Northern Lights

Northern Lights: A Classic Strain With a Relaxing High

A certified icon of the cannabis world, Northern Lights is a multiple-award-winning indica that hasn’t waned in popularity since its introduction decades ago. Though its exact origins are shrouded in mystery, the strain was ultimately stabilised and sold in seed form by Sensi Seeds, where it would go on to dominate the market. Northern Lights is primarily known for its euphoric yet exceptionally relaxing high, as well as its sweet, spicy, and musky flavour profile and thick layer of resin. As an almost-pure indica, Northern Lights is considered easy to grow, and it’s quite abundant!

Feast your eyes on Northern Lights for a cannabis experience unlike any other!

Genetic Background of Northern Lights: Mysterious Origins

As mentioned, Northern Lights has unclear origins, though it’s generally believed to have first emerged on the Northwest coast of the US some time during the 1970s. Some speculate that it may have originated in Canada or even in the Netherlands, but again, there is no way to be sure. What is certain, however, is that the strain ultimately made its way to Holland, where it was commercially developed in 1985 by the storied seed bank Sensi Seeds. From here, the strain went on to win countless awards, and is today considered one of the most influential cultivars to ever hit the market.

Believed to be a combination of Thai and Afghani landraces, Northern Lights’ genetic background is about as nebulous as its geographical origin. Nevertheless, most accounts credit the aforementioned genetics as being responsible for the foundations of NL.

Thai

Thai is a pure sativa landrace that originates from its namesake land. Known for its energising and uplifting effects, the Thai strain has a unique flavour profile that is sweet and sour with hints of citrus and spice.

Afghani

Another landrace, Afghani, or Afghan, is a pure indica strain originating from Afghanistan. Exhibiting relaxing and sedative effects, Afghani’s flavour profile is characterised as earthy and spicy with hints of pine and hash.

Aroma and Flavour of Northern Lights: Equal Parts Sweet and Spicy

Northern Lights has a spicy aroma with hints of pine and earth. The flavour is similar to the aroma, but with an extra bit of sweetness and woodiness alongside the spicy notes. The terpene profile of Northern Lights is complex, but is led by:

• Myrcene
• Caryophyllene
• Limonene

Potency and Effects of Northern Lights: Utter Relaxation

Northern Lights combines the uplifting and energising effects of Thai with the relaxing and sedative effects of Afghani. This combination makes it a popular choice for users ultimately seeking relaxation, but not without a welcome bit of euphoria.

Though not the most potent strain on the modern market, Northern Lights typically produces THC levels ranging from 16% to 21%. However, with the release of many new, updated versions, some NL strains have been shown to contain as much as 27% THC.

Northern Lights is appreciated by both recreational and medical users, though the latter camp are particularly fond of the strain’s heavy, physical embrace. In quantity, this effect can be quite narcotic and sedative.

Recreational Uses

Recreational use of Northern Lights is typically relegated to the nighttime, or other times when relaxation is in order. This is no wake-and-bake cultivar, unless you’re keen to fall back asleep. Though a couple hits of NL won’t immediately send you to bed, the heavy physical effect is bound to inspire you to get cosy. It is a perfect strain to enjoy in moderation while reading or being creative; or, it can be enjoyed in larger amounts while you sit back and zone out in front of the TV.

Medical Uses

Deemed one of the most sought-after medical strains of all time, Northern Lights is no stranger to therapeutic use. Given its primarily physical effect, all manner of users claim to exploit NL’s potential to reduce the severity of chronic pain and discomfort. Moreover, its calming effect makes Northern Lights suitable for easing stress, improving a low mood, and generally taking the mind off of pain or worry. And this is just scratching the surface of NL’s potential medical uses!

Side Effects

Northern Lights can cause side effects such as:

• Dry mouth/eyes
• Dizziness
• Paranoia/anxiety

Growing Northern Lights: For Novices and Experts

Despite its reputation as one of the most popular strains on Earth, Northern Lights is considered quite simple and straightforward to grow. Even experienced growers appreciate the simplicity of cultivating such a classic. Reaching medium heights of 100–160cm and taking just 7–9 weeks to flower indoors, NL doesn’t require much in the way of space or patience.

Indoor Growing Tips

This strain is particularly well-suited to indoor growing and typically produces yields of around 500–550g/m². Even novices will find that it is relatively easy to achieve good harvests, as the plants don’t require a great deal of care or attention. Additionally, its relatively short stature (around 120cm indoors) means that Northern Lights can be grown in most environments without the need for training techniques. That said, it is quite adaptable and can be trained to suit the grower's needs.

Outdoor Growing Tips

When it comes to outdoor growing, Northern Lights is a champion. This specimen can produce up to 625g/plant when harvest comes around in late September. Given its Afghani influence, the strain can handle a wide range of weather conditions. Should you experience a little inclement weather toward the end of flowering, your plants should respond with great resilience.

In order to optimise results, though, do your best to give Northern Lights plenty of direct sun (8 hours) and rich yet well-drained soil. Alongside a little TLC, this should be more than enough to get the most out of each plant.

Should You Try Northern Lights?

Northern Lights is a beloved strain that needs little endorsement. Its relaxing effects make it a great choice for recreational and medical users, and its ease of growth has made it one of the most popular strains among home growers.

For Growers

Northern Lights is a great all-rounder that can be grown by individuals of all experience levels. Though experts growing in optimal conditions are bound to maximise her potential, even novices can achieve a potent, flavourful harvest with minimal intervention. Grown indoors or out, Northern Lights is a treat.

For Recreational Users

One of the most fascinating things about Northern Lights is its ability to provide a sense of calm and tranquillity while also treating users to an uplifting euphoria. This makes Northern Lights an ideal choice for catering to both the body and mind. Whether you’re chilling at home or out camping under the stars, let Northern Lights give you the solace you so deserve.

For Medical Users

Northern Lights is primarily implicated for soothing issues related to physical pain and discomfort. However, its happy, uplifting, and serene effect may make it suitable for addressing emotional and mental issues as well.

Northern Lights: Grow a Piece of History

This world-renowned strain has garnered a reputation that is impossible to deny. For those who have a particular affinity for indicas, this cultivar is an obvious choice. Not only is it beloved by consumers, but it is also highly sought after by growers seeking a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t compromise on yields or potency.

Even several decades after its creation, Northern Lights remains a top choice. With its rich, albeit mysterious, history and impressive lineage, it's no wonder this strain has stood the test of time.

Northern Lights Strain: FAQ

Q: What is Northern Lights’ THC content?
A: You can expect a THC content ranging from 16% to 21%, with an average of 19%.

Q: What is the origin of the Northern Lights strain?
A: The exact origin of Northern Lights is unclear. However, it was brought to prominence in the mid-1980s by the breeders at Sensi Seeds.

Q: What are the effects of Northern Lights?
A: Northern Lights is best described as extremely relaxing—for both the mind and body. It also features an initial uplifting and slightly euphoric sensation.

Q: What is the flowering time of Northern Lights?
A: Northern Lights typically flowers for 7–9 weeks indoors, with an outdoor harvest date of late September or early October in the Northern Hemisphere.