From germination to harvest, we’re exploring Double Banana Kush Feminized’s extraordinary characteristics and have documented every step of the growing process. This nearly pure indica proved to be low-maintenance, yet it amazed us with its fantastic terpene profile, resin production, and high potency.
Flowering stage: 65 days
Total time, seed to harvest: 92 days
Final yield: 87 grams
THC content: 24.1%
We were delighted to cultivate Double Banana Kush because of its appealing terpene profile, characterised by its delightful earthy and woody notes. This strain is easy to grow, making it suitable for both new and experienced growers, and its impressive resilience ensures a rewarding cultivation experience. With its balanced and captivating aroma, we couldn’t wait to get started. Now, let’s prepare our environmental conditions.
Daytime temperatures were maintained at 23°C, while night-time temperatures dropped to 21°C, and we started with 65% relative humidity. Our feeding system relied on Bio Grow and Bio Bloom nutrients with BAC Lava mix as the growing medium. We used a 1000W Green Power Phillips HPS, followed a lighting schedule of 18/ 6 during vegetation, and switched to 12/12 during flowering. We also strategically placed multiple oscillating fans around the growing area for adequate air circulation.
Germination & seedling
We began the germination process of our Double Banana Kush Feminized by placing the seeds between two moist paper towels and sandwiching them between two plates. This method helps retain moisture and establish an optimal environment for the seeds to sprout. We subsequently transferred the seeds to a warm, dark location and eagerly awaited the initial signs of growth, which typically happens within three to seven days.
After monitoring the dishes every 12 hours, we were thrilled to discover that the seedling finally emerged after 32 hours. We prepared a small 1-litre container filled with BAC Lava Mix and created a small hole around three inches deep in the centre of our medium using our index finger. Utilising tweezers, we gently placed the seed tap root down and patiently awaited the next stage. It wasn’t until 72 hours later that we observed the cotyledon emerging from the soil.
We positioned the Double Banana Kush seedling 80 cm below a 600W HPS light. To maintain optimal conditions, we kept the relative humidity at 65% and provided 18 hours of light followed by 6 hours of darkness. On the third day, we watered the plant with a root stimulant that had an EC of 0.8 and a pH of 6.2. As the week came to an end, the roots began to emerge from the 1-litre pot, prompting us to move the seedling to an 8-litre container, where it impressively reached a height of 9 cm.
Vegetation
Observing remarkable progress in the second week, we relocated our seedling to our indoor grow room under a 1000W HPS light. The cotyledon displayed a vibrant shade of green, with sturdy and robust leaves, indicating the plant’s promising vitality. The plant thrived throughout the 18-hour light cycle and 6-hour darkness cycle, prompting us to increase our water volume to 200 ml. We adjusted the EC levels to 1.4 while lowering the pH to 6 to prioritise root development and a robust structure.
As part of our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy, we proactively released Amblyseius Cucumeris and Amblyseius Californicus into our cultivation area to control thrip larvae and two-spotted spider mites. Additionally, we introduced Bio Grow to provide high levels of potassium and phosphorus, which helps to develop healthy roots, stems, and leaves. By the end of the week, the plant had reached 11 cm, demonstrating the impact of the increased nutritional supplements.
During the third week, our plant displayed robust growth, characterised by the development of broad, lush green leaves and reaching a notable height of 14 cm. To optimise its growth, we adjusted the nutrient solution to 400 ml and introduced a small amount of nitric acid fertiliser. Concurrently, we maintained the humidity levels at 65%, as this is known to support enhanced photosynthesis, reduce water loss, and foster the overall health and vigour of the plant.
Flowering
At the beginning of week four, we changed the light cycle to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. This imitates the natural response to the seasonal change and signals that it is time to start flowering. Regarding environmental conditions, our pH levels remained at 6, while the EC levels were increased to 1.7. To prepare for the increase in moisture during flowering, we dropped humidity levels to 60% and increased the water volume to 800 ml. By the week’s end, it had grown to 29 cm.
