Written by Ad OpsOrigin and Breeding History
Alki Haze is a modern cultivar developed by South Bay Genetics, a breeder group known for creating regional, small-batch crosses that emphasize vigor and flavor. According to available context, Alki Haze carries a mostly indica heritage, an intriguing twist given the traditionally sativa-leaning reputation of classic Haze lines. This blend of indica backbone with a Haze label positions the strain as a hybrid that seeks both structure and speed without sacrificing aromatic complexity. In practice, many growers have found such crosses easier to manage indoors where tighter internodes and a faster finish can matter.
The strain’s name hints at a West Coast sensibility and a terpene-forward expression, but its verifiable core details are clearest in the breeder attribution: South Bay Genetics created it as a distinct phenotype-driven project. The “Haze” moniker often signals a citrus-pine spice bouquet and a lively top-end, while the indica heritage tempers those bright notes with density and body relaxation. This duality has been a goal of many breeders seeking to merge Haze character with modern cultivation practicality. Alki Haze’s reported indica-leaning nature suggests that goal was front-of-mind for its selection.
Because boutique breeders frequently work with limited seed runs and evolving parent stock, public, peer-reviewed data on Alki Haze remains scarce. Still, the pattern is familiar: fix desirable Haze aromatics and clarity while shaving flowering time and improving plant manageability. As such, Alki Haze is best understood as a contemporary hybrid designed for real-world grows where environmental control, yield, and turnaround time affect success. The breeder’s reputation for pragmatic crosses supports this interpretation.
In many markets, indica-leaning hybrids accounted for a large share of consumer preference throughout the 2010s and early 2020s, frequently comprising over half of dispensary menu slots during certain periods. That demand shaped breeding objectives, and Alki Haze appears to be a response to those preferences. A cultivar that provides Haze-adjacent aromas in a more compact, quicker package is a logical fit. This alignment of market demand and horticultural practicality explains its niche appeal.
In brief, Alki Haze reflects the 2020s breeding ethos: targeted chemotype expression, manageable plant architecture, and repeatable outcomes for small and mid-scale growers. South Bay Genetics’ role anchors the strain’s provenance and lends credibility to phenotype consistency. The indica-leading foundation explains both its physical composition and its experiential tenor. Together, these traits help define why Alki Haze is sought by cultivators and consumers looking for an efficient, character-rich hybrid.
Genetic Lineage and Inheritance
The best-documented details indicate that South Bay Genetics bred Alki Haze with a mostly indica heritage. While the exact parents have not been published in commonly cited databases, the phenotype expression is consistent with an indica-dominant hybrid infused with Haze-forward terpene potential. This likely entails a structural parent with broadleaf morphology and a flower-time reducer, paired with a Haze-side contributor for citrus, spice, and a livelier headspace. The end result is a hybrid that reads “Haze” to the nose more than to the growth habit.
From an inheritance perspective, the indica influence commonly manifests as shorter internodes, a moderate stretch window, and higher calyx density. The Haze influence typically contributes a sharpened top note in the aromatics and a bit of mental uplift despite the indica lean. Crosses like these often exhibit 1.5x to 2x stretch in the first two weeks of flower, far less than the 2–3x stretch classic Haze lines can display. Growers can therefore plan canopy management with fewer variables.
Chemically, hybridization targeting Haze-like terpenes frequently steers toward terpinolene, limonene, and ocimene on one side, while the indica backbone often raises the probability of myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, and humulene. In practice, many indica-leaning Haze descendants end up caryophyllene- or myrcene-dominant, with limonene and humulene in supporting roles. This creates a profile that is both bright and grounded, yielding a sweet-earth-meets-citrus spice equilibrium. The exact hierarchy will depend on phenotype and environment.
Genetic stability in such crosses is typically achieved over multiple filial generations and backcrosses, each selection emphasizing vigor and consistent terpene output. Breeders commonly remove unstable, late-flowering, or low-yielding individuals in early rounds. By the time a name like Alki Haze reaches market, you can expect tighter phenotype clustering compared to open-pollinated experimental runs. Even so, growers should anticipate minor chemotypic variation and hunt for keeper cuts.
