Laughing Buddha

Sativa
India
Hybrid
THC 16% - 22%
CBD 0% - 1%
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buds
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Laughing Buddha is a Sativa-dominant strain celebrated for its ability to induce a state of happiness and euphoria. Its effects are characterized by an uplifting and energetic buzz that can also provoke giggles, making it a popular choice for social situations and creative endeavors.

The flavor profile of Laughing Buddha is a complex blend of tropical and sweet notes with a spicy, herbal undertone. This strain is particularly effective for combating depression, stress, and anxiety, promoting a sense of well-being.

Laughing Buddha is a cross between Thai and Jamaican strains, combining their genetic heritage to produce its distinctive effects and flavors.

Strain Overview

Type
Sativa
Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Seedling Time
2 weeks
Vegetative Time
6 weeks
Flowing Time
10 weeks
Potential Yield
Indoors: 400 grams/plant, Outdoors: 600 grams/plant

Genetic Background

Thai

Thai is a classic Sativa strain that originates from the tropical regions of Thailand. Known for its potent cerebral effects, Thai often induces a sense of euphoria and creativity, making it a favorite among artists and thinkers. The flavor profile of Thai is typically earthy and citrusy, with hints of spice, reflecting its exotic origins. This strain is also recognized for its ability to alleviate stress and depression, promoting a clear-headed and uplifting experience.

Jamaican

Jamaican strains are renowned for their vibrant and uplifting effects, often associated with the island's rich cultural heritage. These Sativa-dominant strains are known for their ability to induce happiness and a sense of well-being, making them ideal for social gatherings and creative activities. The flavor profile of Jamaican strains is usually a mix of tropical fruitiness and herbal notes, providing a refreshing and invigorating experience. They are also effective in reducing stress and anxiety, contributing to their widespread popularity.

How to Grow

Setup and Equipment

Growing Space

The Laughing Buddha strain thrives in a spacious environment due to its Sativa genetics, which promote tall and vigorous growth. An indoor grow tent or room should have a vertical clearance of at least 8 feet to accommodate the stretch during the flowering phase. Horizontal space is also crucial to prevent overcrowding and to allow for adequate light penetration and air flow around each plant.

Lighting

High-intensity discharge (HID) lights, specifically metal halide (MH) for vegetative growth and high-pressure sodium (HPS) for flowering, are effective for Laughing Buddha. Alternatively, full-spectrum LED lights are suitable for the entire growth cycle, offering energy efficiency and lower heat output. Position lights to evenly distribute intensity, ensuring the canopy receives uniform light coverage.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical for maintaining plant health and robust growth. Implement an exhaust system to remove excess heat and humidity, paired with oscillating fans to circulate air and strengthen plant stems. Introducing a carbon dioxide (CO2) enrichment system can significantly boost photosynthesis and yield, but it must be carefully monitored to avoid toxicity.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Laughing Buddha prefers a temperature range of 68-80°F during the day and 58-70°F at night. Humidity levels should be maintained around 40-50% during the flowering stage to prevent mold and mildew. Use a combination of dehumidifiers, air conditioners, or heaters to maintain these conditions, depending on the ambient environment.

Hydroponics vs. Soil

Hydroponic systems can accelerate Laughing Buddha's growth by providing nutrients directly to the roots and allowing greater oxygen uptake. This method can result in larger yields and faster vegetative growth. Soil, on the other hand, can contribute to the development of more complex flavors and is often considered simpler for beginners. Both mediums have their merits, but hydroponics may maximize the strain's potential for commercial growers.

Germination and Seedling Care

Transition to Vegetative Stage

For Laughing Buddha, a sativa-dominant strain, the vegetative stage requires a light schedule of 18 hours on and 6 hours off. This photoperiod stimulates growth before flowering. Implement plant training techniques such as low-stress training (LST) to expose more bud sites to light, or topping to promote a bushier canopy and increase yields.

Maintenance

Pruning Laughing Buddha involves removing lower growth that receives little light to focus the plant's energy on top buds. Defoliation, the strategic removal of leaves to improve light penetration and airflow, is crucial for preventing mold and mildew in dense canopies. Regular checks for pests and diseases form part of ongoing maintenance tasks.

Flowering Triggers

Inducing flowering in Laughing Buddha requires changing the light schedule to 12 hours on and 12 hours off. This mimics the natural reduction in daylight hours and triggers the flowering phase. Environmental changes such as maintaining optimal humidity (40-50%) and temperature (68-78°F) are critical for proper bud development.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Laughing Buddha benefits from increased phosphorus and potassium to support bud formation. A reduced nitrogen intake is also necessary. Feeding should follow the manufacturer's recommended schedule, with adjustments based on plant response. Overfeeding can lead to nutrient burn, while underfeeding can limit bud production.

