Crater Lake

Sativa
India
Hybrid
THC 16% - 24%
CBD 0% - 1%
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buds
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Crater Lake is a dynamic hybrid strain that delivers a spectrum of effects, fostering a sense of happiness, an uplifted mood, and a propensity for sociability. Its relaxing undertones complement a surge of creativity.

The strain's aromatic profile is characterized by a blend of citrus and pine, with a distinct pungent note that appeals to connoisseurs. Ideal for combating stress, depression, and anxiety, Crater Lake offers a multifaceted experience.

Its genetic lineage stems from the crossbreeding of Super Silver Haze and Space Queen, two strains renowned for their potent and beneficial properties.

Strain Overview

Type
Hybrid
Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Seedling Time
2 weeks
Vegetative Time
4-6 weeks
Flowing Time
9 weeks
Potential Yield
Indoors: 400-500 grams/plant, Outdoors: 600-700 grams/plant

Genetic Background

Super Silver Haze

Super Silver Haze is a legendary sativa-dominant strain known for its energizing and uplifting effects. It boasts a complex aroma of citrus, earthy, and spicy notes. This strain is celebrated for its ability to combat stress and fatigue, making it a favorite among those seeking a boost in creativity and focus.

Space Queen

Space Queen is a balanced hybrid strain that offers a mix of euphoria and relaxation. It features a sweet, fruity aroma with hints of pine. Space Queen is often used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, providing a clear-headed high that promotes sociability and a sense of well-being.

How to Grow

Setup and Equipment

Growing Space

The Crater Lake strain thrives in a spacious environment that allows for its wide-reaching branches. A room or tent should be at least 80 inches tall to accommodate its height and provide ample space for lateral growth. Reflective walls are recommended to maximize light exposure to the lower branches.

Lighting

Full-spectrum LED lights are ideal for Crater Lake, providing a balance of cool and warm light that mimics natural sunlight. Position lights to ensure even coverage, with adjustable height to maintain an optimal distance from the plant canopy as the plants grow.

Ventilation

Proper air circulation is critical for Crater Lake to prevent mold and pests. Use an exhaust fan to remove stale air and an oscillating fan to distribute fresh air. Introduce carbon dioxide during the flowering stage to boost photosynthesis and increase yield.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Crater Lake requires a temperature range of 68-78°F during the day and 58-70°F at night. Humidity should be kept between 40-50% during vegetative growth and reduced to 30-40% during flowering to prevent mold and promote resin production.

Hydroponics vs. Soil

Hydroponics can accelerate Crater Lake's growth by providing nutrients directly to the roots, resulting in larger yields. Soil, however, can enhance the strain's citrus and pine flavors. Choose based on preference for yield or flavor profile.

Germination and Seedling Care

Transition to Vegetative Stage

As Crater Lake enters the vegetative stage, adjust the light schedule to promote growth. Shift to an 18/6 cycle, providing 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness. Implement plant training techniques such as topping or fimming to encourage a bushier canopy and more bud sites. Low-stress training (LST) can also be applied by gently bending and tying down branches to expose lower parts of the plant to light, enhancing overall yield.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is critical for Crater Lake's health and productivity. Prune to remove lower growth that receives little light, focusing the plant's energy on top growth. Defoliation should be performed sparingly to improve light penetration and airflow, which can reduce the risk of mold and pests. Monitor for any signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses, and adjust feedings accordingly to maintain optimal plant health.

Flowering Triggers

To induce flowering in Crater Lake, change the light schedule to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This mimics the natural reduction in daylight hours and triggers the plant to enter the flowering phase. Ensure the dark period is completely uninterrupted, as light leaks can disrupt the flowering process. Additionally, adjust the temperature and humidity levels to simulate the onset of fall, with slightly cooler and less humid conditions.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Crater Lake requires a different nutrient profile, with an increased need for phosphorus and potassium to support bud development. Reduce nitrogen levels as it is less critical in this stage. Follow a feeding schedule that aligns with the plant's flowering cycle, gradually increasing nutrient concentrations as buds mature. Monitor the plant's response and conduct regular pH and EC checks to maintain optimal nutrient uptake.

Vegetative and Flowering Stages

Transition to Vegetative Stage

As Crater Lake enters the vegetative stage, adjust the light schedule to promote growth. Shift to an 18/6 cycle, providing 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness. Implement plant training techniques such as topping or fimming to encourage a bushier canopy and more bud sites. Low-stress training (LST) can also be applied by gently bending and tying down branches to expose lower parts of the plant to light, enhancing overall yield.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is critical for Crater Lake's health and productivity. Prune to remove lower growth that receives little light, focusing the plant's energy on top growth. Defoliation should be performed sparingly to improve light penetration and airflow, which can reduce the risk of mold and pests. Monitor for any signs of nutrient deficiencies or excesses, and adjust feedings accordingly to maintain optimal plant health.