In summary, Alki Haze’s genetic thesis is to retain the aromas and headspace nuance that made Haze famous while leveraging indica structure to shorten bloom and increase density. The breeder attribution to South Bay Genetics confirms an intentioned selection project rather than a casual cross. For cultivators, that means predictable plant architecture relative to true Hazes. For consumers, it means an accessible “Haze vibe” without the sativa intensity many find overstimulating.
Physical Appearance and Plant Morphology
Alki Haze typically presents as a compact, indica-leaning plant with medium stature and sturdy lateral branching. Expect internodal spacing in the 1.5–3.0 inch range under adequate light intensity, with leaves that skew broad and deep green in early veg. The canopy tends to fill out evenly, allowing for straightforward topping and low-stress training. Its overall architecture makes it a good candidate for square-foot optimization in small tents.
As flowers set, buds become notably dense with an above-average calyx-to-leaf ratio for an indica-forward hybrid. The Haze influence may appear as tapering, slightly spear-shaped colas rather than the perfectly golf-ball structure of some pure indica lines. Trichome coverage is typically heavy, often producing a frosted appearance by week five of flower. Pistils can mature from cream to orange-amber as resin production peaks.
Coloration can broaden under cooler nighttime temperatures, sometimes showing faint lavender or mauve hues late in flower. However, the default palette is lime to olive green with bright pistil contrast. Minimal fox-tailing can occur if canopy temperatures rise above 82–84°F, a trait occasionally inherited from Haze ancestry. Proper environmental control limits this risk.
Root vigor is another hallmark, with plants responding well to air-pruning pots and well-aerated media. In hydroponic or coco setups, expect rapid root mass expansion and correspondingly faster uptake of nitrogen and potassium in vegetative stages. Stems lignify sufficiently to carry stacked colas without heavy staking in moderate-yield scenarios. In high-PPFD, CO2-enriched rooms, light trellising helps maintain symmetry.
Overall, Alki Haze’s morphology blends indica efficiency with Haze elegance. The plant is compact enough for vertical-constrained spaces yet expressive enough to showcase attractive top colas. This balance is a core reason growers gravitate toward indica-leaning Haze hybrids. They simply fit more rooms and schedules without sacrificing bag appeal.
Aroma and Flavor Profile
On the nose, Alki Haze is best described as sweet-citrus overlaid on earth and pepper, with floral and cedar undertones. In many cuts, the first impression is lemon zest and ripe orange, followed by a round, almost honeyed herbality. As the flower breaks, a deeper layer of damp soil, peppercorn, and faint incense emerges. This evolution in the grind is consistent with hybrids showing caryophyllene and myrcene alongside limonene.
During combustion or vaporization, the flavor arc typically mirrors the aroma but reorganizes the notes. Citrus presents first, sometimes with a candied or sherbet-like brightness, then slides into woody spice and a hint of herbal tea. The finish is clean and slightly resinous, leaving a pepper-sweet aftertaste that lingers for 30–60 seconds. Vaporization at 370–390°F tends to accentuate the citrus-floral portion, while 400°F+ brings forward the spice and wood.
Moisture content and cure strongly influence the profile. Flowers cured to 10–12% moisture content with a 58–62% relative humidity target usually maintain the most vivid terpene expression. Over-dry material collapses the citrus and exaggerates the pepper, which can feel harsher on the throat. Conversely, too-wet flower mutes the bouquet and risks microbial growth.
In concentrates, especially live resin or rosin, the citrus and floral elements often bloom, with the pepper-wood receding into a grounding base note. Terp fractions will vary, but concentrate consumers frequently report a lemon-pine lift on the inhale and a spicy, calming finish. For edibles, infusion tends to soften the citrus, revealing a honeyed, earthy sweetness that pairs well with cocoa or berry carriers. Low-temperature decarboxylation helps preserve volatile monoterpenes.
Overall, Alki Haze’s sensory identity is approachable and complex without becoming chaotic. It appeals to those who want a bright, modern bouquet tempered by classic hashish-adjacent spice. That balance is a signature of indica-leaning Haze crosses when cured and stored with care. Expect a dynamic nose that rewards a slow, intentional grind.
