Strains from the 80s: Exploring Cannabis Heritage
Buckle up, folks, because we’re embarking on a fascinating trip down memory lane, back to the wild world of the 1980s – a time of big hair, neon leggings, and the rise of some of the world’s most iconic cannabis strains. Before memes and smartphones, cannabis enthusiasts were cultivating strains that would lay the foundation…
Historical Context: A Decade of Change
The 80s was a time of change, not just because everyone was swapping their bell bottoms for parachute pants.
In the world of weed, the 80s was a transformative decade, marked by a shifting political climate and a booming cannabis industry that was starting to take root (pun intended).
Despite the Reagan-era war on drugs, the cannabis scene quietly evolved, with Amsterdam emerging as a haven for breeders and enthusiasts.
Who wouldn’t want to swap tales of their favorite cannabis strains over a warm cup of joe in a cozy Dutch coffee shop?
Seed Banks and Breeders: Pioneers of the 80s
Like any good story, ours is filled with intriguing characters who helped shape the 80s cannabis scene.
These pioneers were like the Steve Jobs and Bill Gates of the weed world, taking cannabis cultivation to new highs (pun intended) with their innovative seed banks and groundbreaking strains.
The Sensi Seed Club and Dutch Passion
Ben Dronkers and Henk van Dalen, the founding fathers of The Sensi Seed Club (1985) and Dutch Passion (1987), respectively.
These guys were like the superheroes of cannabis cultivation, bringing us some of the most legendary strains from the 80s.
So, next time you’re enjoying a smoke, take a moment to thank these trailblazers for their contributions to your chill session.
Arnhem’s Wonder: A Groundbreaking Strain
In the 80s, breeders weren’t just creating strains – they were creating superstars.
One such superstar was Arnhem’s Wonder, a revolutionary strain that won Amsterdam’s 1989 High Times competition.
Developed by the legendary Ingemar, this strain was a literal “wonder,” created by crossing a Brazilian sativa with an Indian plant from Kerala.
It’s like the cannabis version of a supergroup, and boy, did it rock the world!
Classic Strains from the 80s
Now, let’s get down to the good stuff – the strains.
The 80s gave birth to some of the most iconic cannabis strains, and their influence can still be felt in the modern marijuana market.
Neville’s Haze: A Tropical Journey
Picture yourself on a tropical island, the sun is shining, and you’re relaxing with a joint of Neville’s Haze.
This strain, a cross between a tropical landrace Sativa and a Northern Lights Indica, is like a beach vacation in bud form.
And just like those 80s beach movies, it’s a classic that never gets old.
Skunk #1: The Skunk Revolution
Ah, Skunk #1. Just like Madonna and Michael Jackson, it defined the 80s.
This three-way cross of Colombian Gold, Afghani Indica, and Mexican Sativa brought about a revolution in cannabis, much like MJ’s moonwalk did for dance.
Big Bud: Heavy Yields and Skunky Sweetness
Then there’s Big Bud, the Barry White of cannabis strains.
Like the soul singer, it’s big, bold, and full of love.
A cross between Skunk #1 and Northern Lights, it’s known for its heavy yields and skunky sweetness.
Colombian Gold: A Natural Sativa Treasure
Imagine striking gold, but instead of shiny metal, it’s a 100% natural Sativa strain.
That’s Colombian Gold for you, discovered in the 80s and still coveted for its golden hue and rich, sweet smoke.
Northern Lights: A Shining Star
Northern Lights, a strain as captivating as the aurora borealis, is known for its high yield and fast flowering.
It’s the cannabis equivalent of an 80s rock star, consistently topping the charts and leaving a lasting legacy.
Northern Lights Auto: Autoflowering Advancements
Thanks to advancements in the 80s, we were introduced to Northern Lights Auto, an autoflowering version of the classic strain.
Think of it as the “greatest hits” album, offering all the classics in a shorter growth cycle and with hefty yields.
Northern Light x Big Bud and Northern Lights #5 x Haze
And then we had the supergroups – Northern Light x Big Bud and Northern Lights #5 x Haze.
These strains brought together the best of their parents, creating unforgettable hits that still top the cannabis charts today.
Advancements in Cultivation Techniques
The 80s wasn’t just about neon and synth music; it was also a time of innovation in cannabis cultivation.
The introduction of feminized seeds gave growers more control while exploring exotic landraces brought new genetics to the scene.
Potency and Genetic Influence
Like a good 80s action movie, strains from the decade were all about power and impact.
While today’s marijuana is generally more potent, the 80s strains continue to influence modern hybrids, proving that, just like those 80s action heroes, they’ve still got it!
Conclusion: Honoring Cannabis Heritage
The 80s was more than just a decade; it was a turning point in cannabis history.
The classic strains, seed banks, and cultivation techniques that emerged during this time have left an indelible mark on the marijuana industry.
So, whether you’re enjoying a modern hybrid or an 80s classic, remember to honor the cannabis heritage that made it all possible.
After all, we wouldn’t have today’s diverse marijuana market without the pioneers of the past.
FAQ
What are the 7 original strains?
The seven original landrace strains are Afghani, Thai, Colombian Gold, Acapulco Gold, Hindu Kush, Panama Red, and Durban Poison.
What are the 4 types of strains?
The four types of strains are Indica, Sativa, Hybrid, and Ruderalis.
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