Written by Ad OpsOrigins and Breeding History
Auto Psychedelic is an autoflowering hybrid developed by Bulk Seed Bank, a breeder known for stabilizing ruderalis crosses for rapid, day-length–independent flowering. The strain’s naming signals a goal of delivering a vivid, head-forward experience while retaining the compact structure and speedy lifecycle that autos are prized for. In practice, that means combining a photoperiod hybrid with a robust ruderalis donor and backcrossing until the autoflowering trait breeds true while preserving potency and aroma.
Although Bulk Seed Bank has not published an exhaustive pedigree, the official heritage is ruderalis/indica/sativa, indicating a three-ancestry blend aimed at balance. The ruderalis input is responsible for the plant’s ability to flower under 18–24 hours of light and complete a full cycle in roughly 9–12 weeks from seed, depending on phenotype and environment. Meanwhile, the indica and sativa components push resin density, terpene complexity, and an effect profile that leans energetic yet grounded.
The autoflowering revolution began in earnest in the late 2000s as breeders improved potency and terpene intensity beyond the early low-THC ruderalis lines. By the mid-2010s, commercial autos commonly reached mid-to-high teens in THC and sometimes exceeded 20%, narrowing the gap with photoperiods. Auto Psychedelic was positioned within that second wave of autos: fast, dense, and modern in resin output, rather than a novelty plant grown just for speed.
Genetic Lineage and Inheritance
The declared heritage of Auto Psychedelic is ruderalis/indica/sativa, reflecting a composite intended to harmonize three trait clusters: autoflowering timing, compact form, and elevated psychoactivity. Typically, the autoflowering trait is inherited from Cannabis ruderalis and is recessive, requiring careful selection over multiple generations to ensure all progeny flower independently of photoperiod. Bulk Seed Bank’s selection approach aims to lock that trait while maintaining cannabinoid and terpene expression from the indica and sativa lines.
In terms of trait inheritance, ruderalis input often contributes heightened cold tolerance, faster floral initiation, and shorter internodal spacing. Indica influence tends to drive broader leaf blades, thicker calyxes, and an inclination toward dense colas with strong trichome coverage. Sativa influence balances the morphology, stretching internodes slightly and encouraging a more multi-branch canopy, which can translate to better light penetration and nuanced terpenes.
Because autoflowering lines are often polyhybrids, phenotypic variation is normal even from stabilized seed batches. Growers can observe shorter, stockier plants as well as taller, more spear-shaped phenos under identical conditions. Selection from a 5–10 seed sample is usually sufficient to identify a phenotype that matches the desired plant height, internodal spacing, and resin density for future runs.
Appearance and Plant Morphology
Auto Psychedelic typically presents as a medium-height autoflower, averaging 60–100 cm indoors and 80–120 cm outdoors in temperate seasons. Plants tend to form a dominant central cola with a symmetrical halo of satellite branches, a form well-suited to low-stress training. Leaves often begin broad and dark green during early vegetative growth and narrow slightly as flowering advances, hinting at the sativa contribution.
By weeks 5–7 from germination, buds stack tightly with a high calyx-to-leaf ratio, improving trim efficiency. Trichome coverage is above average for an auto, with a pronounced frosting on sugar leaves and bract surfaces by mid-flower. Under optimal light and nutrition, pistils start cream or tangerine and shift to amber-brown as harvest approaches, signaling maturity.
Some phenotypes display anthocyanin expression (purple hues) when night temperatures run 3–5°C lower than daytime during late flower. The coloration is cosmetic but often coincides with slightly sharper, berry-like top notes in the aroma. Overall resin gland density and stalk length appear robust, a good indicator of both potency potential and mechanical resilience during dry trim.
Aroma and Olfactory Profile
Aromatically, Auto Psychedelic often opens with bright citrus and sweet herbal top notes, carried by limonene and pinene families. Beneath that, there are warm, peppery accents from beta-caryophyllene and occasional clove-like nuances from minor sesquiterpenes. As the flowers cure, a faint earth-chocolate undertone emerges, likely driven by myrcene and humulene.
Grow-room aroma intensity is moderate to strong during weeks 6–9, with noticeable terpene volatilization under higher PPFD and warm temps. Carbon filtration is recommended for indoor grows as terpene emissions can produce a detectable odor beyond the grow space. A well-managed cure deepens the bouquet, shifting from bright and zesty to more layered—citrus peel, fresh pine, and resinous spice.
