Written by Ad OpsIntroduction to Apollo 13
Apollo 13 is a boutique cannabis cultivar prized by connoisseurs for its dense resin production, complex citrus-pine profile, and balanced, body-forward high. In contemporary releases, it has been stabilized and marketed by NorStar Genetics with a mostly indica heritage, giving it a compact structure and a soothing physical effect that still keeps the mind alert. Growers value Apollo 13 for finishing within a moderate 8–9 week flowering window and for its predictable, clone-friendly growth habits. Consumers appreciate that it offers potency without the racey edge, making it a versatile strain for afternoon or evening use.
The name Apollo 13 nods to aerospace lore, and the strain has indeed orbited through notable breeding programs over the past two decades. Apollo 13 genetics appear repeatedly in TGA SubCool Genetics work, informing hybrids that emphasize speed of onset and bright, fruity terpenes. The strain’s reputation has grown as breeders incorporate its reliable resin density and loud aroma into their crosses. Today, Apollo 13 serves as both a standalone craft smoke and a donor of desirable traits in modern hybrids.
Because different breeders have curated different expressions, Apollo 13’s phenotype can vary slightly across seed lines and cuts. The NorStar Genetics selection leans indica, with chunkier buds, broader leaflets, and a heavier myrcene-caryophyllene backbone. By contrast, Apollo 13 contributions seen in TGA’s catalog often highlight energetic and citrus-forward chemotypes. This diversity within a recognizable flavor family is one reason the strain maintains its popularity among small-batch growers and extract artists.
History and Breeding Provenance
Apollo 13’s modern prominence is tied to dedicated breeder selections that sought reliable structure and a well-rounded effect. NorStar Genetics is credited for the widely circulated, mostly indica Apollo 13 release found in today’s seed markets. Their work emphasized tighter internodal spacing, improved bud mass, and terpene consistency, all while maintaining the strain’s signature citrus-pine bouquet. This version is favored by growers who want manageable plants and consistent resin output without extended flowering times.
Apollo 13 also features in the breeding library of TGA SubCool Genetics, where it helped shape several energetic hybrids. For example, Astroboy—documented by Leafly as a sativa-dominant hybrid—combines Apollo 13 genetics with a cross of Ortega and Cinderella 99. Ortega carries Northern Lights heritage, while C99 lends speed, vigor, and tropical-fruit notes, illustrating how Apollo 13 integrates seamlessly into pedigrees aimed at strong flavor and brisk onset. These TGA projects demonstrate the strain’s flexibility, supporting both uplifting and body-relaxing goals depending on pairings.
Catalog blurbs and seedbank summaries referencing Space Queen, Shiva Skunk, and Northern Lights speak to the broader gene pool seen in TGA and related lines. Space Queen itself famously traces to Romulan and Cinderella 99, while Shiva Skunk pairs Skunk #1 with Northern Lights #5, and Ortega is intertwined with NL heritage. The mention of Apollo 13 alongside those names reflects how breeders combined overlapping families to fine-tune aroma, resin, and growth speed. Even when not a direct parent, Apollo 13 frequently appears as a strategic contributor or comparator in the same breeding toolbox.
The end result is a multifaceted legacy: NorStar’s mostly indica Apollo 13 stands as a compact, resinous cultivar with consistent chemotype, and TGA’s use of Apollo 13 genetics showcases its compatibility in uplifting crosses. Commercial growers benefit from stability, while geneticists appreciate the modularity of Apollo 13 traits. By 2020s standards, Apollo 13’s staying power—through multiple breeder lines—signals a genotype with enduring market relevance. It continues to inspire breeders seeking a citrus-forward resin bomb that’s easy to manage in both indoor and controlled outdoor environments.
Genetic Lineage and Extended Family
In the NorStar Genetics release, Apollo 13 is presented as a mostly indica cultivar, a deliberate turn toward sturdier frame and denser flowers. This cut retains enough hybrid vigor to branch and stack, but its morphology deviates from lanky sativa types. The indica influence shows in calyx girth, leaf width, and a terpene skew toward myrcene and caryophyllene. That composition helps explain the strain’s smoother body feel while keeping the headspace clear.
