Key Lime Pie

Sativa
India
Hybrid
THC 16% - 22%
CBD 0% - 1%
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Key Lime Pie, a hybrid strain, is renowned for its ability to induce feelings of happiness and relaxation, with many users reporting an uplifted mood, increased creativity, and a tendency towards sleepiness. Its flavor profile is dominated by a refreshing lime taste, complemented by sweet and citrus notes, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate a tangy zest.

The lineage of Key Lime Pie traces back to Girl Scout Cookies, which contributes to its potent effects and desirable flavor. This genetic background is responsible for the strain's therapeutic potential in alleviating stress, pain, and depression.

Strain Overview

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

Genetic Background

Girl Scout Cookies

Girl Scout Cookies, often abbreviated as GSC, is a hybrid strain that has gained immense popularity for its powerful effects and delightful flavor. Known for its sweet and earthy aroma, GSC provides a euphoric high that is both uplifting and relaxing. This strain is highly effective in managing chronic pain, nausea, and appetite loss, making it a favorite among medical cannabis users. Its genetic lineage includes OG Kush and Durban Poison, contributing to its well-rounded effects and robust flavor profile.

How to Grow

Setup and Equipment

Growing Space

The Key Lime Pie strain thrives in a controlled environment where space is optimized for its bushy growth habit. A room or tent should allow for at least 4-5 feet in height to accommodate the plant's stature and potential training or topping. Horizontal space must also be ample to prevent overcrowding, which can lead to moisture-related issues and hindered air flow. Reflective walls or surfaces can maximize light exposure to the lower branches.

Lighting

Full-spectrum LED lights are recommended for Key Lime Pie due to their efficiency and lower heat output. Positioning lights 18-24 inches above the canopy will promote robust vegetative growth and flowering. During the flowering phase, a 12/12 light cycle is crucial for inducing and maintaining bud development.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical for Key Lime Pie to prevent mold and pests. An exhaust fan combined with passive intake vents or an active intake fan will maintain air movement. Introducing a CO2 enrichment system can significantly boost growth and yield, but it must be monitored to maintain appropriate levels for plant health.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Key Lime Pie prefers a temperature range of 68-78°F during the day and a slight drop at night. Humidity should be controlled around 40-50% during the flowering stage to protect against bud rot. Consistent monitoring and adjustment of environmental conditions are paramount for optimal plant health and resin production.

Hydroponics vs. Soil

Hydroponics can accelerate the growth of Key Lime Pie, offering precise nutrient management and potentially larger yields. However, soil cultivation can enhance the strain's lime and sweet flavor profile due to the complex interactions between roots and organic matter. Both methods require diligent pH and nutrient level management to maximize the strain's potential.

Germination and Seedling Care

Transition to Vegetative Stage

The Key Lime Pie strain requires a shift in light schedule to promote vegetative growth. Transition plants from the 18-24 hours of light per day typical in the seedling stage to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness. Implement plant training techniques such as topping or fimming to encourage bushier growth and increase yield potential. Low-stress training (LST) can also be applied by gently bending and tying down branches to expose more of the plant to light.

Maintenance

During the vegetative phase, Key Lime Pie plants benefit from regular pruning to remove lower growth that receives little light, promoting air circulation and focusing energy on the upper canopy. Defoliation should be performed sparingly to remove only the most necessary leaves and avoid stressing the plant. Monitor for pests and diseases, and apply organic preventive measures as needed to maintain plant health.

Flowering Triggers

To induce flowering in Key Lime Pie, adjust the light schedule to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This mimics the natural decrease in daylight hours and triggers the plant to enter the flowering phase. Ensure environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity are optimized for flowering, with temperatures slightly lower than the vegetative stage and humidity around 40-50% to prevent mold and mildew.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Key Lime Pie requires a different nutrient profile with higher phosphorus and potassium levels to support bud development. Reduce nitrogen intake to prevent excess vegetative growth. Follow a feeding schedule that aligns with the plant's flowering stage, gradually increasing nutrient concentration as buds mature. Monitor the plant's response to avoid nutrient burn and flush the system with plain water periodically to prevent salt buildup.

