Are you a fan of the Blue Cheese strain? If so, you may be wondering how long to flower this versatile and resilient plant.
With its high resistance to mold and ability to thrive in various growing conditions, Blue Cheese is a favorite among both new and experienced growers. But when is the best time to switch to the flowering stage?
In this article, we’ll explore different factors that can affect the flowering time of Blue Cheese and provide some tips on how to achieve the best results.
So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of Blue Cheese cultivation.
How Long To Flower Blue Cheese?
The flowering time of Blue Cheese can vary depending on several factors, including the growing environment, the strain’s genetics, and the grower’s preferences. On average, Blue Cheese takes around 8-10 weeks to flower, but some growers may choose to extend or shorten this period.
If you’re growing Blue Cheese indoors, you can expect it to reach a height of around 160cm and yield up to 550g/m². The flowering time for indoor plants is typically around 7-8 weeks. However, if you want to maximize your yield and potency, you may want to extend the flowering period by a week or two.
On the other hand, if you’re growing Blue Cheese outdoors, you’ll need to consider the climate and weather conditions in your area. Blue Cheese prefers a slightly cooler environment and regular gentle breezes. It is normally ready for harvest by the end of September and yields approximately 19 ounces per plant.
It’s important to note that Blue Cheese is known for its high ratio of leaves to flowers, which can make it a difficult plant to trim. To get the most out of your plant, we recommend using the Sea of Green growing technique (or SOG) and keeping a close eye on your nutrient levels.
Understanding The Blue Cheese Strain
Blue Cheese is a classic hybrid strain that combines Blueberry genetics from Oregon with Cheese vibes from Skunk hybrids. It comprises 60% indica and 40% sativa genetics, with a THC level that hovers around 19%. This cultivar is a potent one, and its effects are primarily felt on the indica side, although sativa vibes are also present.
Blue Cheese is a popular strain that can be found on the menus of many Amsterdam coffee shops. It produces a unique and creamy flavour that combines the sweet and fruity aroma of blueberries with the pungent scent of cheese. This strain is highly fragrant and resistant to mould and mildew, so long as it’s kept in slightly cooler environments.
Blue Cheese plants are notoriously resilient and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Indoor growers can expect to yield around 450-500g/m² of Blue Cheese nugs, while outdoor growers will get approximately 500-550g/plant. The yields are quite impressive for an indica-dominant strain, although the high leaf-to-bud ratio can make trimming a bit more challenging.
When grown indoors, Blue Cheese typically takes around 7-8 weeks to flower, with plants peaking at a height of 160cm. However, some growers may choose to extend the flowering period by a week or two to maximize their yield and potency. Outdoor growers should harvest this cultivar during September when it is ready for harvest.
In terms of growing difficulty, Blue Cheese is an easy strain to grow and could be considered a good beginner variety. It’s hardy, forgiving of minor errors, and favours a mild climate. However, sizable plants from feminized seeds require a level of experience to manage successfully. Indoor gardeners can tame feminized Blue Cheese plants’ stretch with low-stress training or super cropping. Plants from the Blue Cheese strain develop thick foliage you need to keep well-pruned.
Factors That Affect Flowering Time
Several factors can affect the flowering time of Blue Cheese. One of the most significant factors is the strain’s genetics. Blue Cheese is known to stretch during flowering, which can cause it to triple in height. This can result in a longer flowering period, as the plant needs more time to develop its buds fully.
Another factor that can affect flowering time is the growing environment. Indoor growers have more control over their plants’ environment and can manipulate factors such as light cycles, temperature, and humidity to speed up or slow down the flowering process. Outdoor growers, on the other hand, are at the mercy of nature and need to consider factors such as climate and weather conditions when planning their harvest.
The grower’s preferences can also play a role in determining the flowering time of Blue Cheese. Some growers may choose to extend the flowering period to maximize yields and potency, while others may opt for a shorter flowering time to harvest their buds sooner.
It’s important to note that the early stages of a plant’s life can also influence its flowering time. The first three or four weeks of growth are crucial for establishing a healthy plant and setting the stage for successful flowering. During this time, it’s essential to provide your plants with the right nutrients, light cycles, and growing conditions to ensure they develop strong roots and healthy foliage.
Optimal Time To Switch To The Flowering Stage
If you’re growing Blue Cheese, you’ll need to switch to the flowering stage at the right time to ensure a successful harvest. The optimal time to switch to the flowering stage will depend on several factors, including the strain’s genetics, the growing environment, and your personal preferences.
