Flowering stage: 63 days

Total time, seed to harvest: 91 days

Final yield: 98 grams

THC content:  25.6%

We were excited to begin the germination process of The Bird Feminized seeds. This strain boasts a 70% indica and 30% sativa lineage, exhibiting an exceptional terpene profile and indica morphology. As part of our Breeding Grounds project, The Bird Feminized was developed in collaboration with Humboldt Seed Company, including a three-way cross of the OG Kush, Humboldt Dream, and Larry Bird. As it is known to be a potent strain, we eagerly looked forward to getting this grow cycle started.

To ensure optimal conditions for the germination phase, we grew our Bird Feminized seeds in a medium-sized indoor cultivation area. We used a 600W Green Power Phillips HPS bulb for lighting and a thermostatically controlled electric heater to maintain the ideal temperature.

After our plants had matured, we transferred our seedlings to a larger indoor grow room equipped with a 1000W HPS mounted 3 metres above the soil. We chose the BAC Laval Soil mix for our growing medium. We added Bio Grow to the nutrient solution during the vegetative stage, while BIO Bloom was used in the flowering stage for optimal growth and bud development. To guarantee optimal nutrient absorption, we always ensured the pH of the solution was 6 before feeding.

We maintained the temperature at 23°C during the day and lowered it to 21°C at night to create a suitable environment for our plants. The optimal environmental conditions can vary depending on a plant’s growth stage. We started the vegetative stage by following an 18 hours on and 6 hours off schedule, which changed to 12 hours on and 12 hours off during flowering. Additionally, we adjusted the humidity level to 65% at the beginning of the cycle to ensure optimal growing conditions.

Ensuring adequate ventilation in your grow room is essential. A suitable ventilation system supplies fresh air for photosynthesis and helps regulate temperature and humidity levels. Without this, growing conditions can deteriorate and adversely affect the plant’s growth. Additionally, it plays a vital role in preventing the growth of diseases and pests. Maintaining constant airflow is crucial and can be achieved by ensuring proper ventilation and replenishing the air at least once every minute.

To maintain optimal airflow and prevent the accumulation of stagnant air, we installed multiple fans in our growing area to prevent the accumulation of stagnant air pockets. Some were placed below the canopy, while others were positioned above it. Additionally, we used an inline fan and a carbon during the flowering stage to eliminate the pungent odour which could develop during the flowering stage.

Germination & seedling

To start the growth cycle of The Bird Feminized, we prepared two plates and some paper tissues. We dampened the tissues on one plate and placed the seeds on top before covering them with another damp tissue. Make sure to drain any excess water to avoid the seeds being submerged in water. Then, we sealed the seed between the tissues and flipped over the second plate to create a dark and moist environment for optimal germination.

After 48 hours, the taproot emerged from the seed’s crown. We then made a small hole, approximately half an inch deep, in our 1-litre container filled with BAC Lava Mix and carefully placed the seed with the taproot facing downwards into the hole. We ensured the taproot was not bent or damaged during transplantation and covered the seed lightly in preparation for the emerging sprout.

The plant emerged from the soil, and the cotyledons were looking vibrant. We supplemented 100 ml of water with rooting hormone to avoid overwatering on the third day. At the end of the week, The Bird had thrived and reached a healthy height of 5 cm, exhibiting a robust and sturdy appearance.

Vegetation

During the second week, we transplanted our plant to a larger 5-litre pot as the root zone rapidly developed, outgrowing the 1-litre pot. At the end of the week, our seedling reached a height of 11 cm and showcased lush, broad green leaves. As the root zone continued to develop, we supplemented 400 ml of water to promote healthy growth. The temperature was kept at 23°C during the day and 21°C at night, while humidity was maintained at 65%.

In the third week, the plant had shown impressive vertical growth, reaching a height of 20 cm. While keeping our nutrient solution at 400 ml, we raised the EC to 1.4 to support the ongoing root development. As a preventive measure against pests, we strategically added Neoseiulus Californicus and Amblyseuis Swirskii sachets along the main stem. This approach safeguarded our plants from thrips, aphids, and fungus gnat larvae.

During week four, we introduced water supplemented with fertiliser and nitric acid alongside our nutrient solution. We began the flowering phase by transitioning our light schedule to 12 hours on and 12 hours off. This process simulates the natural changes in light during the summer season, thus inducing the plant to initiate the flowering stage. The upper branches did not overshadow the lower parts, enabling the canopy to receive ample light and air for optimal bud development.

