Not only does marijuana have a different effect on everybody, but there are distinct varieties of the plant with diverse characteristics. Experienced ganja-connoisseurs usually have a preference for specific strains after this acquired taste is fully developed. If you’re still getting acquainted with the world of cannabis or just looking for a new kind of high, this article will help you find the strains that best suit you.
We can differentiate between four main varieties of cannabis: Sativa, Indica, Hybrid, and Ruderalis.
Cannabis Varieties
- Cannabis Ruderalis has little to no THC content and is commonly referred to as hemp or ‘wild hemp.’ Recreational users likely have no interest in consuming this type of cannabis in any form, so you can safely skip to the next one.
- Cannabis Indica is a short, thick and bushy type of plant known for its relaxing effect. The typical physiological and psychological features associated with this variety is the ‘body high’: tranquil numbness and ease of mind. However, a side-effect known as ‘couch-lock’ can set in after using too much, or if the user isn’t familiar with the potency of the plant they are smoking – this means an excessively numb and sleepy feeling which makes even the simplest tasks seem difficult – such as standing up from your seat.Most users prefer to smoke Indica strains after a hard day’s work or in the evening, as it can help you fall asleep and relieve muscle tension, but the numbing effects can make you feel drowsy and less productive. Some well-known strains of this family are Northern Lights and Granddaddy Purple. Due to their small size and relatively short flowering time, Indica varieties are suitable for indoor growing.
- Cannabis Sativa sativa isn’t as short and bushy as indicas, but need more space as they grow much higher – sometimes up to 25 feet (!) although typically no more than 12 feet, which is still twice as high as the typical Indica plant – and has much thinner leaves as well as more sparse branches and buds. The characteristic effect of Sativa plants is a ‘cerebral high’ which means an energetic and uplifted mood often accompanied by an increased ability to focus and enthusiasm towards one’s surroundings.Most users prefer to use Sativa strains during the day because of the increased creativity and more ‘social’ high. Noteworthy examples include Sour Diesel and Green Crack. Due to their large size and longer flowering time, strains with Sativa genetics can more suitable for outdoor growing.
- Hybrid strains are mixtures of Indica and Sativa strains (or other hybrids), combining the best aspects of each respective strain. There is a large variety of hybrids, some of which have dominant Sativa or Indica features, so it is easy to pick the ones tailored for your taste. White Widow is a famous and very potent balanced hybrid, a good choice if you’re looking for a high that is euphoric, relaxing and uplifting at the same time.
In general, if you prefer to use cannabis to help you mellow out or fall sleep, Indica is the way to go. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an energizing, electric vibe, try a Sativa or experiment with sativa-dominant hybrids. There are several hundred strains of cannabis and new hybrids are created every year. Given this huge array of distinct cannabis varieties, everyone can find the one which perfectly suits their recreating or medicating needs.
Interested in growing your own?
If you are a new cannabis grower (or are considering growing) you can find more information about growing marijuana indoor from our friends over at Marijuana Growing Indoor.
Super Lemon Haze, Northern Lights and Jack Herer were my favorite strain when I was just starting to learn cannabis cultivation. Aside from the fact that these strains have legendary statuses, they are very forgiving to my growing mistakes. They dont require a particular type of attention. Just provide them with what they need and they’ll surely reward you quality yields.