Top 5 Ruderalis Sativa Cannabis Strains: 2020 Update
Ever wanted a cannabis plant that basically grows itself? Sativas and indicas crossed with ruderalis genetics, named "autoflowering" strains, might be your new favourite thing. As we've gone through 2020, we've brought the finest autoflowering strains into our selection. Here, we've put together a top 5 list of the best sativa hybrids among them.
Most of you likely know about two types of cannabis: indica and sativa. However, a majority of smokers aren't as familiar with the third type: ruderalis. To be fair, at first glance, it doesn't seem like there's much to be known. Pure ruderalis plants are small, and they don't produce much of anything. However, they have one very key trait that's kept them relevant over the years: autoflowering genetics.
For those who don't grow cannabis, this means that the plant doesn't require a certain light cycle to start the flowering process. In turn, you can harvest them much sooner than standard strains. To harness all the perks they desired, growers started crossbreeding ruderalis with classic sativas and indicas. As a result, the first autoflowering hybrids were born! Today, these hybrids have come a long way, and pack a major punch despite their humble ancestry.
While photoperiod sativa strains tend to come with a lot of hassles, ruderalis sativa cultivars streamline the growing experience for optimal results. Without further ado, here are the five best autoflowering sativa hybrids you'll find on the market in 2020.
HAZE BERRY AUTOMATIC
Kicking things off, Haze Berry Automatic is, of course, a descendant of the famous Haze Berry. This variety has early roots in Afghanistan, and became a hit after it reached its full potential on California farms. Now, these dense nuggets of bud contain only 13% THC. While it might seem low for seasoned stoners, this potency is ideal for casual smokers. The terpene profile is something to behold, too. A pungent fruity-sweet aroma fills the surrounding air, and the taste is just as sweet and strong. It won't only smell like you're in a candy shop; it'll feel like it too. As you take hits, you'll feel a buzz of energy akin to a cup of coffee, but nothing too crazy.
In true autoflowering fashion, you'll only need to wait 10–11 weeks between sprouting and harvest. You can expect your plants to reach up to 130cm high whether you're inside or out, but yields will differ. Indoors, you'll be able to harvest between 350–400g/m², while outdoor growers can expect 100–150g/plant.
ROYAL HAZE AUTOMATIC
One day, we decided to crossbreed the famed Skunk with Amnesia Haze (a favourite in Amsterdam). Looking at it closer, we decided to add some ruderalis genetics to the mix to allow for easier growing. Regular Haze varieties take so long to grow, and not everyone has that type of time. From that thought process came Royal Haze Automatic, a strain more than deserving of royal treatment. Coming in with 15% THC, casual smokers will not find this strain too overwhelming. Experienced smokers can enjoy her too; they'll get a nice buzz without hurting productivity. Expect to taste citrus and herbs in a strong, coordinated dance, with similar scents wafting around you.
After germination, you'll only need to wait 10–12 weeks to harvest your plants. Plants grown indoors end up short, reaching 85cm at most, while those grown outdoors can climb to 120cm. Those same plants will yield 300–350g/m² and 130–180g/plant, respectively.
AMNESIA HAZE AUTOMATIC
Created in the 1990s, Amnesia Haze is sometimes also referred to as Champagne Haze, Ultra Haze, or simply The Bomb. Just as powerful as many photoperiod strains, Amnesia Haze Automatic contains around 18% THC. If you're a casual smoker who wants to get lifted, or an experienced one that's taking it easy, this is for you. As it is 50% sativa, you'll be anything but hazy after this cerebral and uplifting high strikes. Expect a sweet and spicy aroma, and introduce yourself to the contrast of sweet and earthy flavours.
Amnesia Haze has a 12-week flowering phase on average, so you can see why an autoflowering version was necessary. With Amnesia Haze Automatic, that time is cut down to a 10–12-week total harvest time from germination. Indoors, expect plants to reach 50–100cm tall and deliver 400g/m². Outdoors, plants hit 100–120cm and deliver up to 180g/plant.
HULKBERRY AUTOMATIC
Like its superhero namesake, HulkBerry Automatic will hit hard, but it won't hurt one bit. It claims partial ancestry from the original HulkBerry, which is a hyper-potent hybrid of OG Kush and Strawberry Diesel. The other parent, Diesel Automatic, is more subtle, but the genetics it contributes leads to a true powerhouse auto. These nugs usually clock in at 21% THC, making it a perfect choice for experienced smokers. Rather than knocking you out, though, this strain will lift your spirits up and have you ready for the world. As your spirits lift, your nose will be graced by a contrast of strawberry scents and spicy, earthy aromas. On the tongue, it'll feel like a blend of fruit and candy, along with a slight hint of oakiness.
As far as growing goes, blink and you'll miss it. HulkBerry Automatic needs just 8–9 weeks between sprouting and harvest, and flowering won't take longer than 7 weeks. It reaches the same height indoors or out, typically between 80–120cm. Indoor yields can hit up to 500g/m², while outdoor yields cap out at 150g/plant.
GREEN GELATO AUTOMATIC
We don't need to tell you much about the parent strain of Green Gelato Automatic. Once upon a time, Thin Mint Cookies and Sunset Sherbet came together to create Green Gelato. The strain, to this day, is one of the most aromatic and potent ones around. Boasting a thunderous THC content of 24%, Green Gelato Automatic makes even photoperiod cultivars blush. It tastes as good as it hits, too, with a contrast of sweet and earthy flavours gracing the tongue. At the same time, a strong citrus aroma becomes the centre of focus. Speaking of focus and being at the centre, this strain is great for buckling down on work or socialising at parties.
Usually, the best strains are the hardest to grow, but this strain is low-risk with high-reward. You'll be able to harvest in as little as 9–10 weeks after it sprouts, with hefty benefits in return. Indoors, plants will reach 70–120cm high and yield up to 450g/m². Outdoor growers will see plants of 100–120cm tall, offering about 100–175 grams each.
