Top High-Yielding Strains for Beginner Growers
Starting your journey as a cannabis grower can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many strains available in the market, it can be challenging to decide which one to grow, especially for beginners. However, if you’re looking to yield an abundant crop, high-yielding strains are the way to go. These strains are specifically engineered to produce high quantities of buds and are perfect for beginning growers who want to harvest an ample amount of marijuana with minimum effort. In this article, we will guide you through the top high-yielding strains that are easy to cultivate and the tips you need to grow them successfully.
Understanding High-Yielding Strains
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If you’re a beginner grower looking to get the most out of your plants, choosing the right strain is crucial. High-yielding strains are an excellent option for those looking to maximize their yield without having to put in a lot of extra effort. However, understanding what makes a strain high-yielding and how to choose the right one for your needs can be perplexing. In this section, we’ll dive into the details of high-yielding strains, including their benefits, what to consider when selecting one, and the top five high-yielding strains to try as a beginner grower.
What are High-Yielding Strains?
High-yielding strains are cannabis strains that produce a significant amount of buds at harvest time. These strains are valued by cultivators for their high productivity and return on investment. Typically, high-yielding strains have been selectively bred over time to produce larger and denser buds, which translates to a higher yield per plant.
There are several factors that contribute to the yield of a cannabis plant, including genetics, growing conditions, and growing techniques. Genetics is the most significant factor as it determines the potential size and density of the buds that a plant can produce. However, even the best genetics can’t produce high yields without the right growing conditions and techniques.
Most high-yielding strains are Indica-dominant hybrids, which means they have a shorter flowering time and produce dense, resinous buds. Sativa-dominant strains, on the other hand, tend to have a longer flowering time and produce fluffier buds with less density.
Examples of high-yielding strains include Northern Lights, Blue Dream, Sour Diesel, AK-47, and Super Skunk. These strains are popular among growers due to their consistent yields and ease of cultivation.
It’s essential to note that while high-yielding strains may produce more buds, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have a higher THC content. THC levels are determined by genetics and growing conditions, which means some strains with a lower yield may have a higher THC content than high-yielding strains.
High-yielding strains are valuable to growers due to their ability to produce large and dense buds. However, to achieve the best yields, a combination of good genetics, optimal growing conditions, and proper growing techniques are crucial.
Benefits of Growing High-Yield Strains
When it comes to growing cannabis, the goal of most growers is to achieve a high yield of quality buds. This is where high-yielding strains come in. These strains have been selectively bred to produce a greater yield of cannabis buds per plant than their counterparts. The benefits of growing high-yield strains are numerous and include:
Benefit | Description |
---|---|
More buds per plant | High-yielding strains produce more buds per plant than other strains, leading to a higher overall yield of cannabis. |
Efficiency | Growing high-yield strains is more efficient than growing low-yield strains, as it means less time and resources are required to achieve the desired yield. |
Better return on investment | High-yielding strains provide a better return on investment, as growers can achieve higher yields with less time and money spent. |
Increased potency | In many cases, high-yielding strains also have a higher potency level, meaning that the buds produced will have a stronger effect when consumed. |
Greater variety | There are many high-yielding strains available, each with its unique flavor profile and effects, allowing growers to choose the strain that best fits their needs. |
Growing high-yield strains is a smart choice for beginner growers and experienced growers alike, due to the numerous benefits they offer. By selecting one of the top high-yield strains to grow, and following the tips for growing provided, any grower can produce a bountiful harvest of cannabis.
Factors to Consider When Choosing High-Yielding Strains
When choosing high-yielding strains, there are several factors that must be taken into consideration. These factors can directly affect the yield of your crop, which is why it’s important to pay close attention to them. Below is a table summarizing the key factors to consider:
Factor | Description |
---|---|
Indoor or outdoor growth | Different strains may be better suited for indoor or outdoor growth, so it’s important to consider where you will be growing your plants. |
Growth conditions | The growth conditions can greatly affect the yield of your crop, so it’s important to choose strains that are well-suited for your specific growing environment. |
Genetics | The genetics of the strain can play a big role in its yield. Some strains are naturally high-yielding, while others may require more effort to get a good yield. |
Seed quality | The quality of the seeds can also affect the yield of your crop. It’s important to choose high-quality seeds from a reputable source. |
Flowering time | The flowering time of the strain can affect how long it takes to get a harvest. Some strains have shorter flowering times and may be more suitable for beginner growers. |
THC/CBD levels | The levels of THC and CBD in the strain can affect the potency of the harvest. It’s important to choose strains with the desired levels of these cannabinoids. |
By considering these factors when choosing high-yielding strains, you can increase your chances of a successful and abundant harvest.
