Written by Ad OpsHistory and Breeding Background
Master Kush Grand is a mostly indica cultivar developed by Bulk Seed Bank, a breeder known for stabilizing classic genetics at scale. The name signals a deliberate homage to the storied Master Kush family while indicating a more robust, “grand” expression selected for resin, density, and production. Bulk Seed Bank positions Master Kush Grand as indica-leaning, and grow logs commonly describe short internodes, rapid flowering, and high calyx density characteristic of Afghan- and Pakistani-Kush derivations. While Bulk Seed Bank does not publicly disclose a detailed parental breakdown, the strain’s morphology and organoleptic traits align closely with the Hindu Kush lineage.
The broader Master Kush line rose to prominence in the 1990s, when Amsterdam breeders refined Hindukush landraces into compact, indoor-friendly plants. Those early selections prioritized resin output, hashish-style aromatics, and reliability under artificial light. Master Kush Grand follows that template but leans into modern performance metrics: higher cannabinoid ceilings, stronger terpene persistence post-cure, and improved node stacking. In practice, modern gardens report consistent flowering windows of 56–63 days and indoor yields competitive with other Kush benchmarks.
As a contemporary adaptation, Master Kush Grand was stabilized to meet commercial and home-grow expectations, including uniform stretch and manageable nutrition demand. Reports from experienced cultivators often cite a modest 20–35% stretch after flip, simplifying canopy management in tight tents. Under optimized light intensity, many phenotypes demonstrate a dense, top-heavy structure by week 7 of flower, necessitating simple staking. These selection pressures reflect Bulk Seed Bank’s focus on predictability and throughput.
Because the exact cross remains proprietary, published performance data draw from aggregated grower experiences and lab tests of comparable Master Kush chemovars. Typical THC values for this family range from 18–24% with outliers approaching 26% under ideal conditions. CBD levels generally sit below 1%, and total terpene content commonly falls between 1.5–2.5% by dry weight when cured correctly. These figures place Master Kush Grand squarely in the modern indica powerhouse category favored for evening use and resin extraction.
Genetic Lineage and Taxonomy
Master Kush Grand’s genetic identity is best described as a predominantly indica hybrid anchored in the Hindu Kush gene pool. In practical terms, growers can expect an indica-to-sativa ratio around 80–90% indica and 10–20% sativa, though exact percentages can vary between phenotypes. The vegetative structure reflects Afghani and Pakistani mountain landrace inputs: broad leaflets, thick petioles, stout lateral branching, and high trichome density. This “Kush core” confers robust stress tolerance and dependable indoor performance.
Historically, the Master Kush family originated from multiple Hindukush landrace selections brought to Europe and recombined for vigor, resin, and indoor utility. Some Kush lines incorporate small percentages of Skunk or other stabilizers, but Master Kush Grand’s sensory profile remains firmly hash-forward and earthy. The strain’s “Grand” designation suggests enhanced selection rather than a terpene rework toward fruit/candy palettes. As such, expect incense, spice, and soil tones rather than bright tropical notes.
Taxonomically, Master Kush Grand belongs to Cannabis sativa L. but falls within the indica-leaning phenotype cluster derived from high-altitude Asian ecotypes. These populations evolved under cooler nights, strong UV, and short seasons, traits still visible in this cultivar’s quick finish and thick resin heads. The compact stature and fast onset of trichome production indicate strong adaptation to photoperiod triggers. These same attributes make the plant predictable under 12/12 indoors and reliable in temperate outdoor regions.
Without a published parental tree, breeders and growers parse lineage through chemotype and morphology. The recurrent combination of heavy myrcene, caryophyllene, and humulene, paired with earthy-hashy aromatics, is a hallmark of Hindu Kush ancestry. The bud architecture—rock-hard, golf-ball to spear-shaped flowers with high calyx density—corroborates this genetic readout. In effect, Master Kush Grand is a modernized heir to the classic Kush archetype, bred for today’s gardens and extractors.
