OG Kush: The Definitive Strain Review

OG Kush: The Definitive Strain Review

Genetics:

OG Kush is one of the most iconic and widely recognized cannabis strains in the world. While its exact genetic lineage is shrouded in mystery, it is widely believed to be a cross between Chemdawg, Lemon Thai, and Hindu Kush. OG Kush’s popularity has led to numerous variations and crossbreeds, each carrying the hallmark qualities of its parent strain.

For Brandon and Colton Wells, OG Kush has always been an important reference in their breeding program, especially in combination with Triangle Kush. Many of the strains they’ve worked on at WellSpring Genetics carry OG Kush’s signature earthy, piney, and citrusy notes, as well as its potent effects. Their influence is particularly noticeable in strains like WellSpring OG, which combines OG Kush’s powerful effects with the resin-heavy genetics of Triangle Kush.

Visual Appearance:

OG Kush is known for its dense, chunky buds that are coated with a thick layer of frosty trichomes. The flowers often have an olive green color with bright orange pistils peeking through. The trichome coverage on OG Kush is especially impressive, making it ideal for those who are looking for a strain with high resin production. The bud structure tends to be tight and compact, which is typical of the indica-dominant strains.

The strain’s appearance is unmistakable, and its resin-rich nature makes it a favorite for concentrate production.

Taste and Flavors:

OG Kush offers a complex and robust flavor profile. The initial taste is earthy, with hints of pine and citrus, followed by a sharp, spicy aftertaste that lingers on the palate. The diesel flavor commonly associated with OG Kush is also prominent, adding an extra layer of complexity to the strain.

The flavor is bold and full-bodied, making it a favorite for those who appreciate strong, earthy, and herbal tastes with a bit of sweetness and spice.

Aroma:

OG Kush’s aroma is pungent and immediately recognizable. It carries a diesel-like scent, mixed with earthy, piney, and citrus notes. The fragrance is rich, with an underlying spicy and skunky aroma that fills the room once the jar is opened. When broken apart, OG Kush releases a strong and pungent odor that can be smelled from a distance.

The combination of these aromas makes OG Kush an enticing strain for those who enjoy bold, earthy scents.

Terpene Profile:

OG Kush’s terpene profile is dominated by the following terpenes:

• Caryophyllene: The dominant terpene, contributing to OG Kush’s spicy, peppery flavor. Caryophyllene is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and for being able to bind to CB2 receptors in the body.

• Myrcene: Adds earthy, herbal, and musky notes to the aroma and flavor. Myrcene also contributes to the relaxing, sedative effects of OG Kush.

• Limonene: Present in smaller quantities, limonene provides citrusy, uplifting notes to OG Kush, which balance out the heavier, earthier qualities.

• Pinene: Pinene adds a piney aroma to the strain, offering mild cognitive benefits like improved memory and focus.

Effects:

OG Kush is a highly potent hybrid with strong effects that can be felt immediately. The initial onset typically produces a powerful, uplifting cerebral effect that boosts mood and increases focus. The sativa influence of OG Kush can help improve energy levels and creativity, making it great for social activities or creative work.

As the effects progress, the indica side of OG Kush starts to take hold, leading to a relaxing body high that eases muscle tension and relieves stress. Despite being relaxing, it doesn’t tend to produce the heavy couch-lock effect that some other indica strains might cause, allowing users to stay functional and alert.

Medical Uses:

• Pain Relief: OG Kush’s potent effects make it an excellent choice for individuals dealing with chronic pain, muscle spasms, and inflammation.

• Stress and Anxiety: The calming body high and euphoric cerebral effects help alleviate stress, anxiety, and even depression. It’s often used to help combat insomnia as well.

• Mood Elevation: The uplifting nature of OG Kush makes it a popular choice for those looking to enhance their mood or combat feelings of depression.

• Appetite Stimulation: Like many THC-rich strains, OG Kush can stimulate appetite, making it useful for patients dealing with appetite loss due to illness or treatment.

Duration:

The effects of OG Kush last around 2 to 3 hours, with the initial cerebral effects peaking within the first 30 minutes and the relaxing body effects lingering longer. The high is powerful but not overly long-lasting, making it a good strain for those who want a manageable yet potent experience.

