Rapid Bloom: Cannabis Strains with Quick Flowering Times
Time can be a crucial factor for many growers. Whether due to legal restrictions or commercial objectives, there are various reasons to expedite the cultivation process. In areas where cannabis is still prohibited, a quicker operation can minimize the risk of detection and legal consequences. Similarly, commercial growers seek speedy harvests to maximize productivity and enhance overall turnaround.
Swift Strains: Fulfilling the Need for Speed in Cannabis Cultivation
When it comes to speeding up the cultivation process, autoflowering strains have gained significant popularity. These varieties are known for their rapid development, with fully matured flowers emerging just a few weeks after germination. However, it’s important to note that this expedited growth comes with certain trade-offs. Autoflowering plants tend to produce smaller yields and contain lower levels of cannabinoids, resulting in reduced THC and CBD concentrations in each bud.
In contrast, photoperiod strains offer larger yields and higher cannabinoid content. However, these varieties typically require a longer time to reach harvest when grown under conventional conditions. Traditionally, indoor growers maintain a light cycle of 18 hours on and 6 hours off during the vegetative stage, followed by a switch to a 12 hours on and 12 hours off photoperiod to induce flowering.
Surprisingly, it is entirely feasible to cultivate photoperiod strains with a growth rate comparable to that of autoflowering counterparts. The term “photoperiod” itself suggests that these plants rely on a specific light cycle shift to initiate the flowering stage—a trait developed through evolution. As daylight diminishes, signaling the arrival of autumn, these plants recognize the need to blossom and produce seeds for reproduction.
Indoor cultivators hold complete control over the duration of the vegetative phase in photoperiod strains. As long as plants receive more than 12 hours of daily light, they will remain in the vegetative stage, offering growers the flexibility to induce flowering at their discretion. This remarkable characteristic enables growers to initiate the flowering process very early in the cultivation cycle by implementing a 12/12 light cycle from germination. Opting for clones further expedites the process, resulting in even faster outcomes.
While this accelerated pace is advantageous for some growers, it does come with a trade-off. The absence of a prolonged vegetative phase limits plant size, leading to reduced yields. However, this drawback can be mitigated by starting multiple seeds or clones simultaneously and employing the sea of green (SOG) technique, which maximizes space utilization and encourages vigorous growth.
Our High-Speed Feminized Photoperiod Cannabis Varieties
If you’re intrigued by this approach, explore our selection of fastest feminized photoperiod strains that can be grown under a 12/12 light cycle from seed to harvest. For those seeking higher yields, you can also choose to give these plants a regular vegetative period under an 18/6 light cycle and still enjoy an incredibly fast flowering phase!
1. Royal Cheese (Fast Flowering)
True to her name, Royal Cheese is known for her speedy flowering and top-notch buds. This indica-dominant strain is a tribute to the legendary UK strain Cheese. The skilled breeders at RQS combined Old School Skunk and Afghani genetics to create this powerhouse. With a THC level of 17%, she delivers a deeply relaxing and body-stoning high. Her flowers delight the palate with a mix of sweetness and earthiness.
When grown conventionally, Royal Cheese impresses with a generous yield of 450–550g/m², all achieved within a remarkably short flowering period of just six weeks. She’s an ideal choice for those opting for a 12/12 light cycle from the vegetative stage, allowing for even faster growth and development.
2. Honey Cream (Fast Flowering)
Prepare to be amazed by the rapid growth of Honey Cream. This exceptional strain showcases its trichome-coated flowers in a mere six weeks. As an indica-dominant variety, it delivers a blissful body high with a touch of psychedelic euphoria. The sweet and sugary flavors dance on the palate, creating a truly delightful smoking experience.
With a THC level of 16%, Honey Cream offers a balanced high that won’t overwhelm. Additionally, it contains a moderate amount of CBD, adding an extra layer of relaxation. The skilled breeders at RQS achieved these effects by crossing BlueBlack, Maple Leaf Indica, and White Rhino parent strains. Despite its compact stature, Honey Cream rewards growers with a satisfying yield after a 12/12 light cycle during both the vegetative and flowering stages.
3. Speedy Chile (Fast Flowering)
Speedy Chile brings together the best qualities of speed, flavor, and soothing effects. Bred from the renowned parent strains Early Skunk, Skunk, and Chile Indica, this strain embodies their rapid growth and heavy indica dominance. The frosty colas of Speedy Chile boast a THC level of 16%, delivering a gentle and relaxing experience that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of fruit, pine, and spice, which make Speedy Chile an excellent choice for culinary creations.
Even under normal conditions, Speedy Chile impresses with its impressive yields of up to 525g/m² in a remarkably short flowering period of just six weeks. For those seeking nearly instant buds, using a 12/12 light cycle will further accelerate the growth of this exceptional strain. Embrace the speed and satisfaction of Speedy Chile, the perfect blend of rapid growth and delightful flavors.
4. Candy Kush Express (Fast Flowering)
Candy Kush Express is a fast-paced strain that delights the senses with its delectable terpenes. Despite its compact size, this strain produces dense buds that exude an irresistible combination of sweetness and citrus aromas. When smoked or vaped, these delightful notes translate into a tantalizing taste experience. Bred by RQS breeders, Candy Kush Express is a slightly indica-dominant variety resulting from the crossing of Sweet Special and OG Kush.
The high provided by Candy Kush Express starts with a stimulating head-rush that quickly evolves into a soothing body high. This well-rounded experience makes it perfect for unwinding and relaxation. When grown under normal conditions, Candy Kush Express boasts a yield of up to 525g/m². With a flowering period of just seven weeks, you can look forward to harvesting these bountiful buds in no time. Embrace the speed and flavor of Candy Kush Express for a truly enjoyable cannabis journey.