If you’re growing Blue Cheese indoors, it’s generally recommended to switch to the flowering stage after around 5-6 weeks of vegetative growth. This will give your plant enough time to establish a strong root system and develop healthy foliage before transitioning to the flowering stage. Once you’ve switched to the flowering stage, you can expect your plant to flower for around 7-8 weeks before it’s ready for harvest.
However, some growers may choose to extend or shorten the flowering period depending on their goals. If you want a higher yield and more potent buds, you may want to extend the flowering period by a week or two. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a milder high and a quicker harvest, you may want to shorten the flowering period by a week or two.
If you’re growing Blue Cheese outdoors, you’ll need to consider the climate and weather conditions in your area before switching to the flowering stage. Blue Cheese prefers a slightly cooler environment and regular gentle breezes, so make sure your plant is exposed to these conditions before switching to the flowering stage. Once you’ve switched, you can expect your plant to flower for around 8-10 weeks before it’s ready for harvest.
Tips For Maximizing Yields And Quality
If you want to maximize your Blue Cheese yield and quality, there are several tips you can follow:
1. Low-Stress Training (LST) Technique: This technique involves bending the Blue Cheese plant as it grows, tying down branches that grow too long. By pulling the branch downward, an increased amount of the hormone auxin is released, encouraging the plant to grow upwards. Use special green tape for this purpose. Eventually, you will expose a variety of bud sites at the same height. When your Blue Cheese plants enter the flowering stage, the colas grow upwards from the plant, resulting in multiple colas instead of a single large one.
2. Screen of Green (SCROG) Method: This technique involves attaching a screen above the plants. Once their branches begin to grow through, tuck them back into the screen. This technique allows for more even light distribution and can increase yields.
3. Pruning: Blue Cheese plants develop thick foliage that needs to be well-pruned. Remove any leaves that are blocking light from reaching lower buds.
4. Nutrient Levels: Keep a close eye on your nutrient levels to ensure your plant is getting everything it needs to produce high-quality buds.
5. Harvest Time: Harvest your Blue Cheese plants at the right time to maximize yield and potency. For indoor plants, this is typically around 8-10 weeks after flowering begins, but you may choose to extend or shorten this period based on your preferences. For outdoor plants, harvest at the end of September for maximum yield.
By following these tips, you can maximize your Blue Cheese yield and quality and enjoy the fruity, potent weed that this strain is known for.
Harvesting And Curing Blue Cheese Buds
Once your Blue Cheese buds are ready for harvest, it’s important to handle them carefully to ensure the best possible flavor and potency. Here are some tips for harvesting and curing your Blue Cheese buds:
1. Harvest at the right time: The ideal time to harvest Blue Cheese buds is when the trichomes (tiny resin glands on the plant) start to turn cloudy and amber in color. This is usually around 8-10 weeks after germination. Be sure to use a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe to get a close look at the trichomes.
2. Cut the buds: Use a sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears to cut the buds off the plant. Try to leave as much stem as possible, as this will make it easier to hang the buds for drying.
3. Dry the buds: Hang your Blue Cheese buds upside down in a cool, dry, and dark place with good air circulation. The ideal temperature for drying is around 60-70°F (15-21°C), with a humidity level of 45-55%. This process can take anywhere from 5-14 days, depending on the size of your buds and the humidity level.
4. Cure the buds: Once your Blue Cheese buds are dry, it’s time to cure them. Place them in an airtight container (like a glass jar) and store them in a cool, dark place. Open the jar once a day for the first week to let out any excess moisture, then every few days after that. This process can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks, depending on your preference.
5. Enjoy your Blue Cheese buds: Once your Blue Cheese buds are fully cured, they should have a deliciously fruity and cheesy aroma, with a potent and relaxing high. Store them in an airtight container in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to enjoy them!
Conclusion: Enjoying The Fruits Of Your Labor
After all the hard work of growing and nurturing your Blue Cheese plant, it’s finally time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Whether you’re a seasoned grower or a beginner, the satisfaction of harvesting a successful crop is unmatched.
Blue Cheese is a versatile strain that can be enjoyed in many different ways. Its sweet and savory flavor profile makes it a great addition to any dish, while its relaxing and euphoric effects make it perfect for unwinding after a long day.
One of the benefits of growing Blue Cheese is its forgiving nature. It can withstand minor errors and still produce a bountiful harvest. However, to truly maximize your yield and potency, it’s important to pay attention to your plant’s needs and adjust accordingly.
Whether you prefer to grow indoors or outdoors, Blue Cheese is an excellent choice for any grower. With its speedy flowering time, high yield potential, and unique flavor profile, it’s no wonder why Blue Cheese has gained international recognition and won awards.
So go ahead and indulge in the delicious and relaxing effects of Blue Cheese. You deserve it after all your hard work and dedication to growing this amazing strain.