In the extended family tree, Apollo 13 connects to lines popularized by TGA SubCool Genetics, including the Astroboy lineage. Astroboy’s published makeup—Apollo 13 with a cross of Ortega and Cinderella 99—anchors Apollo 13 to Northern Lights-adjacent genetics via Ortega and to the high-vigor, tropical side of C99. These ingredients reveal how Apollo 13 can play both sides: focusing and polishing a hybrid’s resin coverage while allowing select partners to dictate the high’s tempo. Many breeders sought exactly this modular trait set from Apollo 13.
References to Space Queen, Shiva Skunk, and Northern Lights in seed catalogs underline the broader family of building blocks involved in the same breeding era. Space Queen brings the citrus-tropical nose and fast finish, Shiva Skunk merges Skunk #1’s sweetness with NL’s bulk and sedation, and Ortega adds a calm, body-centric dimension. Apollo 13 sits comfortably alongside these pillar lines, contributing clarity, stickiness, and citrus-pine aromatics. Collectively, they form a lattice from which countless 2010s and 2020s hybrids were constructed.
For growers and patients, the practical takeaway is that Apollo 13 is a consistent resin donor with a recognizable flavor family and adaptable effect. NorStar’s indica-leaning cut will express shorter plants with chunkier buds and calmer body tone. When crossed into sativa-leaning partners, Apollo 13 tends to push aroma intensity and resin density while moderating raciness. This reliability across different pairings helps explain why Apollo 13 remains in active rotation among craft breeders.
Morphology and Appearance
Apollo 13 plants in the NorStar selection are medium height and moderately bushy, typically finishing 80–120 cm indoors with topping or low-stress training. Internodes are tight to medium, supporting compact cola development and reducing larf. Fan leaves are mid-green to dark green with broader leaflets, especially in indica-leaning phenotypes under cooler nights. The canopy is easy to shape, and apical dominance can be softened with a single top or a SCROG net.
Buds are dense, spear-to-oval shaped, and heavily frosted, with a high calyx-to-leaf ratio that simplifies trimming. Mature flowers exhibit lime to forest-green hues with sporadic lavender blush under night temps of 17–19°C. Pistils begin light peach and mature to tangerine or rust, providing strong bag appeal. Trichomes form a thick, sandy layer that remains intact with gentle handling.
Under high-intensity LED, resin glands are notably bulbous with long stalks, making Apollo 13 well-suited to solventless extraction. Yields of A-grade material are robust relative to plant size, and side branches can stack into secondary colas with minimal training. When dialed in, sugar leaves hold a sparkle that persists post-cure, signaling high terpene retention. The jar appeal is classic: compact, resin-dense nugs with vibrant pistils and a citrus-pine shimmer.
Aroma and Flavor
Freshly broken Apollo 13 flowers release a bright citrus peel top note—think lemon zest and sweet grapefruit—over a foundation of pine and fresh-cut herbs. Secondary tones include cracked black pepper, anise, and faint earthy sweetness reminiscent of cured cedar. In the NorStar cut, the bouquet leans fuller and warmer due to myrcene and caryophyllene, moving the nose from sharp citrus to rounded citrus-pine. Some phenotypes layer a sweet, almost candy-like note, likely limonene interacting with esters.
On the palate, Apollo 13 is clean and resinous, with lemon-pine front end and a peppery exhale. Vaporization at 180–190°C accentuates the citrus while softening the pepper bite, delivering a smooth mouthfeel. Combustion highlights the pine and woodsy characteristics and can bring out a gentle herbal bitterness, especially in late-harvest samples. Well-cured batches show a lingering lemon oil aftertaste that persists for several minutes.
Aroma intensity is above average, registering as high in enclosed spaces and noticeable even in double-sealed bags. Post-grind, a room-filling citrus wave typically emerges within 10–20 seconds, followed by resin-heavy pine. Flavor carryover into concentrates is excellent, with live rosin often amplifying the peppered lemon profile. Extractors appreciate that the terpene balance holds under heat and pressure, preserving the strain’s signature character.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Contemporary lab reports for Apollo 13 commonly land in the 18–24% THC range for top-shelf indoor batches. Select phenotypes, when pushed with optimal lighting and late-stage feeding, may test up to 26% THC, though averages cluster near 20–22%. CBD is typically low at 0.1–0.5%, positioning Apollo 13 as a THC-dominant cultivar. Total cannabinoids often measure 20–27%, including minor contributors.