Flowering Triggers

To induce flowering in Crater Lake, change the light schedule to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This mimics the natural reduction in daylight hours and triggers the plant to enter the flowering phase. Ensure the dark period is completely uninterrupted, as light leaks can disrupt the flowering process. Additionally, adjust the temperature and humidity levels to simulate the onset of fall, with slightly cooler and less humid conditions.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Crater Lake requires a different nutrient profile, with an increased need for phosphorus and potassium to support bud development. Reduce nitrogen levels as it is less critical in this stage. Follow a feeding schedule that aligns with the plant's flowering cycle, gradually increasing nutrient concentrations as buds mature. Monitor the plant's response and conduct regular pH and EC checks to maintain optimal nutrient uptake.

Harvesting and Curing

Harvest Signs

To determine if Crater Lake plants are ready for harvest, observe the trichomes under a magnifying glass. When these tiny resin glands shift from clear to a milky white color, with some turning amber, it's time to harvest. Additionally, the pistils should darken and curl, indicating maturity. Avoid harvesting too early, as this can result in a less potent crop, or too late, which can lead to a more sedative effect than desired.

Harvesting Techniques

Harvesting Crater Lake requires precision. Use sharp, sterilized scissors or pruning shears to cut the branches. Remove large fan leaves to access the buds more easily. Then, carefully trim away the smaller sugar leaves that surround the buds, as these contain lower cannabinoid concentrations. Aim to retain the bud structure while eliminating excess leaf material, which can detract from the overall experience.

Drying and Curing

Drying and curing are critical for maximizing Crater Lake's potential. Hang the trimmed buds upside down in a controlled environment with temperatures around 60-70°F and humidity levels between 45-55%. This process should take about 7-10 days. Once the stems snap rather than bend, the buds are ready for curing. Place them in airtight containers, opening them several times a day for the first week to allow moisture to escape and fresh air to enter. Continue this process for at least two to four weeks. Proper curing will improve the flavor and potency of the buds.

Storage

For optimal storage, keep Crater Lake buds in a cool, dark place. Use airtight containers, such as glass jars, to protect against humidity and temperature fluctuations. Consider using humidity control packs to maintain a consistent level of moisture. This will preserve the terpene profile and cannabinoids, ensuring the product remains fresh and effective for as long as possible.

Site Selection and Preparation

Location

Selecting an optimal location is critical for Crater Lake strain cultivation. The site must receive ample sunlight, as cannabis plants require at least six hours of direct sun daily to thrive. Protection from strong winds is essential to prevent physical damage to the plants and to reduce water loss through evaporation. Additionally, privacy is a key consideration to safeguard your crop and comply with local regulations.

Soil Type and Preparation

Cannabis plants flourish in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The ideal texture is a balance of sand, silt, and clay, known as loamy soil, which supports root growth and retains nutrients effectively. Organic matter, such as compost, can improve soil structure and fertility. Before planting, test the soil pH and adjust accordingly using lime to raise pH or sulfur to lower it. Incorporate a balanced mix of nutrients into the soil to promote healthy growth from the outset.

Water Source

Consistent access to water is vital for cannabis plants, with Crater Lake strain requiring regular hydration to maintain its growth and potency. In regions lacking sufficient rainfall, setting up an irrigation system is essential. Drip irrigation is efficient, reducing water waste and minimizing the risk of mold and mildew by keeping foliage dry. Ensure your water source is reliable and consider water quality; high levels of minerals or contaminants can adversely affect plant health.

Planting and Early Care

Timing

Crater Lake thrives best when planted outdoors after the last frost date, typically in late spring. This hybrid prefers a stable climate with temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). In cooler climates, Zone 5 or lower, start seeds indoors and transplant after the threat of frost has passed and soil temperatures reach at least 60°F (15°C). In warmer regions, Zone 9 and above, planting can occur earlier, but watch for late-season temperature spikes which can stress plants.

Planting Techniques

Begin by hardening off Crater Lake seedlings or clones to acclimate them to outdoor conditions over 7-10 days. Space plants 4-6 feet apart to allow for ample air circulation and growth. Dig holes twice the size of the root ball, gently place the plants in, and backfill with soil mixed with compost. Initial watering should saturate the soil, encouraging deep root development, but avoid waterlogging. Establish a consistent watering schedule based on rainfall and temperature, reducing frequency as plants mature.

