Written by Ad OpsHistory and Breeding Context
Auto Satelles is an autoflowering, indica-leaning strain developed by Apex Seeds, a European breeder known for compact, resilient autos. The name Satelles evokes the idea of a satellite—compact, orbitally reliable, and consistent—mirroring the cultivar’s dependable lifecycle and modest stature. Positioned within Apex Seeds’ autoflowering catalog, Auto Satelles was designed to satisfy growers seeking a fast, discreet plant with dense, resinous flowers. Its breeding reflects the broader industry trend that saw autoflowering cultivars surge in popularity as their potency approached that of photoperiod varieties.
Apex Seeds blended robust ruderalis genetics with an indica-dominant backbone to achieve stable autoflowering behavior without sacrificing potency or flavor. Ruderalis selections were historically valued for hardiness and short-day independence, qualities essential for latitudes with compressed summers. By integrating indica influences, breeders added bulkier calyxes, tighter internodal spacing, and a soothing cannabinoid-terpene signature. The result is a strain that stays true to the indica experience while finishing faster than many photoperiod counterparts.
Autoflower genetics went from novelty to mainstay as measurable performance improved year over year. Industry data from seedbanks and grower reports show modern autos frequently finishing in 65–85 days from sprout, with yields of 350–550 g/m² indoors under optimized conditions. Auto Satelles was conceived to land squarely in that performance envelope, prioritizing predictability for first-time growers and efficient turnover for experienced cultivators. Its development mirrors a market shift toward shorter crop cycles, lower electricity per gram, and higher quality resin.
While Apex Seeds does not always disclose specific parents, its catalog strategy typically emphasizes dependable germination rates, straightforward cultivation, and indica comfort. In practice, reputable breeders often achieve 85–95% germination under standard paper towel or starter cube methods when temperatures are 22–26°C and RH is 70–90%. Auto Satelles fits that pattern, with user reports commonly noting uniform seedlings and consistent flowering onset. This reliability underpins its growing popularity among small-scale home cultivators and balcony growers alike.
Genetic Lineage and Inheritance
Auto Satelles carries a ruderalis/indica heritage, marrying the photoperiod independence of Cannabis ruderalis with the dense bud formation typical of indica lines. Ruderalis, native to harsher climates, contributes day-neutral flowering that initiates based on age rather than photoperiod. Indica heritage, frequently sourced from Afghan and Hindu Kush lineages in many auto projects, imparts broad-leaf morphology, compact stature, and thick trichome coverage. Together, these genetic streams create a cultivar that’s both rugged and refined in its output.
The ruderalis portion is critical for the strain’s 24-hour lifecycle autonomy, enabling flexible light schedules such as 18/6 or 20/4 from start to finish. It also confers cold tolerance and a tendency to finish even when suboptimal conditions temporarily slow growth. Indica inheritance tends to dominate sensory outcomes, tilting terpene expression toward earthy, herbal, and peppered notes. In practice, Auto Satelles typically behaves like an indica in structure and effect while retaining the autoflower clock.
Breeding for autos often involves backcrossing stabilized indica-leaning photoperiod progenitors into a ruderalis framework across several generations. Each generation is selected for rapid onset of flower (often at days 21–28 from sprout), tight internodes, and resin density. This selection pressure helps ensure uniform plant height, which commonly falls in the 60–100 cm indoor range for Auto Satelles. The end product is a stable F-line that performs predictably across a variety of substrates and lighting platforms.
While exact parental names are not disclosed by Apex Seeds, the performance benchmarks align with contemporary auto indica standards. Indoor phenotypes frequently peak with a single main cola and several subordinate branches, especially when grown in 7–11 L containers. Outdoors, the ruderalis resilience can offer a wider planting window in temperate regions, supporting early spring or late summer starts. The lineage thus targets accessibility and reliability, two pillars of the modern autoflower movement.
Visual Appearance and Plant Morphology
Auto Satelles tends to present as a compact, stocky plant with broad, dark green leaf blades. Internodal spacing is short, which contributes to a dense, candelabra-like canopy. As flowering progresses, the cola architecture becomes notably conical and tight, with bracts stacking into heavy spears. Mature pistils often shift from creamy white to orange and amber hues toward harvest.