Cannabinoid Composition
While publicly cataloged certificates of analysis for Alki Haze are limited, indica-leaning Haze descendants commonly test in the 18–24% THC range under competent cultivation. Exceptional phenotypes grown in optimized, CO2-enriched rooms can push beyond 25% THC, but those results are not guaranteed and remain phenotype- and process-dependent. CBD is typically low, often below 1.0%, with total cannabinoids commonly landing between 20–28% when including minor constituents. CBG frequently appears in the 0.1–0.5% range.
For inhalation, the pharmacokinetics of THC show a rapid onset, with peak plasma levels occurring roughly 8–15 minutes after consumption. Reported subjective effects usually crest within 30–60 minutes and taper over 2–3 hours in most users. Oral ingestion shifts the window, with 11-hydroxy-THC formation driving a later and stronger peak around 1.5–3 hours, lasting 4–6 hours or more. These figures are consistent with published cannabinoid metabolism data across adult populations.
The entourage effect—modulation of cannabinoids by terpenes and flavonoids—likely plays a role in Alki Haze’s balanced feel. Caryophyllene’s CB2 partial agonism is frequently noted for anti-inflammatory potential, while limonene has been studied for mood-lifting properties. Myrcene is associated with sedation at higher doses in animal models, which can synergize with THC to deepen body relaxation. These interactions make the same THC percentage feel different across terpene contexts.
Consumers should always rely on batch-specific COAs, as environment and handling can shift results by several percentage points. Sample degradation is real: improper storage can reduce total terpene content by 30–50% over a few months, altering perceived potency even when THC stays constant. Freshness and handling therefore matter as much as headline THC numbers. Metadata on harvest date and storage conditions is invaluable.
For medical planning, microdosing strategies typically begin at 1–2.5 mg THC, titrating upward by 1–2 mg as needed. Recreational users often report 5–10 mg THC as a functional oral range, with 10–25 mg producing more pronounced effects. Inhalation doses are highly variable but often translate to 1–3 inhalations per session for casual use. As always, begin low and go slow, particularly with edibles.
Terpene Profile and Minor Volatiles
Given the indica-leaning nature of Alki Haze, the dominant terpene is frequently beta-caryophyllene or myrcene, with limonene commonly in the secondary tier. Typical total terpene content under indoor LED cultivation ranges from 1.5–3.0% by weight, though exceptional batches may surpass 3.5%. A representative distribution for indica-forward Haze hybrids might show beta-caryophyllene at 0.4–0.8%, myrcene at 0.3–0.9%, limonene at 0.2–0.6%, and humulene at 0.1–0.3%. Trace contributors like linalool, ocimene, and terpinolene may appear at 0.05–0.2% each.
Caryophyllene delivers the peppery spice and interacts with CB2 receptors, which is cited in research for potential anti-inflammatory effects. Myrcene provides musky, herbal depth and may contribute to perceived sedation at higher concentrations. Limonene drives the citrus lift and is associated with alertness and elevated mood in small studies. Humulene supports woody, herbal edges while offering appetite-modulating effects in some preclinical models.
Minor volatiles such as nerolidol, guaiol, and farnesene may be present in trace amounts, subtly shaping the floral-wood background. Nerolidol can add a tea-like, jasmine element when detectable, while guaiol pushes a dry cedar note. Farnesene, though often minimal, brings a green-apple nuance that brightens the bouquet. These micro-components help explain why aroma shifts with curing technique.
Environmental conditions strongly influence terpene assembly and retention. Cooler nighttime temps (64–68°F) during late flower and minimal late-stage nitrogen can preserve monoterpenes. Gentle drying at 60–65°F and 55–62% RH over 10–14 days better preserves limonene and ocimene compared to fast, warm dries. Improper drying can reduce measurable monoterpenes by double-digit percentages.
If you are pheno-hunting Alki Haze from seed, consider lab-checking terpene output across at least 6–10 plants to spot chemotype clusters. Select keepers with total terpene content at or above 2% and a balanced caryophyllene-limonene-myrcene trio for the most versatile profile. Sensory evaluation should corroborate lab findings: citrus first, spice-second, earth third. A stable keeper will express consistently across repeated runs.
Experiential Effects and Onset
Expect a balanced onset that leans toward body ease with a clean, functional headspace. The first 5–10 minutes after inhalation often bring a light, citrus-led mood lift and gentle sensory sharpening. As the session progresses, muscular relaxation and physical comfort deepen, sometimes accompanied by a mild heaviness behind the eyes. The net effect is soothing without heavy couchlock in moderate doses.
