Written by Ad OpsHistory of All That Glitters
All That Glitters is a contemporary hybrid bred by Green Empress Garden LLC, a producer known for meticulous phenotype selection and boutique-scale releases. The breeder of record is clear, but public-facing documentation about the original seed lot, year of release, and initial test batches remains limited. As a result, the early history is best pieced together from vendor listings and grower chatter that describe it as a modern, resin-forward hybrid intended for both connoisseurs and methodical cultivators.
The name All That Glitters signals its intended appeal: a frost-heavy presentation that emphasizes trichome production for vivid bag appeal and potent extracts. In the 2020s, market demand shifted decisively toward cultivars with high resin output, dessert-like aromas, and a balanced effect profile. This strain fits that market moment, aligning with consumer appetite for hybrids that perform well in both flower and concentrate form.
Green Empress Garden LLC’s involvement suggests a deliberate, small-batch approach rather than mass-market proliferation. Breeders operating in this niche commonly run multi-cycle phenotype hunts, then fix lines via backcrossing or selective open pollination to stabilize traits of interest. While the full backstory isn’t publicly codified, the observed consistency in grow diaries indicates a concerted stabilization phase before broader distribution.
Since its emergence, All That Glitters has been positioned as an indica/sativa hybrid with versatile cultivation characteristics. Reports from growers speak to its amenability to training and its willingness to stack dense flowers under sufficient light intensity. In this way, the strain is emblematic of a class of modern hybrids optimized for predictable canopy management and strong resin development in controlled environments.
Genetic Lineage and Breeding Logic
The confirmed heritage is indica/sativa, indicating a balanced hybrid framework rather than a strongly weighted indica or sativa line. Green Empress Garden LLC has not publicly disclosed the exact parentage, a common practice for boutique breeders guarding proprietary lines. In the absence of disclosed lineage, breeders often build such hybrids from resin-rich families (e.g., Frost OG or certain Cookie/Gelato descendants) crossed with terpene-forward dessert cultivars to maximize both bag appeal and sensory complexity.
Without definitive parental names, the best way to understand All That Glitters is through its trait constellation: a heavy trichome blanket, dense calyxes, and a layered, sweet-to-spicy terpene array. Those traits commonly blend beta-caryophyllene-led spiciness with limonene and myrcene-driven sweetness and fruit tones. Such combinations have dominated award podiums in recent years because they perform well in solventless extraction and preserve pronounced flavor in cured flower.
From a breeding logic standpoint, stabilizing a resin-first hybrid typically entails several cycles of selection for gland head size, stalk strength, and trichome density per mm². Breeders frequently quantify resin output indirectly via wash yields in ice-water hash, where elite plants can reach 4–6% return by fresh frozen weight under optimized conditions. Additionally, selection lines often emphasize bud structure that resists botrytis in dense canopies, a trait consistent with the compact yet ventilated flowers associated with this cultivar.
Given the market environment, it is reasonable to infer that All That Glitters was refined to hit familiar hybrid benchmarks: a flowering window around 8–10 weeks, strong lateral branching amenable to SCROG, and high resin production that maintains terpene stability through cure. The indica lineage likely contributes to its dense flowers and calmer body finish, while the sativa lineage may underpin its head-clearing or creative lift. That hybrid balance is central to its reputation for versatility.
Appearance and Bag Appeal
True to its name, All That Glitters tends to present a sparkling blanket of trichomes that can lend the flowers a pale, frosted hue. Many growers describe a high calyx-to-leaf ratio, where swollen bracts stack tightly and reduce trimming time. When cured properly, the bud surfaces gleam under light, with trichome heads visible even without a loupe.
Coloration typically ranges from lime to forest green, with occasional lavender flecking in cooler night temperatures during late flower. Pistils often mature from amber to deep tangerine, threading through the trichome field to add contrast. Sugar leaves, when present, are narrow and lightly dusted, reinforcing the glittering aesthetic.
Dense structure is common, suggesting a phenotype stabilized for compact internodes and strong calyx expansion. Under high-intensity LED lighting, this density translates into weighty, golf-ball to cola-sized clusters that feel tacky to the touch. The combination of density and resin coverage lends the cultivar a premium, display-ready look that photographs exceptionally well.
Aroma and Flavor
The aroma usually opens with sweet citrus and soft vanilla-cream top notes, underpinned by a peppery-spice base. This pattern is consistent with terpene stacks where limonene and myrcene lead the top, caryophyllene anchors the base, and secondary contributors like linalool or humulene add lift or dryness. On the grind, floral and confectionary tones may intensify, hinting at dessert-forward ancestry.
In the jar, users often report a sugared fruit bouquet with a faint earthiness that keeps the sweetness from becoming cloying. The pepper and spice dimension rounds the profile, offering a grown-up contrast to the candy elements. As the cure progresses, the bouquet can mellow into richer pastry-like notes, especially when stored in stable humidity around 58–62% RH.