Appearance
Master Kush Grand forms compact, dense colas with a high calyx-to-leaf ratio, giving a tidy, “stacked” presentation on harvest day. Flowers typically range from lime to forest green, often flecked with deep purples when night temperatures drop below 18–20°C late in bloom. Orange to burnt-amber pistils thread tightly across the surface, and the trichome blanket presents as a vivid frost under direct light. Resin heads are abundant and sticky, coating sugar leaves and bud bracts alike.
Internode spacing on most phenotypes sits around 2–5 cm when managed under adequate light, enabling tight bud stacking. Plants display thick, leathery fan leaves with broad blades typical of indica lines, making defoliation timing important for airflow. Buds finish with a hard, “pebble” density that resists compression in jars, a signal of heavy calyx production. This density contributes to strong bag appeal and weight retention post-dry.
Trichome maturity is easy to visualize due to the cultivar’s resin saturation. Many growers note a uniform transition from clear to cloudy by weeks 7–8, with amber turning at 5–15% by weeks 8–9, depending on environment. Under microscope, capitate-stalked trichomes predominate, an excellent sign for solventless extraction. The overall frost factor makes sugar leaf trim highly valuable for hash.
In dried form, flowers hold their shape well and exhibit minimal foxtailing when heat is controlled. The cure brings out a matte-satin sheen as trichomes set and preserve volatile aromatics. Expect minimal stem mass relative to bud weight, a ratio conducive to high gram-per-square-meter yields. In short, Master Kush Grand is visually consistent with elite indica Kush standards.
Aroma
The dominant aroma is earthy and hash-forward, evoking fresh soil, cedar, and aged incense. A peppery-spicy undercurrent suggests beta-caryophyllene, while a subtle hop-like bitterness aligns with humulene. Limonene and pinene lend faint citrus peel and forest-pine top notes that emerge most clearly upon grinding. Many users also detect a faint cocoa or coffee nuance, especially after a 2–4 week cure.
Total terpene content commonly measures around 1.5–2.5% by dry weight when grown and cured properly. Within this, myrcene frequently lands in the 0.5–1.2% range, caryophyllene in the 0.3–0.8% range, and humulene in the 0.1–0.4% range. Secondary contributors like limonene, alpha-pinene, and linalool often appear between 0.05–0.25% each. These values can swing based on lighting intensity, media, and harvest timing.
On the stem rub in late veg, the scent is subdued but already earthy and resinous, with a hint of spice. By mid-flower, the room note intensifies to a rich, hashish-like perfume that can be loud in small spaces. Carbon filtration is strongly recommended as volatility spikes in weeks 6–9. Cold nighttime temperatures in late bloom tend to sharpen the cedar-incense edge.
During grinding, aromatic complexity jumps 20–40% subjectively, revealing added citrus and woody varnish notes. The after-aroma in the room lingers for 30–60 minutes, particularly in low-ventilation environments. Jar cures at 58–62% RH preserve terpenes well, minimizing the grassy “green” phase. After 6–8 weeks of cure, the bouquet stabilizes into a deep, rounded kush perfume.
Flavor
The inhale is dense and velvet-smooth when properly cured, delivering a layered earth-and-wood base. Peppery spice and sandalwood accompany the core, reflecting caryophyllene’s warm bite. Limonene contributes a faint lemon zest at the edges, while pinene imparts a dry conifer finish. The combined effect is classic Kush: resinous, incense-like, and palate-coating.
On exhale, the flavor persists with a lingering hash tone and subtle cocoa bitterness. The retrohale is notably complex, releasing cedar, clove, and faint orange rind. Humulene’s hop-like dryness can be perceived as a clean, slightly bitter tail that keeps the profile from cloying. Nicely dried flowers produce a cool, gentle smoke even at higher doses.
Vaporization at 175–190°C highlights brighter citrus and pine while softening the heavier hash notes. Raising the temp to 200–210°C boosts resinous spice and brings out deeper wood and coffee accents. Flavor intensity is typically rated medium-high, with obvious drop-off if cure exceeds 12 months. To preserve nuance, store at 58–62% RH and avoid repeated heat cycling.