Composition and Cannabinoid Levels:

• THC (Delta-9-THC): 20% – 25%

  • OG Kush is known for its high THC content, typically falling between 20% and 25%. This makes it a potent strain that’s best suited for experienced users.

• THC-A: 22% – 28%

  • As with many cannabis strains, OG Kush contains a significant amount of THC-A, which converts to THC when heated.

• CBD: 0.1% – 0.5%

  • OG Kush has low CBD content, which is typical for strains bred primarily for THC potency.

• CBG: 0.1% – 1.0%

  • CBG contributes to OG Kush’s anti-inflammatory effects and can help with muscle relaxation.

Growing Difficulty:

OG Kush can be moderately difficult to grow. While it is adaptable and resilient, it requires a grower with some experience. The plant can be prone to mold and mildew in humid conditions, so it’s essential to maintain proper ventilation and airflow.

It also requires consistent light schedules and careful attention to its nutrient needs, particularly in the flowering phase.

Preferred Nutrients:

OG Kush benefits from a balanced nutrient regimen, with moderate levels of nitrogen during vegetative growth and phosphorus and potassium during flowering to enhance bud development. It’s important not to overfeed OG Kush, as it can be sensitive to nutrient burn.

Pruning Tips:

Regular pruning and topping are recommended to promote lateral growth and improve overall yield. It’s also beneficial to remove lower, less productive branches to allow more light to reach the main colas, which will increase the size and density of the buds.

Environmental Conditions:

OG Kush thrives in moderate temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C - 27°C). The strain also prefers a humidity level of around 40% to 50% to prevent mold and mildew buildup. It grows best indoors, where the temperature and humidity can be precisely controlled.

Flowering Time:

OG Kush has a flowering time of 8 to 9 weeks, which is typical for hybrid strains. Indoor growers can expect dense, resin-rich buds by the end of this period.

Consumption Methods:

OG Kush can be consumed in a variety of ways:

• Smoking: As flower in a joint, bong, or pipe.

• Vaporizing: Using a vaporizer to preserve the flavor and reduce the harshness on the throat.

• Concentrates: Given its high resin content, OG Kush is often used to produce concentrates such as shatter, wax, and live resin.

Onset Time:

The onset time of OG Kush is within 5 to 10 minutes when smoked or vaporized. The cerebral effects kick in first, followed by the relaxing body high.

Tolerance Level:

OG Kush is best suited for users with moderate to high tolerance due to its potency. Beginners may find it overwhelming, especially in higher doses.

Ideal Time of Use:

OG Kush is versatile enough for both daytime and evening use, depending on your tolerance and the amount consumed. It’s great for socializing or creative activities but also works well for relaxing at night.

Notable Awards or Recognition:

OG Kush has won several awards, including Cannabis Cup victories, and is often ranked as one of the best strains in the world by cannabis enthusiasts.

Cultural or Regional Popularity:

OG Kush has global popularity, especially in regions like California, Colorado, and Oregon, where it is widely available in dispensaries. It is a staple in the West Coast cannabis culture and is often used as a reference point for other hybrid strains.

Historical Anecdotes:

OG Kush is believed to have originated in Southern California in the early 1990s. While its exact origins are still debated, it quickly became a favorite due to its unique flavor and potent effects. Its influence on the cannabis community is undeniable, and it has been used to create many other popular strains.

Breeding Information:

OG Kush was bred by unknown breeders in the 1990s, though it has since been refined and passed down by various cannabis cultivators. It has become the genetic backbone of many modern hybrids, including WellSpring OG, a strain developed by Brandon Wells and Colton Wells at WellSpring Genetics.

User Testimonials:

• “OG Kush is a classic for a reason. It’s perfect for when I need to unwind and let go of the stresses of the day. It never fails to deliver a strong, relaxing high.” – John, California

• “I love OG Kush! It’s my go-to strain for managing my chronic pain while staying functional. It gives me just the right amount of relaxation without putting me to sleep.” – Rachel, Colorado

Where to Buy Flower:

OG Kush is widely available at licensed dispensaries, particularly in California, Colorado, and Oregon. You can also find it through online retailers offering delivery in legal states.

Where to Buy Seeds:

OG Kush seeds can be purchased from reputable breeders and seed banks like ILoveGrowingMarijuana, SeedSupreme, and Greenhouse Seeds. Many online stores offer feminized and regular OG Kush seeds.