Mataro Blue is a dominant Indica strain revered for its potent effects that induce relaxation, sleepiness, and a sense of euphoria. Its berry, sweet, and earthy profile caters to those desiring a flavorful experience while addressing stress, anxiety, and depression.
This strain's genetic lineage is a cross between three robust strains: Blueberry, Mazar-I-Sharif, and Black Domina. These contribute to Mataro Blue's sedative properties and its capacity to stimulate appetite and produce a tingling sensation.
Blueberry is a legendary Indica-dominant strain known for its distinct sweet berry aroma and flavor. It was developed by DJ Short in the 1970s and has since become a staple in the cannabis community. Blueberry is celebrated for its relaxing effects, making it an excellent choice for alleviating stress and promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Mazar-I-Sharif is a potent Indica strain originating from the Mazar-i-Sharif region in Afghanistan. This strain is renowned for its high resin production and robust sedative effects, which are ideal for those seeking relief from pain and insomnia. Its earthy and spicy flavor profile adds to its appeal among cannabis connoisseurs.
Black Domina is a powerful Indica strain created by crossing four potent Indica varieties: Northern Lights, Ortega, Hash Plant, and Afghani SA. Known for its dark, almost black foliage and dense buds, Black Domina delivers strong sedative effects that are perfect for nighttime use. Its spicy and peppery flavor profile complements its ability to induce deep relaxation and sleep.
Mataro Blue thrives in a spacious environment with ample vertical room to accommodate its bushy growth and potential height. An indoor tent or room should have a minimum height of 6 feet to allow for proper plant development and light placement. The area must be adaptable for training techniques such as SCROG (Screen of Green) to maximize yield and manage spatial requirements.
For Mataro Blue, full-spectrum LED lights are recommended due to their efficiency and lower heat output. Positioning the lights at the correct height is crucial to cover the canopy evenly and to prevent hotspots or light burn. Adjust the lights as the plants grow, maintaining an optimal distance that encourages robust vegetative growth and flowering.
Proper ventilation is essential for Mataro Blue to prevent mold and pests. A combination of exhaust fans and oscillating fans will maintain air movement and stabilize the environment. Introducing a CO2 enrichment system can significantly boost growth and yield, but it must be monitored to maintain appropriate levels for plant health.
Maintain daytime temperatures between 70-80°F and nighttime temperatures around 65-70°F for Mataro Blue. Humidity levels should be kept at 40-50% during the vegetative phase and reduced to 30-40% during flowering to prevent mold and promote resin production. Consistent monitoring and adjustment of these parameters are critical for optimal growth.
Hydroponics can accelerate Mataro Blue's growth by providing nutrients directly to the roots and allowing greater oxygenation. However, soil cultivation can enhance the strain's berry and earthy flavors. Organic soil with a balanced pH and nutrient-rich amendments can yield high-quality flowers with pronounced terpene profiles.
As Mataro Blue transitions from seedling to vegetative stage, adjust the light schedule to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness. This simulates the long days of summer and promotes growth. Implement plant training techniques such as topping or fimming to encourage bushier growth and increase yields. Low-stress training (LST) can also be applied by gently bending and tying down branches to expose more of the plant to light.
Regular pruning is essential to maintain plant health and optimize yield. Remove lower growth that receives little light to focus the plant's energy on the top buds. Defoliation, the strategic removal of leaves, improves light penetration and air flow around the buds. Perform these tasks during the vegetative phase to prevent stress during flowering.
To induce flowering in Mataro Blue, change the light schedule to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This mimics the shorter days of autumn, signaling the plant to enter the reproductive phase. Lower nighttime temperatures slightly to encourage the development of the plant's characteristic colors and potent resin production.
During the flowering phase, Mataro Blue requires nutrients with higher phosphorus and potassium levels to support bud development. Reduce nitrogen intake as it's less critical in this stage. Follow a feeding schedule that aligns with the plant's flowering cycle, gradually increasing nutrient concentration as buds mature, then tapering off as harvest approaches to flush out residual nutrients and improve flavor.
As Mataro Blue transitions from seedling to vegetative stage, adjust the light schedule to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness. This simulates the long days of summer and promotes growth. Implement plant training techniques such as topping or fimming to encourage bushier growth and increase yields. Low-stress training (LST) can also be applied by gently bending and tying down branches to expose more of the plant to light.
Regular pruning is essential to maintain plant health and optimize yield. Remove lower growth that receives little light to focus the plant's energy on the top buds. Defoliation, the strategic removal of leaves, improves light penetration and air flow around the buds. Perform these tasks during the vegetative phase to prevent stress during flowering.
To induce flowering in Mataro Blue, change the light schedule to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This mimics the shorter days of autumn, signaling the plant to enter the reproductive phase. Lower nighttime temperatures slightly to encourage the development of the plant's characteristic colors and potent resin production.
During the flowering phase, Mataro Blue requires nutrients with higher phosphorus and potassium levels to support bud development. Reduce nitrogen intake as it's less critical in this stage. Follow a feeding schedule that aligns with the plant's flowering cycle, gradually increasing nutrient concentration as buds mature, then tapering off as harvest approaches to flush out residual nutrients and improve flavor.
Identifying the optimal harvest time for Mataro Blue is critical for maximizing potency and flavor. Observe the trichomes with a magnifying glass; they transition from clear to milky white as maturity approaches. The presence of some amber trichomes indicates peak THC levels. Additionally, the pistils should darken and curl inward, signaling readiness for harvest.
