Last Updated On February 18th, 2023: One thing you learn quickly when growing or even consuming weed…is each gene is unique. Every strain has individual characteristics that not only produce varied effects, and scents, but growing styles too. Some can be best with high humidity, which others benefit from drier air. Some like higher than normal temps, while others benefit from cooler conditions. You get the point. 

5 Best Weed Strains To Grow In Dry Climates:

  1. Durban Poison
  2. Banana Kush
  3. Sour Diesel
  4. Gorilla Glue
  5. Golf Leaf
StrainTHC %Indica/SativaYieldFlowering Time
Super Skunk14%Indica5-15 Oz Per Plant7-10 Weeks
Blue Cheese19%Indica5-15 Oz Per Plant7-10 Weeks
White Widow19%Indica5-15 Oz Per Plant10-14 Weeks
Durban Poison20%Sativa19 Oz Per Plant9 Weeks
Northern Lights18%Indica5-15 Oz Per Plant7-10 Weeks

So, if you’re seeking successful crops, it’s best to start off on the right foot. Choosing a cultivar that’s better suited for the climate you’re in, is a surefire way to do so. If you’re growing marijuana in hot dry climates, this list is for you. The following strains are the 5 best strains for desert climates, across the globe.

1. Durban Poison 

best strains for hot dry climate

Not all cannabis plants benefit from high humidity levels, and Durban Poison is one of them. The versatile 100% sativa strain comes from landrace origins in South Africa, meaning it has a history of reliable and consistent growth in similar climate conditions. Don’t let the name fool you, Durban Poison delivers a delightfully sweet aroma when puff, puff, passing, that has hints of refreshing citrus and grapefruit. 

Growing wise, you’ll be treated to resin-coated buds that are ideal for oil extraction, or sticky-icky high-quality yields. This quality also adds to the strain’s high THC levels, which average around 20%. Durban Poison is preferred for outdoor growth, due to the crazy heights the plant can reach. Expect crops to reach up 7.5 feet, and be sure to de-leaf and prune periodically to avoid snapping branches. All in all, Durban Poison is one of the best strains for desert climates and you’ll fall in love with her energizing, potent, and uplifting effects. 

2. Banana Kush

banana kush

You’ll go bananas for the monstrous growth of our next best strain to grow in high heat – Banana Kush. The indica dominant hybrid comes from the California region and maximizes yields in hot, dry climates. Even better? With indica roots, Banana Kush is a fast-flowering strain without being autoflower in nature. In fact, most plants reach full maturity in just 8 weeks. The strain is also ideal for pesky neighbors, or concealment outdoors, as it reaches just medium heights. 

Banana Kush is a strain that’s beloved by creatives and west coast artists, as its effects are stimulating, yet balanced with a mellow chill. The strain has a fruity, and sweet flavor that will win you over, on top of its high potency too. It’s not uncommon for Banana Kush’s THC percentages to reach up to 27%. So, if you’re growing marijuana in hot dry climates, and dig potent, euphoric highs, Banana Kush could be for you. 

3. Sour Diesel

Sour Diesel

Sour Diesel is a classic for good reason. The versatile and dynamic sativa dominant hybrid thrives in outdoor environments, soaking up the natural energy of the sun. Its buzz is said to be psychedelic in nature, which may come from the Sour Diesel’s potent levels of THC. The genetic easily reaches 20% of the psychoactive cannabinoid, and delivers an energetic high perfect for daytime use. 

Professional growers nicknamed Sour Diesel ‘cash crop’ for good reason too. The strain is notorious for high yields, with relative ease in growth. Keep in mind, the ‘Diesel’ name doesn’t come out of nowhere – as the crops’ nugs are powerful in a classic gassy aroma. True to its sativa background, Sour Diesel grows tall but can be prone to powdery mildew. Which is why the dry climate can be even more beneficial, since the mildew thrives in humidity. 

4. Gorilla Glue

Gorilla Glue hot dry climate

Gorilla Glue is typically a beast, no matter the environment, but is definitely one of the best strains to grow in high heat. Consumers love Gorilla Glue for its well-balanced 50/50 indica and sativa effects, while the combination is just as preferable for growth too. The strain lives up to its strong name, with strong levels of THC – up to 26% in most crops. More loved by growers is Gorilla Glue’s fast flowering time, which can be harvested in 8 weeks or less. 

The glue part of its name references its heavy, sedating, and relaxing buzz that is preferred for nighttime use. On the flavor side, Gorilla Glue is quite classic with sweet, earthy, and pine like scents, that have a hint of sour notes, and notorious cheese aromas. It’s no surprise the strain is a multiple award winner, for quality premium crops and even more favorable effects. Gorilla Glue is definitely one of the best plants for hot dry climates, for beginner or veteran growers alike. 

5. Gold Leaf

Grow like gold, with our last best strain to grow in high heat – Gold Leaf. The rare genetic bred by ILGM, may not be as well-known as some others on our list, but is just as premium in results. Gold Leaf was specifically bred for tall, strong plants with maximized bud sites. Which proves to deliver high yields, and fast flowering times, as the plants typically reach full maturity in just 9 weeks. 

As for effects, every grower will delight with Gold Leaf’s euphoric, happy, yet relaxed good vibes. Which come from delightfully scented buds, that have notes of herbal, earthy aromas, and a hint of spice. The strain is specifically recommended for outdoor grows in the summer, and is an ideal plant for hot dry climates.

Grow Bigger & Better Buds In Hot and Dry Climates

Again, almost everything with growing marijuana is a learning lesson. If you’ve ever grown a plant that just didn’t bode well for your environment – indoor, or outdoors, then you know how important choosing the appropriate strain is. If not – take our word for it. When you’re in hot dry regions like the southwest US such as Arizona, or Australia, it’s highly recommended to choose one of the best strains to grow in high heat. 

So, save this list, bookmark the page, and be sure to remember that certain plants for hot climates can grow bigger and better, than others. 

Resources:

https://www.ft.com/content/c23403c0-ad30-11e8-8253-48106866cd8a

About David Rhodes

David has been working in the cannabis industry for the past 17 years with experience working overseas in Amsterdam as a budtender for 5 years! His goal is to help you with your cannabis grow! Learn More About David!

David Rhodes