Reports from experienced growers indicate total terpene content in well-cultivated autos frequently lands between 1.0–2.5% of dry flower mass, and Auto Psychedelic appears to track within that band under proper conditions. Cooler late-flower nights and slow drying can preserve more of the monoterpenes that define the high notes. Handling buds gently during trimming keeps trichomes intact and helps retain volatile fractions.
Flavor and Consumption Characteristics
On inhale, a citrus-pine snap is commonly noted, followed by a mild sweetness reminiscent of lemon balm or candied peel. The exhale brings a peppery, resinous finish, with subtle herbal bitterness that keeps the profile from becoming cloying. Vaporization at 175–190°C tends to accentuate the citrus and pine, while combustion emphasizes the spice and earth.
Properly cured flower typically burns to a light gray ash, indicating complete drying and a clean feed program with adequate leaching. When using a convection vaporizer, many users report the flavor arc shifting across a session—from bright and tangy in the first draws to deeper, woodier notes as the bowl progresses. Concentrates made from the cultivar skew toward zesty and resinous rather than floral.
Pairing the strain with terpene-aware consumption can enhance the experience. For example, lower-temperature dabs (around 180–205°C surface temp) preserve limonene and linalool, while hotter hits will drive a caryophyllene-forward pepper bite. Hydration, glass cleanliness, and fresh grind size all meaningfully impact perceived flavor intensity and smoothness.
Cannabinoid Profile: Potency and Minor Compounds
As with many modern autoflowers, reported THC for comparable ruderalis/indica/sativa hybrids commonly falls in the 16–22% range, with exceptional phenotypes testing higher under optimized cultivation. This aligns with broader market data showing steady potency increases over the last decade; in US state-legal markets, average THC in retail flower has frequently been measured above 18% in recent years. For Auto Psychedelic specifically, grower reports and lab data shared informally suggest mid-to-high teens are typical, with 20% attainable in dialed-in environments.
CBD tends to be low in this chemotype, commonly under 1%, which positions the experience firmly in a THC-dominant domain. Minor cannabinoids such as CBG often register in the 0.2–1.0% band depending on harvest timing and curing, while CBC is usually trace but can contribute to perceived brightness. Cannabinoid distribution can shift slightly with earlier harvests favoring more THCA and later harvests showing marginal increases in CBN due to oxidation.
Extraction yields for well-grown autos regularly track with photoperiods when biomass quality is equal. Mechanical dry sifting can produce 10–20% kief yield by weight from premium trim, and hydrocarbon extraction of A-grade flowers may return 15–25% depending on trichome density. Decarboxylation efficiency for edibles typically falls in the 70–90% range when performed at 110–120°C for 30–45 minutes, affecting dose predictability for homemade infusions.
Terpene Profile: Chemistry and Sensory Drivers
The dominant terpene triad most often observed in this lineage includes beta-myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, and limonene, collectively accounting for a large share of the detectable bouquet. In many lab-tested hybrids of similar composition, these three terpenes together can represent 40–70% of total terpene content. Supporting contributors such as alpha-pinene, humulene, and linalool add dimension, sharpening pine notes and layering subtle floral edges.
Myrcene is commonly linked to earthy, musky tones and may subtly modulate perceived sedation when present in higher proportions. Beta-caryophyllene is unique as a dietary cannabinoid that can engage CB2 receptors, potentially influencing inflammation pathways while presenting a peppery, clove-like aroma. Limonene contributes the citrus shell and is associated in survey research with elevated mood descriptors, though effects are context and dose dependent.
Total terpene content is sensitive to environmental conditions—high light intensity, moderate plant stress, and cooler end-of-flower temperatures can elevate secondary metabolite synthesis. Slow drying around 15–18°C and 55–60% relative humidity helps preserve monoterpenes, which are most prone to volatilization. Proper storage in airtight containers at 15–20°C with 58–62% RH can maintain terpene integrity for several months with minimal loss.
Experiential Effects: Onset, Peak, and Duration
Users generally describe Auto Psychedelic as a bright, head-led cultivar that retains body ease without heavy couchlock, especially at moderate doses. The onset when smoked or vaped is typically felt within 2–5 minutes, with a peak at 20–40 minutes and a total duration of 2–3 hours. Higher-potency phenotypes and larger inhalation doses can extend the plateau and add a more pronounced physical heaviness.
Subjective reports emphasize an initial uplift, mild sensory expansion, and focus that can suit creative or light social settings. As the session continues, a calm body tone emerges, often without the dense fog that characterizes deeply sedating indicas. For some users, especially those sensitive to limonene-forward profiles, the experience may steer toward energetic and introspective rather than sedative.
