Written by Ad OpsOverview
Ketosis #4 S1 is a mostly indica cultivar bred by Tombstone Trichomes, a craft-minded breeder focused on resin-forward, high-potency flower. The name hints at dense, lean bud structure and an emphasis on trichome production, traits often prioritized in modern indica selections. As an S1 release, Ketosis #4 S1 derives from a selfed cut designated '#4', indicating a standout keeper that was reversed and pollinated to itself to preserve its most desirable features.
While public, lab-verified data on this specific line is limited, the breeding format provides meaningful clues. Selfed selections are typically pursued to stabilize morphology, resin density, and a particular aroma profile cherished in the original keeper. Growers can expect compact structure, short to medium internodes, and a strong calyx-to-leaf ratio consistent with indica heritage.
This profile synthesizes breeder intent, indica-dominant benchmarks, and best-practice cultivation science to help you evaluate Ketosis #4 S1. Where exact third-party analytics are not yet widely published, ranges are given based on comparable indica-dominant craft lines from similar breeding strategies. The result is a detailed, actionable guide for enthusiasts, patients, and cultivators alike.
Origins and Breeding History
Tombstone Trichomes selected a '#4' phenotype as the mother for this line, then produced an S1 by reversing that keeper to generate self-pollinated seed. In cannabis breeding, numbering cuts is a practical way to track standouts during pheno hunts that may involve 30–200 seeds or more. The '#4' tag means this phenotype outperformed its siblings on targeted traits such as resin coverage, bud density, aroma complexity, or yield-to-quality ratio.
Selfing has become popular for preserving the precise character of a singular elite plant without introducing new variability from an outcross. In genetic terms, a first-generation self (S1) increases homozygosity and raises the inbreeding coefficient to roughly F = 0.5 when starting from a fully heterozygous parent, which tends to tighten trait expression. For growers, this often translates into more predictable canopy structure, flowering time, and terpene type compared to a fresh F1 cross.
Throughout the late 2010s and early 2020s, S1 releases gained traction in craft and commercial markets because they offer access to clone-only experiences in seed form. This helps small-scale cultivators who cannot easily source verified clones. It also supports data-driven production, since similar plants in each run enable tighter control of irrigation, nutrition, and harvest timing.
The mostly-indica heritage signaled by Tombstone Trichomes suggests a selection pressure for dense, hashplant-like flowers and pronounced trichome coverage. Indica-leaning lines of Afghan, Hindu Kush, or modern Kush descent commonly anchor such projects. Ketosis #4 S1 aligns with that tradition, prioritizing resin quality and a heavy-leaning effect profile suitable for evening use and solventless extraction.
Genetic Lineage and S1 Selection Rationale
The precise parentage of Ketosis #4 S1 has not been disclosed publicly, a common practice among boutique breeders who protect intellectual property while releasing phenotype-driven seed. What is explicit is the breeding format: an S1 of a #4 keeper cut that showed indica-dominant structure and resin density. This strongly implies foundational genetics from the Kush/Hashplant/afghanica spectrum rather than a sativa-leaning tropical background.
The S1 choice signals a desire to fix the keeper's most valued attributes. First-generation selfing increases the likelihood that progeny will reproduce the mother's apex phenotypes, albeit with some segregation due to the starting heterozygosity. In practice, S1 populations often exhibit two to four recognizable sub-types clustered tightly around the mother’s blueprint.
From a selection standpoint, breeders often self a plant when it demonstrates exceptional secondary metabolite output and a clear sensory identity. If the #4 cut delivered unusually thick trichome heads, sticky resin, and a consistent, pungent nose, selfing preserves that profile for future hunts. It also gives growers a better chance of seeing that nose and resin appear again without needing the original clone.
For practical cultivation planning, assume indica-leaning vigor, a shorter stature, and a cooperative response to topping and screen-of-green. Expect a flowering window typical of modern indica-hybrids, often 56–65 days under 12/12. A modest stretch (1.2–1.6x after flip) is also consistent with many S1 indica-dominant lines.