Vegetative and Flowering Stages

Transition to Vegetative Stage

The Key Lime Pie strain requires a shift in light schedule to promote vegetative growth. Transition plants from the 18-24 hours of light per day typical in the seedling stage to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness. Implement plant training techniques such as topping or fimming to encourage bushier growth and increase yield potential. Low-stress training (LST) can also be applied by gently bending and tying down branches to expose more of the plant to light.

Maintenance

During the vegetative phase, Key Lime Pie plants benefit from regular pruning to remove lower growth that receives little light, promoting air circulation and focusing energy on the upper canopy. Defoliation should be performed sparingly to remove only the most necessary leaves and avoid stressing the plant. Monitor for pests and diseases, and apply organic preventive measures as needed to maintain plant health.

Flowering Triggers

To induce flowering in Key Lime Pie, adjust the light schedule to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This mimics the natural decrease in daylight hours and triggers the plant to enter the flowering phase. Ensure environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity are optimized for flowering, with temperatures slightly lower than the vegetative stage and humidity around 40-50% to prevent mold and mildew.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Key Lime Pie requires a different nutrient profile with higher phosphorus and potassium levels to support bud development. Reduce nitrogen intake to prevent excess vegetative growth. Follow a feeding schedule that aligns with the plant's flowering stage, gradually increasing nutrient concentration as buds mature. Monitor the plant's response to avoid nutrient burn and flush the system with plain water periodically to prevent salt buildup.

Harvesting and Curing

Harvest Signs

Key Lime Pie plants are typically ready for harvest when 70-90% of the pistils have darkened and curled in. Trichomes should be inspected with a magnifying glass; harvest time is optimal when trichomes are milky white with some turning amber. Leaves may also fade in color, indicating the plant's life cycle is nearing its end.

Harvesting Techniques

Begin by sterilizing cutting tools to prevent infection. Cut the main stem at the base for a full plant harvest or snip branches individually for a selective approach. Trim away large fan leaves and smaller sugar leaves to expose the buds. Make cuts at an angle to promote healing if the plant will continue growing for a second harvest.

Drying and Curing

Hang trimmed buds upside down in a controlled environment with temperatures around 60-70°F and humidity at 45-55%. Ensure good air circulation without direct air on the buds to prevent uneven drying. After 7-10 days, when stems snap rather than bend, buds are ready for curing. Place them in airtight containers, opening daily for the first week to release moisture and check for mold. Continue curing for 2-4 weeks to improve flavor and potency.

Storage

Store cured Key Lime Pie buds in airtight containers away from direct light and heat. Use containers that are just the right size for the quantity of cannabis to minimize air exposure. Consider humidity control packs to maintain a consistent 62% relative humidity, which is ideal for preserving terpene profiles and preventing mold.

Site Selection and Preparation

Location

Selecting an optimal location is critical for the Key Lime Pie strain's growth. The area must receive ample sunlight, as cannabis plants require light for photosynthesis and to foster bud development. 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

Cannabis thrives in soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. The texture should be loamy, offering a balance of drainage and water retention. Nutrient content is paramount, with a mix rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. To prepare the site, amend the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve fertility and structure. Testing soil before planting can guide amendments, creating an optimal growing environment for the Key Lime Pie strain.

Water Source

A consistent water source is vital for cannabis cultivation. The Key Lime Pie strain, like other cannabis plants, requires regular watering to maintain health and yield. In regions where natural rainfall is inconsistent, setting up an irrigation system is beneficial. This system should provide even, measured water distribution to avoid over or under-watering. Consider the installation of drip irrigation for efficiency and to minimize water waste.

Planting and Early Care

Timing

Key Lime Pie thrives in mild to warm climates, with optimal planting time in spring after the last frost. In cooler climates, aim for a window between late April and early June. Warmer regions can plant as early as late February. Monitor local frost dates and seasonal temperature shifts to select the ideal planting period for this hybrid strain.

Planting Techniques

Transition Key Lime Pie seedlings or clones to the outdoors by gradually acclimating them to outside conditions. Start by placing them outside for a few hours each day, increasing exposure over a week. Space plants at least two feet apart to allow for growth and air circulation. Water the plants deeply after planting to establish roots, avoiding over-saturation.