Peak intensity usually lands between 30 and 60 minutes post-inhale, with a plateau that lasts 30–90 minutes for most users. Many report a shift from social, talkative energy at the start to more introspective calm later in the session. The Haze influence prevents the experience from becoming muddy, maintaining clarity for tasks like music listening or light creative work. At higher doses, expect more pronounced sedation and time dilation.
Compared to racy, terpinolene-dominant Hazes, Alki Haze’s indica core tends to blunt edge and jitter. This makes it a fitting evening or late-afternoon cultivar for users who want relief without overwhelm. Paired with tea, a bath, or light stretching, it often supports downshifting after a long day. Those sensitive to THC may still experience anxiety at high doses; dose discipline is key.
For edible formats, the character evolves toward a heavier body effect driven by 11-hydroxy-THC. Onset may take 60–120 minutes, with a stronger, longer overall arc. The mental clarity of the Haze side often remains present but can be overshadowed by full-body warmth. Starting with 2.5–5 mg THC is prudent if you’re new to edibles.
In concentrates, the terpene intensity can feel brighter on the front end, making the first minute or two feel more stimulating. As the peak settles, the indica backbone reasserts itself, leading to a calm, anchored finish. Experienced users sometimes find this dynamic ideal for short, purposeful sessions. New users should pace themselves, as vapor density can accelerate uptake.
Potential Therapeutic Applications
While clinical trials targeting Alki Haze specifically are absent, its indica-leaning chemotype suggests applications aligned with pain modulation, stress reduction, and sleep support. Beta-caryophyllene’s CB2 activity has been studied for anti-inflammatory potential, which may complement THC’s analgesic properties. Myrcene is frequently associated with sedation in animal models, aligning with anecdotal reports of improved sleep latency. Limonene’s mood-elevating effects could aid stress and mild anxiety in some users.
For daytime symptom management, microdoses (1–2.5 mg THC) may provide anxiolytic support without heavy sedation. Evening doses in the 5–10 mg range often help with muscle tension and sleep onset, particularly when combined with a calming routine. Vaporized flower allows rapid titration for breakthrough pain or acute stress spikes. Patients who are THC-sensitive might consider pairing with CBD at 1:1 to 1:4 ratios to moderate psychoactivity.
Chronic pain patients often report benefits when dosing 2–3 times per day, keeping individual sessions modest to prevent tolerance buildup. Topicals made from caryophyllene-forward flowers may support localized relief for joints and soft tissue. For neuropathic discomfort, inhalation’s fast onset is valuable for tracking dose-response. Always consult a clinician familiar with cannabinoid therapy to tailor protocols.
Nausea and appetite modulation are additional use cases, with inhaled THC showing antiemetic effects in multiple studies. Small, reactive inhalations can be helpful before meals to stimulate appetite without over-sedating. For sleep, the final dose 60–90 minutes before bedtime can synchronize with natural wind-down. Users should avoid stacking high doses too close to bed if they experience next-day grogginess.
Contraindications include a history of psychosis, uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions, and pregnancy or breastfeeding, where cannabis use is generally discouraged. Drug-drug interactions—particularly with sedatives, certain antidepressants, and antiepileptics—should be reviewed by a healthcare provider. Start low, monitor carefully, and document responses in a symptom diary. Personalization is the rule rather than the exception.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Growth pattern and timing: Alki Haze’s mostly indica heritage translates to an 8–10 week flowering window in most indoor environments. Many growers report sweet spots around 60–66 days, with some phenotypes benefiting from a full 70-day finish for maximal resin and color. Veg vigor is steady and predictable, with 4–6 weeks sufficient to fill a standard 2x4 ft or 4x4 ft tent using topping plus low-stress training. Expect 1.5–2.0x stretch after flip.
Environment and VPD: Ideal day temperatures in veg are 75–80°F with nights 68–72°F; in flower, 74–78°F days and 65–70°F nights are optimal. Relative humidity should target 60–70% in early veg, 50–60% in late veg/early flower, and 45–55% in mid-to-late flower. Aim for VPD of 0.8–1.2 kPa during veg and 1.2–1.5 kPa during flower to balance transpiration and stomatal conductance. Gentle airflow across the canopy helps prevent microclimates.