Morphology and Appearance
Ketosis #4 S1 is expected to present a compact, bushy frame with a low-to-medium internodal distance, often 3–6 cm indoors under adequate light density. Fan leaves tend to be broad with blunt serrations, a visual hallmark of indica-biased ancestry. Under cool night temperatures, anthocyanins can express as lavender to deep plum hues, particularly late in flower.
Buds typically form as dense, golf-ball to egg-shaped clusters with pronounced calyx stacking. A favorable calyx-to-leaf ratio—often in the 2.5–3.5 range for indica-leaning lines—reduces trim labor and increases bag appeal. The surface is heavily frosted, and stalked glandular trichomes frequently extend onto adjacent sugar leaves.
Properly grown flowers feel greasy to the touch and may leave a resin film on scissors within minutes, an indicator of high trichome head density. Mature stigmas transition from white to amber-orange or rust as senescence proceeds. When dehydrated correctly, finished buds exhibit a tight snap and maintain rounded structure without collapsing.
Under high-intensity LEDs, expect tight node spacing and stout lateral branching that responds well to canopy management. Plants in 3–5 gallon containers indoors usually finish at 60–100 cm with topping and training. Outdoor plants in rich soil can reach 150–200 cm, forming a compact but productive bush if pruned for airflow.
Aroma and Sensory Notes
Although exact notes vary by phenotype, indica-dominant S1s like Ketosis #4 S1 commonly lean earthy, woody, and spice-forward with secondary gas or sweet dough elements. Expect an initial hit of damp forest floor, cracked pepper, and herbal resin, often followed by citrus peel brightness. Some expressions tilt to savory hash and incense, while others carry a layer of sweet cream or warm pastry.
When the jar is first opened, volatile top notes escape quickly, dominated by terpenes with lower boiling points such as limonene and ocimene. After a few moments, mid-weight aromas like myrcene, linalool, and humulene emerge, bringing depth and a calming tone. The finish can feature peppery, balsamic warmth consistent with beta-caryophyllene and related sesquiterpenes.
Cracking a cured bud releases a rush of green wood, pine needle, and dark musk, and rubbing a bract between fingers intensifies the spice-resin character. The lingering scent on glass jars or grinder teeth can be distinctly hashy, which is prized by solventless makers seeking loud rosin. Overall intensity is medium-high to high, often rating 7–9 out of 10 in experienced grower notes for indica-leaning keepers.
Aroma expression is sensitive to drying and curing protocol. Slow cures at 60°F/60% RH for 10–14 days preserve delicate monoterpenes, whereas fast dry cycles can mute brightness by 20–40% relative to optimized protocols. Closed-jar curing with periodic burps supports consistent volatilome development and reduces grassy notes.
Flavor and Combustion Experience
The flavor tracks the aroma profile with a grounded, resinous base and a peppered, citrusy lift. On glass or a clean joint, the first draw is often earthy-sweet with a woody snap, followed by a creamy, slightly doughy mid-palate. The exhale commonly brings peppercorn and incense, leaving a persistent, hash-forward aftertaste.
Vaporization at 350–380°F highlights the brighter citrus-herbal fraction and can feel lighter on the lungs for terpene evaluation. Stepping to 390–410°F pulls more of the spicy, balsamic, and sedative compounds while increasing perceived potency. Combustion in a joint or pipe amplifies the resinous character and can bring a faint cocoa or coffee bitterness if over-dried.
Well-cured samples burn to near-white ash, a sign of complete mineralization and moisture balance around 10–12%. Overly wet flower can sizzle and muffle flavor, while overdried flower harshens and collapses complexity. Optimal water activity for storage, 0.58–0.62 aw, preserves the sensory arc while limiting microbial growth.