Trichome production is a standout feature, reflecting the strain’s indica influence. Under magnification, heads are bulbous and densely packed, often transitioning from clear to cloudy with a window of amber depending on harvest timing. This resin density translates well to dry sift and ice water extraction, with experienced processors commonly achieving 15–20% return from quality trim. The visual frostiness also indicates strong aromatic potential once properly dried and cured.
Coloration remains forest green in most environments, though cooler late-flower nights can tease out faint plum undertones in some phenotypes. Calyx-to-leaf ratio leans favorable, easing manicuring and improving bag appeal. Buds finish firm to the touch after a proper dry at 60% RH and 18–20°C, reducing post-harvest shrinkage. The final appearance is that of a classic indica auto: compact, resinous, and ready quickly.
Aroma and Bouquet
The aroma profile of Auto Satelles is predominantly earthy and herbal with a peppery backbone, consistent with caryophyllene-forward indicas. As the jar opens, notes of damp forest floor, bay leaf, and cracked black pepper are common first impressions. Secondary tones often include faint citrus peel from limonene and a sweet, woody undertone associated with humulene. When properly cured for four or more weeks, the bouquet deepens and becomes more cohesive and layered.
During flowering, the live plant emits a moderate-to-strong fragrance that can build steadily through weeks five to nine. Carbon filtration is advisable for indoor cultivation, especially in small apartments or shared spaces. Growers report odor intensity comparable to other indica autos in the 350–550 g/m² class, which typically requires a matched CFM exhaust fan with a high-quality carbon filter. Odor control is thus a practical consideration to plan from the outset.
Crushing a dried bud releases sharper spice and a slightly sweet finish reminiscent of clove and cedar. The presence of myrcene can contribute a ripe herbal dimension, occasionally evoking thyme or lemongrass depending on phenotype. Overall, the bouquet is comforting and grounded rather than overtly candy-like or tropical. This classic profile tends to appeal to traditional indica enthusiasts.
Flavor and Mouthfeel
On inhalation, Auto Satelles leans savory and earthy with a smooth, peppery tickle on the exhale. Users commonly describe flavors of toasted herbs, mild cocoa, and a faint citrus-zest lift. The myrcene-caryophyllene pairing yields a warming, round palate, while limonene adds brightness that keeps the finish from feeling muddy. Proper curing markedly improves flavor articulation and reduces any chlorophyll edge.
Vaporization at 175–190°C accentuates the citrus-herbal top notes and preserves volatile monoterpenes. Combustion, while still flavorful, emphasizes the spicy-woody register and deep earth. Many users find the mouthfeel medium-bodied, with minimal harshness when flushed correctly and dried at 60/60. Hydration and clean glassware further enhance the smoothness of each draw.
Repeat sips reveal subtle sweetness with a balsamic undertone, likely linked to caryophyllene oxidation products. Some phenotypes present a gentle floral lift, suggesting trace linalool contributions. The aftertaste lingers pleasantly, inviting unhurried sessions and complementing evening routines. The flavor profile pairs well with dark chocolate or herbal teas for a synergistic tasting experience.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
As a modern ruderalis/indica auto, Auto Satelles typically targets THC potency within the mid-to-upper teens to low twenties by percentage. Across comparable indica autos from established breeders, third-party results commonly range from 15–22% THC under optimized indoor conditions. CBD is generally low, often between 0.1–1.0%, while minor cannabinoids like CBG can appear in the 0.2–0.8% range. These ranges are consistent with the balance many growers expect from contemporary autos.
Potency is significantly influenced by environment, nutrition, and harvest timing. Harvesting when trichomes are mostly cloudy with 5–15% amber often yields the most euphoric yet balanced effect for indica autos. Delaying harvest to 20–30% amber can slightly shift the experience toward sedation at the expense of perceived brightness. Under high-intensity LED lighting that achieves 45–55 mol/m²/day DLI in flower, potency potential is maximized without overly stressing the plant.
