Earthquake is a sativa-dominant hybrid with strong, long-lasting effects. Little is known about this mysterious strain’s breeders or lineage, but its well-balanced appeal to consumers is clear. Earthquake also packs an aromatic punch, with flavors of pine and diesel. The strain’s THC content has been measured at between 17% and 23%.

Earthquake impresses right away with large, chunky flowers that adhere in elongated, almost cylindrical shapes. These buds have a solidly indica structure, with leaves curling tightly inward toward their central stems. The actual leaves are a mottled mix of shades of dark and light green and are twisted through with curly, rust-colored pistils. Finally, a blanket of translucent white trichomes cover the buds’ inner and outer nooks and crannies and account for their psychoactivity.

When properly cured, flowers of Earthquake give off the fresh, pleasant scent of pine needles. Hanging out underneath is an earthy smell of dried wood and soil. Meanwhile, grinding up or breaking open these nuggets gives off a faint chemical scent, suggesting possible descent from sativa favorite Chemdawg. When combusted in a pipe or a joint, Earthquake gives off a harsh and acrid smoke that can sting the palate and sinuses. On the exhale, this thick smoke carries a piney, diesel-like taste.

Earthquake’s high can be a creeper, taking a long time before striking smokers with its potency. At first, Earthquake’s action can be detected in the form of a flushing in the cheeks or a tingle around the temples and eyes. Once they adjust to these odd sensations, consumers may feel themselves relax into an elevated mode of thinking. Ideas and concepts that might not be otherwise interesting can grab the user’s fascination. This cerebral mindset can be great for accomplishing analytical, task-based work. It can also be great for inducing chattiness and fostering easy camaraderie in social situations. In the right set and setting, this strain can also lift the user’s typical inhibitions, allowing for free and easy brainstorming or inspiring work on open-ended creative projects. As the high progresses or as dosage is increased, Earthquake’s indica side begins to take over, sending a warm tingle down the spine and outward through the core and limbs. Although not completely paralyzing, this body high can be enough to make consumers seek out the closest comfortable couch. In these later stages, the strain can be a good way to kick back with like-minded friends after a long day or week of work to share some food or to begin a binge-watching session. Because of its gradual taper down from buzzy mental energy to physical relaxation, Earthquake is recommended for enjoyment between afternoon and evening.

Earthquake’s buzzy, upbeat effects can also have several applications for medical cannabis patients. The lucid focus associated with its onset can help those with attention deficit disorders to maintain focus on a single task. The strain’s mood-boosting properties can also help to temporarily alleviate some symptoms associated with stress and depression. For some, Earthquake may dull physical pain, whether it’s temporary, as due to injury, or chronic, as due to conditions like lupus or arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also soothe minor irritations like headaches. Because it may bring about intense patterns of recursive thinking, Earthquake is not recommended for patients who are prone to panic, paranoia or anxiety.

Seeds of Earthquake are not available for sale online. As such, growers must obtain clippings from mature plants of the strain in order to foster genetically identical “clones.” Earthquake may be grown indoors or out, although successful outdoor cultivation calls from a humid climate with daytime temperatures between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Growers should regularly “top” their crops by trimming away any large fan leaves that could prevent light and air from nourishing any low-growing flowering nodes.

Earthquake’s versatility makes it a great option for indica and sativa lovers alike. The strain can be a particularly fun way to enhance a trip to the great outdoors.