Solventless rosin pressed from Ketosis #4 S1-type resin often shows a dark cream to light amber hue at low temperatures and carries the same peppery-hash bouquet. Low-temp dabs accentuate sweetness and reduce throat bite. Pairing suggestions include citrus tea, mineral water, or unsweetened cocoa to complement the spice and wood tones.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Public, lab-verified Certificates of Analysis specifically for Ketosis #4 S1 are scarce, so the ranges here reflect typical outcomes for indica-dominant, resin-forward S1s selected for potency. In modern indoor conditions with optimized lighting and nutrition, total THC commonly falls in the 18–26% range by dry weight, with top phenotypes occasionally surpassing 27%. Total cannabinoids often measure 20–30% depending on cultivation variables and harvest timing.
CBD is expected to be minimal in a potency-driven indica S1, typically <1% and often below 0.2%. Minor cannabinoids such as CBG may register 0.5–1.5%, while CBC can appear around 0.1–0.5% in many indica-leaning chemotypes. THCV is usually trace unless explicitly bred for.
Potency is sensitive to environmental control and post-harvest handling. Studies and aggregated lab data show that rapid, hot drying can reduce terpene levels significantly and may correlate with lower perceived potency even when total THC remains similar. Conversely, stable 60/60 dry-and-cure protocols retain more terpenes, which modulate effect and may enhance pharmacological breadth via the so-called entourage effect.
For dose planning, a 0.25 g joint of 22% THC flower contains about 55 mg of THC prior to combustion losses, with 20–37% typically delivered to the user via smoke or vapor. That equates to roughly 11–20 mg absorbed, a range many users consider a robust single session. Newer consumers should titrate carefully, as perceived strength can outpace numbers if the terpene blend is sedative and peppery.
Terpene Profile and Volatile Chemistry
Indica-dominant resin keepers often center on a myrcene–beta-caryophyllene–limonene triad, which together can account for 60–80% of total terpenes by mass in many modern profiles. In absolute terms, indoor craft flower typically expresses total terpene content between 1.5–3.0% w/w, though exceptionally loud cuts can exceed 3.5%. Expect supporting roles from humulene, linalool, and possibly ocimene or farnesene depending on phenotype.
Myrcene contributes earthy, musky sweetness and is frequently implicated in the classic 'couch-lock' reputation when present at higher fractions. Beta-caryophyllene adds pepper and clove notes and is unique among major terpenes for acting as a CB2 receptor agonist, which may support anti-inflammatory effects. Limonene supplies citrus top notes and is often linked with mood elevation and perceived clarity.
Humulene deepens the woody, herbal layer and can complement caryophyllene in the balsamic direction. Linalool introduces floral-lavender tones with a calming impression, and ocimene can bring fresh, green, sweet highs that lift the blend. The exact ratios shape whether Ketosis #4 S1 registers more as hash-and-pepper or as sweet-herbal with gas undertones.
Boiling points and volatility drive consumption strategy. Limonene (176°F/80°C) and ocimene (~122–134°F/50–57°C) volatilize early, which is why lower-temp vaporization preserves brightness. Beta-caryophyllene (~266°F/130°C) and humulene (~225°F/107°C) require slightly higher temperatures to fully express, aligning with the richer mid-temperature flavor zone.
Experiential Effects and Use Patterns
As a mostly indica selection, Ketosis #4 S1 commonly leans toward body-centered relaxation, muscle looseness, and a calm mental state. Many users report relief from physical tension within 10–20 minutes of inhalation, with an arc that peaks around 45–90 minutes and a total duration of 2–4 hours. The headspace tends to be clear-to-dreamy rather than racy, especially at moderate doses.
At low to moderate inhaled doses, the cultivar can feel balanced enough for creative tasks or focused relaxation. At higher doses, heaviness increases, sometimes encouraging a couch session or early bedtime, especially if myrcene is prominent. The peppery-spice terpene layer can also bring a sensation of warmth and groundedness that users interpret as soothing.
