Cultivation
Cannabis is illegal in the United States, so no one really knows what species exist. Sativa indica ruderalis is considered as the three major species of Cannabis. However, top strains are sometimes mixed to make hybrids.
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Cannabis Ruderalis
Ruderalis, although not as widely used as indica or Sativa in the past few years, has been gaining in popularity. This plant is native to Central Russia and has very low THC.
The Classification
Named after the botanist term ruderal (hardy plants that are not domesticated), ruderalis is a name for cannabis strains with a ruderal species. The ruderalis classification is given to any cannabis breed that can survive in extreme conditions and does not require human cultivation. In recent years, indoor cultivators have begun to use the ruderalis characteristics to develop new hybrids.
Plant Characteristics
This stalky species of cannabis only grows to a height of 1 to 21⁄2 feet tall (30.5cm to .75m) and produces small, chunky buds. The ruderalis flowering cycle is what makes it different from indica or sativa. The ruderalis flowering cycle, unlike other cannabis varieties, is determined by its maturation and not the seasonal changes in the length of the night. This process is known as autoflowering. Auto-flowering may begin as soon as in 21 days.
Hybrids
Hybrids are the result of growers combining their best indica, ruderalis, and sativa strains. Afghanica is a well-known example of a hybrid. Once mistakenly identified as an indica strain, this strain is actually an indica dominant strain that produces a powerful and sedating high. The plant is suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. It can reach a height of between 1 and 2 meters (between 5 and 6 feet) depending on its environment.
An autoflowering hybrid strain is also a popular type. This is a result of crossbreeding with ruderalis. This hybrid, which is very popular among growers due to its short seed-to-harvest time and ability to bloom when it’s mature instead of when the seasons change, makes it easy to grow.
Reprinted with permission from Alpha Books (an imprint of DK) a division within Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2016 Dorling Kindersley Limited. All rights reserved.
Originally published in Issue 26 of Cannabis Now. LEAR MORE
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