In terms of extraction, the dense trichome coverage supports solventless and hydrocarbon methods alike. Hash makers often report 15–20% returns from quality sugar leaf and 3–5% from whole flower with solventless techniques, assuming careful harvest and cold-chain handling. Hydrocarbon extraction can achieve higher yields but must be performed in licensed facilities with proper safety protocols. The resin’s indica tilt often produces malleable, terpene-rich concentrates.
Dose-response follows standard cannabis kinetics. For inhalation, onset occurs in 5–10 minutes, peaks at 30–60 minutes, and tapers over 2–4 hours depending on tolerance. Edible preparations have delayed onset (45–120 minutes) and extended duration (4–8 hours), warranting careful titration. Experienced users commonly start at 2.5–5 mg THC orally and adjust in 2.5 mg increments to find a comfortable zone.
Terpene Profile and Aromachemistry
Auto Satelles’ terpene spectrum typically centers on beta-caryophyllene, myrcene, and limonene, with supporting roles from humulene and linalool. In lab-tested indica autos, total terpene content frequently falls in the 1.0–2.5% w/w range, with standout phenotypes exceeding 3.0% under ideal conditions. Myrcene often lands between 0.3–0.8% of dry mass, beta-caryophyllene between 0.2–0.6%, and limonene between 0.1–0.4%. Humulene and linalool usually appear as trace-to-minor components in the 0.05–0.2% and 0.05–0.15% bands, respectively.
Beta-caryophyllene is notable for its CB2 partial agonism, a rare trait among common terpenes. This activity is frequently cited in preclinical literature for potential anti-inflammatory effects, though human data remain early-stage. Myrcene is associated with earthy, herbal aromas and may contribute to perceived body relaxation in concert with THC. Limonene provides citrus zest and is often linked with uplift and stress relief in user reports.
Humulene, a structural isomer of caryophyllene, contributes woody, hoppy nuances and may play a role in the strain’s appetite-moderating balance for some users. Linalool, while typically a minor component here, lends a lavender-like softness that rounds sharper edges in the bouquet. The combined effect produces a profile that is soothing without being dull, maintaining flavor clarity through the entire session. This synergy underpins the welcoming character of Auto Satelles.
Terpene expression reflects cultivation practices and post-harvest care. Cooler late-flower nights, careful nutrient tapering, and a slow dry at 60% RH help preserve monoterpenes. Curing for at least four weeks allows terpene equilibria to stabilize, often improving perceived smoothness by 20–30% in blind tasting feedback compared to rapid-dried samples. The aroma chemistry thus rewards patience and precision.
Experiential Effects and Use Patterns
Auto Satelles tends to deliver a calm, body-centered experience with gentle mental unwinding. Users often describe tension release in the shoulders and back within the first half-hour. The mental state is tranquil but not necessarily stupefying at moderate doses, supporting a relaxed focus for low-demand tasks. Many find it well-suited to evening wind-down routines, stretching, or quiet conversation.
As dose increases, the indica influence becomes more pronounced, culminating in couch-lock for some individuals. A subset of users report mild euphoria paired with bodily heaviness, a classic indica pairing that can ease restlessness. Typical session duration is 2–4 hours for inhalation, with residual calm persisting beyond subjective peak. Hydration mitigates common complaints like dry mouth and dry eyes.
Side effects follow familiar cannabis patterns. Surveys consistently identify dry mouth in over half of users and dry eyes in roughly a quarter, with transient anxiety in a minority at higher THC doses. Fractional dosing—using smaller hits or 1–2 mg oral increments—reduces adverse events for sensitive individuals. Because the cultivar is likely low in CBD, combining it with a CBD-rich tincture can soften intensity without dramatically altering the flavor.
Context matters for the experience. Comfortable seating, breathable clothing, and ambient music often enhance enjoyment, especially during the first hour. Light snacks with electrolytes can counteract cottonmouth and stabilize blood sugar. Routine users may integrate simple breathwork to deepen the relaxation response without escalating dose.
Potential Medical Applications and Considerations
Auto Satelles’ indica-leaning profile suggests potential utility for pain, tension, and sleep-related concerns. Observational studies of cannabis for chronic pain often report 30–50% reductions in pain interference scores among adherent participants, though results vary by condition and product. The beta-caryophyllene and myrcene interplay may support anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxant effects in practice. Users frequently report nighttime use to reduce discomfort before bed.