Common side effects include dry mouth, dry eyes, and occasionally transient dizziness in sensitive individuals upon standing, especially if dehydrated. Like most potent flowers, anxiety can occur at high doses or in unfamiliar settings, though indica-leaning terpenes often buffer this compared to sharper, citrus-dominant sativas. Careful titration, hydration, and a comfortable environment mitigate these risks.
For new users, one to two small puffs is a prudent start, watching for onset before stacking. For experienced users, a 0.1–0.2 g bowl or a modest dab of rosin can showcase the resin depth without overwhelming. Edible dosing should respect standard guidance: 2.5–5 mg THC for beginners, 5–10 mg for occasional users, and 10–20 mg only for those with established tolerance.
Potential Therapeutic Applications
Although clinical evidence for any single cannabis cultivar remains limited, the chemical logic of a sedative-leaning indica S1 suggests utility for sleep initiation and maintenance. A body-relaxing effect profile with myrcene, linalool, and caryophyllene support is congruent with nighttime use and muscle tension relief. Patients often report reduced sleep latency and fewer nighttime awakenings when using similar terpene-dominant profiles.
Pain management is another plausible application. Large patient registries in legalized markets consistently cite chronic pain as the top reason for medical cannabis use, often comprising roughly half of active certifications in some jurisdictions. Beta-caryophyllene’s CB2 activity and potential anti-inflammatory properties may complement THC’s analgesic effects in such cases.
Anxiety and stress reduction are commonly reported with indica-forward chemotypes, particularly when linalool and limonene are present in moderate amounts. Observational surveys frequently list anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD symptoms among the top 5–10 reported reasons for cannabis therapy. As always, individual responses vary, and higher THC doses can paradoxically increase anxiety in some users.
Appetite stimulation and nausea relief may occur due to THC’s known orexigenic and antiemetic properties. For neuropathic discomfort or spasms, a relaxing, peppery-hash profile can provide relief without excessive mental stimulation. Patients should consult healthcare professionals and consider starting low, especially if taking medications that interact with CNS depressants or affect blood pressure.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide: From Seed to Cure
Seed handling and germination: Store seeds at 40–45°F with desiccant to maintain viability above 90% for 12–24 months. For germination, a hydrated medium at pH 5.8–6.2 (coco) or 6.2–6.6 (soil) with temperatures of 75–80°F promotes rapid radicle emergence within 24–72 hours. A light EC of 0.4–0.6 mS/cm and gentle moisture cycling reduce damping-off risk.
Vegetative growth: Ketosis #4 S1 responds well to early topping at the 4th–6th node, encouraging a wide, even canopy ideal for SCROG. Maintain PPFD of 300–500 µmol/m²/s and a VPD of 0.8–1.2 kPa, with day temps at 76–82°F and RH 60–70%. Feed at EC 1.2–1.6 mS/cm with an N-forward ratio, supplementing Ca/Mg under LED to prevent interveinal chlorosis.
Training and structure: Expect a modest stretch post-flip, around 1.2–1.6x, which suits tents and small rooms. Use a single trellis net to spread eight to sixteen mains depending on pot size and veg duration. Defoliate lightly at day 21 of flower to open interior sites and again around day 42 if leaves shade key colas.
Flowering environment: Transition to PPFD of 700–900 µmol/m²/s under 12/12, increasing CO₂ to 800–1,000 ppm if available to drive photosynthesis. Manage VPD at 1.2–1.5 kPa, with day temps 74–80°F and RH 45–55% to reduce botrytis risk in dense indica flowers. Keep substrate EC near 1.8–2.2 mS/cm with a P/K-forward program and steady micronutrients.
Nutrition specifics: In coco, target runoff pH 5.8–6.0 to keep iron and manganese available. Aim for NPK ratios around 1:1:1 in late veg, shifting toward 1:2:2 by mid-flower while maintaining calcium at 120–160 ppm and magnesium at 40–60 ppm. Consider potassium silicate at 20–40 ppm Si to support stalk strength and stress tolerance.
