Ready to explore the promising world of cannabis cultivation in North Carolina?
Thanks to our state's diverse climate, from balmy coastal summers to cooler mountain regions, we have a unique opportunity to grow a variety of cannabis strains.
Whether you're a seasoned grower or a novice, this article will help you navigate the best cannabis strains to grow in our region.
Let's delve into the world of cannabis and discover the strains that thrive best in the Tar Heel State's unique climate.
10 Best Strains To Grow In North Carolina
1. Wedding Cake
Introducing Wedding Cake, a delightful concoction born from the union of Girl Scout Cookies and Cherry Pie, with a fascinating touch of OG Kush's woodsy aroma.
Growing Wedding Cake in North Carolina
In North Carolina, Wedding Cake proves to be an excellent choice for cannabis cultivation. This Indica-dominant strain's impressive adaptability to temperature fluctuations and resistance to mold, diseases, and pests make it a sure bet for this region.
North Carolina's humid subtropical climate provides an ideal setting for Wedding Cake, especially during its preferential outdoor harvest time between late September and mid-October.
With meticulous care, outdoor growers in North Carolina can look forward to seeing their Wedding Cake plants flourish, reaching an impressive height of up to 200 cm and yielding as much as 550 grams per plant.
Furthermore, due to its feminized nature, growers need not worry about any unwanted male plants in their crops.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Diving into Wedding Cake's sensory attributes is akin to participating in a joyful celebration of rich, contrasting flavors and aromas.
Sweet and sour earthy scents pervade the senses, complemented by subtle undertones of berries and a hint of spices.
Perceptive cannabis enthusiasts might discern traces of floral and distinct vanilla aromas, adding a unique layer of complexity to this aromatic profile.
Upon tasting, one is greeted by an enchanting blend of summer berries and woody flavors. A touch of skunkiness and earthy undertones round off this tasting experience with a surprising zing, truly living up to its namesake dessert.
The effect of Wedding Cake is nothing short of luxurious. Its high THC content of 23% promises a potent, euphoric, yet soothing impact.
While its Indica-dominance provides relaxation, it also gives a well-balanced high, perfect for mood enhancement and tackling insomnia.
Medically, it's an excellent strain for stress, anxiety, and depression management. Its therapeutic properties can even extend to managing chronic pain and certain neurological conditions.
Like any powerful strain, a word of caution is advised. Overconsumption could lead to minor discomforts like dry eyes and mouth, hence pacing and hydration are essential.
2. Gorilla Glue #4
Introducing Wedding Cake, a delightful concoction born from the union of Girl Scout Cookies and Cherry Pie, with a fascinating touch of OG Kush's woodsy aroma.
Growing Gorilla Glue #4 in North Carolina
In North Carolina, Wedding Cake proves to be an excellent choice for cannabis cultivation. This Indica-dominant strain's impressive adaptability to temperature fluctuations and resistance to mold, diseases, and pests make it a sure bet for this region.
North Carolina's humid subtropical climate provides an ideal setting for Wedding Cake, especially during its preferential outdoor harvest time between late September and mid-October.
With meticulous care, outdoor growers in North Carolina can look forward to seeing their Wedding Cake plants flourish, reaching an impressive height of up to 200 cm and yielding as much as 550 grams per plant.
Furthermore, due to its feminized nature, growers need not worry about any unwanted male plants in their crops.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Diving into Wedding Cake's sensory attributes is akin to participating in a joyful celebration of rich, contrasting flavors and aromas.
Sweet and sour earthy scents pervade the senses, complemented by subtle undertones of berries and a hint of spices.
Perceptive cannabis enthusiasts might discern traces of floral and distinct vanilla aromas, adding a unique layer of complexity to this aromatic profile.
Upon tasting, one is greeted by an enchanting blend of summer berries and woody flavors. A touch of skunkiness and earthy undertones round off this tasting experience with a surprising zing, truly living up to its namesake dessert.
The effect of Wedding Cake is nothing short of luxurious. Its high THC content of 23% promises a potent, euphoric, yet soothing impact.