Vegetative and Flowering Stages

Transition to Vegetative Stage

For Laughing Buddha, a sativa-dominant strain, the vegetative stage requires a light schedule of 18 hours on and 6 hours off. This photoperiod stimulates growth before flowering. Implement plant training techniques such as low-stress training (LST) to expose more bud sites to light, or topping to promote a bushier canopy and increase yields.

Maintenance

Pruning Laughing Buddha involves removing lower growth that receives little light to focus the plant's energy on top buds. Defoliation, the strategic removal of leaves to improve light penetration and airflow, is crucial for preventing mold and mildew in dense canopies. Regular checks for pests and diseases form part of ongoing maintenance tasks.

Flowering Triggers

Inducing flowering in Laughing Buddha requires changing the light schedule to 12 hours on and 12 hours off. This mimics the natural reduction in daylight hours and triggers the flowering phase. Environmental changes such as maintaining optimal humidity (40-50%) and temperature (68-78°F) are critical for proper bud development.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Laughing Buddha benefits from increased phosphorus and potassium to support bud formation. A reduced nitrogen intake is also necessary. Feeding should follow the manufacturer's recommended schedule, with adjustments based on plant response. Overfeeding can lead to nutrient burn, while underfeeding can limit bud production.

Harvesting and Curing

Harvest Signs

Laughing Buddha, a Sativa strain, typically flowers for about 10 to 11 weeks. Recognizing harvest readiness involves observing trichome color, which should transition from clear to a milky white, with some turning amber. Additionally, the pistils should darken and curl inward. A magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe can aid in examining these small structures accurately.

Harvesting Techniques

Harvesting Laughing Buddha requires precision. Cut the plants at the base and hang them upside down in a controlled environment. Trimming should be done carefully to remove fan leaves and snip away sugar leaves, exposing the buds. This can be done wet (immediately after cutting) or dry (after the initial drying phase), depending on preference for ease or control over the final product's shape and trichome preservation.

Drying and Curing

Drying Laughing Buddha buds involves hanging them in a room with 50% humidity and temperatures around 70°F for about a week, until stems snap rather than bend. Curing is critical for flavor and potency enhancement. Place the dried buds 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, reducing the frequency of opening over time.

Storage

For optimal storage, keep Laughing Buddha buds in a cool, dark place in airtight containers, such as glass jars with tight-sealing lids. This will preserve the terpene profile and cannabinoids, maintaining freshness and quality. Avoid plastic bags or containers that can cause static and degrade trichomes. Monitoring humidity within the storage containers is crucial; using humidity packs can help maintain an ideal level of 62% to prevent mold and over-drying.

Site Selection and Preparation

Location

Selecting an optimal location is critical for cultivating Laughing Buddha, a sativa strain that thrives in sunny environments. A spot receiving ample sunlight throughout the day promotes vigorous growth and potent yields. Protection from strong winds is essential to prevent physical damage to the plants and stress that can affect their development. Additionally, consider privacy for security and compliance with local regulations.

Soil Type and Preparation

Laughing Buddha requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal nutrient uptake. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support its vigorous growth and heavy feeding nature. Amend the soil with compost, worm castings, and perlite to improve texture and fertility. Preparing the site involves loosening the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches and incorporating amendments thoroughly to create an ideal growing medium.

Water Source

Consistent access to water is vital for Laughing Buddha's health and productivity. If the area lacks sufficient natural rainfall, setting up an irrigation system is necessary. Drip irrigation conserves water and delivers it directly to the root zone, reducing waste and the risk of foliar diseases. Ensure the water source is clean and free from contaminants that could harm the plants or alter their flavor profile.

Planting and Early Care

Timing

For Laughing Buddha, an outdoor grow is optimal when temperatures consistently remain between 70-85°F. In most Northern Hemisphere climates, this means planting after the last frost, typically late spring. For growers in warmer regions, such as USDA zones 9-11, planting can occur as early as late winter. Monitoring local frost dates and seasonal temperature shifts is critical for timing your plant's introduction to the outdoor environment.

Planting Techniques

Transitioning Laughing Buddha seedlings or clones outdoors requires acclimatization to prevent shock. Begin by exposing plants to outdoor conditions for a few hours daily, gradually increasing until they can withstand a full day outside. Space plants at least two feet apart to allow for ample growth and airflow, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. Initial watering should saturate the soil, establishing a strong moisture foundation, then adjust to a regular watering schedule based on soil dryness and weather conditions.

Protection

Young Laughing Buddha plants are vulnerable to pests, animals, and harsh weather. Employ cloches or row covers for frost protection and to create a barrier against insects. Fencing is effective for deterring animals. In areas with strong winds or heavy rain, consider staking plants or using windbreaks to prevent physical damage. Regular inspections for pests and diseases will safeguard the health of your plants, allowing them to mature into robust specimens.

