There is an old saying that goes, “the more you know, the more you grow” and this also applies to marijuana plants. If you are new to growing cannabis or a budding weed connoisseur, you will more than likely hear the topic come up about the differences between indica and sativa strains. To help understand the long history of marijuana plant breeding and be a better grower, (in addition to you being able to sound like an expert the next time a strain topic comes up), we have provided the answers for you here.
Geographic Origin
There are so many differences and varieties of indica and sativa dominant strains because they come in a multitude of different growth patterns, qualities, and effects. One of the reasons that cannabis strains `are broken down into indica or sativa categories is to help determine how well they will adapt to a wide range of different environments. To trace their origins:
Indica – Most varieties come from the Middle East, Central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. Many strains originate from Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, northern India, Tibet, Turkey, Morocco, and so on.
Sativa – Originate from areas closer to the equator to include Jamaica, Colombia, Mexico, Thailand, Southeast Asia, and southern India, among other regions.
Physical Appearance
Indicas tend to be shorter and bushier because they are more suited for growing in mountainous areas that have harsher climates and conditions. They often develop thick coats or resin as protection for this reason. Compared to sativas, indicas are often much shorter in stature and often preferred for indoor cultivation.
Sativas are much taller plants and tend to thrive in areas much closer to the equator. These strains often need more time to grow when compared to indicas and this is why growers often prefer this strain for outdoor grows. In addition, you can tell the differences in strains by looking at the leaves. Indicas tend to have a broader leaf while sativas are more slender.
Differences in Flowering Time
Indica – 45-65 days
Sativa – 60-90 days
Differences in Yield
The size of the plant will determine how much you will harvest, but for healthy plants, there is average to better than average yields:
Indica – 1.5-2.5 oz. per plant
Sativa – 3-16 oz. per plant
The Effects Are Not the Same
Indicas tend to be more relaxing and have more full body effects while sativas tend to be uplifting, cerebral, and good for creativity. Because of this contrast, some users prefer to use sativas during the daytime and indicas at night. Basically, a sativa strain is great for doing activities or getting work done while indicas are preferred for chilling out, listening to music, or getting some rest.
Each subspecies is also affiliated with a variety of different medicinal benefits. Indicas are usually relied on for insomnia, anxiety, or pain relief. Sativas are more helpful for depression, fatigue, ADD, and other mood disorders.
Kush or Haze?
Nowadays, there are so many names for strains out there; it is hard to know if you have a true indica or sativa strain. However, most reputable seed companies that sell indica strains have names that are referred to as “Kush” and sativas often go by “Haze”. Whichever your preference, you now know the differences to help you choose the best strains that are right for you.