While its Indica-dominance provides relaxation, it also gives a well-balanced high, perfect for mood enhancement and tackling insomnia.
Medically, it's an excellent strain for stress, anxiety, and depression management. Its therapeutic properties can even extend to managing chronic pain and certain neurological conditions.
Like any powerful strain, a word of caution is advised. Overconsumption could lead to minor discomforts like dry eyes and mouth, hence pacing and hydration are essential.
3. Girl Scout Cookies
Girl Scout Cookies (GSC) is a renowned cannabis strain with roots in the San Francisco Bay Area, a product of Durban Poison crossed with OG Kush.
This powerhouse in the cannabis industry not only lends its genetics to award-winning strains like Gelato but also remains a favorite among many connoisseurs.
Growing Girl Scout Cookies in North Carolina
Known for its adaptability, Girl Scout Cookies can flourish both indoors and outdoors, making it an ideal choice for growers in North Carolina.
In this state's climate, GSC's long winding branches and rapid growth are allowed to thrive, potentially resulting in beautiful deep dark blue coloration, sometimes with purple leaves towards the end of flowering.
When grown outdoors with plenty of sunlight, water, and nutrients, yields can range from 550 to 650 grams per plant. Its high density and above-average resin production make it a top pick for those seeking not only quantity but also quality in their harvest.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
A delightful sensory experience awaits those who try Girl Scout Cookies. It's named fittingly, as its aroma is reminiscent of freshly baked cookies, providing a comforting and enticing smell.
Smooth, soft smoke is a trademark of GSC, making for a pleasant smoking experience that doesn't induce much coughing.
Its taste profile is a delightful blend, offering spicy and sweet flavors with earthy undertones, rounded off with a hint of mint. A real treat for the taste buds!
When it comes to effect, Girl Scout Cookies doesn't disappoint. At the first puffs, a tingling sensation gives a prelude to the potent experience to come.
GSC offers a balanced high, uplifting the mood and promoting creativity while also providing soothing physical relaxation.
This trait has made it particularly valuable to those suffering from chronic pain. Just be prepared for the munchies - they're a common side effect of this strain!
4. Blue Dream
Blue Dream, an alluring Californian native, dances with the flavors of sweet berries and the invigorating spirit of sativa-dominant strength. A brilliant blend of Blueberry and Haze, this strain has captivated the world since its introduction in 2003.
Growing Blue Dream in North Carolina
Blue Dream boasts a high resilience that suits North Carolina's diverse climate well. The strain can handle fluctuations in weather conditions and still produce impressive yields, making it ideal for this region.
Growers can anticipate outdoor plants reaching towering heights of 2 to 3 meters in a sunny environment, while indoor plants will generally reach 1.50 cm to 2 meters, depending on pot size.
North Carolina's long, warm summers provide an excellent atmosphere for Blue Dream to flourish, with outdoor yields potentially reaching up to a staggering 700 grams per plant.
Even for those growing indoors, this strain's ability to adapt and thrive means one can expect yields up to 650 grams per m2.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Blue Dream leaves a mesmerizing trail of intense blueberry and lemon fragrances, mingled with hints of vanilla and mango, a tribute to its rich terpene profile featuring Myrcene.
This strain's aroma is as enticing as the flavor it delivers, reminiscent of days spent in the sun, collecting ripe blueberries, making it a feast for the senses.
However, it's not just Blue Dream's flavor profile that's won over hearts worldwide. The strain is famed for its high THC content (21%), which delivers a potent and long-lasting high.
Its sativa dominance first brings forth a cerebral uplift that's intensely rejuvenating, perfect for both new and experienced consumers.
While the initial sativa effects are invigorating, Blue Dream doesn't stop there. As the high evolves, you'll feel its indica side easing in, transforming the uplifting buzz into a relaxing full-body stone. The strain skillfully balances
5. Green Crack
Green Crack, also known as Green Cush, is a powerhouse Sativa strain born from the union of Afghani and Skunk #1, reputedly christened by Snoop Dogg himself.
