer suitable for daytime use to uplift mood and promote relaxation. Despite its low CBD content, it's highly valued for its potential therapeutic benefits, including relief from stress, anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue, migraines, and appetite issues.
However, it's important to remember to stay hydrated while enjoying Jack Herer, as it can cause feelings of dehydration, particularly in the mouth and eyes. This minor inconvenience aside, Jack Herer stands as a testament to its namesake, offering a reliable, high-quality experience to both recreational and medicinal users.
2. Pineapple Express
Pineapple Express is an exotic, high-yielding cannabis strain, meticulously crafted from a cross between Trainwreck and Hawaiian, known for its tropical tastes, potent effects, and rapid growth.
Growing in New Mexico
Pineapple Express seeds are a prime choice for cultivation in New Mexico. This strain thrives in warm, sunny climates, making the Mexican weather an ideal match. Furthermore, it's adaptable and can flourish in both outdoor and indoor settings. Given its rapid growth and short flowering period of just 55 days, cultivators in New Mexico can potentially have multiple harvests within the year. The bushy structure of Pineapple Express also serves as an advantage in managing it within confined spaces or in open fields. Remember, though, despite its adaptability, it requires balanced fertilization to reach its full potential. High-quality nutrients are also recommended to enhance its unique fruity flavor.
One thing to note is Pineapple Express's propensity to develop thick buds that emit a potent smell during the flowering stage. Given New Mexico's dense residential areas, ensuring good ventilation is key to avoid drawing unwanted attention.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Pineapple Express is a treat to the senses. Its aroma is an enticing floral blend with a distinct hint of pineapple, a nod to its tropical lineage. Some users even report underlying notes of mango and cedar, adding to the complexity of its scent.
Equally captivating is its taste. A puff of Pineapple Express is like biting into a sweet tropical fruit, a burst of flavor that mirrors its aromatic profile.
But Pineapple Express isn't just about tantalizing smells and tastes; its effects are equally noteworthy. Boasting an average THC content of 20% and a CBD content of 0.3%, it delivers a potent, balanced high. Its effects are both long-lasting and physical, inducing a serene cerebral buzz akin to a peaceful retreat to a tropical island.
Despite its low CBD content, Pineapple Express is often chosen for its medicinal benefits. Users report an uplifting, mildly euphoric high that also works to relax the body. It's quick to kick in, providing potential relief for pain, anxiety, and even chronic migraines.
One word of caution, though: its Indica dominant properties might trick you into thinking it's a perfect pre-bedtime puff. However, it can induce a lot of brain activity, potentially hindering a peaceful night's sleep.
In essence, Pineapple Express offers a multisensory cannabis experience that blends tropical flavors, potent effects, and a swift growth rate, making it a top choice for both recreational and medicinal users.
3. Northern Lights
Born from the genius of 'King of Cannabis' Nevil Schoenmakers, Northern Lights is a globally renowned strain with an impressive Afghani Indica heritage. This feminized variety is not only easy to grow but is also known for its potent, Indica-dominant effects.
Growing in New Mexico
Northern Lights is a resilient strain that thrives in various climates, making it an excellent choice for cultivation in New Mexico. This country's warm, sunny weather complements the strain's growth requirements, encouraging a healthy and bountiful yield. While the strain is compact, it develops width-wise, making it a suitable choice for both indoor and outdoor growing spaces common in New Mexico.
Due to its hardy genetics, Northern Lights can withstand unexpected weather changes, further enhancing its suitability for Mexican growers. With a quick flowering time of about 8 weeks, cultivators can look forward to multiple harvests throughout the year. Moreover, despite its dense buds, this strain is resistant to mildew, an advantage in New Mexico's humid regions.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Northern Lights offers a unique sensory experience. When properly dried, the buds exude a delightful honey-musk aroma, enriched with a hint of wild juniper and Afghani undertones. The flavor profile echoes the scent, providing a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience.
Beyond its appealing taste and smell, Northern Lights is lauded for its potent effects. Predominantly physical due to its Indica lineage, it can induce relaxation, calmness, and even sedation, making it perfect for unwinding after a long day. Depending on individual tolerance and consumption amount, some users may experience a profound couch-lock effect.
However, it's important to stay hydrated while enjoying Northern Lights, as it can cause dry mouth and eyes - common side effects of many cannabis strains. Despite this, the strain's rich heritage, fast-growing nature, and potent effects make it a favorite among many cannabis enthusiasts.
4. Green Crack
Green Crack, or Green Cush, is an esteemed cannabis strain with a celebrated lineage, tracing back to Afghan and Skunk #1 varieties, and boasting a reputation that's even caught the attention of the legendary Snoop Dogg. Known for its vigorous growth, impressive yield, and potent, long-lasting high, this Sativa-dominant hybrid offers an experience that has secured its popularity from Australia to Colorado.
