Blueberry is a popular and flavoursome indica dominant hybrid with an impressive genetic backbone. It is a three-way cross between an indica Afghani parent and sativa Thai and Purple Thai variant parents. Blueberry was originally developed by DJ Short in the 1970s or 80s, a prolific breeder who has been called the “Willy Wonka of Pot”.
Unsurprisingly, the strain has a distinct smell of fresh blueberries and a taste that has made it a favourite across the world. It was awarded top marks in the 2000 High Times Cannabis Cup for Best Indica and best overall strain. Its THC content ranges from 15% up to 24%.
The strain’s flowers are small and densely packed, as is typical of indica dominant strains. The dark green leaves often have traces of purple and red thanks to a high concentration of pigments called anthocyanins. If the plants are exposed to lower temperatures during the growing period then the pigments are activated, resulting in colourful hues. The leaves are coloured in almost transparent trichomes and these make the buds very sticky and difficult to break up by hand. When cured properly the flowers smell strongly of fresh blueberries, when the buds are broken open scents of spice and musk become apparent. When burnt, the smoke is smooth with a sweet blueberry taste.
Blueberry is often described as a “one hit and quit” strain due to its potency. Users are quickly hit by a sense of physical heaviness that may be disorientating in situations that require mobility and coordination. However, in the right setting this heaviness can translate into a therapeutic calmness. The sativa component of the hybrid provides slight mental effects in the form of a euphoric uplift, leaving smokers feeling chatty or giggly. In high enough doses, Blueberry will leave users heavy and couchlocked. It is often used medicinally for pain relief and it can help with symptoms of stress, anxiety and PTSD. It is also excellent at inducing deep sleep so is a popular choice for those with sleep problems. The high from Blueberry is said to last longer than average.
If clippings are taken from a mature and healthy plant then Blueberry can be grown as a clone. It is also possible to buy seeds. The creator DJ Short has a legal claim to the “ancestral and parental breeding stock and intellectual development rights”, but there are other seeds available from different breeders.
The strain can be grown indoors and outdoors but outdoors growing requires moderate humidity and consistent daytime temperatures of between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Indoors, the plants will grow short and bushy, and rarely exceed 3.5 feet tall. They have a good leaf-to-bud ratio so minimal trimming is needed of broad fan leaves. The plants flower within 8 to 10 weeks when grown indoors and produce a moderate yield of about 1.5 ounces of flower per square foot of plant.
Blueberry is an excellent strain for relaxed night-time use, and is a popular choice with those looking to unwind either alone or with a group of friends. Its impressive genetics means that it has been used to crossbreed and produce other popular strains such as Blue Dream and Blueberry Kush.