During the flowering stage, cannabis plants require increased phosphorus and potassium to support the growth of flowers. To encourage the development of buds, we made a switch from Bio Grow to Bio Flower nutrients. This change effectively reduced the high nitrogen levels that typically promote vegetative growth.

By the end of the week, our plant had grown to a height of 32 cm and responded well to the change. As the root zone was steadily developing, we increased the volume of our nutrient solution to 800 ml. The Bird looked magnificent with its deep green and healthy appearance, boasting large fan leaves comprising nine blades each. We observed that the side branches of the plant were growing uniformly, and we opted not to perform any plant training, allowing it to grow naturally.

Flowering

By the fifth week, The Bird Feminized had developed a compact and sturdy structure with abundant lateral branches and closely spaced internodes. With a subtle airflow directed towards the apical mainstem, we observed a gradual thickening of the stem, accompanied by the emergence of bud sites on the apical stem. We increased the nutrient solution volume to 1000 ml and lowered our humidity levels to 60% to accommodate the increase in vegetative growth.

During the sixth week, we raised our nutrient intake and increased our EC to 1.8 to support optimal growth and development. However, it’s important to note that while higher EC levels can be beneficial, they can also hinder nutrient absorption by increasing the osmotic pressure of the nutrient solution. Osmotic pressure refers to the minimum force required to decrease the flow of solvent molecules through our medium.

By the end of the week, we observed that the Bird Feminized was thriving and looked exceptionally healthy, with abundant, lush green foliage. It had grown to an impressive height of 61 cm, a significant development for the plant’s age. The leaves were broad and thick, with a vibrant green colour indicating high chlorophyll content. The plant appeared in excellent condition, and we were pleased with its growth. New sachets of predatory mites were also hung on the lower branches.

During the seventh week, the apical mainstem continued to thrive, stretching an additional 13 cm. As a result, the lower branches were left behind in growth. We were excited to see that the bracts were swelling and were now covered in white tufts of hair. This indicated that the plant focused on flowering, and we could expect buds to emerge soon. We carefully monitored our nutrient solution and added 1000 ml of it around the base of The Bird.

By the eighth week, The Bird had grown to an impressive height of 82 cm. We observed that all the lateral branches were filling up with small clusters of buds at every node, which was closing the internodal spacing. As a strain with 70% indica genetics, we anticipated a compact growth pattern with short internodal spacing and thriving lateral branches. However, the sativa influence was noticeable throughout the increased height throughout the previous weeks.

In week nine, the plant had reached an impressive height of 94 cm, and the bud development was outstanding. Buds were stacking up at every node along the lateral branches and the apical mainstem, indicating a bumper harvest was on the horizon! When fan leaves stand up or “pray,” it usually means that the plant is receiving a high amount of light. However, the leaves’ vibrant green colour is also a sign that the plant is healthy. There were no changes in our environmental conditions.

A month had passed since we introduced Neoseiulus Californicus and Amblyseius Swirskii, and we thought it would be best to hang an additional sachet of each on the lower branches. Controlling pests like spider mites and whiteflies is crucial during the flowering phase. These unwanted critters can damage fan leaves, cause yellowing, and hinder the growth and development of buds.

Throughout the tenth week, we observed that the buds were becoming denser, and we were thrilled to see trichome development for the first time. We also noticed that removing excess foliage helped improve airflow within the canopy, reducing the risk of botrytis. We were thrilled to observe that The Bird had a sizeable terminal bud that stood out above the rest of the plant. Despite having several weeks of growth remaining, we were delighted to see buds filling in the internodal spacing.

As we entered week eleven, the plant continued to thrive and reached a height of 112 cm by the end of the week. Due to the heavy flowering, we decreased the room’s humidity levels and maintained it at 56%. Upon closer inspection, we could see trichomes covering the dense buds. Based on our observations, we predict that the plant will reach its peak ripeness in two weeks.

The Bird’s bud formation is genuinely remarkable. The calyxes are so dense that they keep stacking on themselves, forming a beautiful and intricate structure. Moreover, they are covered in a thick layer of resin glands, making them sticky and a delight for hash makers! Overall, The Bird Feminized is truly a sight to behold.