Growing in New Mexico
New Mexico's climate is ideally suited to cultivating Green Crack. With warm temperatures, plenty of sunlight, and a long growing season, Mexican growers can take full advantage of this strain's vigorous growth and high yields. Green Crack's resilience is another boon for Mexican cultivators, as it can withstand fluctuating temperatures and conditions. Its impressive height, which can reach up to 3.5 meters outdoors, is more manageable in New Mexico's vast open growing spaces. With proper care, this strain will reward the grower with an abundant harvest of dense, resinous buds, gleaming with trichomes, and boasting an impressive THC content of up to 25%.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Green Crack's aromatic profile is as enticing as its visual allure. Its scent is sweet and fruity, with a pleasing earthiness underpinning notes of citrus, tropical fruit, and exotic wood. The fragrance is reminiscent of a lush, ripe orchard, tantalizing the senses and setting the stage for the taste to come.
On the palate, Green Crack echoes its aromatic promises. The flavors of sweet citrus and tropical fruits meld harmoniously with a subtle earthiness. The exotic wood and frankincense notes bring complexity and depth to the taste, making each puff a delight.
But it is in the effect that Green Crack truly shines. This strain delivers a quintessentially Sativa high - uplifting, energizing, and sparking creativity. Users often describe feeling a heightened sense of focus, making Green Crack a popular choice for those seeking to balance relaxation with productivity. Medically, it has been used to manage pain and anxiety, offering a lively and calming respite. Side effects are generally mild, though some users may experience dry mouth or, in rare cases, feelings of paranoia.
In sum, Green Crack is a strain that delivers on all fronts. Its ease of cultivation, high yields, and potent effects make it a favorite among growers and users. Its enticing aroma and flavor profile only enhance the overall experience, solidifying Green Crack's place as a must-try strain for any cannabis enthusiast.
5. Bruce Banner
Gaining fame as the alter ego of the comic book character "The Incredible Hulk," Bruce Banner strain is a potent cannabis variety that packs a punch just as strong as its namesake. This formidable hybrid, the brainchild of breeder Jason Holck from Dark Horse Genetics, is a result of a cross between OG Kush and Strawberry Diesel, exhibiting a powerful blend of 50% Indica and 50% Sativa genes.
Growing in New Mexico
Bruce Banner's versatility makes it a fitting choice for cultivation in New Mexico, given the country's warm, sunny climate and long growing seasons. As a balanced hybrid, this strain flourishes with ample sunlight, which New Mexico provides in abundance. Despite being a slightly challenging strain to grow, the payoff is well worth it, with Bruce Banner seeds offering generous yields. Adapting well to various growing techniques, such as SCROG and SOG, it shows tremendous growth in the early flowering phase, making it ideal for Mexican growers with ample outdoor space. However, it's crucial to start the flowering stage early and train the plant properly to prevent it from growing too close to the lights.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
What makes Bruce Banner truly stand out is the intense aroma it exudes. A distinct blend of pungent diesel and sweet berry notes wafts from this strain, immediately capturing attention. When growing indoors, the use of carbon filters or odor-neutralizing systems is advised due to this potent scent.
When it comes to taste, Bruce Banner offers an earthy palette, mixing in citrus and spicy nuances to create a complex and delicious flavor profile. Berry undertones accompanied by hints of diesel, spices, and citrus make for a delightful smoking experience.
As for its effects, Bruce Banner is not for the faint of heart. With a staggering THC content of around 27%, its effects are swift and intense. The initial rush is uplifting, prompting a surge of creativity and focus, a typical trait of Sativa strains. Gradually, the calming Indica effects kick in, relaxing the body and providing potent pain relief. It's particularly effective for individuals dealing with chronic pain, stress, anxiety, and depression. However, it's worth noting that this strain can stimulate the appetite, and may lead to dry mouth and eyes, so have some snacks and eye drops on hand.
With its balanced genetics, unique aroma and flavor, and powerful effects, Bruce Banner is a strain that lives up to its superhero namesake.
6. Chemdawg
Chemdawg, a Sativa dominant strain, is shrouded in a cloud of mystery and captivating tales. Some believe it to be the brainchild of a man named Chemdawg, who procured the initial seeds from a friend during his travels. The strain was meticulously selected and stabilized to birth Chemdawg we appreciate today. It boasts a proud lineage, contributing to the creation of iconic strains such as OG Kush and Sour Diesel.
