Transformer

Although it may not give you superpowers worthy of a Michael Bay action movie, Transformer is a potent bud that’s liable to provide an energetic new outlook. This balanced strain was created by Gage Green Genetics, holistically-minded growers who supply West Coast dispensaries with seeds and flowers. Transformer is a cross between two of Gage Green’s own boutique strains — the even-handed Inferno Haze and the pungent Joseph OG. The result is a hybrid whose effects are buzzy and eye-opening. Transformer’s THC content has been measured at between 14% and 22%.

Large flowers establish this strain’s bag appeal from the get-go. Their shape, with an elongated, almost cylindrical structure, is also visually appealing. The relatively loose and fluffy leaves are a bright shade of lime green and are twisted through with bright orange hairs — which are actually pistils, structure meant to catch pollen from would-be fertilizing male plants. Cloudy white trichomes dot the surfaces of Transformer’s flowers, giving them a white sheen and a very sticky texture.

When properly cured, Transformer’s buds burst with a rich, fruity scent. This refreshing citrus aroma is undercut by a funky, Kushy odor. Meanwhile, grinding up the buds or breaking them apart gives off distinct notes of woodsy pine. When combusted, Transformer burns with a smooth and easily palatable smoke. This smoke carries a fruity and herbal taste on the exhale, somewhat reminiscent of grandparent strain and breeding staple Haze.

Transformer wastes no time, hitting users quickly with a tingle around the eyes and the front of the forehead. Initial effects manifest in smokers’ heads, leading them to become absorbed in their own thoughts; some may also detect changes in sensory perception, with certain sights and sounds seeming more intense than they otherwise might. This engaged and thoughtful mindset can be a great way to power through a load of work — whether it’s creative and open-ended or more analytical and problem-oriented. Transformer can also enhance exercise with its physical energy and positive mental vibes. As the high wears on or as dosage is bumped up, a mild body buzz sets in. This physical high is marked by weighty limbs, heavy eyelids, and, in a secure and comfortable setting, a tendency to zone out. Whether smokers end up energized or relaxed, Transformer is a good strain in social settings, where it can inspired camaraderie and free-flowing conversation. Alternatively, enjoyed alone, it can provoke much-needed introspection. Because its effects are so versatile and neither overly stimulating or sedative, Transformer is appropriate for use at any time of day.

Transformer’s far-reaching effects may also have application for medical cannabis patients. Primarily, it can aid focus for those with attention deficit disorders, helping them to concentrate on a single task at once. The strain may also temporarily relieve some of the difficult symptoms of stress and depression. Somatically speaking, Transformer can dull aches and pains, whether they’re incidental, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also soothe more everyday irritations like headaches and nausea. Transformer is not recommended for patients who may be prone to panic, as its early sativa effects can bring about the kind of intense, recursive thinking that can lead to paranoia.

Seeds of Transformer are available through several digital retailers. It can be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation requires a semi-humid climate with consistent daytime sunlight and temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. This strain’s sativa genes express themselves in very tall plants; if cultivating indoors, growers should prune their crops early in the vegetative stage to train them to fit in limited space. Additionally, as flowers proliferate, growers may need to support branches with artificial support like stakes or wooden dowels. Transformer flowers within a long 9 to 11 weeks when grown indoors and is ready for harvest in mid October when grown outdoors.

After harvest, growers should also be sure to cure their buds. Curing requires trimmed flowers to be hung upside-down for a week in 70-degree surroundings with 50% humidity. Once dry, the buds should be sealed in airtight containers and stored in slightly more moist conditions of 60-65% humidity.

Transformer is a must for indica and sativa lovers alike. If breaking it out at a party, be sure to bring enough to share, as its rich, complex aroma is sure to turn some heads.