Critical Haze

Sativa
India
Hybrid
THC 18% - 22%
CBD 0% - 1%
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Critical Haze is a hybrid strain that delivers a symphony of effects, harmonizing relaxation with a joyful uplift. Users often experience a serene sense of happiness, coupled with an appetite boost and a propensity for laughter.

Its flavor profile is a blend of sharp citrus and deep earthy tones, finished with a hint of pine. This strain is particularly effective for alleviating stress and depression, and it stimulates hunger.

The genetic lineage of Critical Haze combines the sedative power of Critical Mass with the spicy uplift of Amnesia Haze, creating a balanced hybrid with a diverse array of therapeutic applications.

Strain Overview

Type
Hybrid
Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Seedling Time
2 weeks
Vegetative Time
4-6 weeks
Flowing Time
9 weeks
Potential Yield
Indoors: 450-550 grams/plant, Outdoors: 600-800 grams/plant

Genetic Background

Critical Mass

Critical Mass is a renowned indica-dominant strain known for its potent sedative effects and high yields. It is a cross between Afghani and Skunk #1, resulting in a strain that offers deep relaxation and pain relief. Its flavor profile includes sweet, earthy notes with a hint of citrus. Critical Mass is often used to alleviate stress, insomnia, and chronic pain.

Amnesia Haze

Amnesia Haze is a sativa-dominant strain celebrated for its uplifting and energetic effects. It is a complex hybrid with genetics tracing back to Jamaican, South Asian, and Hawaiian landraces. This strain features a spicy, citrus flavor with earthy undertones. Amnesia Haze is popular for its ability to boost mood, enhance creativity, and provide a clear-headed high, making it effective for combating depression and fatigue.

How to Grow

Setup and Equipment

Growing Space

The ideal growing space for Critical Haze is one that allows for medium to tall plant growth, with ample vertical space to accommodate its stretch during flowering. A tent or room should have a minimum height of 7 feet to prevent crowding and to facilitate light penetration and air flow around the canopy. The area should be easily sanitized to prevent pest and disease issues, with reflective walls to maximize light efficiency.

Lighting

For Critical Haze, full-spectrum LED lights are recommended due to their energy efficiency and lower heat output. Alternatively, High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) lights can be used for their intense light which is beneficial during the flowering stage. Lights should be arranged to evenly cover the canopy, with adjustable height to maintain optimal distance from the plant tops as they grow.

Ventilation

Air circulation is crucial for maintaining plant health and robust growth. Proper ventilation with oscillating fans and an exhaust system will reduce the risk of mold and mildew. Carbon dioxide enrichment can significantly increase yield and growth rate, but it must be monitored and controlled to maintain safe levels for both plants and humans.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Critical Haze thrives at a daytime temperature range of 68-78°F (20-26°C) and a nighttime range of 58-70°F (14-21°C). Humidity should be kept between 40-50% during the vegetative phase and reduced to 30-40% during flowering to prevent mold. A climate control system is essential to maintain these conditions consistently.

Hydroponics vs. Soil

Hydroponics can offer faster growth rates and greater yields for Critical Haze due to the direct availability of nutrients to the roots. However, soil growing can enhance the terpene profile, resulting in richer flavors and aromas. The choice depends on grower preference and whether the priority is on yield or flavor profile.

Germination and Seedling Care

Transition to Vegetative Stage

Shifting Critical Haze to the vegetative stage involves adjusting the light schedule to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness. This photoperiod stimulates growth and prepares plants for later flowering. Plant training techniques such as topping or using a Screen of Green (SCROG) method can be implemented to promote an even canopy and maximize light exposure to all bud sites.

Maintenance

Regular pruning is essential to maintain airflow and light penetration, which are critical for the health of Critical Haze. Defoliation, the removal of large fan leaves, should be done sparingly to avoid stress. Maintenance also includes checking for pests, diseases, and ensuring optimal pH levels in the growing medium.

Flowering Triggers

Inducing flowering in Critical Haze requires changing 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. Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity should be adjusted to support bud development, with lower humidity levels to prevent mold and mildew.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Critical Haze benefits from a nutrient regimen high in phosphorus and potassium to support bud formation and development. Calcium and magnesium are also important to prevent deficiencies. Feeding schedules should be adjusted to reduce nitrogen intake as the plant's focus shifts from vegetative growth to bud production.