Growing Green Crack in North Carolina
Situated in the southeastern region of the United States, North Carolina boasts a diverse climate, making it suitable for cultivating various cannabis strains, including Green Crack.
Its long growing season, ample sunshine, and humid subtropical conditions favor this robust strain's growth. Green Crack thrives outdoors, potentially reaching heights of 3.5 meters if cared for properly.
Its durability and mold resistance make it an excellent choice for the region, prone to occasional bouts of high humidity and rainfall.
Not only is it resilient, but its flowering time aligns perfectly with North Carolina's climate, ready for harvest in September.
If you're a grower in the Tar Heel State looking for a high-yielding, potent strain, Green Crack should be at the top of your list.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Green Crack's aroma can only be described as a tantalizing dance of sweet and earthy tones, with a burst of citrus, tropical fruit, exotic wood, and a frankincense undertone.
This potpourri of flavors translates perfectly into its taste, creating an intense sensory experience that cannabis connoisseurs will undoubtedly appreciate.
Every puff unveils a unique combination of sweet, fruity notes harmoniously married with a hint of earthiness. The strain's impressive taste profile is an excellent precursor to its potent effects.
When it comes to effects, Green Crack is a legend in its own right. Its Sativa-dominant high is renowned for its uplifting, happy, and energizing experience.
It propels users into a creative space, making it ideal for shared moments with friends. Furthermore, Green Crack shines in its medicinal value, potentially relieving pain and anxiety while providing a sharp focus.
However, beginners should note its potent cerebral high and take it slow to avoid potential paranoia. As for the typical dry mouth, keeping hydrated will effectively combat this minor inconvenience.
In essence, Green Crack guarantees a sensory feast, coupled with a dynamic, vivifying high that can invigorate any user.
6. Jack Herer
A potent blend of Haze, Shiva Skunk, and Northern Lights #5, Jack Herer stands tall as a strain named after the famed cannabis rights activist and author.
A product of the Netherlands, Jack Herer offers a balanced fusion of Sativa and Indica traits, earning its place in cannabis culture with numerous Cannabis Cup accolades to its name.
Growing Jack Herer in North Carolina
Jack Herer flourishes admirably in North Carolina's humid subtropical climate. Given its Sativa dominance, it loves warm, dry environments akin to the Mediterranean.
Still, it can adapt well to the local North Carolina weather, especially during the hot, humid summers. While it doesn't emit a potent aroma until after harvest, Jack Herer's towering height might draw attention.
Hence, it would be advisable for growers to consider discreet cultivation methods, such as greenhouses or indoor setups.
Its impressive resilience, combined with its yield, makes it a fantastic choice for novice growers in North Carolina. It's worth mentioning that Jack Herer demands a nutritious diet, but the payoff - a healthy yield of 500 to 600 grams per m² indoors or up to 700 grams per plant outdoors - makes the effort worthwhile.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Jack Herer carries a truly captivating and complex aroma. Expect a delightful blend of Sativa's sweet, fruity notes and Indica's classic earthy, skunky tones.
Once lit, a sandalwood-like scent coupled with a hint of pine might surprise you. Upon tasting, a tangy, citrusy flavor may linger, punctuated by the unique Haze essence.
As for its effects, Jack Herer is a social smoke. It's perfect for sharing during a relaxed gathering or a movie night. It provides a balanced high, combining a potent bodily stone with a cerebral buzz.
Despite its strength, it doesn't result in couch-lock, leaving you free to engage in activities as the high sets in.
Moreover, Jack Herer is a recognized stress reliever. Although its CBD levels are minimal (0.8%), it's highly recommended for mitigating anxiety, depression, pain, fatigue, and even migraines.
In addition, it could help stimulate appetite, further highlighting its therapeutic potential. However, some users may experience dry mouth and eyes, so staying hydrated during consumption is advised.
All in all, with its abundant THC production, visible in the resin-glistening branches, Jack Herer is an enticing choice for both recreational and medicinal purposes.
7. Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel, also fondly called Sour D, is a premium cannabis strain that packs a punch with resin-rich buds, tracing its origins back to Super Skunk and Chemdawg 91 from sunny California in the 90s.
Growing Sour Diesel in North Carolina
Sour Diesel shines as a strain when grown in North Carolina. Its preference for dry, warm climates with low humidity suits the state's summer conditions perfectly.
The plants can reach impressive heights, potentially touching a towering 300 cm when treated right. A word of caution for novice growers - be mindful of Sour Diesel's susceptibility to mildew, keeping your growing environment clean and sterile is paramount.
Thankfully, this strain is quite forgiving and is easy to grow even for beginners. Notably, Sour Diesel shows high adaptability and thrives well indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse, presenting a great harvest potential.
With its short growing time of just over ten weeks, Sour Diesel becomes an attractive option for cultivators aiming for a quick turnaround.
Moreover, her tolerance for training methods like "Scrogging" and pruning makes her an ideal choice for growers in North Carolina with limited indoor space.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Sour Diesel's unique aroma is the first thing that strikes you – a strong, pungent diesel-fuel-like tone. However, it quickly mellows down, letting you catch a hint of soft, lemony herbal notes.
If the smell hooks you, the taste surely reels you in. True to its name, it carries a distinct taste reminiscent of diesel, pleasantly balanced with citrusy and earthy undertones.
When it comes to the effect, Sour Diesel is hard to beat. This strain, primarily Sativa, gifts its consumers a power-packed cerebral high, triggering an uplifting and euphoric state that can last up to five hours.
This makes it an excellent choice for daytime or early evening use. Its energizing effect can open the floodgates to creativity, so keep a pen or keyboard handy to capture any inspired thoughts.
Sour Diesel's medicinal properties offer relief for those battling depression, pain, and stress. But, as with any strain, moderation is key.
It's important to remember that although Sour Diesel doesn't usually cause paranoia, excessive consumption might lead to common side effects such as dry eyes and mouth.
To wrap it up, Sour Diesel offers a truly balanced sensory experience with its unique smell, intriguing taste, and long-lasting uplifting effects, making it a favorite among cannabis connoisseurs.
8. Pineapple Express
Hailing from the perfect fusion of Trainwreck x Hawaiian strains, Pineapple Express is a high-yielding, fast-flowering plant renowned for its exotic aroma, robust flavor, and relaxing effects.
This high-THC, feminized strain is a favorite among recreational and medicinal users alike.
Growing Pineapple Express in North Carolina
North Carolina's moderate climate and fertile soil provide an optimal environment for growing Pineapple Express.
With an average daytime temperature of around 70°F during the primary growing months, it's a conducive atmosphere for this tropical strain.
The plant is adaptable to small spaces, and its feminized seeds yield a fast-growing, bushy structure that doubles in height once flowering starts.
Pineapple Express demands balanced fertilization and good ventilation for its thick buds, which can exude a strong scent during flowering.
Remember to use high-quality nutrients for amplifying its fruity essence. Whether you're growing indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse, this speedy strain gets ready to harvest in just 55 days.
As a bonus, expect a generous yield of 550 grams per m2 indoors and up to 800 grams per plant outdoors.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Pineapple Express is a sensory delight, opening up a medley of sensations with its sweet, tropical taste and aroma. It's characterized by a distinctive pineapple scent, with some users also noting hints of mango and cedar.
This combination makes Pineapple Express a strain that not only smells and tastes good, but also offers a unique smoking experience.
High in THC at an average of 20% and low in CBD at 0.3%, it brings on a strong, balanced, and long-lasting effect. Its impact is physically soothing, yet it also delivers an uplifting and slightly euphoric cerebral buzz, akin to a serene trip to a tropical island.
Despite its low CBD content, Pineapple Express is favored for medicinal use, particularly for alleviating pain, anxiety, and chronic migraines.
However, it's best to avoid this strain before bedtime, as its mind-activating properties may interfere with a good night's rest.
9. Northern Lights X Big Bud Auto
Hailing from an impressive lineage of Northern Lights and Big Bud, Northern Lights X Big Bud Auto is an Indica-dominant strain that offers impressive yields, a unique flavor profile, and soothing effects.