Top 5 High-Yielding Strains for Beginner Growers
Now, the exciting part: which high-yielding strains should beginner growers consider? We’ve compiled a list of five strains that are relatively easy to grow and can produce impressive yields. These strains have been chosen based on their ease of cultivation, resilience, potency, and of course, their ability to produce large amounts of buds. These strains will help you get the most out of your grow, without requiring expert-level skills or knowledge. So, let’s dive into the top 5 high-yielding strains for beginner growers.
1. Northern Lights
One of the most highly recommended high-yielding strains for beginner growers is the Northern Lights. This strain is known for its high yield and ease of growth, making it perfect for novice growers.
Here are some of the characteristics of the Northern Lights strain that make it a great choice for beginner growers:
- Indica Dominant: Northern Lights is an indica dominant strain that grows bushy and short, making it easy to maintain.
- High Yield: This strain has a high yield, producing up to 600 grams per square meter.
- Short Flowering Period: The flowering period for Northern Lights is only 7-9 weeks, so you can harvest your buds quickly.
- Easy to Grow: Northern Lights is a forgiving strain that can withstand common beginner mistakes such as overwatering or using too much nutrients.
- High Potency: Northern Lights is also known for its high potency, with THC levels reaching up to 18%.
When it comes to growing Northern Lights, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you get the best results:
- Climate: Northern Lights prefers a warm and dry climate, with temperatures between 68-80°F (20-27°C) during the day and 60-70°F (15-21°C) at night.
- Lighting: Ensure that your plants get enough light, either from natural sunlight or grow lights. Northern Lights requires at least 18 hours of light per day during vegetation and 12 hours during flowering.
- Nutrients: Use a balanced nutrient formula during the vegetative stage, and switch to a phosphorous-rich formula during flowering to encourage bud growth.
- LST: Low-stress training (LST) can help increase your yield by encouraging your plant to grow multiple colas. Use gentle bending techniques to train your plant.
- Space: Ensure that you give your plants enough space to grow. Northern Lights can grow up to 5 feet tall, so ensure that you have enough vertical space in your grow room or tent.
By following these tips and taking care of your Northern Lights plants, you can enjoy a high-yield harvest of potent and aromatic buds.
2. Blue Dream
Blue Dream is a Sativa-dominant hybrid that has gained immense popularity among growers and users alike. It is known for its high THC content, which can range from 17% to 24%. This strain is a cross between Blueberry and Haze, and it’s well known for its sweet, fruity aroma and a slightly earthy taste. Here are some of the features of Blue Dream:
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Yield | High: Blue Dream can produce up to 21 ounces per plant outdoors and 18 ounces per square meter indoors. |
Difficulty | Easy: Blue Dream is a forgiving strain that can tolerate mistakes from beginner growers. |
Growing Environment | Indoor or Outdoor: Blue Dream is versatile and can thrive in a variety of growing environments, but it prefers a sunny and temperate climate. |
Flowering Time | Medium: Blue Dream has a flowering time of around 9-10 weeks. |
Height | Tall: Blue Dream can grow up to 4-5 feet tall indoors and over 7 feet outdoors. |
Resilience | High: This strain is naturally resistant to pests, diseases, and common plant problems, making it an excellent choice for novice growers who are still learning the ropes. |
To achieve the highest possible yield, it is recommended to give Blue Dream plenty of space to grow and to train its branches to promote bud production. It is also essential to provide the plant with the optimal lighting and temperature conditions and ensure that it is fed properly throughout its growth stages. With the right care and attention, Blue Dream can reward you with a bountiful harvest and a potent and delicious smoke.
3. Sour Diesel
Sour Diesel is a popular strain known for its pungent smell and uplifting effects. This strain is ideal for those looking for a strong cerebral high that boosts energy and creativity. Here are some characteristics of this strain:
Characteristic | Description |
---|---|
Aroma | Sour, Diesel, Earthy |
Flavor | Earthy, Diesel, Pungent |
THC content | Up to 22% |
Effects | Energetic, Uplifting, Creative |
Medical uses | Depression, Stress, Fatigue |
Sour Diesel is a high-yielding strain that thrives in warm, dry environments. It can be grown indoors or outdoors, but it does require some attention to detail. Here are some tips for growing Sour Diesel:
– pH levels: Keep the pH levels between 6.5 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
– Nutrients: Provide your plants with nitrogen-rich nutrients during the vegetative stage, and switch to phosphorus-rich nutrients during the flowering stage.
