Harlequin

Harlequin or Sativa-dominant Hybrid (approx. 75/25) is a strain that typically contains THC levels between 4% – 10% (Commonly ~7%) and CBD levels ranging from 8% – 15% (5:2 CBD:THC ratio is the gold standard). Known for its Balanced / Medicinal / Functional profile, this strain has a growth expectation of being Medium to Tall (approx. 110cm – 150cm+) in height, with a nutrient demand that is Moderate-Heavy: Thrives on Nitrogen in Veg; needs a P-K boost mid-flower..

This Sativa-dominant Hybrid (approx. 75/25) is of the Genetype: Hybrid (Colombian, Thai, Swiss Sativa, and Nepali Indica). The Harlequin strain has 3 phases of the growing cycle.

The first phase is the Seedling Phase. Once you have decided to grow Harlequin in either soil or hydroponiclay, the ph levels need to be monitored. The ph level desired by Sativa-dominant Hybrid (approx. 75/25) is 6.0 – 7.0 and 5.5 – 6.5 hydroponically. During this infancy stage, Harlequin needs to maintain a target temperature of $70\text{–}85^\circ\text{F}$ ($21\text{–}29^\circ\text{C}$) for 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seed germinates, it will sprout it's first set of round leaves, or the cotyledons. If you are able to maintain the target humidity of 60% – 70%, the iconic serrated leaves will just begin to show themselves. During this critical Phase 1 of the Sativa-dominant Hybrid (approx. 75/25) growing cycle the plant is establishing a strong root sytem. Beginners often over water these fragile seedlings. Do not drown your seeds. You seedling Harlequin needs care and gentle light. The recommended light cycle for growing Harlequin is 18/6 (standard) or 20/4 (vigorous growth) for the first cycle, which should last .

The next is the Vegetative Phase. The Harlequin will focus entirely on size and structural integity. The temperature needs also change for phase 2. If a target temperature of $70\text{–}80^\circ\text{F}$ ($21\text{–}27^\circ\text{C}$) is maintained and a target humidity of 40% – 50% is achieved, the Sativa-dominant Hybrid (approx. 75/25) will grow stems, branches and plenty of large fan leaves. This Hybrid (Colombian, Thai, Swiss Sativa, and Nepali Indica) is trying to build it's own solar panel of leaves to absorb energy. It is critical to maintain a proper light cycle of 12/12 for the entire phase 2 schedule. This consistent energy will help plant grow bigger without producing flowers, focusing it's energy on growing tall and strong. Harlequin is at it's most resilient and may grow quickly. As phase 2 comes to an end, it may be topped or tied down, as it's training suitability is considered High: Responds excellently to ScROG, topping, and LST..

The most exciting phase, when growing Hybrid (Colombian, Thai, Swiss Sativa, and Nepali Indica) is the Flowering Phase. The plants adulthood lasts . It is at this phase that the light cycle changes for the last time. Harlequin will produce the most flowers when the light cycle is 12/12. Keep the temperature and humity controlled at $65\text{–}75^\circ\text{F}$ ($18\text{–}24^\circ\text{C}$) and 30% – 40% (Crucial for preventing mold) so you can really watch this plant strecth and almost double in height. It will want to start producing early into the flowering process.

You will know the Harlequin is ready when the white hairs (pistils) turn amber/brown and the resin glands (trichomes) look milky or cloudy, rather than clear. Cutting the plant down even a week too early can significantly reduce the potency and weight of your harvest. Patience in the flowering phase will provide the best possible outomce of Sativa-dominant Hybrid (approx. 75/25) with a desired gorwth profile that will be:
Upright Sativa vigor with dense, Indica-style bud structure.

Growers Notes: Hobby Grower’s Notes
The "CBD Window": For Harlequin, harvest timing is critical. If you are growing primarily for CBD, many hobbyists recommend harvesting slightly earlier (when trichomes are mostly milky/cloudy) rather than waiting for heavy amber. CBD can degrade faster than THC.

Structure & Support: Because of its Sativa heritage, it has a "stretch" phase during the first 2-3 weeks of flowering. You will need stakes or a trellis net, as the buds become surprisingly heavy and dense, which can snap the lanky Sativa branches.

Mold Sensitivity: Harlequin’s buds are denser than typical Sativas. In Phase 3 (Late Flowering), keep your humidity below 45% and ensure high airflow. It is somewhat prone to botrytis (bud rot) if the air is stagnant.

Training: It is a "top-heavy" plant. Topping once early in Veg and using a Screen of Green (ScROG) is the most efficient way to manage its height indoors.
Lineage: Colombian Gold x Thai Sativa x Swiss Sativa x Nepali Indica
Breeder: Mr. Green (House of David) / NorStar Genetics
Primary Terpenes: Myrcene (Earth/Mango), Pinene (Pine), Caryophyllene (Spice)