For sleep, many patients report shorter sleep onset latency and fewer awakenings with indica-dominant profiles. Small clinical investigations into cannabinoids and sleep show mixed results, but real-world evidence often finds that moderate-THC, caryophyllene-forward chemotypes support subjective sleep quality. Auto Satelles’ gentle mental quieting may help users disengage from ruminative thoughts. Dose timing 60–90 minutes before intended bedtime is a common pattern in anecdotal routines.
Anxiety responses to THC are idiosyncratic, and caution is warranted. While limonene and linalool can be perceived as mood-elevating and calming, THC can provoke jitters in some individuals, particularly at higher doses or in novel contexts. A “start low, go slow” approach is strongly advised, beginning with a single inhalation or 1–2.5 mg oral dose and reassessing after 60–120 minutes. Combining with a CBD companion product in a 1:1 or 2:1 CBD:THC ratio may reduce anxious edges for sensitive users.
Appetite and nausea responses can be helpful in supportive care contexts. Indica autos with myrcene and caryophyllene often stimulate appetite, which may benefit those managing reduced intake. For nausea, inhalation offers rapid onset, which is valuable for situational relief. However, medical decisions should be guided by a clinician, particularly where complex medication regimens are involved.
Safety considerations include avoiding intoxication during tasks requiring full attention, such as driving or operating machinery. Individuals with cardiovascular concerns should consider that THC can transiently increase heart rate and alter blood pressure. For those new to cannabis, a log of dose, timing, and effects can clarify patterns over several sessions. This is not medical advice, and patients should consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Auto Satelles is a ruderalis/indica autoflower from Apex Seeds, bred for ease of growth and dependable turnaround. Autos flower by age rather than light cycle, so the entire grow is typically run at 18/6 or 20/4 light from seed to harvest. Most phenotypes complete in 65–85 days from sprout, with indoor yields commonly reported at 350–550 g/m² under dialed-in conditions. Individual plants in 7–11 L pots often produce 50–150 g when managed carefully.
Germination is straightforward using the paper towel, starter cube, or direct-to-medium method. Maintain 22–26°C and 70–90% RH until cotyledons open and the first true leaves emerge. Reputable breeders see germination rates in the 85–95% range with clean water at pH 5.8–6.2 and minimal handling. Transplant shock is risky for autos, so many growers sow directly into final containers to avoid growth stalls in the critical first 21 days.
Choose a light, airy medium that drains well, such as a coco-perlite blend (70/30) or a quality peat-based mix amended with perlite and aeration. In soil, target pH 6.2–6.8; in coco/hydro, maintain pH 5.8–6.2. Avoid overly “hot” soils for seedlings, as high nitrogen can cause clawing and slow early growth. Fabric pots improve oxygenation and root pruning; 7–11 L (2–3 gal) sizes balance plant size and watering frequency for this cultivar.
Lighting intensity drives yield and resin, but autos prefer steady, not extreme, PPFD. Aim for 300–450 μmol/m²/s in weeks 1–2, 500–700 in weeks 3–4, and 700–900 from week 5 to finish. This corresponds to DLI of roughly 20–30 mol/m²/day early and 45–55 mol/m²/day in flower under 18/6. Full-spectrum LEDs at 30–45 cm distance are typical, with adjustments based on leaf temperature and photobleaching signs.
Environmental control is pivotal for resin quality. Keep VPD at 0.8–1.2 kPa in early growth with RH 60–70%, then shift to 1.2–1.6 kPa in flower with RH 45–50% early and 40–45% late. Daytime temperatures of 24–27°C and nighttime 20–22°C are ideal for steady metabolism. Indica-dense buds increase botrytis risk; ensure brisk airflow with oscillating fans and 20–30 air changes per hour in small tents.
Nutrition should scale with plant demand in a gentle, consistent curve. In coco, EC 1.2–1.6 during early vegetative growth and 1.8–2.2 in peak flower performs well, with runoff 10–20% to avoid salt buildup. A balanced N-P-K like 3-1-2 early and 1-2-3 in bloom, backed by calcium/magnesium supplementation, supports structure and resin. Reduce nitrogen by 25–40% entering week 4–5 to encourage flower set and avoid leafy buds.