Our Double Banana Kush Feminized has remained short and stubby, so it will be interesting to see how much it will stretch in the coming weeks. When cannabis plants enter the flowering stage, their nutrient requirements change and they need lower nitrogen levels with higher phosphorus and potassium concentrations to support healthy bud development. This is when we transition from Bio Grow to Bio Bloom to accommodate an increased yield along with optimal growth and development.
At the beginning of week five, we observed preflowers at the internodes, indicating the start of the flowering stage. Our plant had developed to a height of seven nodes and displayed robust growth, reaching 45 cm by the end of the week. To enhance airflow and light penetration, we pruned some lower fan leaves obstructing the lower branches and adjusted the watering volume to 1000 ml. The EC levels were raised to 1.8 and would remain there for the rest of the cycle.
During the sixth week, we noticed the initial signs of the stretch as our Double Banana Kush reached an impressive height of 61 cm, and we increased our watering volume to 1500 ml. The lateral branches were thriving, and we were excited to see the development of bud sites in clusters at each node. The thick green stem and the upper fan leaves were soaking up the sun, and foliage was starting to fill some of the lower internodal gaps. Even in the early flowering stage, it was a beauty!
As part of our ongoing IPM strategy, we have increased the number of Amblyseius Cucumeris and Amblyseius Californicus sachets in the lower canopy to prevent potential pest issues. Amblyseius Cucumeris primarily targets thrips by feeding on their eggs and larvae, effectively reducing their population. Amblyseius Californicus specialises in consuming spider mites and can also prey on other tiny pests like whiteflies and thrips.
In the seventh week, we observed a noticeable change in the internodal spacing between the branches on the main stem. Our Double Banana Kush Feminized grew to a height of 79 cm, and the foliage was proliferating, with multiple bud sites starting to develop. Small white hair-like structures, known as pistils, can be seen emerging from the calyxes. As the plant continues to grow, the number of pistils will increase and become more prominent, playing a crucial role in bud development.
At this stage of the plant’s growth, it is essential to perform a thorough flush to remove any accumulated salts or residues from the growing medium. To carry out this process, we carefully poured 1500 ml of water into the medium. It’s crucial to promptly remove any run-off water from the plant, as this can lead to the reabsorption of unwanted substances. We aim to perform this flushing process every few weeks for our plant’s healthy growth and development.
Throughout week eight, our Double Banana Kush is experiencing a rapid growth spurt, with the main stem towering above the rest of the plant at 86 cm high. Buds are starting to cluster at the nodes while dense foliage fills the gaps between them. Tiny trichomes, hair-like structures containing the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes, are developing, giving the plant an almost frosted appearance. Under magnification, these trichomes look like tiny mushrooms with bulbous heads.
We observed minimal vertical growth during the ninth week, but the buds exhibited significant swelling. The leaves prominently pointed toward the sky, adding to the plant’s healthy appearance. Additionally, white pistils began to submerge the buds, signifying the plant’s progression toward the flowering stage. By the end of the week, our Double Banana Kush had reached an impressive height of 87 cm, and we were eagerly looking forward to our plant’s future growth and development.
The trichomes are becoming more prominent as we move into week ten, indicating that the flowering stage is well underway. To prevent bud rot, we removed large fan leaves where side branching had grouped closely together. To prepare for the increased moisture levels, we lowered the humidity to 56% and continued watering with 1500 ml at an EC of 1.8. After taking our measurements at the end of the week, our Double Banana Kush had reached 88 cm.
The buds on our Double Banana Kush were becoming denser by the day, and our cultivar looked fabulous. The colas were thickening up nicely, and the trichomes were beginning to glisten with resin. We continued our IPM strategy by placing more Amblyseius Cucumeris and Amblyseius Californicus sachets within our crop’s lower and upper canopy. This proactive approach is particularly crucial during the flowering stage as it helps maintain the health of our crop.
During week eleven, the stigmas became more prominent and started to retreat into the bracts. Our Double Banana Kush had grown to 88 cm, and the clusters of buds were forming together, creating an enormous main cola. Lateral branches were covered in dense clusters of buds. The sight of the trichomes covering the buds indicated that the plants were entering the final stage of development, and harvest time would soon be upon us!