Set and setting strongly steer outcomes. Hydration, recent sleep quality, and whether the product is consumed on an empty stomach can each shift effect intensity by noticeable margins. Users with low or intermittent tolerance should start with smaller inhalation volumes or a few short vapor draws to gauge potency.
Potential Medical Uses and Evidence
Although strain-specific clinical trials are rare, the chemistry of THC-dominant, limonene- and caryophyllene-forward hybrids suggests potential utility in several symptomatic domains. THC has demonstrated efficacy for certain types of pain, spasticity, and chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting in clinical literature, with effect sizes varying by condition. In survey studies, many patients also report benefit for sleep initiation and appetite stimulation, particularly when THC exceeds 10–15% by weight.
Limonene-rich profiles are often associated with mood elevation in observational research, which may support daytime use in stress-related presentations; however, robust randomized evidence is limited. Beta-caryophyllene’s CB2 activity has generated interest for inflammatory modulation, with preclinical data showing promise, though human trials remain early-stage. Myrcene has historically been linked, anecdotally, to relaxation, but controlled data are sparse and mixed.
For patients, careful titration is essential. Inhalation delivers rapid onset and allows self-titration, which can be useful for breakthrough symptoms but may be less durable than oral routes. As always, individuals should consult a qualified clinician, particularly when taking medications with potential THC interactions, and should adhere to local laws governing medical cannabis use.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide: Indoors and Outdoors
Auto Psychedelic, as an autoflowering hybrid, is designed to complete its lifecycle quickly, typically in 70–90 days from seed under optimized conditions. Many growers target 75–85 days for the most common phenotypes, with harvest windows adjusted after trichome inspection. The cultivar performs well under continuous light schedules, with 18/6 or 20/4 being widely used to balance growth vigor and electricity cost.
Germination is straightforward: 24–48 hours in a moist paper towel or directly in a light, aerated medium at 24–26°C generally yields 90%+ success with fresh seed. Transplant shock can reduce final yield in autos, so starting in the final container (11–20 liters or 3–5 gallons) is recommended. If transplanting, do so once at the 2–3 node stage into a well-aerated mix to minimize stress.
Indoors, expect plant height of 60–100 cm with proper light intensity and moderate training. Outdoors in full sun, plants commonly reach 80–120 cm and can produce larger main colas when planted directly in rich soil. Spacing of 45–60 cm between plants helps ensure sufficient airflow and light penetration for multiple top sites.
Training should prioritize low-stress methods. Gently bending and tying down the main stem at the 3–5 node stage can create an even canopy without delaying growth. Topping is riskier with autos and can reduce yield if done late; if attempted, top once at the 3rd or 4th node no later than day 20–25 from sprout.
Watering practices have an outsized influence on autos. Aim for full wet-dry cycles early on to encourage root exploration, watering to 10–15% runoff, and avoid chronic overwatering. As the root mass fills the container, frequency will increase; smart pots or fabric pots can improve oxygenation and reduce risk of waterlogging.
Outdoors, schedule plantings to take advantage of peak sunlight months; autos can be run in succession with 2–3 cycles per season in many temperate climates. Protect against early spring cold snaps and late-season storms with simple low tunnels or breathable plant covers. In regions with high pest pressure, begin integrated pest management before visible issues, using sticky cards, beneficial insects, and regular canopy inspections.
Yield potential is influenced by light, nutrition, and phenotype. Indoors with adequate PPFD and nutrition, many growers report 350–500 g per square meter using multiple plants, or 50–150 g per plant depending on container size. Outdoor plants under full sun can exceed 70–200 g per plant in favorable climates with rich soil and consistent irrigation.
Environmental Parameters and Nutrient Management
Light intensity is a primary driver of yield. For autos like Auto Psychedelic, target PPFD of 400–600 μmol/m²/s during early growth and 700–900 μmol/m²/s in mid-to-late flower to balance vigor and stress tolerance. Many growers cap at around 900–1000 μmol/m²/s for autos to avoid light stress without CO₂ supplementation, aiming for a daily light integral of roughly 35–45 mol/m²/day in flower under long photoperiods.