Growing in New Mexico
New Mexico's climate is ideal for growing Chemdawg, thanks to its generous sunlight and warm temperatures. This strain thrives under plenty of light, and the Mexican sun provides just that, helping these plants grow up to 2.5 meters outdoors. The strain's structure, akin to a Christmas tree, allows it to make the most of this sunshine. Despite its susceptibility to mold and mildew, the open, airy environment in New Mexico can help keep these potential issues at bay, as long as growers remain vigilant. With ideal conditions, growers can expect generous yields of up to 600 grams per plant.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Chemdawg is a sensory delight. Its aroma is a pungent mix of sour diesel and pine, while the taste adds a zesty citrus note to this combination, creating a truly tantalizing flavor profile. The strain's effects are as potent as its smell and taste, with THC levels reaching up to 21%.
Upon consumption, Chemdawg ushers in an uplifting mental high, instantly boosting mood, and motivation, and freeing one from worries, stress, and anxiety. Concurrently, a soothing physical stone sets in, alleviating any persistent pain. Many users report Chemdawg to be an excellent social lubricant, making it perfect for an evening out with friends.
However, due to its potency, Chemdawg can potentially induce paranoia, dizziness, and anxiety in novice users or if consumed in high doses. It's a strain that invites you to take it slow and enjoy the journey it takes you on.
7. OG Kush
With roots firmly planted in sunny California, OG Kush is a celebrated strain that offers a strikingly unique blend of flavors and potent effects. This strain is adored for its fast bloom cycle, easy maintenance, and ample medicinal benefits.
Growing in New Mexico
New Mexico, with its warm climate and long growing season, is a fantastic place for cultivating OG Kush. This strain thrives in warm temperatures and its robust growth characteristics make it well-suited to New Mexico's diverse landscapes. However, due to its distinct, pungent odor during flowering, growers should ensure a secure and discreet location. Its susceptibility to mildew and mites necessitates regular monitoring and swift action if these common cannabis pests appear. Indoor growers can consider hydroponic setups to optimize the yield and potency of the buds.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
OG Kush is a feast for the senses. Its aroma is a complex bouquet of earthy and woody notes, accented by a sharp citrusy freshness reminiscent of lemon and pine oil. When consumed, these flavors morph into a slightly earthy taste, with the piney undertones persisting, and a unique petroleum aroma leaves a pungent aftertaste that is surprisingly pleasing.
When it comes to effects, OG Kush is a high-potency strain with THC levels reaching up to 26%. Its dual Sativa and Indica lineage ensures a comprehensive cannabis experience. The Sativa genetics provide an uplifting and euphoric head high that clears away worries and stress, while the Indica heritage offers a soothing body relaxation that medicinal users, especially value. However, new users or those with low tolerance should proceed with caution, as high doses may induce paranoia or anxiety. Be prepared for typical side effects such as dry mouth and dry eyes, so having a beverage nearby is always a good idea.
In the end, OG Kush stands as an impressive strain with a rich flavor profile, potent effects, and an intriguing backstory. Whether you're an experienced grower in New Mexico or a cannabis enthusiast seeking a holistic experience, OG Kush is a strain worth exploring.
8. Purple Kush
Purple Kush, a pure Indica strain, is a delightful blend of Central Asian Indica species - Purple Afghani and Hindu Kush, with roots tracing back to the medical marijuana epicenter of Northern California. This purple-tinted beauty is not only a treat to the eyes but also delivers a potent punch, ensuring a long-lasting euphoric experience.
Growing in New Mexico
Given Purple Kush's hardy nature and high resistance to mold, this strain proves to be a great choice for cultivation in New Mexico. The country's climate, with plenty of sunlight and low humidity, aligns well with Purple Kush's preferences, making it easy to cultivate even for beginners. The strain thrives in temperatures between 18 to 24 degrees Celsius, which is typical of many regions in New Mexico. While Purple Kush does exceptionally well indoors, it's also capable of flourishing outdoors, even in cooler climates. Remember to allow adequate light and maintain a dry environment for the best growth potential. Purple Kush is recognized for its low, broad growth, making it a compact and relatively small strain that's ideal for indoor cultivation. Typically, the plant reaches an average height of 60 to 80 cm. Despite its modest size, Purple Kush delivers a substantial yield. Indoors, you can expect around 400-500 grams per m2. In the right outdoor climate, like that in New Mexico, the yield can reach an impressive 800 grams per plant.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Purple Kush is a delight for the senses. Its aroma is a rich blend of sweet and earthy notes, coupled with fruity undertones. Many users describe its flavor as a spicy grape that shifts into a sweet, fruity sensation as the smoke dances across the taste buds. As for its effects, Purple Kush is known for its potent, long-lasting impact. Owing to its 100% Indica genetics and high THC content, which can reach up to 27%, users often experience deep, full-body relaxation, leading to a state of blissful couch-lock. It's a perfect strain for those seeking a peaceful night's sleep or a quiet evening of relaxation. Yet, be mindful of the dosage, as a higher intake may lead to psychedelic effects. While the relaxing effects are a significant draw, Purple Kush may also induce some side effects. Users might experience dry mouth, slight dizziness, or even headaches. It's common to feel a surge in appetite, so keep some snacks handy. Always ensure to have water nearby to stay hydrated. Remember, Purple Kush is a potent strain - it's best to take it slow and enjoy the relaxing journey it offers.
9. Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies, fondly known as GSC, is a hybrid cannabis strain that traces its roots back to sunny California, a fusion of Durban Poison and OG Kush. This strain not only delights the senses with its delectable taste and aroma, but also offers a complex and enjoyable high, making it a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs.
Growing in New Mexico
New Mexico's warm and sunny climate is an ideal location for growing Girl Scout Cookies. This strain thrives in regions with mild night-time temperatures, which New Mexico provides in abundance. GSC's hardy nature and high resistance to common pests and diseases make it a suitable choice for outdoor cultivation in New Mexico's diverse ecological conditions.
The plant's ability to adapt to different growing techniques, like the "Screen Of Green method" or Low-Stress Training (LST), makes it a versatile strain to grow, even for novice growers. Its long, pliable branches easily wind around trellises or stakes, making it a fantastic candidate for Mexican growers looking to experiment with their crops.
Girl Scout Cookies also responds well to the ample sunlight that New Mexico provides, developing deep, dark blue hues and sometimes even purple leaves towards the end of its flowering period. This not only gives the plant a striking appearance but also contributes to a potentially impressive yield.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Girl Scout Cookies is aptly named, with an aroma that brings to mind a fresh batch of homemade cookies. Its scent is a delightful combination of sweet and spicy, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere whenever it's consumed. As for the taste, expect a blend of sweet, spicy, and minty notes, underpinned by earthy undertones - a real treat indeed.
In terms of effects, Girl Scout Cookies doesn't disappoint. With the first few puffs, a tingling sensation will alert you to the impending strong high. Its effects are both physical and mental, offering a cheerful, relaxed, and creative high that is also soothing. Physically, it can induce a state of deep relaxation, a significant advantage for those seeking relief from chronic pain. Be prepared, though, to experience the "munchies" as a common side effect. This multifaceted strain provides a complex and enjoyable high that sets it apart from many other strains.
10. Lemon Auto
Lemon autoflower cannabis is a zesty hybrid born from Lowryder #2 and Lemon Skunk, known for its citrusy aroma and swift growth cycle. This Sativa-dominant strain with a potent THC content is a joy to grow and consume.
Growing in New Mexico
Lemon autoflower thrives in New Mexico's warm and sunny climate, producing robust yields in both indoor and outdoor settings. Its resistance to mold and heat, due to its genetics, suits the Mexican climate well, minimizing the need for constant oversight and intensive care. Moreover, with its autoflowering nature and quick flowering cycle of 49 to 56 days, growers can anticipate multiple harvests within a single season, maximizing production. Despite being a modest statured plant, it packs quite a punch with up to 150 grams per plant outdoors and 400 grams per m² indoors. Its simplicity to grow and manage makes Lemon autoflower an excellent choice for both novice and experienced cultivators in New Mexico.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Lemon autoflower is a treat for the senses. It greets you with an intense citrus aroma, a signature trait inherited from its Lemon Skunk parent. But that's not where the olfactory journey ends. Upon deeper inhalation, you might notice undertones of earthiness and spice, with a subtle hint of Skunk. As for the taste, it maintains its lemony goodness, making each puff a delight.
Beyond its scent and taste, Lemon autoflower is equally loved for its potent effects. Its high THC content offers a unique blend of uplifting and relaxing sensations. It starts with a euphoric rush of energy, perfect for morning use, and subtly transitions into a soothing body high that lasts for hours. This balance makes Lemon autoflower an ideal strain for any time of the day. Moreover, its high THC content provides therapeutic benefits, especially for those dealing with anxiety or chronic stress. As with most cannabis strains, consumption might lead to dry eyes and mouth, easily managed by staying hydrated.
To sum up, Lemon autoflower is an exquisite blend of delightful aroma, potent effects, and easy cultivation. Its compatibility with New Mexico's climate and the multiple harvests it can offer in a season make it a valuable asset for growers. While consumers will cherish its citrusy taste, uplifting energy, and therapeutic benefits.