Lighting and PPFD: Under modern LEDs, veg comfortably at 300–600 µmol/m²/s PPFD and flower at 700–1,000 µmol/m²/s, with advanced growers pushing 1,200–1,400 µmol/m²/s alongside 1,000–1,200 ppm CO2. Daily light integral (DLI) targets are 20–30 mol/m²/day in veg and 35–45 mol/m²/day in flower. Even light distribution avoids hot spots that can induce fox-tailing. Light movers or well-spaced, dimmable fixtures help maintain uniformity.
Media and pH: In coco/hydro, maintain pH 5.8–6.2; in soil, 6.2–6.8. Coco mixes of 70% coco and 30% perlite provide excellent aeration and rapid growth. Living soil growers should amend with balanced mineral baselines and monitor calcium and magnesium heft, as indica-dominant hybrids can be Ca/Mg-hungry in mid-flower. Avoid over-watering; aim for wet-dry cycles that pull oxygen into the root zone.
Nutrition and EC: A 3-1-2 N-P-K ratio in veg, transitioning to 1-3-2 in early flower and 0-3-3 in late flower, is a practical template. Maintain EC around 1.2–1.6 mS/cm in veg, 1.6–2.0 in mid flower, and taper toward 1.0–1.3 in late flower. Calcium at 100–150 ppm and magnesium at 50–80 ppm are common targets in coco/hydro. Silica at 50–100 ppm can strengthen stems and improve stress tolerance.
Training and canopy management: Top once or twice in veg and deploy low-stress training to create 6–12 main sites per plant. A single-layer SCROG net dramatically increases light interception and yield uniformity. Defoliation should be conservative; remove leaves that block key bud sites and improve airflow, but avoid stripping more than 15–20% of leaf mass at once. Lollipop the lower third of the plant 10–14 days after flip to concentrate energy.
Irrigation cadence: In coco, smaller, more frequent irrigations maintain consistent EC in the root zone—1–3 feeds per day as plants mature. In soil, water to runoff every 2–5 days depending on pot size, root density, and environment. Aim for 10–20% runoff in coco to prevent salt accumulation. Automated drip systems improve consistency and reduce labor in multi-plant canopies.
Pest and disease prevention: Indica-dense flowers are susceptible to botrytis if humidity spikes late in flower. Maintain adequate airflow and keep leaf surfaces dry during dark periods. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) with weekly scouting, sticky cards, and beneficials (e.g., Neoseiulus californicus for mites, Orius insidiosus for thrips) reduces outbreak risk. Sanitation and quarantine of new clones are non-negotiable.
Yields: Under 700–900 µmol/m²/s PPFD, expect 450–550 g/m² in competent hands. With SCROG, optimized nutrition, and CO2, pushing 550–650 g/m² is realistic. Outdoor or greenhouse plants, when topped and trained, can yield 400–800 g per plant, with exceptional conditions producing 1 kg+. Phenotype selection is the primary lever for yield optimization.
Outdoor considerations: Choose well-drained soil with 6–8 hours of direct sun and wind protection. Where late-season humidity is high, aim to finish by early October to avoid mold pressure; earlier-finishing phenos are preferable in such climates. Mulch to stabilize moisture and soil temperature, and consider lightweight hoop covers to manage rain events. Organic IPM with regular neem/karanja soil drenches in veg can suppress soil-borne pests.
CO2 and advanced dialing: If enriching, maintain 1,000–1,200 ppm CO2 during lights-on while holding PPFD at or above 900 µmol/m²/s to leverage the added carbon. Monitor leaf temperature differential (LTD) with an IR thermometer; target leaf temps 1–2°F below ambient under LED to confirm transpiration balance. Use tissue tests or sap analysis mid-run to fine-tune potassium and micronutrients. Document every change; repeat what works across cycles.
Timeline summary: Week 1–2 veg: establish roots and first topping. Week 3–4 veg: train laterals, second topping if desired. Flower Days 1–14: manage stretch, install net, light defoliation. Flower Days 21–49: bulk and resin focus, maintain VPD and EC. Flower Days 50–70: watch trichomes, taper feed, prepare for harvest.