Minor cannabinoids are present in trace-to-modest amounts, with CBG usually at 0.2–0.8% and CBC around 0.1–0.3%. THCV has been observed in low traces (<0.2%) in some tests, insufficient to meaningfully suppress appetite but potentially adding a slight, clear-headed edge. For medical users, the low CBD content means the experience is not buffered; dosage titration is advisable for THC-sensitive individuals. Consumers looking for a broader spectrum often blend Apollo 13 with a 1:1 CBD flower to modulate intensity.
In user reports, single inhalation onset often occurs within 2–5 minutes, reaching full effect at 10–15 minutes. The peak window tends to last 60–90 minutes with gradual taper for another hour, typical for THC-forward hybrids. Edible preparations demonstrate a standard 45–90 minute onset with 4–6 hour duration depending on dose and metabolism. These timelines align with comparable hybrids of similar potency.
Potency consistency improves with careful drying to 10–12% moisture content (water activity 0.55–0.62) and a 21–28 day cure. Overdrying can mute citrus top notes and make the pepper component feel harsher, creating the perception of “stronger but less pleasant” potency. When cured correctly, Apollo 13 achieves a satisfying balance of perceived strength and smoothness. This alignment between lab numbers and sensory impact is a hallmark of well-finished batches.
Terpene Profile and Aroma Chemistry
Across lab panels, Apollo 13 typically displays total terpene content of 1.8–2.6% by weight in well-grown indoor flower. Exceptional runs, especially from living soil or coco under high PPFD, can push terpene totals to 3.0% or slightly higher. Dominant terpenes are usually myrcene (0.5–1.1%), limonene (0.3–0.8%), and beta-caryophyllene (0.2–0.6%). Supporting compounds such as alpha-pinene (0.1–0.3%) and terpinolene (0.1–0.4%) appear variably, shaping phenotype-dependent nuances.
Myrcene contributes the rounded, herbal base and enhances the sedative body undertone characteristic of the NorStar indica-leaning expression. Limonene provides the bright lemon zest top note and can lift mood and perceived clarity at lower doses. Beta-caryophyllene imparts the peppery, woody facets and interacts with CB2 receptors, a potential pathway for anti-inflammatory properties. Pinene sharpens the pine-resin signature and may modulate short-term memory effects for some users.
In phenotypes showing a terpinolene bump, there’s often a sweeter, candy-like citrus twist and a slightly more energetic onset. Conversely, higher myrcene-to-limonene ratios yield a creamier citrus and more pronounced body relaxation. Growers can steer expression through environment: cooler nights (17–19°C) often accentuate pinene and preserve limonene, while warmer finishing temps can elevate myrcene density. Dry and cure protocols strongly affect limonene retention, favoring low-and-slow approaches.
For extractors, Apollo 13’s terpene matrix holds up well in both hydrocarbon and solventless processes. Live resin typically accentuates limonene and pinene, whereas rosin may tilt peppery as caryophyllene concentrates. Fresh frozen inputs at −20°C to −30°C preserve top notes, while gentle post-processing safeguards the nuance. The resulting concentrates mirror the flower: lemon-pine brightness balanced by earthy-spicy depth.
Experiential Effects
Apollo 13 typically opens with a clean mental lift and subtle facial/ocular pressure, followed by a spreading body relaxation within 10–15 minutes. The mind stays composed and functional, making it suitable for light tasks, conversation, or music. The body feel is soothing without couchlock at moderate doses, reflecting the cultivar’s mostly indica heritage without heavy sedation. Many users describe a “clear calm” that’s ideal for winding down after work.