Edible infusions carry over the earthy-hashy core but mute the pine and citrus. Butter and coconut oil effectively capture fat-soluble terpenes, though aroma is less “sharp” post-decarb. Concentrates, especially live rosin, can showcase the cultivar’s incense tone vividly, often described as temple-hash meets cedar chest. Expect solventless rosin yields in the 18–25% range from premium flowers, a sign of robust resin content.
Cannabinoid Profile
Master Kush Grand typically expresses THC in the 18–24% range by dry weight, placing it in the high-potency indica tier. Phenotypic variation and cultivation excellence can push outliers to 25–26%, though these represent top-percentile results. CBD is generally minor at 0.1–0.8%, positioning the overall chemotype as THC-dominant. CBG commonly appears at 0.1–0.6%, with trace CBC in the 0.05–0.3% band.
For most users, potency translates to fast-onset relaxation and a pronounced body effect. The low CBD percentage allows THC’s psychoactivity to define the experience, modulated by myrcene and caryophyllene. Myrcene’s synergy with THC is often cited for sedation and perceived “couch-lock,” particularly above 20% THC. Caryophyllene may attenuate inflammation through CB2 agonism without psychoactive load.
In concentrates, total cannabinoids can exceed 70–85% by weight depending on extraction method. Live resin or rosin derived from fresh-frozen material tends to preserve a broader terpene fraction, enhancing perceived potency via entourage effects. Decarboxylation from THCa to THC during combustion or cooking approaches 87–97% efficiency with careful technique. Overheating can degrade terpenes and convert THC to CBN, shifting the effect toward heavier sedation.
Because lab results vary by environment and harvest timing, growers should monitor trichome maturity to steer effect. Harvesting at predominantly cloudy trichomes with 5–10% amber often yields a balanced, strong but not overly narcotic outcome. Allowing 15–20% amber increases sedative tone, useful for nighttime or pain management. Precision in harvest window can shift the experiential profile meaningfully.
Terpene Profile
Myrcene is typically the lead terpene, often comprising 0.5–1.2% of dried flower mass. Aromatically, it delivers earth, musk, and a ripe herbal sweetness that anchors the Kush identity. In user reports, myrcene-rich chemovars are associated with heavier body relaxation and shortened sleep latency. This aligns with Master Kush Grand’s evening reputation.
Beta-caryophyllene commonly lands in the 0.3–0.8% bracket, contributing black pepper, clove, and warm spice tones. As the only major terpene known to directly bind CB2, it is frequently discussed in the context of inflammation and peripheral pain. In sensory terms, it rounds the profile with a pleasant bite felt on the retrohale. Its presence synergizes with humulene to deliver a dry, woody finish.
Humulene typically measures 0.1–0.4% and adds a hop-like, slightly bitter woodiness. It has been studied for potential appetite-modulating and anti-inflammatory effects, though real-world impact depends on dose and matrix. In the glass jar, humulene helps maintain the “dry” cedar note that keeps the bouquet from veering into sweet. Its volatility increases at higher temperatures, making a gentle cure essential.
Secondary terpenes include limonene (0.1–0.25%), alpha-pinene (0.05–0.2%), and linalool (0.05–0.15%). Limonene supports mood-lift and provides a faint citrus edge that brightens the base. Pinene contributes conifer and can subjectively aid alertness at low doses, balancing heaviness. Linalool adds floral, lavender-like softness and can nudge sedation in late evening sessions.
Total terpene content is commonly 1.5–2.5% in well-grown, properly cured flowers. Values above 3.0% are possible under exceptional cultivation, but consistent preservation requires careful drying at 60–65°F (15.5–18.3°C) and 55–60% RH. Grinding immediately before consumption maximizes aroma fidelity by exposing fresh trichome heads. Over-drying below 50% RH tends to flatten the profile by 20–30% subjectively.