Irrigation cadence must prioritize oxygen. Allow 10–20% of the pot to dry by weight before re-watering in soil, or irrigate to light runoff daily in high-porosity coco. Water at 20–22°C to keep root zone metabolism steady and reduce shock. Overwatering is the most common beginner mistake with autos, often manifesting as droop and stalled growth.
Training should be gentle and early. Low-stress training (LST) beginning around day 14–21 can open the canopy and distribute light, increasing yield by 10–25% compared to a single cola. Avoid topping after day 21, as autos have limited time to recover; if topping is attempted, a single top at the 3rd–4th node early is the safest. Defoliation should be minimal and strategic, removing leaves shading critical sites while preserving the plant’s photosynthetic engine.
Integrated pest management is a must, even in clean environments. Sticky traps and weekly scouting detect fungus gnats, thrips, or mites early, allowing biologicals like Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis for gnats or Beauveria bassiana for thrips and mites. Maintain canopy cleanliness, remove plant debris, and sanitize tools between sessions to cut transmission risk. A healthy VPD and airflow regime reduces powdery mildew pressure, which can otherwise colonize dense indica flowers.
CO2 supplementation can push productivity under high PPFD if the rest of the environment is optimized. At 800–1,200 ppm CO2, leaves can utilize 900–1,000 μmol/m²/s more efficiently, translating to faster growth and potentially denser buds. However, CO2 without adequate light, nutrients, or temperature control rarely yields gains and can stress plants. Beginners are better served by mastering fundamentals before adding CO2.
Flowering onset often occurs by days 21–28 from sprout, with visible pistils at the tops and branch nodes. From here, bud set accelerates through weeks 4–7, with swelling in weeks 7–9 depending on phenotype. Monitor trichomes with a 60–100× loupe, looking for mostly cloudy heads with 5–15% amber for a balanced effect. Autos may foxtail under excess heat or light; correct environment rather than chasing late-stage corrections.
Flush strategies vary by medium. In coco/hydro, a 7–10 day taper or low-EC finish encourages clean burn and improved ash quality. In soil, a nutrient taper rather than a full flush often maintains microbial vitality while preventing harshness. Visual cues like smooth leaf fade and firmly set calyxes signal physiological maturity beyond just calendar days.
Harvest, drying, and curing strongly shape final quality. Aim for a slow dry at 18–20°C and 58–62% RH over 10–14 days, targeting a 25–30% moisture loss before trimming. Once jarred, burp daily for the first week and then weekly as RH stabilizes at 58–62%. A 4–8 week cure can improve flavor nuance and perceived smoothness by a noticeable margin in side-by-side tastings.
Yield optimization for Auto Satelles revolves around even light distribution and steady early growth. A flat, filled canopy under a 240–320 W LED in a 60×120 cm tent commonly achieves 400–500 g/m² when environmental and nutritional targets are met. Outdoors, single-plant yields vary widely with season length, but 60–150 g per plant is typical in temperate summers with full-sun exposure. Because autos are time-limited, every day of stall avoided in the first three weeks compounds into measurable grams at harvest.
Troubleshooting follows predictable patterns. If leaves claw and darken early, reduce nitrogen by 10–20% and check overwatering. If interveinal chlorosis appears in mid-flower, consider magnesium at 0.5–1.0 g/L Epsom salts or an equivalent cal-mag supplement, balancing EC. For pale, slow plants under strong light, verify root-zone pH, ensure adequate phosphorus in early bloom, and confirm PPFD is within range rather than excessive.
Post-harvest processing can add value to trim. Dry sift and ice water hash often yield 15–20% from sugar leaf when cold-handled, and rosin pressing dried flower at 90–100°C for 60–120 seconds can return 15–25% depending on resin maturity. Store finished flowers in airtight containers away from light at 15–20°C to slow terpene volatilization; expect a terpene loss rate that accelerates above 25°C. Sensory quality is preserved best with cool, dark, and stable storage conditions.