– Lighting: This strain requires bright lights for at least 12 hours a day during the flowering stage.
– Temperature: Keep the temperature between 68°F and 85°F during the day and 10°F lower at night for maximum yields.
– Training: Sour Diesel responds well to training techniques such as topping and pruning to increase yields and control growth.
– Air circulation: Maintain good air circulation to prevent mold growth.
By following these tips and providing optimal growing conditions, beginner growers can successfully cultivate high-yielding Sour Diesel plants.
4. AK-47
One of the top high-yielding strains for beginner growers is AK-47, a hybrid strain known for its potency and adaptability. This strain is a combination of four different strains, resulting in a well-balanced and well-rounded high.
Characteristics of AK-47
AK-47 is a relatively easy strain to grow, making it a good choice for beginners. It has a strong resistance to mold and pests, which makes it especially suitable for outdoor cultivation. This strain has a fast flowering time, averaging around 8-9 weeks, and produces high yields of dense, resinous buds.
Here are some of the key characteristics of AK-47:
Genetics | Sativa-dominant hybrid |
THC Content | 15-20% |
Flowering Time | 8-9 weeks |
Yield | High |
Difficulty | Easy |
Effects of AK-47
AK-47 is a potent strain, with THC levels ranging from 15-20%. It produces a well-rounded high that is both uplifting and relaxing. This strain is known for its cerebral effects, which can be both energizing and euphoric. It also has a relaxing and calming effect on the body, making it a good choice for those who want to relieve stress and anxiety.
Growing Tips for AK-47
To get the most out of your AK-47 plants, here are some tips to follow:
1. Provide plenty of light: AK-47 thrives in bright light. Make sure your plants get at least 12 hours of light per day.
2. Keep temperatures consistent: AK-47 prefers temperatures between 68-80°F (20-27°C). Keep your grow room or outdoor environment within this range to optimize growth.
3. Use nutrient-rich soil: AK-47 benefits from nutrient-rich soil. Use a high-quality soil or add in nutrients as needed during the vegetative and flowering stages.
4. Train your plants: AK-47 responds well to training techniques like topping and pruning. This can help prevent overcrowding and increase yields.
5. Water carefully: AK-47 needs to be watered properly to prevent over or under-watering. Make sure to water your plants when the soil is slightly dry to the touch.
AK-47 is a great strain for beginner growers looking for a high-yielding and potent plant that is easy to grow. By following these tips, you can maximize your yields and produce high-quality buds with this versatile strain.
5. Super Skunk
Super Skunk is a high-yield strain that is easy to cultivate and perfect for beginners. This strain was created by mixing Skunk #1 and Afghani genetics, resulting in a plant with high THC levels and a pungent aroma. Here are some reasons why Super Skunk is one of the top high-yielding strains for beginner growers:
- Abundant Harvest: Super Skunk produces large, dense buds that are loaded with resin. With a flowering time of just 8-9 weeks, growers can expect to harvest up to 500g/m² of dried buds.
- Easy to Grow: Super Skunk is a hardy plant that can withstand fluctuations in temperature and humidity. It is resistant to pests and diseases, making it ideal for novice growers.
- High THC Levels: Super Skunk has a strong, relaxing effect due to its high THC content, which can reach up to 20%. This strain is perfect for reducing stress and anxiety, promoting sleep, and easing chronic pain.
- Distinctive Aroma: Super Skunk has a pungent, earthy aroma with hints of skunk and spice. Its smell can be overwhelming, so it is recommended to use proper odor-control measures when growing indoors.
- Versatile Use: Super Skunk can be consumed in a variety of ways, including smoking, vaping, and edibles. Its relaxing properties make it a great choice for evening use, but it can also be used during the day in smaller doses.
When growing Super Skunk, it is important to provide it with plenty of nutrients and adequate space to grow. Due to its heavy buds, this strain may require support during the flowering stage to prevent branches from breaking. Super Skunk is a great choice for beginner growers who want a high-yield strain with a strong relaxing effect and distinctive aroma.
Tips for Growing High-Yielding Strains
Growing high-yielding strains can be a challenging yet rewarding experience for novice cultivators. To maximize yield potential and produce top-quality buds, it’s important to understand the key factors that impact plant growth. From selecting the right growing medium to optimizing lighting and temperature, there are several tips and tricks that can help beginners achieve their growing goals. In this section, we will discuss the top tips for growing high-yielding strains, so you can start your journey to becoming a successful cannabis grower.
