Whitaker Blues

Whitaker Blues is an indica-dominant hybrid that won’t give you the blues but might just help you get over them. This strain, created by famed breeder DJ Short, is a cross between Short’s own unique Blueberry and indica Quimby. The result is a deeply aromatic flower with shades of blue and purple in its leaves that delivers therapeutic, relaxing effects. Whitaker Blues’ THC content has been measured at between 15% and 28%.

Whitaker Blues is distinguished by medium to large flowers that adhere in a tapered shape, somewhat like miniature pinecones. The buds are unmistakable indica, with a dense structure and small leaves that spiral tightly inward toward their central stems. These leaves themselves are a vibrant spring green and, occasionally, shades of pale lavender and blue as the strain’s name suggests. These surprising hues come about when cold weather in the growing process activates pigments called anthocyanins. Finally, Whitaker Blues’ flowers are completely caked in icy, translucent trichomes, giving them a sky-high potency.

Flowers of Whitaker Blues give off the sweet aroma of Blueberry, but with a funk edge. There are also some more mellow notes of tree-fruit hanging underneath. Meanwhile, grinding up these tight buds yields some of the herbal character passed on from grandparent strain Haze. When combusted, Whitaker Blues burns with a very smooth and easily palatable smoke. This smooth smoke tastes like berries with some hints of vanilla on the exhale.

The high from Whitaker Blues is a creeper and may not make itself known until several minutes after consumers have inhaled its thick, fruity smoke. Eventually, this indica exerts itself in the form of a concerted pressure around the temples and eyes. This increase in blood flow can also result in a flushing in the face and an increase in salivation (whether or not the smoker is thinking about food). Not long after these odd feelings take hold, Whitaker blues begins to distort smokers’ perceptions, making certain external stimuli like sounds or colors seem more intense. If not entirely freaked out by this change in seeing the world, consumers can revel in these psychedelic effects by putting on some spacey music (for pun’s sake, maybe the Moody Blues?) or watching an engaging movie. Within an hour or so — and sometimes even sooner — Whitaker Blues’ body high starts to sink in, weighing down limbs and eyelids in equal measure. Horizontal is probably the most comfortable position to be in as you succumb to this potent bud’s physical sedation. Deep breathing happens more freely and easily, as any knots of physical tension may find sudden release. Smokers are not likely to find inspiration or productivity with this dreamy bud; fortunately, though, its body melt its tailor-made for kicking back and enjoying anything from a binge-watching session to a nap. Indeed, in the right set and setting, Whitaker Blues can even help insomniacs find a deep and restful sleep. Because of its mostly relaxing vibes, Whitaker Blues is best enjoyed at nighttime — or at least on a day when you don’t have anything else planned.

Whitaker Blues can also have several uses for medical cannabis patients. Its mellow energy can temporarily soothe the harsh symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety. The strain can also take the sting out of physical pain, whether it’s deep-seated and disease-related, or more of a minor irritation like a headache. As noted, this sleepy bud can also be a boon to insomniacs. Because it is not known to bring about intense, recursive patterns of thinking, Whitaker Blues is a good option for patients who are prone to panic or who have a low THC tolerance.

Seeds of Whitaker Blues are available for purchase online. Once obtained, the strain can be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation calls for a semi-humid climate with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Its plants tend to be short and bushy with solid horizontal branching patterns, and can be easily accommodated indoors. Gardeners looking to bring out the plants’ eye-catching indigo shades should expose them to nighttime temperatures between 10 to 15 degrees below average just before flowering begins. Harvest time comes at around 8 to 9 weeks after planting.

This powerful strain is great indica for cannabis newbies and veterans alike. Its fruity, luxurious flavor profile makes a nice dessert-time smoke.