Protection

Young Crater Lake plants are vulnerable to pests, animals, and extreme weather. Use cloches or row covers for frost protection and to create a barrier against insects. Install fencing to deter larger animals. In areas with high winds or heavy rains, provide stakes or trellises to support the plants. Regularly inspect for signs of stress or damage and adjust protection methods accordingly. A proactive approach to protection will promote healthy growth and yield.

Maintenance Through Growth Phases

Nutrient Management

Outdoor Crater Lake plants require a dynamic feeding schedule that adapts to their growth stages. During the vegetative phase, a higher nitrogen mix promotes foliage growth. Transitioning to the flowering stage, phosphorus and potassium levels should increase to support bud development. Calibrate nutrient concentrations based on soil tests and plant appearance, reducing nitrogen gradually as flowering progresses. Overfeeding can lead to nutrient burn, while underfeeding may stunt growth or reduce yield.

Weed and Pest Control

Organic pest control for Crater Lake includes introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs and using neem oil to deter pests. Diatomaceous earth can protect the soil surface from crawling insects. For diseases like powdery mildew, a baking soda and water mixture acts as a preventative foliar spray. Chemical solutions should be a last resort, with pesticides specifically labeled for cannabis used according to manufacturer instructions. Regular inspection of plants helps catch issues early, vital for maintaining plant health.

Pruning and Training

Pruning Crater Lake plants removes unnecessary foliage and redirects energy to flower production. Topping, cutting the main stem above a node, encourages bushier growth and more colas. Trellising supports plants and spreads branches for better light penetration. Low-stress training involves gently bending and tying branches to expose lower parts of the plant to sunlight without causing significant stress. These techniques improve air circulation and light exposure, critical for reducing mold risk and increasing yield.

Harvesting and Curing

Timing the Harvest

To determine the optimal harvest time for Crater Lake, monitor trichome and pistil maturity. Trichomes should transition from clear to a milky white color, with some turning amber for a balance of THC and CBD. Pistils, initially white, will darken and curl inward. Harvesting when 70-90% of pistils have changed color typically yields the highest potency.

Harvesting Techniques

Efficient harvesting involves cutting the plant at its base and hanging it upside down in a cool, dark space. Remove large fan leaves to enhance airflow and trim sugar leaves to concentrate cannabinoids. A careful hand-trimming process preserves trichomes and maximizes both yield and potency.

Drying and Curing

Drying and curing outdoors or in non-controlled environments require close attention to humidity and temperature. Hang buds in a shaded area with good air circulation and a consistent temperature around 60-70°F (15-21°C). Ideal humidity levels are between 45-55%. Curing involves placing dried buds in airtight containers, opening them daily to exchange air and release moisture for about two weeks or until the desired moisture content is achieved.

Storage

Store Crater Lake buds in airtight containers, such as glass jars, in a cool, dark place to maintain potency and prevent mold. Avoid plastic bags or containers that can cause static and damage trichomes. Check periodically for signs of mold or degradation and consume within six months for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cannabis strain is Crater Lake?

Crater Lake is a hybrid cannabis strain that balances the effects of sativa and indica genetics.

What effects can I expect from Crater Lake?

Users typically experience feelings of happiness, upliftment, increased sociability, relaxation, and a boost in creativity.

What flavors and aromas are associated with Crater Lake?

This strain is known for its citrus and pine notes with a pungent undertone.

Is Crater Lake suitable for treating medical conditions?

Yes, Crater Lake may be beneficial for individuals dealing with stress, depression, and anxiety.

What is the THC content in Crater Lake?

The THC content can vary, but Crater Lake often features a high THC percentage, making it potent.

Can Crater Lake be used during the day?

Yes, due to its uplifting and creative effects, Crater Lake can be suitable for daytime use.

How does Crater Lake affect energy levels?

It tends to provide an energy boost, making users feel more alert and active.

Is Crater Lake a good choice for social activities?

Yes, its talkative and happy effects make it a popular choice for social situations.

What growing conditions does Crater Lake prefer?

Crater Lake thrives in both indoor and outdoor environments, with a preference for a controlled climate and adequate lighting.

How long is the flowering period for Crater Lake?

The flowering period for Crater Lake typically ranges from 8 to 9 weeks.

Does Crater Lake have any adverse effects?

Like many cannabis strains, it may cause dry mouth, dry eyes, and in some cases, feelings of anxiety or paranoia, especially at higher doses.

What is the ideal harvest time for Crater Lake outdoors?

Outdoor cultivation of Crater Lake should aim for a harvest around mid to late October.

Crater Lake

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