1. Choose the Right Growing Medium
Choosing the right growing medium is crucial for maximizing the yield of your cannabis plants. There are several options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a table highlighting some of the most popular growing mediums for cannabis:
Growing Medium | Pros | Cons |
---|---|---|
Soil | Easy to use, affordable, and readily available | May require additional nutrients, can be more difficult to control pH and water content |
Coco coir | Faster growth compared to soil, good water retention, and oxygenation of roots | May be more expensive and requires careful monitoring of nutrient and pH levels |
Hydroponics | Rapid growth, increased yield potential, complete control over nutrient intake, and pH levels | More expensive setup, requires more technical skills and upkeep, and can be sensitive to power outages or other failures |
While each growing medium has its advantages and disadvantages, the choice ultimately depends on your growing needs, space, and budget. Soil is generally recommended for beginners because it is easy to use and readily available. However, if you are looking for faster growth and increased yield potential, hydroponics or coco coir may be a better fit.
No matter what growing medium you choose, it is important to research and invest in quality soil or nutrients to ensure a healthy root system and optimal growth. Proper maintenance of your growing medium will help your plants thrive and produce a high yield.
2. Optimize Lighting and Temperature
To optimize the lighting and temperature for your high-yielding strains, it’s important to consider a few key factors. Here are some tips to follow:
- Choose the Right Lighting: Different strains have different light requirements, so make sure you choose the right type and intensity of lighting for your specific strain. LED lights are a popular choice as they are energy-efficient and customizable.
- Set the Right Temperature: Keeping the temperature within the recommended range is crucial for optimal growth and yield. Most high-yielding strains require a temperature between 65-80°F during the day and 60-70°F at night.
- Control Humidity Levels: High humidity levels can lead to mold and mildew, which can damage your plants and significantly reduce your yield. Aim for a humidity level of around 40-50% during the vegetative stage and then lower it to 30-40% during the flowering stage.
- Use Proper Ventilation: Good air circulation is essential for maintaining the proper temperature and humidity levels. Make sure your grow room has adequate ventilation, and consider using fans or other equipment to improve air circulation.
- Monitor pH Levels: High-yielding strains are sensitive to pH levels, which can affect nutrient uptake and growth. Use a pH meter to monitor the pH levels of your soil or hydroponic solution and adjust as needed to ensure optimal growth.
By following these tips and paying close attention to the lighting and temperature needs of your high-yielding strains, you can help ensure a bountiful harvest.
3. Feed Your Plants Correctly
One of the most important factors in growing high-yielding strains is making sure that your plants are properly fed. Here are some tips to help you feed your plants correctly:
1. Choose the right nutrients: Different stages of growth require different levels of nutrients. Be sure to choose the correct nutrients for the stage your plants are in. You can find specific nutrient schedules for different strains online or ask for advice at your local grow store.
2. Monitor pH levels: Make sure to monitor the pH levels of your plants regularly. This is especially important if you are using hydroponic systems. pH levels that are too high or too low can affect the uptake of nutrients and slow down plant growth.
3. Don’t overfeed: It can be tempting to give your plants more nutrients than they need, thinking it will help them grow faster. However, overfeeding can actually harm your plants and lead to nutrient burn. Start with a low dose of nutrients and gradually increase as needed.
4. Consider organic nutrients: Organic nutrients are derived from natural sources and provide a slow-release of nutrients over time. This can be a good option for beginner growers who may be more apt to overfeed with synthetic nutrients.
5. Flush your plants: Flushing your plants involves giving them only water for the last week or two before harvest. This helps to remove any excess nutrients from the plant, resulting in a smoother smoke and better taste.
Remember, feeding your plants correctly is crucial to growing high-yielding strains. It’s important to do your research and understand what your plants need at each stage of growth. By taking care of your plants’ nutritional needs, you’ll be well on your way to a successful harvest.
4. Train Your plants
Training your plants is a crucial step in maximizing yields. By manipulating the shape and structure of the plant, you can encourage it to grow in a way that allows for better light distribution and increased bud production. Here are some methods of plant training to try:
- LST (Low Stress Training) – By gently bending and tying down the branches of your plant, you can create a more even canopy and promote the growth of smaller, more numerous buds instead of a few large colas.
- SCROG (Screen of Green) – This method involves using a screen or mesh to create a horizontal canopy with the tops of the plants. As the plants grow through the screen, you can tuck and weave them to create an even canopy.
- Topping – Topping involves cutting off the top of the main stem to encourage the growth of two or more main colas. This can help create a more even canopy and increase yields.