On the palate, the flavor tends to mirror the nose, delivering a bright initial sweetness that transitions to a warm, slightly woody spice. Vaporization at 180–190°C often emphasizes the citrus and floral notes, while combustion leans into the caryophyllene-led spice. A clean flush and slow cure will preserve the subtler vanilla and pastry cues that make this cultivar feel decadent.
Cannabinoid Profile
Published lab data specific to All That Glitters remains sparse, so expectations are guided by its indica/sativa hybrid designation and breeder intent. In modern resin-forward hybrids, total THC commonly lands between 18–26% by dry weight, with THCa comprising the majority pre-decarboxylation. CBD is typically trace (<1%), though occasional phenotypes can show slightly elevated CBGA or CBC levels.
Minor cannabinoids in high-resin hybrids routinely include CBGA in the 0.3–1.5% range and CBC around 0.1–0.5%, depending on cut and cultivation regimen. These compounds, while present in smaller amounts, can modulate the psychoactive profile and entourage effect. Notably, CBGA is a biosynthetic precursor, so cultivation conditions that impact enzyme pathways can shift its final proportion.
For consumers, the practical takeaway is that All That Glitters will likely feel potent at standard inhalation doses of 5–10 mg inhaled THC per session. Inhaled onset often begins in 3–10 minutes, with peak effects around 30–60 minutes and a typical duration of 2–3 hours. Edible preparations—or solventless rosin capsules—extend onset to 45–120 minutes and can lengthen duration to 4–6 hours or more.
Growers seeking precise numbers should test their own harvests, as cultivation variables can swing potency by 10–30% relative to genotype potential. Light intensity, DLI, nutrient balance, harvest timing, and cure quality all influence measured potency. Lab-verified COAs from your local jurisdiction remain the gold standard for exact cannabinoid figures.
Terpene Profile
While exact terpene data for All That Glitters is not broadly published, the sensory signature aligns with a caryophyllene-forward base paired with limonene and myrcene. In comparable hybrids, total terpene content commonly measures 1.5–3.5% by dry weight, with elite examples pushing beyond 4% under optimized cultivation. A plausible distribution would see beta-caryophyllene leading at 0.3–0.7%, limonene at 0.2–0.6%, and myrcene at 0.3–1.0%.
Secondary terpenes often reported in similar profiles include humulene (0.1–0.3%), linalool (0.05–0.2%), and ocimene or terpinolene in trace-to-minor quantities. Linalool’s floral-citrus lift can explain the confectionary top notes, while humulene introduces a dry, woody counterpoint that reins in sweetness. This interplay creates an aroma that is both inviting and mature, suitable for enthusiasts who enjoy “dessert with depth.”
Functionally, beta-caryophyllene is notable as a selective CB2 receptor agonist, a property documented in preclinical literature exploring anti-inflammatory pathways. Limonene has been associated with mood-elevating and anxiolytic properties in small human and animal studies, and myrcene is frequently discussed for its potential sedative synergy, especially in later-evening use. While these associations are suggestive rather than definitive, they offer a science-aligned rationale for the strain’s balanced, comforting feel.
It is worth emphasizing that terpenes are highly responsive to cultivation conditions. Temperature, light spectrum, substrate, nutrient regime, and post-harvest curing can alter terpene totals by percentage points. Gentle drying (18–20°C, 50–60% RH) and a patient cure are key to preserving the full bouquet.
Experiential Effects
As a balanced indica/sativa hybrid, All That Glitters typically delivers a composed duality: a clear, mood-elevating headspace paired with a soothing, body-centered calm. Consumers often describe a progression from light euphoria and focus to a mellow, stress-relieving finish. This sequence supports daytime creativity at modest doses and evening relaxation at higher doses.
On inhalation, initial effects commonly register in under 10 minutes, with users reporting perceptible uplift and sensory brightening. Around the 30–60 minute mark, the body component becomes more pronounced, easing muscle tension without heavy couchlock for most. The overall arc makes it approachable for social settings, creative work, and low-impact activities.
Dose, method, and tolerance markedly influence outcomes. A single 2–3 second draw from a 20% THC flower can deliver roughly 3–6 mg of THC depending on device and inhalation efficiency, which many find functional. Multiple draws in quick succession can push the experience toward deeper physical relaxation and a tranquil, introspective state.
Side effects are similar to other potent hybrids: dry mouth and dry eyes are common, and in sensitive individuals, higher doses can transiently elevate heart rate or provoke anxious thoughts. Staying hydrated, titrating slowly, and choosing a comfortable setting reduce the likelihood of discomfort. As always, individual biochemistry and set-and-setting play significant roles in the subjective experience.
Potential Medical Uses
The balanced profile of All That Glitters makes it a candidate for stress reduction and mood support, particularly at low-to-moderate inhaled doses. Limonene’s presence aligns with reports of uplift and anxiety relief, while beta-caryophyllene’s CB2 activity is consistent with anti-inflammatory potential in preclinical models. Patients seeking calm without heavy sedation may appreciate the strain’s even-keel trajectory.
For pain and muscle tension, the moderate-to-strong THC potential paired with myrcene and caryophyllene may help with nociceptive discomfort and spasms. In practice, many patients start with 2–5 mg inhaled THC and assess relief over 20–30 minutes before redosing. Evening doses can be helpful for post-activity soreness or migraine adjunctive relief, though individual responses vary.
