Pineapple Express

Pineapple Express or Sativa-dominant Hybrid (60% Sativa / 40% Indica) is a strain that typically contains THC levels between 18% – 25% and CBD levels ranging from < 1% (Minimal). Known for its Tropical, Sweet Pineapple, Citrus, and Earthy Pine profile, this strain has a growth expectation of being Medium (3.5 – 6 feet / 110cm – 140cm) in height, with a nutrient demand that is Moderate to High; appreciates Nitrogen in Veg and Silica for stem strength..

This Sativa-dominant Hybrid (60% Sativa / 40% Indica) is of the Genetype: Photoperiod (though Autoflower variants exist). The Pineapple Express strain has 3 phases of the growing cycle.

The first phase is the Seedling Phase. Once you have decided to grow Pineapple Express in either soil or hydroponiclay, the ph levels need to be monitored. The ph level desired by Sativa-dominant Hybrid (60% Sativa / 40% Indica) is 6.0 – 6.8 and 5.5 – 6.0 hydroponically. During this infancy stage, Pineapple Express needs to maintain a target temperature of 70°F – 85°F (21°C – 29°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 50% – 60% RH, the iconic serrated leaves will just begin to show themselves. During this critical Phase 1 of the Sativa-dominant Hybrid (60% Sativa / 40% Indica) growing cycle the plant is establishing a strong root sytem. Beginners often over water these fragile seedlings. Do not drown your seeds. You seedling Pineapple Express needs care and gentle light. The recommended light cycle for growing Pineapple Express is 18/6 (Light/Dark) for the first cycle, which should last .

The next is the Vegetative Phase. The Pineapple Express will focus entirely on size and structural integity. The temperature needs also change for phase 2. If a target temperature of 70°F – 80°F (21°C – 27°C) is maintained and a target humidity of 40% – 50% RH is achieved, the Sativa-dominant Hybrid (60% Sativa / 40% Indica) will grow stems, branches and plenty of large fan leaves. This Photoperiod (though Autoflower variants exist) 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 (Light/Dark) 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. Pineapple Express 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 Excellent; responds well to Topping, LST, and ScrOG..

The most exciting phase, when growing Photoperiod (though Autoflower variants exist) is the Flowering Phase. The plants adulthood lasts . It is at this phase that the light cycle changes for the last time. Pineapple Express will produce the most flowers when the light cycle is 12/12 (Some growers drop to 11/13 in the final week). Keep the temperature and humity controlled at 65°F – 75°F (18°C – 24°C) and 30% – 40% RH (Crucial to prevent bud rot) 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 Pineapple Express 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 (60% Sativa / 40% Indica) with a desired gorwth profile that will be:
Vigorous branching; develops dense, resinous, tapered colas.

Growers Notes: Hobby Grower’s Perspective
Because of its Hawaiian heritage, this strain loves a warm, Mediterranean-style climate. It is naturally resistant to many pests and molds, but the density of the buds in the final weeks (Phase 3) makes it susceptible to Botrytis (Bud Rot) if your humidity isn't dropped below 45%.
Lineage: Trainwreck x Hawaiian
Breeder: G13 Labs (Original), though many reputable banks (Barney's Farm, FastBuds) offer versions.
Primary Terpenes: Myrcene (Herbal), Caryophyllene (Peppery), Limonene (Citrus)