- FIM (F**k, I Missed) – Similar to topping, FIMming involves pinching or cutting off the top growth of the plant to encourage bushier growth and the development of multiple main colas.
Each plant will respond differently to training, so it’s essential to monitor your plants carefully and adjust your technique accordingly. Remember not to push your plants too hard or stress them out too much. A healthy, happy plant will always produce better yields than a sick or stressed one.
5. Give Them Enough Space
One of the key factors in growing high-yielding strains is giving them enough space. This is especially important if you plan to grow your plants indoors. When plants are too close together, they can become overcrowded, which can lead to a decrease in overall yield.
How much space do you need?
The amount of space you need will depend on the strain you are growing, as well as your chosen growing method. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should aim to give your plants at least one square foot of space each.
How can overcrowding affect your plants?
When plants are overcrowded, they begin to compete for resources like light, water, and nutrients. As a result, they can become stressed, which can lead to a range of problems including:
Problem | Symptoms |
---|---|
Yellowing leaves | The leaves of the plant may turn yellow or even brown in places. |
Mold or mildew | The plant may develop mold or mildew, which can lead to rot and other problems. |
Pest infestations | Overcrowded plants are more likely to attract pests like mites and aphids. |
Poor growth | Overcrowded plants may not grow as tall or produce as much bud as they would if they had more space. |
How can you prevent overcrowding?
To prevent overcrowding, it’s important to plan ahead and give your plants enough space from the start. This may mean adjusting the number of plants you grow or choosing a larger grow space.
One common technique for preventing overcrowding is to use a technique known as “screen of green” or “SCROG.” This involves using a screen to train your plants to grow horizontally instead of vertically, which can help to maximize space and improve yield.
In addition to giving your plants enough space, it’s also important to monitor them regularly for signs of stress or disease. By catching problems early and taking steps to address them, you can help your plants thrive and produce high yields.
Conclusion
After discussing the top high-yielding strains for beginner growers and tips for growing them successfully, it is clear that choosing the right strain and providing the ideal growing conditions are crucial factors in optimizing your yield. Additionally, it is important to remember that each strain has its own unique growing requirements and characteristics, so it is important to do your research before diving into growing.
In order to achieve a successful harvest, it is important to choose a strain that is suited for your growing environment and skill level. The top five high-yielding strains recommended for beginner growers are Northern Lights, Blue Dream, Sour Diesel, AK-47, and Super Skunk. These strains have proven to produce high yields and are relatively easy to grow compared to other strains.
Moreover, providing the right growing conditions is also essential in maximizing yields. This includes choosing the right growing medium, optimizing lighting and temperature, feeding your plants correctly, training your plants, and giving them enough space to grow. These tips will help ensure that your plants have the best possible chance at producing high yields.
In conclusion, growing high-yielding strains can be a rewarding experience for beginner growers. By selecting the right strain and providing the ideal conditions for your plants, you can achieve a successful harvest with a high yield. Remember to do your research and follow these tips in order to give yourself the best chance at success. Happy growing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can high-yielding strains be grown indoors?
Yes, many high-yielding strains can be grown indoors as long as the proper equipment and growing conditions are provided.
How long does it take for high-yielding strains to flower?
The flowering time varies by strain, but high-yielding strains typically take 8-10 weeks to flower.
Can high-yielding strains be grown in small spaces?
Yes, some high-yielding strains can be grown in small spaces as long as they are given enough room for their roots to grow and proper lighting and ventilation is provided.
Do high-yielding strains require specific nutrients?
High-yielding strains require a balanced diet of nutrients including nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, in addition to trace minerals.
What are the most common mistakes made when growing high-yielding strains?
The most common mistakes include over or under watering, incorrect nutrient ratios, inadequate lighting and ventilation, and lack of proper training techniques.
Are high-yielding strains more difficult to grow than other strains?
Not necessarily, but they do require attention to detail and proper growing techniques to achieve their full potential.
Can high-yielding strains be grown organically?
Yes, high-yielding strains can be grown organically using compost teas, soil amendments, and other natural methods of fertilization.
What type of lighting is best for growing high-yielding strains?
High-yielding strains thrive under high-intensity discharge (HID) lighting or light-emitting diode (LED) lighting.
Can high-yielding strains be grown without pesticides?
Yes, high-yielding strains can be grown without pesticides by implementing natural pest prevention techniques such as companion planting, beneficial insect release, and neem oil sprays.
How much can I expect to yield from high-yielding strains?
Yields vary by strain and growing conditions, but high-yielding strains can produce anywhere from 400-800 grams per square meter when grown indoors, and up to 1000 grams per plant when grown outdoors.