Vegetative and Flowering Stages

Transition to Vegetative Stage

Shifting Critical Haze to the vegetative stage involves adjusting the light schedule to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness. This photoperiod stimulates growth and prepares plants for later flowering. Plant training techniques such as topping or using a Screen of Green (SCROG) method can be implemented to promote an even canopy and maximize light exposure to all bud sites.

Maintenance

Regular pruning is essential to maintain airflow and light penetration, which are critical for the health of Critical Haze. Defoliation, the removal of large fan leaves, should be done sparingly to avoid stress. Maintenance also includes checking for pests, diseases, and ensuring optimal pH levels in the growing medium.

Flowering Triggers

Inducing flowering in Critical Haze requires changing 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. Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity should be adjusted to support bud development, with lower humidity levels to prevent mold and mildew.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Critical Haze benefits from a nutrient regimen high in phosphorus and potassium to support bud formation and development. Calcium and magnesium are also important to prevent deficiencies. Feeding schedules should be adjusted to reduce nitrogen intake as the plant's focus shifts from vegetative growth to bud production.

Harvesting and Curing

Harvest Signs

Identifying the optimal harvest time for Critical Haze involves observing trichome coloration. Clear trichomes indicate immaturity, while a mix of milky white and amber trichomes suggests peak THC levels and readiness for harvest. Additionally, the pistils should change from white to a reddish-brown hue, signifying maturity.

Harvesting Techniques

Harvesting Critical Haze requires sharp scissors or shears to cut the main stem and branches. Trim away large fan leaves and smaller sugar leaves to expose the buds. Precision is key to maintaining bud integrity and avoiding unnecessary damage to the trichomes.

Drying and Curing

Drying Critical Haze buds should occur in a controlled environment with temperatures around 60-70°F and humidity levels at 45-55%. Hang the branches upside down in a dark room with good air circulation for about 7-10 days. Once stems snap cleanly, cure the buds in airtight containers, opening them daily for the first week to release moisture and prevent mold. Continue curing for 2-4 weeks to develop flavor and potency.

Storage

Store Critical Haze in a cool, dark place in airtight containers to preserve its quality. Glass jars are preferable as they do not impart any odors and maintain a consistent environment. Avoid exposure to heat, light, and air to maintain freshness and cannabinoid profiles.

Site Selection and Preparation

Location

Selecting an optimal location is critical for the success of Critical Haze cultivation. The site must receive ample sunlight, as cannabis plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Protection from strong winds is also essential to prevent physical damage to the plants and to reduce water loss through evapotranspiration. Additionally, privacy is important for security reasons and to comply with local regulations regarding cannabis cultivation.

Soil Type and Preparation

Critical Haze flourishes in soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil should be well-draining with a loamy texture, rich in organic matter to support robust growth. To optimize nutrient content, incorporate compost, worm castings, or a balanced slow-release fertilizer before planting. Preparing the site involves loosening the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and ensuring it is free of weeds and debris that could hinder root development.

Water Source

Consistent access to water is vital for maintaining healthy Critical Haze plants. If the area does not receive adequate rainfall, setting up an irrigation system is necessary to provide regular watering. Drip irrigation is efficient, reducing water waste and minimizing the risk of fungal diseases by keeping foliage dry. The water source should be tested for pH and contaminants to confirm it meets the needs of cannabis plants, which are sensitive to water quality.

Planting and Early Care

Timing

For Critical Haze, outdoor planting should align with the last frost date in your climate zone to prevent cold damage. In temperate regions, this typically falls between late April and early May. In warmer climates, planting can occur as early as late February. Monitor seasonal temperature shifts closely; Critical Haze thrives in consistent warmth with ample sunlight.

Planting Techniques

Begin by acclimating Critical Haze seedlings or clones to outdoor conditions through a process called hardening off. Gradually increase their exposure to outdoor temperatures and sunlight over a week. Space plants at least one meter apart to allow for optimal air circulation and growth. Upon transferring, water generously to establish roots, avoiding waterlogged soil to prevent root rot.