Sleep support is a common secondary use. While not an archetypal “knockout” cultivar, higher evening doses may shorten sleep latency for some, especially when paired with good sleep hygiene. If insomnia is primary, a more linalool- or myrcene-heavy phenotype could be preferable, so patients may benefit from trying small amounts from different batches.
Caveats are important. THC can transiently increase anxiety or heart rate in some users, particularly at higher doses or with unfamiliar settings. Those with cardiovascular concerns or a history of severe anxiety should consult clinicians familiar with cannabinoid therapeutics and proceed with cautious titration.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
All That Glitters is well-suited to controlled indoor cultivation, where its resin potential and dense flower structure can be guided with environmental precision. In veg, target 20–25 mol/m²/day DLI with PPFD in the 300–500 µmol/m²/s range for healthy, compact growth. In flower, increase to 35–45 mol/m²/day with PPFD between 800–1,100 µmol/m²/s; if supplementing CO2 (1,000–1,200 ppm), many growers push PPFD to 1,200–1,400 µmol/m²/s.
Temperature and humidity should follow standard hybrid best practices. Aim for 24–27°C daytime and 20–23°C nighttime in veg, tightening to 24–26°C daytime and 18–22°C nighttime in flower. Keep VPD around 0.8–1.1 kPa in veg and 1.2–1.5 kPa in mid-to-late flower to balance transpiration and terpene preservation.
In soil, target pH 6.2–6.8; in coco or hydro, maintain 5.8–6.2. Feed EC in veg can range 1.2–1.6 mS/cm, rising to 1.8–2.2 mS/cm at peak flower, then tapering in the final weeks. Balanced nutrition with a slightly elevated calcium and magnesium regime supports dense stacking under strong LEDs.
Structural management is straightforward and rewarding. Top once or twice by week 3–4 of veg, then implement low-stress training and a SCROG net to spread growth tips into a flat canopy. The cultivar responds well to supercropping during early stretch, which supports even light distribution and reduces larf.
Flowering time typically falls between 8–10 weeks depending on phenotype and desired trichome maturity. Many resin-forward hybrids reach peak terpene intensity when harvested at largely cloudy trichomes with 5–15% amber; however, those seeking a heavier body effect may prefer 15–25% amber. Monitor with a 60–100x loupe and complement with whole-plant visual cues like pistil recession and calyx swelling.
Environmental hygiene is crucial because dense flowers can invite botrytis if airflow is insufficient. Maintain gentle, multidirectional air movement across and through the canopy, and avoid RH spikes above 60% in late flower. Defoliate selectively at day 21 and day 42 of flower to improve light penetration and airflow without over-stripping.
Irrigation strategy can be tuned for quality or yield priorities. In coco, frequent small irrigations to 10–20% runoff maintain stable EC and root-zone oxygen. In living soil, allow the upper horizon to dry slightly between waterings while keeping a consistent moisture profile deeper in the pot, aided by mulch and SIP systems if desired.
For substrate choice, the strain thrives in high-oxygen coco blends and well-structured living soils with adequate aeration (30–40% perlite or equivalent). In inert media, consider a cal-mag supplement early in flower and silica up to week 5 for cell wall support. In living soil, top-dress with flowering amendments (e.g., 2–5-2 or 4–8-4 NPK equivalents) and ensure micronutrients are balanced.
Light spectrum can influence expression. A balanced full-spectrum LED with ample 660 nm and a touch of 730 nm far-red helps drive photosynthesis and natural photomorphogenesis. Many growers report tighter internodes and richer coloration with slightly higher blue proportion in late veg, shifting to red-heavy spectra in early flower for robust bud set.
Post-harvest handling determines how much of the “glitter” survives to the jar. Dry at 18–20°C and 50–60% RH for 10–14 days, then cure at 58–62% RH for 3–6 weeks, burping as needed to release moisture and preserve volatiles. Avoid rapid drying, as it can volatilize terpenes and reduce perceived potency.
Yield potential is competitive for a resin-first hybrid. In dialed-in indoor grows, 400–600 g/m² is a reasonable target under 600–700 W of high-efficiency LED in a 1.2 m² tent, with experienced growers surpassing 600 g/m² using CO2 and aggressive canopy optimization. For solventless extraction, fresh frozen wash yields of 3–5% are achievable on well-grown material, with top-tier phenotypes possibly exceeding that under ideal conditions.
Pest and pathogen prevention should be proactive. Integrated pest management (IPM) that rotates biologicals like Beauveria bassiana and Bacillus subtilis, alongside predatory mites (e.g., Neoseiulus californicus for spider mites), keeps populations in check. Always cease foliar sprays by week 3 of flower to protect trichomes and avoid residue.
Finally, phenotype selection matters. If you have access to multiple seeds or cuts, keep detailed notes on vigor, internode spacing, terp intensity, and wash performance. Selecting for the densest trichome coverage and strongest aroma under your specific environment will maximize the signature “glitter” that defines this cultivar.