Temperature and humidity should be tuned to vapor pressure deficit targets. In early growth, 24–26°C with 60–70% RH (VPD ~0.8–1.0 kPa) encourages rapid leaf expansion; in mid-flower, shift to 23–25°C with 50–55% RH (VPD ~1.2–1.4 kPa); and in late flower, 21–24°C with 45–50% RH (VPD ~1.4–1.6 kPa) to curb botrytis risk. Nighttime drops of 2–4°C can enhance color and terpene retention without stalling growth.
In soil, maintain pH around 6.2–6.7; in soilless or hydroponics, hold 5.8–6.2 for optimal nutrient uptake. Electrical conductivity typically ranges from 1.2–1.6 mS/cm in early growth, rising to 1.6–2.0 mS/cm in peak bloom depending on cultivar appetite. Autos often prefer a slightly lighter feed than heavy-feeding photoperiods; observe leaf tips and runoff EC to avoid overfeeding.
Nutrition should be staged. Provide nitrogen-forward ratios in early vegetative growth (e.g., N-P-K around 3-1-2 or 2-1-2), transitioning to balanced bloom ratios by day 28–35 from sprout (e.g., 1-2-3 or 1-3-2) as flower mass builds. Supplement calcium and magnesium proactively under LED lighting; many growers add 100–150 ppm Ca and 50–70 ppm Mg through mid-flower to prevent interveinal chlorosis and tip burn.
Air movement and CO₂ management matter. Maintain gentle, multidirectional airflow to keep leaf surfaces dry and strengthen stems, targeting 10–20 air exchanges per hour in tent environments. Ambient CO₂ at 400–450 ppm is adequate; if enriching, 800–1000 ppm can increase photosynthetic rate, but autos must be healthy and adequately lit to capitalize on it.
Integrated pest management should begin before pests appear. Use yellow and blue sticky cards for monitoring, practice canopy thinning to reduce humidity pockets, and consider introducing beneficial mites (e.g., Neoseiulus californicus) as a preventative. Avoid broad-spectrum sprays in late flower to protect trichomes and preserve flavor; physical removal and targeted biologicals are preferred if interventions are needed after week five.
Harvest, Drying, and Curing Protocols
Harvest timing is best gauged by trichome inspection rather than pistil color alone. For a balanced effect, many cultivators target a window when approximately 5–15% of trichome heads have turned amber, 70–85% are cloudy, and the remainder are clear. This typically occurs around days 75–85 from sprout for common phenotypes, though some finish earlier or later based on environment.
Pre-harvest practices can influence final quality. Some growers reduce nitrogen in the last 10–14 days and taper EC by 20–30% to encourage smoother burn and clean flavor. A brief dark period before chop has mixed evidence, but lowering temperature by 2–3°C in the final week can help preserve volatile terpenes.
Drying should be slow and controlled. A common target is 10–14 days at roughly 18–20°C and 55–60% RH with gentle airflow and no direct wind on buds. Buds are ready for curing when small stems snap rather than bend, and exterior moisture feels even.
Curing in airtight containers stabilizes moisture and develops flavor. Start with loosely filled jars at 58–62% RH and burp daily for 15–20 minutes during the first week, then less frequently for the next 2–3 weeks. Many connoisseurs note a marked improvement in aroma complexity and smoothness after 3–4 weeks of cure, with continued refinement up to 8 weeks.
For long-term storage, keep jars in a dark space at 15–20°C and avoid temperature swings. Water activity between 0.55 and 0.65 is generally considered safe for mold prevention while preserving pliancy. Vacuum-sealed, cured flower stored under these conditions can retain quality for several months with minimal terpene loss, though fresher is usually better for peak aroma.
Quality, Safety, and Compliance Considerations
Where cultivation and possession are legal, testing flower from Auto Psychedelic can confirm cannabinoid potency, residual solvent status (if extracted), and contaminant safety. Accredited labs typically screen for pesticides, heavy metals, microbial contaminants, and mycotoxins, all of which can affect consumer safety even if buds look visually clean. For personal-use grows, cleanliness in the grow area and water source testing can prevent many issues upstream.
From a consumer standpoint, start low and go slow remains a sound approach. For inhalation, a few small puffs or a short vapor session allows assessment before redosing; for edibles, waiting 90–120 minutes before consuming more reduces the risk of over-intoxication. Co-administration with alcohol can potentiate effects and is best avoided by new or infrequent users.
Legal frameworks vary widely by region, governing plant counts, possession limits, and testing requirements. Growers and patients should verify and adhere to local laws to remain compliant. When sharing or transporting cannabis, child-resistant, labeled containers and odor control demonstrate good practice and respect for community norms.
