Permafrost

Sativa
India
Hybrid
THC 15% - 20%
CBD 0% - 1%
Stock image similar to  Permafrost
0
buds
(
0
ratings)

Permafrost, a hybrid strain, delivers a symphony of effects that stimulate focus and euphoria, while also nurturing a state of relaxation and sociability. Its flavor profile is a rich blend of woody, earthy, and pine notes, making it a choice strain for those looking to alleviate stress, anxiety, and pain.

The genetic lineage of Permafrost traces back to two notable strains: the uplifting Trainwreck and the soothing White Widow. This combination bestows Permafrost with a balanced spectrum of sativa and indica traits, ideal for users desiring a multifaceted experience.

Strain Overview

Type
Hybrid
Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Seedling Time
2 weeks
Vegetative Time
4 weeks
Flowing Time
8-9 weeks
Potential Yield
Indoors: 400-500 grams/plant, Outdoors: 600-700 grams/plant

Genetic Background

White Widow

White Widow, a balanced hybrid first bred in the Netherlands by Green House Seeds, is renowned for its potent resin production.

This strain emerged in the 1990s and quickly gained fame for its powerful effects and earthy, woody aroma with hints of pine.

White Widow's genetics are a cross between a Brazilian sativa landrace and a resin-heavy South Indian indica.

The strain's buds are typically chunky, conical, and covered in a mass of white trichomes, giving it its frosty appearance and name.

White Widow is often chosen for its ability to stimulate creativity and energy while providing a strong sense of euphoria and relaxation.

Its high THC content makes it suitable for managing pain, stress, and depression.

The strain's resilience and vigor make it a popular choice for both novice and experienced cultivators, performing well in various growing conditions.

Trainwreck

Trainwreck is a mind-bending, potent sativa with effects that hit like a freight train, as its name suggests.

Originating from Northern California, Trainwreck is a combination of Mexican and Thai sativas with Afghani indicas.

It is known for its sweet lemon and spicy pine aroma, which is reflective of its diverse genetic background.

Trainwreck develops elongated buds that are a hallmark of its sativa lineage, with a dense structure more typical of indica varieties.

The strain delivers a surge of adrenaline, awakening creativity and happiness, and is often used to treat anxiety and PTSD.

Trainwreck's high THC content is also effective in alleviating chronic pain, migraines, and arthritis.

Its growth pattern is characterized by robust vigor and heavy yields, making it a favorable option for commercial cultivation.

How to Grow

Setup and Equipment

Growing Space

The Permafrost strain thrives in a spacious environment that allows for ample air circulation and light penetration. A room or tent measuring at least 80 inches in height is recommended to accommodate the vertical growth and facilitate the installation of lighting and ventilation systems. The area should be adaptable for training techniques such as SCROG (Screen of Green) to manage the canopy and promote even light distribution.

Lighting

LED lights are recommended for growing Permafrost due to their full spectrum and energy efficiency. Position the lights to ensure an even distribution of intensity, preventing hotspots and promoting uniform growth. During the vegetative stage, maintain an 18-hour light cycle, transitioning to a 12-hour cycle during flowering to stimulate bud production.

Ventilation

Proper ventilation is critical for maintaining air quality and preventing mold and pests. Implement an exhaust fan at the top of the space and passive intake vents at the bottom to create a gentle flow of air. Introduce a carbon dioxide enrichment system to boost photosynthesis and plant growth, keeping CO2 levels at 700 to 1500 ppm for optimal results.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Permafrost requires a temperature range of 68-78°F during the day, slightly cooler at night. Humidity levels should be maintained at 40-50% during the vegetative phase and reduced to 30-40% during flowering to prevent mold and mildew. Use a combination of humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioners to maintain these conditions.

Hydroponics vs. Soil

Hydroponics can accelerate Permafrost's growth by providing nutrients directly to the roots and allowing greater oxygenation. However, soil cultivation can enhance the strain's woody and earthy flavors. For hydroponics, use a deep water culture or ebb and flow system. If opting for soil, choose a well-draining organic mix to support the strain's terpene profile and overall health.

Germination and Seedling Care

Transition to Vegetative Stage

As Permafrost transitions to the vegetative stage, adjust the light schedule to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness to promote growth. 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

Pruning is essential to maintain plant health and maximize yield. Remove lower growth that receives little light to focus the plant's energy on top growth. Defoliation, the strategic removal of leaves, improves light penetration and air circulation. Perform these tasks during the vegetative phase to prepare the plant for optimal flowering. Regular checks for pests and diseases are critical to protect the crop.