Our plant exhibited a bud structure reminiscent of sativa, with pointed calyxes in week twelve. However, like an indica, the buds are remarkably dense and resinous, exuding a subtle floral aroma and showcasing a stunning array of vibrant colours. While some buds may stretch along the upper stem and branches, the flower clusters remain dense, distinguishing them from Haze strains. Our plant evidently prioritises bud development, as it didn’t exhibit any vertical growth during the week.
The leaves take on a deep, lush shade of green and are adorned with a dense coating of glistening trichomes in the thirteenth week. As the trichomes reach maturity, they undergo a transformation from their initial clear appearance to a milky white hue, with around 70% reaching this state and the remaining 30% turning amber. This change in colour signals the optimal time for harvesting and the peak moment for maximising the levels of cannabinoids and terpenes.
The apical mainstem of our Double Banana Kush Feminized towers over the other branches at 88cm tall and is really a sight to behold. The clusters of buds are dense, resinous, and tightly packed, often glistening with a thick layer of trichomes that give them a frosty, crystalline appearance. The buds are firm to the touch, with a sticky texture due to the abundant resin, and they emit a strong, pungent aroma with subtle notes of sandalwood and citrus. Now, let’s start with the drying, trimming, and curing.
Harvest
After carefully cutting the plant down at the base of the stem and bringing it into the designated drying area, we hung the plant upside down to ensure even drying. The drying process aims to remove any excess moisture from the buds before they are sealed for curing. The plant was left to dry for 21 days in a well-ventilated space. Throughout this period, we maintained a consistent temperature of 15.5°C and controlled the humidity levels at 60% to minimise the risk of mould.
Trimming buds removes excess leaves and stems, improving the appearance and quality of the final product. This process helps enhance the aesthetic appeal by exposing the dense, resin-coated flowers. To start trimming, we put on our rubber gloves to avoid trichome damage and carefully removed the fan leaves and excess plant matter from the buds. Once our Double Banana Kush buds were trimmed, we placed them inside an airtight glass container and began the curing process!
The curing process effectively breaks down chlorophyll, resulting in a smoother smoking experience while also enhancing the terpene profile. Additionally, it significantly reduced moisture content, preventing mould growth and ensuring a more potent final product. We regularly burped our jars to replenish fresh air and eliminate stagnant air. The final dry weight was 87 grams. After undergoing a three-month cure, we tested the buds in our lab, which revealed a THC content of 24.1%, far exceeding our expectations.
Terpene profile
After searching through the jar of freshly cured cannabis for the largest bud, we broke it down and ground it up with a grinder. When we lit up a joint of Double Banana Kush, we had an enjoyable experience that stimulated the mind while calming the body. Despite being a 95% indica, Double Banana Kush provides a balanced high that allows for mobility without excessive sedation. However, if you consume it in large quantities, it will definitely put you to sleep!
Double Banana Kush has a captivating aroma that shows clear influence from its Afghan ancestors, with a rich, earthy undertone of dark chocolate. This complex blend of aromas creates a multi-faceted sensory experience that truly makes this strain enchanting. The profile is intricate, with potent banana and orange scents in the foreground, complemented by delightful notes of berry, passionfruit, freshly peeled melon, and a sharp undercurrent of dark chocolate.
The outcome
Growing Double Banana Kush Feminized has been very beneficial. Every step has been carefully documented, from choosing the best seeds and caring for the young plants to closely monitoring growth and trichome development. The precise harvesting, drying, trimming, and curing processes have further improved the flower’s terpene profile and overall quality, resulting in an impressive THC content of 24.1%. Despite being under a meter tall, it delivered a relatively high yield of 87 grams!
Double Banana Kush offers a captivating aroma with potent banana complemented by berry notes. Its remarkable terpene profile captures a delightful aroma and a balanced high that delivers both mental stimulation and physical relaxation. Notably, this strain is easy to grow, making it accessible to enthusiasts looking for a euphoric and delightful experience. The unique scent and balanced effects make it a versatile choice for both recreational and medicinal cannabis users.
If you have any experience growing this strain, please share your insights in the comment section below. Happy growing!
- Disclaimer:Laws and regulations regarding cannabis cultivation differ from country to country. Sensi Seeds therefore strongly advises you to check your local laws and regulations. Do not act in conflict with the law.
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