After a strenuous day, I am preparing to write this report while indulging in a refreshing and therapeutic vape session with the recently released photoperiod-dependent strain from the premium seed bank, Sweet Seeds®. I am talking about the marvellous and exquisite Strawberry Cola Sherbert F1 Fast Version® (SWS106).

This gorgeous strain with dense buds is the result of the cross between a premium photoperiod-dependent elite clone of the renowned Californian Sunset Sherbet strain and a specially selected autoflowering genetic line of Strawberry Cola Auto. It belongs to the distinguished F1 Fast Version® family, a concept pioneered by Sweet Seeds®. These plants are recognized for their exceptionally fast flowering, significantly shortening the bloom cycle and allowing for harvesting up to 1 or 2 weeks earlier than their original versions.

These strains can offer significant benefits in grow operations where it is essential to anticipate to the first autumn rains. They are an excellent option for locations where low temperatures and high humidity can result in yield losses due to fungi attacks or even thefts during the final stages of growth. Furthermore, they are popular among indoor growers who cultivate perpetually, as they allow for more harvests per year and produce high-quality flowers in a remarkably short time. I suggest visiting the Sweet Seeds® website, where you can explore an extensive collection of such strains and access further information.

Love of my loves

Embarking on a new strain always brings up typical doubts, such as whether the plants will grow like the one featured in the catalog photo, how difficult it will be to grow the plants, how much they will stretch during flowering, and whether they will be sensitive to fertilizers or have too strong of an odor. As responsible growers, we hold our dear plant in high regard and aspire for its thriving. We aim to achieve beauty and health, which enhances the effects and flavors of the final results. The process of growing captivates us with its beauty, and we reward it with exceptional care, resulting in a bountiful harvest that benefits both body and soul. In my opinion, the act of growing cannabis itself is a form of therapy.

Strawberry Cola Sherbert F1 Fast Version® thrives in various types of substrates and performs exceptionally well in hydroponic systems, such as RDWC. Personally, I grew this strain in Coco and was pleasantly surprised by the fat buds and the ease with which I obtained a generous harvest with just six plants. The beauty of its reddish-colored flowers that appeared in four out of six plants was breathtaking, with an abundance of resin and mind-blowing colors. I used 15 L pots and two COB 220W LED grids, ensuring that the area remained at optimal temperature and humidity parameters. I monitored the readings daily with a thermo-hygrometer, adjusting the extraction and air intake with timers, while using a heater to maintain room temperature above 18º C with the lights off and 22º C with the lights on.

As the grow operation was conducted in autumn, maintaining optimal temperature parameters was relatively easier. However, it is crucial to prevent excess humidity during the flowering stage as it can lead to mold growth and ruin the entire crop. To overcome this challenge, it is recommended to extract air from the cabinet without introducing outside air on humid days, increase fan power, use a heater to raise the temperature a few degrees to dry out the environment, and consider using dehumidifiers if necessary. Proper humidity control can significantly improve the quality and yield of the plants.

This strain is highly adaptable to full fertilization and can withstand high EC levels in both the vegetative and flowering stages. However, one plant showed some deficiencies in calcium and magnesium at the beginning of flowering, which were corrected by administering additional nutrients. These plants are not delicate, but keep in mind that they have a short flowering time of less than 8 weeks. It is crucial to avoid the overuse of fertilizers after the 5th week of the 12/12 cycle, as there may not be enough time to flush the plants properly, and they may appear too green at harvest. A recommended approach is to reduce nutrient inputs gradually when the first pistils turn brown, stop all nitrogen inputs, and give only a couple of waterings with specific fertilizers for the late stage of flowering. Enzymes can be used for watering once a week until harvest.

The Wonderful Harvest

Reaching the end of a grow operation and seeing your plants flourish is an incredibly gratifying experience. This outcome is largely dependent on starting with high-quality seeds, such as those from Sweet Seeds®. You can shoot straight because you know that all the selection and breeding work done by the breeders of this seed bank ultimately translates into plants with great vigor and homogeneity, with top-level results, within reach of novice or more demanding growers. Strawberry Cola Sherbert F1 Fast Version® is a predominantly indica (80%) strain with a moderate size, perfect for grow operations with height restrictions. This cultivar’s large calyxes, bountiful trichomes, and strikingly red flowers never fail to captivate. The bouquet of terpenes is another highlight, leaving growers and enthusiasts alike in a state of bliss.

This strain boasts a delightful blend of aromas, featuring prominent notes of red fruits and cola with a subtle acidic touch, all underpinned by a refreshing and slightly earthy and woody background. When vaporized, its flavor is truly exquisite, with a lingering and intense retro-nasal taste. The fruity notes of fresh and tangy strawberries dominate the palate, complemented by a rich woodsy and mossy undertone, reminiscent of a journey through a lush forest. Its effects are truly captivating, promoting relaxation, introspection, and a sense of harmony with the surrounding world. Who said that: “With a coordinated and profound joy, I felt linked to the shadow of the tree, to the flight of the bird, to the rock of the mountain*…”?

 Sweet Harvests!
         Words and photos: JAYPP
         *You will find the answer in J. del Valle Inclán 😉
Article extracted from the Weed World magazine, may 2023

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Sweet Seeds S.L is not responsible for the misuse of the information contained in this article. Cultivation of cannabis may constitute a criminal offence or administrative misdemeanour; please refer to the legislation on cannabis in your place of residence. Sweet Seeds S.L. does not intend in any case to incite non-legal practices.