Harvest, Drying, and Curing
Harvest timing for Alki Haze is best judged by trichome maturity, aiming for 5–10% amber with the majority cloudy for a balanced effect. This typically lands between day 60 and day 70 of bloom depending on phenotype and environment. A slightly earlier cut (mostly cloudy, minimal amber) leans brighter and more energetic. A later cut (10–20% amber) deepens body sedation.
Pre-harvest, a 7–10 day nutrient taper or clear-water finish can improve ash quality and flavor. Reduce EC gradually rather than abruptly to avoid stress responses that can trigger late-stage fox-tailing. Keep day temperatures in the mid-70s°F and nights in the high-60s°F to coax color and preserve volatile monoterpenes. Dim lights slightly in the last week if plants show light stress.
For drying, aim for 60–65°F and 55–62% RH in darkness with gentle airflow that moves the room but not the flowers directly. Whole-plant or large-branch hangs slow the dry to the ideal 10–14 day window, preserving terpenes and preventing chlorophyll harshness. Buds are ready to trim when small stems snap and larger stems bend. Overly fast drying risks terpene loss and a “hay” aroma.
Curing should start at 58–62% humidity in airtight glass or food-grade containers, with daily burping for the first 7–10 days. A 3–6 week cure significantly improves aroma integration and smoothness, with many growers noticing a 20–40% subjective improvement in flavor clarity. Small, food-safe humidity packs help stabilize target levels. Avoid frequent, extended jar opening; oxygen exposure accelerates terpene oxidation.
Post-cure, lab test if possible to capture final potency and terpene profile. Document harvest date, dry/cure conditions, and any deviations from your standard protocol. This data will inform micro-adjustments on the next run. Consistency is the lever that turns a good harvest into a reliably great one.
Storage, Shelf Life, and Lab Testing
Once cured, store Alki Haze in airtight, UV-opaque containers at 60–68°F and 55–62% RH. Avoid refrigeration or freezing for finished flower unless vacuum-sealed and intended for long-term storage; temperature cycling can cause moisture migration and trichome fracture. Keep containers away from light and heat sources, which can degrade THC to CBN and oxidize terpenes. Under ideal conditions, sensory quality is best within 3–6 months.
Terpene content declines over time even with good storage, often dropping 15–30% over 90 days. Larger, minimally handled buds maintain aroma longer than smalls. For retailers, nitrogen-flushed packaging can extend shelf life and reduce oxidation. For home users, buy smaller amounts more frequently rather than stockpiling.
Lab testing should include potency (THC, CBD, minor cannabinoids), terpene panel, moisture content or water activity (aw), and contaminant screens. Water activity between 0.55 and 0.65 helps minimize microbial risk while preserving texture. Obtain batch-specific COAs whenever possible; differences of 2–4 percentage points in THC and 0.5–1.0% in total terpenes are not unusual between phenos or runs. Treat each batch as its own product.
For extract processors, rapid freezing post-harvest at -20°C or colder preserves volatile monoterpenes prior to extraction. Track terpene loss at each processing step to refine SOPs. Align harvest timing with processing capacity to avoid quality bottlenecks. Data-driven adjustments compound into meaningful quality gains over time.
Conclusion and Buyer’s Tips
Alki Haze brings together a Haze-inspired sensory profile with a mostly indica heritage credited to South Bay Genetics. The result is a cultivar that smells bright and spicy, grows compact and manageable, and delivers a calm, clear-leaning relaxation. Its performance window—8–10 weeks of flower, moderate stretch, and dense, resin-rich buds—fits modern home and craft grows. For consumers, it reads as balanced and approachable across formats.
When buying, prioritize batches with fresh harvest dates, intact trichomes, and a terpene declaration of 1.5% or higher if available. Aroma should open with citrus and land on peppered earth; a flat or grassy nose may indicate rushed drying. For session planning, expect a friendly onset that won’t bulldoze productivity at moderate doses. For sleep or deeper relief, simply titrate upward or choose a later-harvest phenotype.
Growers should seek phenotypes that hit total terpenes above 2% with caryophyllene-limonene-myrcene harmony for the most versatile medicine and flavor. Run small test batches to dial EC, VPD, and canopy training, documenting changes to lock in repeatability. With disciplined cultivation and careful post-harvest handling, Alki Haze consistently delivers top-shelf jar appeal. It’s a practical, terp-forward hybrid that earns its place in rotation.