During the twelfth week, our room was permeated with a subtle sweetness that lingered in the air, filling the space with a pleasant scent. The odorous air was efficiently exhausted from the grow space using a carbon filter, ensuring the air leaving the grow room was clean and free of unwanted smells.

The Bird Feminized displayed slight purple hues, which were attributed to its high concentration of anthocyanins. Additionally, owing to its dense bud development, The Bird grew 6 cm taller and now stands at 118  cm. As a part of our IPM management, we introduce Neoseiulus Californicus and Ambtyseius swirskii every four weeks, even though we only have a week remaining.

Our growth cycle ended in week thirteen, and it was finally time for harvest! The fragrance in the grow room had intensified with each passing day, and when we finally cut down the plant, it had grown to an impressive 119 cm. The Bird is an exquisite cannabis plant with plump buds and abundant resin glands. It is a visually appealing plant that can be cultivated by anyone with ease.

Harvest

Before harvesting The Bird, we removed all the fan leaves with insufficient trichome coverage. This is because such leaves tend to retain excessive moisture, adversely affecting the humidity levels in our drying room. It is crucial to pay attention to the environmental conditions during the drying and curing process, just like we do during the growing cycle.

Following proper drying and curing procedures during the post-harvest process is crucial to maintain our buds’ quality, flavour, and potency. The area was intentionally dark to facilitate a slow and gentle drying process, which is necessary to preserve the delicate balance of terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids in the buds. We kept a close eye on the temperature and humidity levels in our drying area and maintained a constant temperature of 15.5°C and a humidity level of 60%.

We cut The Bird down whole and hung it upside down in our dedicated drying area. It took us 21 days to complete the drying process, during which we monitored the humidity levels and ensured that the buds were not touching each other to prevent the potential development of mould. To determine the completion of the drying process, bend the smaller branches. If they snap, it indicates that they are ready to be cured.

The drying and curing process is crucial in the buds’ final quality and taste, so paying close attention is essential. For curing, we will be using glass mason jars. It is imperative not to overfill the jars to prevent mould formation, especially as the buds retain moisture. Additionally, breaking down larger buds into smaller nugs helps prevent the development of stagnant air pockets within the buds. The jars are stored in a dark, climate-controlled drying room for optimal results.

We burped the jars multiple times each day from the second day onward for the first two weeks, which helped release excess air. The overall curing process lasted 12 weeks, and as we entered the final weeks, we decreased the frequency of jar burping to just once a day. Over time, we observed a delightful evolution in the complex aroma emanating from The Bird. After curing, we sent a small sample to our laboratory for cannabinoid testing, indicating an impressive THC content of 25.6.

Terpene profile

We were eager to sample The Bird Feminized after hearing many praises about its exceptional terpene profile within the cannabis community. So, we picked a large trichome-covered nug from our jar of cured cannabis flower and carefully broke it into small, manageable pieces before putting them into our grinder. After grinding our flower, we took an unbleached rolling paper from the pack and made a small filter. We filled the paper with the ground flower and rolled a sizeable joint.

The Bird Feminized showcases a complex aroma profile from its unique genetic makeup. It inherits pungent earthy and musky notes from the presence of myrcene in the world-renowned OG Kush, while the creamy sweetness is believed to be derived from Larry Bird. Humboldt Dream adds subtle undertones of fresh sandalwood and berries, making it a favourite among cannabis enthusiasts. The aroma is exciting and mouthwatering, and the taste is equally impressive.

We took great care to light the joint by holding the end to the flame and inhaling slowly while rotating it to ensure an even burn. After lighting the joint and passing it around to friends, we experienced an increased sense of happiness and talkativeness. We experienced a gradual sense of physical comfort and relaxation as time passed. If you want to experience a soaring high before winding down for the night, The Bird Feminized could be the perfect choice for you!

The outcome

The Bird Feminzied is renowned for its hassle-free cultivation and low maintenance, producing remarkable yields and a distinctive terpene profile. It is an ideal choice for all growers, regardless of their experience level. We harvested 98 grams of dry cannabis flowers after 91 days, which is a testament to the potential of XL yields that this strain can offer. We are delighted with this growth cycle’s outcome and would suggest The Bird to anyone seeking a fulfilling growing experience.

If you found this grow report helpful or informative, share your thoughts and recommendations for new strains to cover in the comments section below. We always appreciate feedback from our readers!

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• Source: https://sensiseeds.com/en/blog/the-bird-feminized-grow-report/