As the session progresses, muscle tension tends to ease, and a comfortable looseness settles in the shoulders and lower back. The citrus-forward terpenes give the impression of brightness while the peppered-wood base keeps the tone grounded. Appetite stimulation is moderate, not as forceful as pure indica landraces but present enough for evening meals. Higher doses can nudge toward early sleep, especially in quiet environments.
Socially, Apollo 13 supports relaxed conversation and focus on creative hobbies like sketching or beat-making. The strain pairs well with mellow activities—podcasts, films, or organizing light tasks—rather than high-intensity chores. Those sensitive to THC may prefer microdoses (1–2 small puffs) to capture the clarity without over-sedation. Tolerance levels naturally shift effects; regular users may find Apollo 13 optimal as a daytime relaxant.
Side effects are typically mild and include dry mouth and, less frequently, dry eyes. Anxiety incidence is low-to-moderate compared to racier sativa phenotypes, due in part to myrcene and caryophyllene balance. Overconsumption can still produce short-lived spaciness or introspection; pacing is recommended. Hydration and a calm setting help ensure a smooth ride from onset to taper.
Potential Medical Uses
Given its THC-dominant chemotype, Apollo 13 is most often considered for short-term relief of stress and mild-to-moderate anxiety. The terpene balance—especially myrcene paired with limonene—may support mood stabilization at low-to-moderate doses. User reports frequently cite improved mental calm without mental fog compared to heavier indicas. This clarity-forward relaxation profile is a strong match for evening decompression.
For pain, Apollo 13’s caryophyllene content suggests potential benefit in inflammatory pathways, though individual response varies. Many patients anecdotally report relief of muscle tightness, tension headaches, and mild neuropathic discomfort. As a mostly indica expression, it offers a body-softening effect that could complement stretching or physiotherapy. Those requiring sustained analgesia often combine it with CBD or longer-acting oral formulations.
Sleep support is rated as moderate: Apollo 13 helps many users unwind and transition to sleep, particularly when consumed 60–90 minutes before bedtime. It is not typically as sedating as high-myrcene, high-linalool cultivars but performs well for stress-related insomnia. Appetite increase is present but not overwhelming, useful for individuals with mild appetite suppression. As always, patients should consult medical professionals for individualized protocols.
Safety considerations include standard THC cautions: dose titration to avoid impairment and avoiding operation of machinery. New users should start low (1–2 mg inhaled THC equivalents or a single short inhalation) and wait 15 minutes before redosing. Dry mouth can be managed with fluid intake; eye dryness may respond to over-the-counter lubricating drops. Because CBD content is low, patients who experience THC jitters can keep a CBD tincture on hand to balance effects.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Apollo 13 in the NorStar Genetics expression is friendly to both intermediate and advanced cultivators, with predictable structure and high resin density. Indoors, it thrives in coco or living soil under high-efficiency LEDs, reaching 80–120 cm with training. Flowering time averages 56–63 days (8–9 weeks) from the first sign of pistils, with some phenos happier at day 63 for maximal terpene density. Outdoors in temperate climates, expect mid-to-late October harvests.
Germination is straightforward at 24–26°C with 95–100% RH in a propagation dome, using sterile plugs or paper towel methods. Seeds typically crack within 24–72 hours; transplant once a 1–2 cm taproot appears. Early seedling pH should be 5.8–6.2 in soilless and 6.2–6.6 in soil. Provide gentle light at 150–250 PPFD for the first 5–7 days to prevent stretch.
Vegetative growth responds well to moderate feeding and steady environmental conditions. Maintain 24–27°C day/20–24°C night with 55–65% RH to keep VPD near 0.8–1.2 kPa. Feed EC of 1.2–1.6 (600–800 ppm 500-scale) in coco, and avoid overwatering to prevent root hypoxia. Target 300–500 PPFD light intensity early in veg, scaling to 500–650 PPFD pre-flower.
Training is straightforward: top once at the 5th node or employ low-stress training to flatten the canopy. Apollo 13 stacks well under a SCROG; fill 70–80% of the net before flip to minimize late stretch. Expect 25–50% stretch during the first two weeks of flower, manageable in tents of 180–200 cm height. Remove lower interior growth by day 21 of flower to improve airflow and bud sizing.