Harvesting Mataro Blue requires precision. Use sharp, sterilized scissors to cut the branches, handling the buds gently to avoid trichome damage. Trim away excess leaves to expose the buds, which contain the highest concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes. A careful trim preserves the strain's distinct berry and earthy flavors.
Drying and curing are vital for enhancing Mataro Blue's effects and flavors. Hang the trimmed buds upside down in a controlled environment with temperatures around 60-70°F and humidity at 45-55%. This slow drying process should take about a week. 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 at least two to four weeks to refine the strain's relaxed and euphoric effects.
Proper storage preserves Mataro Blue's quality. Store the cured buds in airtight containers, such as glass jars, in a cool, dark place to prevent degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes. Avoid exposure to heat, light, and air, which can diminish the strain's potency and induce a stale flavor. Regularly check for mold or mildew during long-term storage.
Selecting an optimal location for Mataro Blue cultivation is critical for its growth and yield. The site must receive ample sunlight, as cannabis plants require at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Protection from strong winds is essential to prevent physical damage to the plants and to reduce water loss through evapotranspiration. Additionally, privacy is a key consideration to comply with local regulations and to avoid theft or vandalism.
Mataro Blue thrives in soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. The soil texture should be loamy, offering a balance of drainage and water retention. Nutrient content is paramount, with a focus on nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. To optimize the soil, integrate organic matter such as compost or aged manure, which will improve fertility and structure. Prior to planting, test the soil pH and adjust accordingly using lime to increase pH or sulfur to decrease it. Proper site preparation lays the foundation for a successful grow season.
Consistent access to water is vital for Mataro Blue, as irregular watering can stress plants and affect development. If the region lacks sufficient rainfall, setting up an irrigation system becomes necessary. Drip irrigation is efficient, delivering water directly to the roots and minimizing waste. When planning the system, consider factors such as water pressure, the number of plants, and the frequency of watering needed to maintain soil moisture without waterlogging. Regular monitoring will confirm that the plants receive the correct amount of water for optimal growth.
For Mataro Blue, an Indica strain, 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. Warmer climates can plant earlier, but always monitor local seasonal temperature shifts to avoid late cold snaps that can stress the plant.
Begin by acclimating seedlings or clones to outdoor conditions through a process called hardening off, gradually increasing their exposure to sunlight and outdoor temperatures over a week. Space plants at least one meter apart to allow for ample growth and air circulation. Upon transferring, water generously to establish roots, avoiding waterlogged soil which can lead to root rot.
Young Mataro Blue 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 regions with strong winds or heavy rain, consider staking plants or using windbreaks to prevent physical damage.
Outdoor Mataro Blue plants require a dynamic feeding schedule that adapts to their growth stages. During the vegetative phase, focus on nitrogen-rich fertilizers to promote foliage development. Transition to phosphorus and potassium-heavy nutrients as the plant enters the flowering stage to support bud formation and density. Calibrate pH levels of the soil to optimize nutrient uptake, aiming for a slightly acidic range of 6.0 to 6.8. Regular soil testing can guide precise nutrient adjustments throughout the growing cycle.
For organic pest management, introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs to combat aphids and mites. Neem oil serves as a natural deterrent for a range of pests and fungal diseases. For chemical solutions, use insecticidal soaps and fungicides, but apply sparingly to avoid residue on the final product. Rotate control methods to prevent pest resistance. Regularly inspect plants for signs of stress or infestation and remove any affected areas promptly to prevent spread.
Pruning Mataro Blue enhances light penetration and air flow, critical for outdoor growth. Remove lower branches that receive little light to direct energy to top growth. Implement topping by cutting the main stem above a node to encourage bushier plants and more colas. Employ trellising to support branches and maintain an even canopy. Low-stress training, involving gently bending and tying branches, optimizes light exposure without stressing the plant. These techniques contribute to a higher yield and improved quality of the Mataro Blue strain.
To determine the optimal harvest time for Mataro Blue, closely examine the trichomes and pistils. Trichomes should transition from clear to a milky white color, with some turning amber, indicating peak THC levels. Pistils will darken and curl inward. Use a magnifying glass to observe these changes for precision.
Harvest Mataro Blue by cutting the main stem, then trimming away large fan leaves. Next, remove smaller leaves close to the buds to enhance potency and aesthetic appeal. Work in sections to maintain control over the process, and handle buds gently to preserve trichomes.
Dry Mataro Blue buds by hanging them upside down in a space with good air circulation, low humidity, and temperatures around 60-70°F. Curing involves placing the dried buds in airtight containers, opening them daily to exchange air and release moisture. This process can take several weeks and is critical for flavor and potency.
Store Mataro Blue buds in airtight containers, away from direct light and at stable temperatures to maintain their quality. Use desiccant packs to control humidity and prevent mold. Check periodically for any signs of degradation or moisture and adjust storage conditions accordingly.
Mataro Blue is predominantly an Indica strain.
Users typically experience relaxation, sleepiness, euphoria, an increase in appetite, and a tingling sensation.
This strain is known for its berry, sweet, and earthy flavors and aromas.
Yes, Mataro Blue is often used to alleviate stress and anxiety.
Many users find Mataro Blue effective in managing symptoms of depression.
Mataro Blue thrives in both indoor and outdoor environments, with controlled conditions favoring its growth.
Mataro Blue stands out for its potent effects and distinct berry flavor profile compared to other Indica strains.
The THC content in Mataro Blue can vary, but it generally possesses a high THC level.
Cultivators should maintain optimal growing conditions, paying close attention to humidity and temperature to maximize the strain's potential.
The flowering period for Mataro Blue typically ranges from 7 to 8 weeks.