Maintenance Through Growth Phases

Nutrient Management

Outdoor Laughing Buddha plants require a balanced feeding regimen that adapts to their growth stages. During the vegetative phase, focus on nitrogen-rich fertilizers to support foliage development. As the plant transitions to flowering, gradually shift to phosphorus and potassium-heavy nutrients to promote robust bud formation. Consistent monitoring of soil pH levels is critical to nutrient uptake, aiming for a slightly acidic range between 6.0 and 7.0. Organic options like compost teas can be beneficial for enhancing soil health and providing a slow-release of nutrients.

Weed and Pest Control

For organic pest management, neem oil and insecticidal soaps are effective against common cannabis pests like spider mites and aphids. Introducing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs, can naturally control pest populations. For diseases like powdery mildew, a homemade mixture of baking soda, water, and dish soap can act as a preventative foliar spray. Chemical solutions should be a last resort due to potential residue on the plants; however, if necessary, use products specifically labeled for use on cannabis and apply according to manufacturer instructions to minimize harm to the plant and environment.

Pruning and Training

Pruning Laughing Buddha plants involves removing lower growth that receives little light to focus the plant's energy on top colas. Topping, cutting the main stem above a node, encourages multiple main colas and a bushier plant. Trellising supports the plant's structure and spreads branches for optimal light penetration and air flow. Low-stress training, gently bending and tying branches, maximizes sunlight exposure without stressing the plant. These techniques improve yield and prevent mold and mildew by enhancing air circulation within the canopy.

Harvesting and Curing

Timing the Harvest

To determine the optimal harvest time for Laughing Buddha, a Sativa strain, monitor the trichomes and pistils. Trichomes should transition from clear to a milky white color, with some turning amber for peak THC levels. Pistils will darken and curl, indicating maturity. Use a magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe to inspect these microscopic structures accurately.

Harvesting Techniques

For Laughing Buddha, cut the main stem at the base for a simple harvest, or segment the plant into branches for easier handling. Trim away excess leaves to expose the buds, which concentrates the plant's energy into trichome production. A clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears is vital for a precise cut, reducing stress to the plant and preserving its potency.

Drying and Curing

Drying and curing Laughing Buddha outdoors or in non-controlled environments requires vigilance. Hang the trimmed buds upside down in a space with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight. Ideal conditions are 50-60% humidity and a temperature around 70°F (21°C). Curing involves placing the dried buds in airtight containers, opening them daily to let moisture escape and fresh air in, a process known as burping. This step is critical for flavor development and the prevention of mold.

Storage

Store Laughing Buddha buds in airtight containers, such as glass jars, to maintain their potency. Keep these containers in a cool, dark place to prevent degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes. Regulate humidity within the storage containers using humidity control packs to prevent mold growth and preserve the buds' quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cannabis strain is Laughing Buddha?

Laughing Buddha is a Sativa-dominant strain known for its uplifting and energetic effects.

What effects can I expect from Laughing Buddha?

Users typically experience feelings of happiness, euphoria, an uplifted mood, increased energy, and a tendency to giggle or laugh.

What flavors and aromas does Laughing Buddha have?

This strain boasts a tropical and sweet flavor profile with spicy and herbal undertones.

Is Laughing Buddha suitable for treating any medical conditions?

Laughing Buddha may be beneficial for individuals dealing with depression, stress, and anxiety due to its mood-enhancing effects.

How does Laughing Buddha compare to other Sativa strains?

While Laughing Buddha shares the typical Sativa effects of energy and euphoria, its distinctive giggly quality sets it apart from other strains.

Can Laughing Buddha be used during the day?

Yes, due to its energizing effects, Laughing Buddha is well-suited for daytime use.

What is the THC content in Laughing Buddha?

The THC content in Laughing Buddha can vary, but it generally falls within the moderate to high range.

How should I consume Laughing Buddha for the best effects?

Consumption methods such as vaping or smoking can provide quick onset of effects, while edibles will result in a delayed but longer-lasting experience.

What is the flowering time for Laughing Buddha when grown indoors?

When cultivated indoors, Laughing Buddha typically requires around 9 to 11 weeks to flower.

Can Laughing Buddha be grown outdoors?

Yes, Laughing Buddha can thrive outdoors, with harvest usually occurring in late October when grown in the Northern Hemisphere.

What kind of yield can I expect from Laughing Buddha plants?

Laughing Buddha plants can produce high yields, especially when grown in optimal conditions with proper care.

Are there any special growing requirements for Laughing Buddha?

For optimal growth, Laughing Buddha requires ample light, consistent temperatures, and a well-managed feeding schedule to reach its full potential.

Laughing Buddha

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