In early bloom (weeks 1–3), dial RH to 50–60% and keep temps at 24–26°C. Increase light intensity to 700–900 PPFD, ensuring CO2 availability (ambient 400–800 ppm is fine; 900–1200 ppm supports higher PPFD if environmental control is tight). Nutrient EC can be 1.6–1.9 with a bloom-focused profile including modest phosphorus and adequate potassium. Calcium and magnesium support are essential under LEDs; 100–150 ppm Ca and 50–75 ppm Mg are typical targets in coco.
Mid bloom (weeks 4–6) is when Apollo 13 packs on mass and resin. Lower RH to 45–50% and maintain a VPD of ~1.3–1.5 kPa to suppress botrytis risk in dense buds. Consider light defoliation around day 21–28 to expose lower sites without over-stripping. Keep feed EC near 1.8–2.1, and avoid excessive nitrogen that can mute terpenes and slow ripening.
Late bloom (weeks 7–9) benefits from slightly cooler nights (18–20°C) to preserve limonene and pinene and encourage color expression. Drop RH to 38–45%, and consider a 7–10 day nutrient taper or balanced flush depending on medium. Watch trichomes closely: peak flavor typically occurs at cloudy with 5–10% amber. Harvest timing at day 59–63 often yields top terpene intensity without sacrificing density.
Yield expectations indoors are 450–600 g/m² in dialed rooms using 600–800 W/m² LED-equivalent lighting. Skilled growers with CO2 and optimized VPD can approach 650–700 g/m² in multistrain canopies. Outdoors in favorable climates, individual plants can produce 600–900 g with proper training and pest management. Resin yield for solventless extraction is typically 4–6% from dry sift and 3–5% from fresh frozen wash, with exceptional phenos exceeding these ranges.
Irrigation strategy should favor frequent, moderate volumes rather than heavy, infrequent drenches in soilless media. Aim for 10–20% runoff per feed in coco to maintain root-zone salinity control. In living soil, water by plant weight and avoid runoff, supplementing with top-dresses of kelp, malted barley, and calcium sources as needed. Maintain pH stability and monitor runoff EC to catch imbalances early.
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) should be preventative: start with clean clones or from seed and quarantine newcomers for 10–14 days. Weekly leaf inspections plus sticky cards at canopy height can detect early pest pressure. Beneficials like Amblyseius cucumeris for thrips and Amblyseius californicus for mites work well in veg. Rotate contactless biofungicides (e.g., bacillus-based) in veg for powdery mildew prevention; avoid foliar sprays after week 2 of flower.
Deficiency watchpoints include calcium and magnesium under high-intensity LED and potassium demand in weeks 5–7. Early Ca deficiency shows as marginal necrosis on newer leaves; address with a Cal-Mg supplement and steady root-zone pH. Potassium shortfalls manifest as edge burn and weak stems late bloom; correct with a bloom booster that emphasizes K while keeping P moderate. Overfeeding nitrogen is a common pitfall that dampens aroma—taper N starting week 4.
Drying and curing are critical to retaining Apollo 13’s citrus-pine signature. Hang whole plants or large branches at 16–19°C and 55–60% RH for 10–14 days until stems snap. Trim and jar at ~11–12% moisture content (water activity 0.55–0.62), burping daily the first week, then every 2–3 days for 2–3 more weeks. A 21–28 day cure maximizes smoothness and terpene articulation.
Post-harvest storage should be cool, dark, and dry—ideally 15–18°C and 55–60% RH in airtight glass. Avoid repeated temperature swings and light exposure to minimize terpene loss; limonene is notably volatile. For long-term storage, vacuum-sealed mylar or nitrogen-flushed containers can extend aroma life beyond six months. Label by harvest date and phenotype for consistent quality control across runs.
Grower tips: Apollo 13 loves consistent VPD and responds to gentle canopy management rather than aggressive stripping. A single top plus lateral bending often outperforms heavy multi-top strategies in small tents. To accentuate citrus, keep late bloom nights cool and ensure a slow, controlled dry. For extractors, harvest at the earlier side of the window (day 56–59) to lock in brighter top notes for live products.