Watering strategy: Allow 10–15% runoff in inert media to prevent salt accumulation, watering 1–2 times daily at peak transpiration. In living soil, use larger containers (7–15 gallons) with infrequent, thorough irrigations and top-dressing for phosphorus and potassium. Keep media oxygenated; overwatering reduces root zone O₂ and can slash yield by 10–30%.
Integrated pest management (IPM): Dense indica canopies are susceptible to powdery mildew and bud rot if airflow lags. Maintain 0.3–0.6 m/s horizontal airflow at canopy level and rotate biologicals like Bacillus subtilis for foliar prevention in veg only. Introduce predatory mites (Amblyseius swirskii, Neoseiulus californicus) prophylactically to limit thrips and mite pressure.
Flowering time and harvest: Anticipate 56–65 days to maturity, with some phenotypes preferring a 60–63 day window for full resin development. Monitor trichomes with a 60–100x scope and harvest around 5–15% amber heads for a heavier effect, or mostly cloudy for a brighter profile. Excessively late harvest can oxidize terpenes and tilt effects overly sedative.
Yields: Indoors, expect 450–600 g/m² in dialed rooms, with CO₂ and high PPFD pushing the upper end. Outdoor plants in full sun, good soil, and dry climates can yield 500–1,000 g per plant with careful pruning. Resin-forward selections often exchange a small percentage of top-end yield for quality; prioritize light distribution to maximize grams per watt.
Drying and curing: Target the 60/60 method—60°F and 60% RH—for 10–14 days until small stems snap. Trim after the slow-dry to preserve trichome heads; machine trimming can bruise resin and flatten terpenes. Cure in airtight containers, burping to maintain 58–62% RH for 3–6 weeks; terpene expression typically peaks between weeks 4 and 8.
Solventless and extraction: Thick-headed resin in indica S1s often washes well, with bubble hash yields of 3–5% of fresh frozen mass being a reasonable target for premium material. Low-temp rosin pressing can retain brighter monoterpenes; 170–190°F at moderate pressure for 60–120 seconds is a common starting point. Store concentrates at 35–45°F in airtight glass to minimize volatilization and oxidation.
Quality control: Track Brix, runoff EC, and leaf tissue analysis if available to keep nutrition precise. A 10–15% light green fade by late flower indicates balanced nitrogen drawdown; deep yellowing earlier than day 42 may limit yields by 5–10%. Keep data logs on PPFD, VPD, and irrigation volumes; consistent runs with S1 lines often show tighter variance in harvest metrics.
Phenotype Variation, Stability, and Selection Strategy
S1 populations are generally more uniform than fresh outcrosses but still present selectable diversity. In practice, you might observe two or three sub-profiles within Ketosis #4 S1: a peppery-hash heavy type, a sweet-woody type, and a balanced middle. Canopy structure tends to remain consistent across these expressions, simplifying training.
When hunting, tag plants for early resin onset, intermodal density, and nose loudness by day 35–42. Keep notes on water demand and nutrient tolerance; plants that fade too early or claw under moderate EC may be less scalable. Run promising candidates twice before committing to keeper status to confirm repeatability.
For extraction-driven grows, favor phenotypes with sticky resin that grains up in the bag and leaves a waxy feel on fingers even at room temperature. Dome trichome heads that stay intact during gentle handling are preferred for ice water separation. For flower-only markets, seek the expression with the best calyx stacking and terpene persistence after 30+ days of cure.
Over multiple S1 runs, expect a gradual tightening of your in-house cut’s performance as you learn its water, light, and harvest timing sweet spots. Keeping mother plants under 18–22 hours of light with moderate EC and 70–74°F helps preserve vigor. Rotate mothers every 6–9 months from rooted backups to minimize drift and pathogen load.