Flowering Triggers

To induce flowering in Permafrost, switch 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. Adjust environmental factors such as temperature and humidity to create optimal conditions for bud development. Cooler night temperatures can enhance the color and trichome production of the buds.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Permafrost requires nutrients with higher phosphorus and potassium levels to support bud formation. Reduce nitrogen intake as it is less critical in this stage. Follow a feeding schedule that aligns with the plant's flowering cycle, gradually increasing nutrient concentration as buds mature. Monitor the plant's response to prevent nutrient burn and ensure optimal absorption.

Vegetative and Flowering Stages

Transition to Vegetative Stage

As Permafrost transitions to the vegetative stage, adjust the light schedule to 18 hours of light and 6 hours of darkness to promote growth. 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

Pruning is essential to maintain plant health and maximize yield. Remove lower growth that receives little light to focus the plant's energy on top growth. Defoliation, the strategic removal of leaves, improves light penetration and air circulation. Perform these tasks during the vegetative phase to prepare the plant for optimal flowering. Regular checks for pests and diseases are critical to protect the crop.

Flowering Triggers

To induce flowering in Permafrost, switch 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. Adjust environmental factors such as temperature and humidity to create optimal conditions for bud development. Cooler night temperatures can enhance the color and trichome production of the buds.

Bloom Nutrients

During the flowering phase, Permafrost requires nutrients with higher phosphorus and potassium levels to support bud formation. Reduce nitrogen intake as it is less critical in this stage. Follow a feeding schedule that aligns with the plant's flowering cycle, gradually increasing nutrient concentration as buds mature. Monitor the plant's response to prevent nutrient burn and ensure optimal absorption.

Harvesting and Curing

Harvest Signs

Permafrost plants are ready for harvest when the trichomes, the resinous glands on the buds, exhibit a milky white color with some turning amber. This indicates peak THC levels. The pistils, hair-like structures, should also darken and curl inward. Use a magnifying glass to inspect trichomes accurately.

Harvesting Techniques

Harvest Permafrost by cutting the main stem with sharp, sterilized scissors. Trim away large fan leaves and snip smaller sugar leaves close to the buds. This technique maximizes the buds' exposure to air and light during drying, which is critical for maintaining terpene profiles that contribute to the strain's woody, earthy, and pine flavors.

Drying and Curing

Dry Permafrost buds by hanging them upside down in a controlled environment with temperatures around 60-70°F and humidity levels at 45-55%. This process should take about 7-10 days. Once stems snap instead of bend, curing begins. Place the buds in airtight containers, opening them several times a day for the first week to allow moisture to escape and then less frequently over the course of 3-4 weeks. This method enhances the strain's potency and the complexity of its flavors.

Storage

Store Permafrost buds in airtight containers made of dark glass to protect them from light, which can degrade cannabinoids and terpenes. Keep the containers in a cool, dark place to preserve the strain's focused, happy, relaxed, talkative, and euphoric effects, along with its ability to alleviate stress, anxiety, and pain. Regularly check for mold or mildew to maintain the quality of the cannabis.

Site Selection and Preparation

Location

Selecting an optimal location is critical for the Permafrost strain's growth. The area must receive ample sunlight, as cannabis plants require significant light for photosynthesis and bud development. Protection from strong winds is essential to prevent physical damage to the plants and stress that can affect yield. Privacy is also a key consideration to safeguard the grow area from unwanted attention and to comply with local regulations.

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 focus on nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Amending soil with organic matter such as compost can improve fertility and structure. Preparing the site involves tilling the soil to aerate it, ensuring roots can expand and access oxygen.

Water Source

A consistent water source is vital for cannabis plants, which require regular hydration for optimal growth. In regions where natural rainfall is inadequate, setting up an irrigation system is necessary. This system should deliver water directly to the roots, avoiding foliage to reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Monitoring water pH and nutrient levels will help maintain plant health and maximize the potential of the Permafrost strain.

Planting and Early Care

Timing

Permafrost thrives in temperate climates with a clear distinction between seasons. Begin planting outdoors after the last frost when soil temperatures consistently exceed 50°F, typically in late spring. Monitor regional climate zones to align planting with local conditions, avoiding temperature fluctuations that can stress the plant.