Protection

Young Critical Haze plants are vulnerable to pests, animals, and harsh weather. Employ cloches for individual plants to shield them from cold snaps and retain warmth. Install fencing to deter animals. For pest control, introduce beneficial insects or apply organic pesticides. In areas prone to severe weather, consider row covers to safeguard against heavy rain or hail.

Maintenance Through Growth Phases

Nutrient Management

Outdoor Critical Haze plants require a balanced diet of nutrients that shifts with their growth stages. During the vegetative phase, a higher nitrogen content supports foliage growth. Transition to bloom nutrients with increased phosphorus and potassium levels as the plant enters the flowering stage to promote bud development. Consistent pH monitoring and adjustment of the soil are crucial to nutrient uptake. Overfeeding can lead to nutrient burn, while underfeeding can stunt growth, so precise measurement and observation are key.

Weed and Pest Control

For organic pest control, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to combat aphids and mites. Neem oil and insecticidal soaps serve as natural deterrents for a variety of pests. For diseases such as powdery mildew, a baking soda and water mixture can act as a preventative foliar spray. Chemical solutions include miticides and fungicides, but these should be used as a last resort due to potential residue on the plant. Regular inspection of plants is essential to catch and address infestations early.

Pruning and Training

Pruning Critical Haze plants removes unnecessary foliage and redirects energy to the buds. Topping, cutting the main stem above a node, encourages bushier growth and more colas. Trellising supports the plant structure and maximizes light penetration. Low-stress training, gently bending and tying branches, improves air circulation and light exposure without stressing the plant. These techniques require careful execution to avoid damaging the plant and should be done progressively throughout the vegetative stage.

Harvesting and Curing

Timing the Harvest

To determine the optimal harvest time for Critical Haze, closely monitor the trichomes and pistils. Trichomes should transition from clear to a milky white color, with some turning amber for peak THC levels. Pistils, initially white, will darken and curl inward. Harvesting when most trichomes are milky and 70-90% of pistils have changed color ensures maximum potency and effect.

Harvesting Techniques

Efficient harvesting of Critical Haze involves cutting the plant at its base and hanging it upside down in a cool, dark space. Remove large fan leaves to improve airflow and trim sugar leaves to enhance bud quality. This method preserves trichomes and maximizes both yield and cannabinoid concentration.

Drying and Curing

Drying and curing Critical Haze outdoors or in non-controlled environments requires careful attention to humidity and temperature. Aim for a consistent humidity level around 45-55% and a temperature range of 60-70°F. Hang buds in a shaded area with good air circulation, avoiding direct sunlight. 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 Critical Haze buds in airtight containers, such as glass jars, in a cool, dark place to maintain potency and prevent mold. Keep containers away from direct light and heat sources. Check periodically for signs of mold or degradation and consume within six months to a year for best quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cannabis strain is Critical Haze?

Critical Haze is a hybrid strain that combines the genetics of Critical Mass and Afghan Haze.

What effects can I expect from Critical Haze?

Users typically experience feelings of relaxation, happiness, upliftment, increased appetite, and occasional giggles.

What are the flavor and aroma profiles of Critical Haze?

This strain features a blend of citrus, earthy, and pine notes in both its taste and aroma.

Is Critical Haze suitable for treating medical conditions?

Yes, Critical Haze is often used to alleviate symptoms of stress, depression, and appetite loss.

Can Critical Haze be grown both indoors and outdoors?

Yes, Critical Haze can thrive in both indoor and outdoor environments, given proper growing conditions.

What is the flowering time for Critical Haze?

The flowering period for Critical Haze typically ranges from 8 to 10 weeks.

What is the THC content of Critical Haze?

The THC level in Critical Haze can vary, but it generally falls within the moderate to high range.

How does Critical Haze compare to other hybrid strains?

Critical Haze is known for its balanced effects that combine the cerebral high of sativas with the physical relaxation of indicas.

What kind of yield can I expect from Critical Haze plants?

Yields can be significant, especially when the plants are well-maintained and grown in optimal conditions.

Are there any special considerations for cultivating Critical Haze?

Growers should pay attention to humidity levels, as Critical Haze can be susceptible to mold. Adequate spacing and air circulation are also important for healthy growth.

Critical Haze

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