OG Kush Strain: Origins, Effects & Cultivation Guide

Whether you're a hardcore cannabis enthusiast or not, there's a chance you've heard of OG Kush. As the name implies, this is one of the most iconic strains available. People have enjoyed OG Kush for years, and it's passed on its genetics to countless new strains too. Explore our OG Kush guide to learn more about a fascinating part of cannabis history.

What is OG Kush?

OG Kush is a cannabis hybrid that's been beloved for decades. It's popular because it provides balanced effects, high THC levels, and a smooth, skunky aroma. When you think of the quintessential cannabis strain, there's a good chance you're thinking of OG Kush. As the name implies, OG Kush is the "original gangster" of cannabis.

History & genetics

OG Kush is so old that its exact origins are a little unknown. Most cannabis experts agree that it was first bred in Florida in the early 1990s by a breeder named Matt Berger. Berger was working on creating a cannabis strain that could withstand Florida's intense heat and humidity, so he crossed Hindu Kush, an Asian Indica, with Chemdawg, a hybrid of unknown origins. According to some, this original cross is where OG Kush came from.

Others believe that an LA breeder, Josh D, further developed the phenotype when he introduced some Lemon Thai cannabis genetics to the mix. Whatever its true origins, modern OG Kush contains a blend of Indicas and Sativas from Afghanistan, Thailand, and Colombia.

OG Kush strain effects and potency

OG Kush is a type of cannabis known as a 50/50 hybrid. This means it has a broad blend of both Indica and Sativa effects. Many reviewers mention that OG Kush makes them feel euphoric, talkative, and thoughtful which are all common Sativa sensations. Consumers also say that it helps them feel as relaxed and calm as an Indica does. Especially at higher doses, users often experience the typical Indica physical effects, so you may notice sensations of warmth, tingling, or buzzing throughout your body.

One of the many reasons OG Kush got so popular in the first place was its strength. This cannabis has a THC level of 18% which is quite high for cannabis strains from the 1990s. It's so strong that people can feel effects within a single inhalation, so make sure you use caution when consuming OG Kush.

OG Kush appearance, aroma & flavor

OG strains have a unique appearance with triangular, pale green buds surrounded by purple-streaked sugar leaves. Flowers are usually coated in a lot of glistening trichomes, and some pale orange pistils are also present.

One of the big reasons for OG Kush's popularity is its rich smell. The complex aroma layers earthy, skunky, and spicy scents. Some people also report smelling notes of fuel, lemon, and pine.

When you inhale OG Kush vapor, expect to get an intense rush of flavor. This cannabis is loaded with myrcene which provides a lot of classic, herbal, cannabis tastes. It also has plenty of limonene and caryophyllene which provide citrusy, peppery flavors.

Uses & consumption of OG Kush

OG Kush is an incredibly flexible cannabis. Its intense flavor shines even when the cannabis is mixed with edibles or turned into a concentrate. Some of the most popular ways to consume the OG Kush strain include smoking it in a bong, vaporizing dried cannabis in a PAX Plus, or placing a concentrate in a PAX Era.

However you prefer to consume it, the OG Kush strain pairs well with a variety of activities. For some people, it's a mellow cannabis that helps them unwind after a day at work. Others enjoy taking OG Kush before creative pursuits like painting. This balanced cannabis is useful for relaxing while still engaged.

Cultivating OG Kush strain

Most growers agree that OG Kush seeds are hard to grow, but the end results are worth the effort. With enough care and attention, this strain grows well indoors and outdoors. It flowers very quickly and is often ready to harvest in just eight weeks.

The main challenge of the OG Kush strain is that it's very sensitive to light and nutrient levels. OG Kush prefers warm temperatures and high levels of fertilizer. If you don't keep things as consistent as possible, OG Kush seedlings won't grow to their full potential. OG Kush is also very vulnerable to common pests and mildew, so make sure to keep humidity levels low.

Frequently asked questions about OG Kush cannabis

Check out the answers to these frequently asked questions about strains of OG Kush.

What does OG stand for?

According to most people, "OG" stands for "original" or "original gangster." Some cannabis fans suggest that the "OG" in OG Kush stands for "Ocean Grown" and refers to the strain's Floridian origins.

Is OG Kush invigorating or relaxing?

Most people report that OG Kush effects include a blend of exciting and calming sensations, but invigorating effects are slightly more dominant. However, many users mention that peaceful feelings are more common with very high doses.

Is OG Kush Sativa or Indica?

Technically, this strain is a hybrid. Some research indicates that certain phenotypes of OG Kush have more Sativa or Indica effects than others.

What is special about OG Kush?

This cannabis first became popular due to its strength and its unusually intense aroma. Its long-lasting popularity has made it a beloved part of cannabis culture. You can find it for sale in many locations, and there are many variants like the Orange Kush strain, Lemon OG Kush strain, and OG Purple Kush strain.

As you can see, the OG Kush strain has a unique place in cannabis culture. Not only does it have a concentrated, skunky scent, but OG Kush also provides a nicely balanced blend of Sativa and Indica sensations. To see why so many people love this strain, grab your PAX and start vaporizing some tasty OG Kush.