Glacier (Cannabis Strain) — Strainpedia
Glacier is a visually striking Indica-Dominant Hybrid cultivar (often cited as 70% Indica / 30% Sativa). While the specific lineage is often proprietary, it is known to be an Indica/Cookies cross selected for maximum trichome density. Recognized for its “glacier-white” frosted appearance and a sharp, cooling aroma blending mint, pine, and sweet cream, it is frequently referenced in horticultural education for its heavy resin production and tranquilizing effects. The information below is intended strictly for scientific and botanical reference.
Quick Facts
| Genetics | Proprietary Indica/Cookies Hybrid (Selected for high resin) |
|---|---|
| Variety | Indica-Dominant Hybrid (approx. 70% Indica / 30% Sativa) |
| Flowering Time | 8–9 weeks (56–63 days indoors) |
| Yield Potential | 400–550 g/m² (Moderate; high-quality, dense buds) |
| Plant Height | 90–120 cm; compact, bushy, and manageable |
| Climate Preference | Controlled Indoor (Requires cooler temperatures in late flower for color) |
| Difficulty | Intermediate (Requires attention to light intensity and defoliation) |
Scientific & Botanical Overview
Glacier plants typically develop a compact, bushy structure with dense, chunky colas. The buds are incredibly dense and often display deep green or purple hues, which are largely obscured by a monumental, shining layer of white trichomes—hence the name “Glacier.” This extreme frosting indicates exceptionally high resin production, making it a favorite for hash and concentrate artists. The short 8–9 week flowering time is efficient, but the density demands excellent air circulation to prevent moisture issues.
Effects & Use-Cases (Reported)
- Commonly reported effects: intensely relaxing, sedating, euphoric, and soothing; often results in a profound, heavy physical melt and strong appetite stimulation.
- Use-case context: best suited for evening or nighttime consumption due to its heavy, tranquilizing body effects; frequently selected for stress relief, chronic pain, and aiding insomnia.
- Note: These are observational reports, not medical claims; outcomes are not guaranteed.
Aroma & Flavors
- Aroma: sharp and cooling, dominating with notes of fresh mint and mentholated pine, layered with sweet vanilla cream and subtle earthy, spicy undertones.
- Flavor: smooth and cooling on the inhale, delivering sweet cream and mint, followed by a savory, earthy, and peppery pine finish on the exhale.
- Terpene associations: caryophyllene (dominant), pinene, myrcene, limonene.
Tested Cannabinoid & Terpene Ranges
| Compound | Typical Range* | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Δ⁹-THC | ~24–29% (Can reach 30%+) | Known for extreme potency; suitable only for high-tolerance users. |
| CBD | ~0–1% | Generally present at low, trace levels. |
| Caryophyllene | Dominant | Contributes the spice/pepper notes and body-relaxing effects. |
| Pinene | High | Contributes the sharp pine/mint notes and may help counteract high-THC anxiety. |
| Myrcene | High | Contributes the heavy, relaxing body effects and earthy base. |
| Limonene | Moderate | Provides subtle sweet/citrus notes and mood elevation. |
*Ranges are literature- and lab-report-informed references and can differ with environment, harvest timing, post-harvest handling, and analytical methods.
Cultivation Notes
- Light Cycle: 18/6 vegetative; 12/12 flowering
- Humidity Targets: 35–45% during late flower; aggressive defoliation and powerful airflow are critical to prevent mold in the super dense buds.
- Nutrition: Moderate to heavy feeder; benefits from consistent nutrient delivery, especially high potassium (K) during the bulking phase.
- Training: Topping and LST (Low-Stress Training) are recommended to maximize lateral growth and improve light penetration across the dense canopy.
- Harvest Window: Late September to Early October outdoors (Northern Hemisphere), prefers a dry finish to maintain resin quality.
Grower Notes (Week-by-Week Snapshot)
- Weeks 1–2 (Transition/Stretch): minimal stretch; focus on establishing nutrient transition and structural management.
- Weeks 3–4: dense flower set; perform strategic defoliation to improve airflow and expose bud sites; maintain clean environment.
- Weeks 5–7: peak bulking and resin production; aroma is intense; buds become rock-hard and frosty; reduce humidity.
- Weeks 8–9: ripening; initiate final flush; harvest based on high percentage of amber trichomes for maximum sedative effects.
- Post-Harvest: Dry 18–20 °C, 55–60% RH to preserve the volatile mint/pine terpenes.
Timelines shift with genotype and environment; prioritize plant health markers and trichome maturity over calendar counts.
Genetic Lineage
Glacier is widely considered a highly refined, high-potency Indica-Dominant Hybrid, often the result of crossing elite Cookies or Mintz genetics with a high-resin, stabilizing Indica. The breeding goal was to create a cultivar with extreme visual frost, potent sedative effects, and a unique, cooling dessert aroma. This lineage provides the dense structure, rapid finish, and the potent, body-heavy relaxation that defines the strain.
Research Insights
The potent, body-heavy sedation of Glacier is strongly linked to the synergistic action of its dominant terpenes, myrcene and caryophyllene, complemented by the sharpness of pinene. This profile, working with extremely high THC (24–29%+), exemplifies a powerful entourage effect aimed at deep physical relief, stress reduction, and combatting insomnia, often resulting in strong “couch-lock” for low-tolerance users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Glacier an Indica or Sativa?
Glacier is classified as a potent Indica-Dominant Hybrid (approx. 70% Indica), known for delivering heavy physical relaxation, euphoria, and strong tranquilizing effects.
What does Glacier smell and taste like?
It carries a sharp, cooling aroma of fresh mint, mentholated pine, and sweet vanilla cream, with an earthy, peppery undertone. The flavor is smooth and cooling.
What are the typical effects?
Reported effects are intense physical relaxation, euphoria, stress relief, and profound sedation, ideal for evening consumption and sleep.
How long does Glacier take to flower?
Glacier typically flowers in a fast 8–9 weeks (56–63 days) indoors.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Glacier is considered Intermediate in difficulty due to its dense bud structure (requiring careful airflow/pruning) and its need for a stable environment to fully express its heavy frost.
Educational Disclaimer: This page is provided for scientific and horticultural reference only and does not constitute medical or promotional advice. Cannabis cultivation, possession, and use are regulated by local laws. Always comply with applicable legislation in your region.