Growing Northern Lights X Big Bud Auto in North Carolina
North Carolina's warm, humid summers are ideal for Northern Lights X Big Bud Auto. Its resistance to mold serves as a boon in the state's high humidity, especially during the late growing season.
Being an autoflowering strain, it adapts well to the relatively short growing seasons, delivering ripe buds in just 11 to 13 weeks.
In North Carolina, growing outdoors can yield up to 100 grams per plant, but indoor cultivation can produce an even more bountiful harvest of up to 600 grams per m².
For those with limited growing space, Northern Lights X Big Bud Auto plants can be easily managed through SOG or SCROG training methods, ensuring maximum yield potential.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
One of the key highlights of Northern Lights X Big Bud Auto is its unique aroma and flavor profile. Once matured, its buds offer an earthy note punctuated with hints of sweet citrus.
The taste complements the aroma, bringing in a rustic earthiness with a sweet, citrusy finish that lingers on the palate.
When it comes to effects, Northern Lights X Big Bud Auto offers a soothing, gentle body stone without being too overpowering.
Its high CBD content contributes to its therapeutic properties, making it ideal for those suffering from sleep problems, chronic muscle pain, and feelings of anxiety or depression.
The mild head-high is refined, allowing users to maintain functionality and continue with their daily tasks.
Underneath its delightful flavor and aroma, Northern Lights X Big Bud Auto packs a punch with a robust 22% THC level and a significant CBD content of up to 3%.
With its perfect balance of power and subtlety, this strain stands as an excellent choice for both recreational and medicinal users alike.
10. Chemdawg
Chemdawg, a potent strain with a cloud of mystery surrounding its origins, traces its roots back to either a Nepalese or Thai Sativa and has since become a revered source for many legendary cannabis variants including OG Kush and Sour Diesel.
Growing Chemdawg in North Carolina
When it comes to cultivating Chemdawg in North Carolina, growers can breathe a sigh of relief. Due to its inherent resilience and adaptability, this Sativa-dominant strain proves a fantastic option for the region's distinct climate.
Its potency and hardiness make it resistant to many common pests and diseases, a key advantage in North Carolina's humid subtropical climate which can sometimes be a breeding ground for such issues.
Feminized Chemdawg seeds have proven to perform exceptionally well when cultivated indoors or in a greenhouse, offering control over conditions and thereby mitigating the risk of mold or mildew - a consideration to keep in mind given the local climate.
But don't let this deter you; when grown indoors or under a watchful eye, the chances of encountering these problems are significantly reduced.
Whether grown indoors or outside, Chemdawg promises an impressive yield. Indoors, expect up to 500 gr/m2 after a flowering time of about 9 weeks.
Outdoors, under ideal circumstances, yields can easily reach up to 600 grams per plant. These figures, coupled with the strain's therapeutic properties and exceptional quality of buds, make Chemdawg an excellent choice for medical and recreational growers alike in North Carolina.
Smell, Taste, and Effect
Taking a moment to appreciate Chemdawg's unique aroma is a sensory experience in itself. Its strong and pungent scent, accentuated by notes of pine, sour diesel, and citrus, gives away its presence even before it’s lit.
And upon lighting up, these elements translate beautifully into a taste that will have cannabis connoisseurs relishing every puff.
But Chemdawg is more than just its distinctive smell and taste. It's the effects that truly set it apart. With THC levels reaching up to 21%, it offers an experience that's just as potent as it is enjoyable.
The high is fast-acting and notably potent, providing an instant uplift to mood and a motivational boost that banishes stress and anxiety.
All the while, comforting physical relaxation helps to alleviate any (chronic) pain. It's a sociable strain, making it a go-to choice for an enjoyable evening with friends.
However, due to its potency, novice users should approach Chemdawg with caution. High doses may trigger side effects such as paranoia, dizziness, and anxiety.
Therefore, it's recommended to start with smaller doses and gradually increase according to individual tolerance levels.