Protection

Shield Key Lime Pie plants from pests and animals with organic insecticides and physical barriers like fencing. Employ cloches or row covers to guard against unexpected frosts or heavy rain. Regularly inspect plants for signs of stress or damage and adjust protection methods accordingly to maintain a healthy growth environment.

Maintenance Through Growth Phases

Nutrient Management

Effective nutrient management for Key Lime Pie begins with a balanced N-P-K (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) fertilizer during the vegetative stage to support foliage growth. As the plant transitions to the flowering stage, reduce nitrogen and increase phosphorus and potassium to encourage robust bud development. Supplement with calcium and magnesium to prevent deficiencies and maintain healthy plant functions. Adjust pH levels of the soil to between 6.0 and 7.0 to optimize nutrient uptake.

Weed and Pest Control

For organic pest control, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to combat aphids and mites. Neem oil and insecticidal soaps can deter pests without harming the plant. For diseases like powdery mildew, apply a baking soda and water mixture as a preventative measure. Chemical solutions include miticides and fungicides, but use these sparingly to avoid contaminating the buds and soil.

Pruning and Training

Pruning Key Lime Pie involves removing lower growth to enhance air flow and light penetration, promoting healthier upper canopy development. Implement topping by cutting the main stem above a node to encourage multiple colas. Use trellising to support branches and distribute growth evenly. Apply low-stress training by gently bending and tying branches to expose more of the plant to sunlight, which can lead to increased yields and more consistent bud sizes.

Harvesting and Curing

Timing the Harvest

To determine the optimal harvest time for Key Lime Pie, monitor the trichomes and pistils on the buds. Trichomes should transition from clear to a milky white color, with some turning amber for a more sedative effect. Pistils will darken and curl, indicating maturity. Use a magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe to inspect these indicators closely for the best harvest timing.

Harvesting Techniques

Efficient harvesting of Key Lime Pie involves clean, sharp scissors to cut the branches. Remove large fan leaves to access the buds more easily. Cut the branches into manageable sections, trimming away excess leaf material to enhance the buds' exposure to air during drying. This process preserves the terpenes and cannabinoids, maximizing the strain's potency and flavor profile.

Drying and Curing

Drying and curing Key Lime Pie outdoors or in non-controlled environments requires careful attention to humidity and temperature. Hang the trimmed branches in a shaded, dry area with good air circulation, avoiding direct sunlight. Ideal conditions are 60-70°F (15-21°C) with 45-55% humidity. After drying, when stems snap rather than bend, 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 enhance the strain's effects and flavors.

Storage

Store Key Lime Pie buds in airtight containers, such as glass jars, in a cool, dark place to maintain their potency. Keep them away from heat and light to prevent degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes. Regulate humidity within the storage containers using humidity control packs to maintain a range of 59-63% RH, safeguarding against mold and preserving the quality of the buds over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cannabis strain is Key Lime Pie?

Key Lime Pie is a hybrid cannabis strain.

What effects can be expected after consuming Key Lime Pie?

Consumers can expect to feel happy, relaxed, uplifted, sleepy, and creative after using Key Lime Pie.

What flavors and aromas are associated with Key Lime Pie?

Key Lime Pie is known for its lime, sweet, and citrus flavors and aromas.

What conditions is Key Lime Pie commonly used for?

Key Lime Pie is often used to alleviate stress, pain, and depression.

Is Key Lime Pie more indica or sativa dominant?

Key Lime Pie is a hybrid strain with a balance of indica and sativa characteristics.

How does Key Lime Pie affect creativity?

Key Lime Pie can stimulate creativity, making it a popular choice for artistic activities.

Can Key Lime Pie be used for sleep?

Yes, Key Lime Pie's relaxing and sleepy effects make it suitable for aiding with sleep.

What is the best time of day to use Key Lime Pie?

Due to its relaxing effects, Key Lime Pie may be best used during the evening or at night.

Is Key Lime Pie suitable for novice cannabis users?

Novice users should approach Key Lime Pie with caution due to its potent effects and start with a low dose.

How should Key Lime Pie be stored to maintain its quality?

Key Lime Pie should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve its quality.

Key Lime Pie

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