Gelato is a hybrid cannabis strain that is derived from a cross between the strains Girl Scout Cookies and Sherbert Weed. The crossing of these two high-end phenotypes has produced a deliciously unique and rare strain. Sometimes also called Larry Bird, Gelato is the creation of San Fransisco’s Cookie Farm Genetics. Its overwhelming flavor and high THC content have quickly made it one of the most popular flowers in its home state of California.
The High
As a well-balanced hybrid, Gelato produces a mix of indica and sativa effects. However, its 55/45 ratio permits its indica characteristics to be slightly more pronounced.
The unique high produced by this strain is simultaneously relaxing and stimulating. Despite an immediate sensation of profound physical relaxation, productivity and creativity are still very much possible. Gelato’s energizing effects build up over time, peaking at the high point of the trip. If you are looking for clear-headedness and intense focus, you may be better off smoking a strain with more sativa genetics.
The most commonly reported effects of Gelato include euphoria, relaxation, creativity, and uplifting sensations of happiness. As the high winds down, sleepiness and hunger tend to set in.
Gelato has become a favorite among both recreational and medical marijuana consumers. It is most commonly used to relieve stress, eliminate depression, mitigate physical pain, fight insomnia, and stimulate appetite. It has also been known to combat inflammation, muscle spasms, and cramps.
Gelato’s soaring THC levels range from 15%-25%, packing a punch in every toke. Its THC content might not make it a good choice for beginners. Amateur smokers who decide to take the plunge are advised to start low and go slow with this strain. However, seasoned tokers will love its combination of delicious flavors and potent effects. Moreover, its vigorous potency and balanced effects make it an excellent strain for micro-dosing both at night, and during the day.
As a very well-balanced hybrid, Gelato produces very few side effects. The most common side effects are dry mouth, dry eyes, and sleepiness. However, these side effects are prevalent among most marijuana strains. Additionally, they can be easily managed by staying hydrated with water and applying eye drops. Inexperienced smokers may experience some initial anxiety due to this strain’s immense THC levels and stimulating sativa effects.
Appearance And Flavour
When grown correctly, Gelato has the potential to develop some of the most beautiful and alluring buds possible. Due to the strain’s high THC levels, Gelato’s buds are typically coated in a shiny layer of trichomes. The plant tends to grow green and purple, with yellow and orange hairs littered across its cola sites. The blanket of trichomes that cover this plant’s natural colors gives it an illustrious green and purple shine.
Gelato has become infamous for its tantalizing flavor and delicious aroma. This strain features a nose-piercing citrusy aroma that can be detected from some distance away. As the herb is smoked, this alluring scent turns into delectably sweet smoke.
Gelato’s flavor is usually characterized as being sweet and fruity. This should come as no surprise since the name is named after an ice cream dessert. However, the addition of skunky and earthy tones makes this strain’s flavor truly unique. Once smoked, this strain develops a floral and fruity kick.
How To Grow Gelato
Gelato seeds develop into beautiful and aromatic plants that will catch the eye of even the most experienced grower. However, this strain is not easy to grow and, as such, it is not recommended for inexperienced or beginner growers.
Gelato can be grown both indoors and outdoors. When grown indoors, this strain has an average flowering time of 8 to 10 weeks. Its sizeable share of indica genetics ensures that this plant stays low, usually only growing to medium height. As such, this strain may be a particularly attractive option for indoor growers working with limited or restricted grow space.
Indoor growers should carefully consider this plant’s characteristics and requirements before attempting to grow it. For instance, its overwhelming aroma may require a superior filtration and ventilation system. Moreover, the need for constant humidity and temperature settings may not make it ideal for all indoor growing environments. If you do not have the proper indoor environment, it may be a better idea to give this strain a try outdoors.
When grown outdoors, Gelato will thrive in consistently warm and humid climates. Outdoor growers should ideally plan to grow through late summer and early fall, eventually harvesting their plants in mid-October.
Because this strain is so rare, its expected yields are relatively unknown. Despite this, experts assume that Gelato is capable of producing above-average yields due to its genetics. Both of its parent strains have developed reputations for their higher-than-average yields. Growers who have harvested Gelato have typically confirmed this assumption. Similarly to its parents Girl Scout Cookies and Sherbert, this strain should produce above-average yields in both indoor and outdoor conditions.
One of the main things that make this strain so difficult to grow is the rarity of its seeds. Because seeds of this strain are so hard to find, most Gelato plants are grown from clones. Moreover, this strain’s overpowering scent will require a dedicated growing space with a capable air filtration system. A grow tent or airtight grow container may be more suitable for this strain than an open grow room.
Additionally, in order to really bring out this plant’s natural purple color, growers will have to carefully control grow temperatures. For full coloration, the strain should be exposed to colder temperatures just before the plants begin their flowering period. This should stimulate the growth of the anthocyanin pigments that give it its purple hue.
Despite its high-maintenance profile, this strain is actually quite strong when it comes to natural resistance. The most common Gelato phenotype has developed a hefty resistance to bacteria, mold, and mildew. Moreover, it tends to hold up fairly well against predatorial insects like spider mites.
Similar Strains
Some strains that are similar to Gelato include:
- Girl Scout Cookies
- Blue Dream
- AK-47
- Blueberry
- Fruity Pebbles