Planting Techniques

Transition seedlings or clones to outdoor environments by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a week. This hardening off process acclimates plants to temperature, sunlight, and wind. Space plants at least 18 inches apart to allow for air circulation and growth. Water immediately after planting to establish roots, using a gentle stream to avoid dislodging the soil around the base.

Protection

Shield young Permafrost plants from pests and animals with physical barriers such as cloches for individual plants or fencing for larger areas. Employ row covers to safeguard against frost and excessive wind. Regular inspections for signs of stress or damage will guarantee optimal growth conditions and plant health.

Maintenance Through Growth Phases

Nutrient Management

Outdoor Permafrost plants require a balanced diet of nutrients that shifts with 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. Consistent pH monitoring of the soil is critical to nutrient uptake. Organic options like compost teas can be beneficial for enhancing microbial life and nutrient availability.

Weed and Pest Control

Organic pest control methods for Permafrost include introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs to combat aphids and using neem oil as a natural pesticide. For fungal issues, such as powdery mildew, a baking soda and water mixture can act as a preventative measure. Chemical solutions should be a last resort due to potential residue; however, specific insecticides and fungicides can be applied with caution, following local regulations and safety guidelines.

Pruning and Training

Pruning Permafrost involves removing lower growth to focus the plant's energy on top buds and improve air circulation. Topping, cutting the main stem above a node, encourages bushier growth and more colas. Trellising supports the plant's structure and maximizes light penetration. Low-stress training, gently bending and tying branches, optimizes light exposure without significant stress to the plant. These techniques contribute to a healthier canopy and increased yield potential.

Harvesting and Curing

Timing the Harvest

To determine the optimal harvest time for Permafrost, closely monitor 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 to observe these changes for precise timing.

Harvesting Techniques

Harvest Permafrost by cutting the main stem, then trimming away large fan leaves. Next, remove smaller leaves that contain trichomes, known as sugar leaves, and preserve them for extracts. Cut the plant into manageable sections, keeping cuts clean to avoid stressing the plant and reducing resin loss.

Drying and Curing

Dry Permafrost buds by hanging them upside down in a well-ventilated space with controlled humidity around 50% and temperatures between 60-70°F. Avoid direct sunlight and maintain consistent airflow to prevent mold. After drying, cure the buds in airtight containers, opening them daily to exchange air and maintain humidity at 60-65% for optimal flavor and potency.

Storage

Store Permafrost buds in airtight containers, such as glass jars, in a cool, dark place to preserve their potency. Regulate humidity with desiccant packs or humidity control solutions to prevent mold and degradation. Check periodically for any signs of mold and to ensure the buds remain dry and aromatic.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of cannabis strain is Permafrost?

Permafrost is a hybrid cannabis strain that balances sativa and indica characteristics.

What effects can I expect from Permafrost?

Users typically experience a sense of focus, happiness, relaxation, increased sociability, and euphoria.

What flavors and aromas does Permafrost have?

Permafrost is known for its woody, earthy, and pine flavors and aromas.

Is Permafrost suitable for relieving certain conditions?

Permafrost may be beneficial for individuals dealing with stress, anxiety, and pain.

Can Permafrost be grown both indoors and outdoors?

Yes, Permafrost can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors, with proper environmental controls.

What is the flowering time for Permafrost when grown indoors?

When grown indoors, Permafrost typically flowers in about 8 to 9 weeks.

How does outdoor cultivation affect Permafrost's harvest time?

Outdoor cultivation of Permafrost usually leads to a harvest in early October, depending on the climate.

What is the THC content range for Permafrost?

The THC content for Permafrost can vary, but it generally ranges from moderate to high levels.

How should I store Permafrost to maintain its potency?

To maintain its potency, store Permafrost in a cool, dark place in an airtight container to protect it from moisture and light.

Are there any special considerations for growing Permafrost?

Growers should monitor humidity levels closely and provide adequate ventilation to prevent mold and mildew, given Permafrost's dense foliage.

What is the typical yield for Permafrost?

The yield for Permafrost can vary based on growing conditions, but it generally produces a moderate to high yield.

Does Permafrost require any specific nutrients or soil conditions?

Permafrost thrives in nutrient-rich soil with a balanced pH, and like most cannabis plants, it benefits from a mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, especially during the vegetative stage.

Permafrost

Overall rating*
Name*
Email*
Review*
Thank you! Your review has been posted!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Reviews of Permafrost

Write review
Stock image similar to  PermafrostStock image similar to  Permafrost