Experiential Effects
Most users describe a rapid-onset body melt within 5–10 minutes when inhaled, peaking at 30–45 minutes and tapering over 2–3 hours. The headspace is calm and centering, with sufficient mental clarity at low-to-moderate doses for conversation or film. At higher doses, the experience becomes heavier, often encouraging couch time and early sleep. The physical relaxation can be pronounced, with perceived muscle looseness and reduced restlessness.
Mood effects are typically warm and steady rather than euphoric spikes. Limonene and pinene add slight brightness early on, which helps avoid complete sedation in the first 20–30 minutes. As the session progresses, myrcene dominance emerges, making this a prime late-evening strain. Users often report a smooth glide from relaxation to sleep without a harsh “comedown.”
Dosing guidelines hinge on tolerance and context. Newer consumers inhaling flower should start with 1–2 small puffs, equating roughly to 1–3 mg THC, and wait 10 minutes before redosing. Seasoned users may find 5–10 mg THC inhaled sufficient for deep relaxation without next-day grogginess. Edibles should follow a conservative 2.5–5 mg THC start because effects can last 4–6 hours or more.
Adverse effects tend to include dry mouth, dry eyes, and occasional lightheadedness if standing quickly after a heavy session. Anxiety is less common in indica-dominant Kush profiles but can occur at high doses or in sensitive users. Hydration and pacing reduce discomfort, and setting a comfortable environment enhances the experience. Because of its sedative potential, avoid tasks requiring coordination or alertness after dosing.
Potential Medical Uses
As a mostly indica chemovar bred by Bulk Seed Bank, Master Kush Grand aligns with patient goals centered on pain relief, sleep support, and stress reduction. Observationally, indica-leaning profiles with 18–24% THC and myrcene-dominant terpene loads are frequently selected for neuropathic pain, back pain, and post-exercise soreness. Patients often describe reduced muscle tension within 15–30 minutes of inhalation. Caryophyllene’s CB2 activity may provide additional anti-inflammatory benefit for peripheral discomfort.
Sleep is a common indication. Across large patient surveys of medical cannabis users, roughly two-thirds report improved sleep onset and duration when using indica-dominant products in the evening. Master Kush Grand’s heavy body feel and smooth landing can reduce nighttime awakenings for some. Harvesting with 10–15% amber trichomes tends to intensify the sedative edge, which may help those with sleep maintenance issues.
Anxiety and stress relief are frequently reported with low-to-moderate doses, though high-THC products can be a double-edged sword for anxiety-prone individuals. Many patients find 2–5 mg THC inhaled equivalent adequate for mood stabilization without racing thoughts. The steady, grounded headspace makes it a candidate for end-of-day decompression. Linalool and limonene, even in modest amounts, may support perceived anxiolysis in this matrix.
Appetite stimulation is moderate—less intense than dessert-forward cultivars, but sufficient for those with diminished appetite due to stress or treatment side effects. Humulene’s reputed appetite-suppressing quality can partially counterbalance THC’s munchies, resulting in a more neutral net effect. For gastrointestinal discomfort marked by cramping, the muscle relaxation may provide relief. Patients seeking strong antiemetic action may still prefer chemovars with higher limonene.
Dosing recommendations for medical contexts begin low and titrate slowly. Inhaled microdoses around 1–2 mg THC can be used to test tolerability, with many patients settling at 3–7 mg per session. For edibles, 2.5–5 mg THC in the evening is a conservative starting point, especially for sleep. Always consider potential drug interactions and consult a clinician where medical cannabis oversight is available.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Growth habit and vigor: Master Kush Grand, bred by Bulk Seed Bank as a mostly indica line, shows compact stature and strong lateral branching. Indoor heights commonly reach 80–120 cm with a controlled veg, while outdoor plants in full sun can reach 150–200 cm. Post-flip stretch is moderate, typically 20–35%, simplifying canopy control. The cultivar’s high calyx density and rapid trichome development make it a reliable 8–9 week finisher.
Environment and climate: Ideal daytime temperatures are 22–26°C in both veg and flower, with nighttime drops to 18–21°C. Relative humidity should be 55–65% in veg, 40–50% in early flower, and 35–45% in late flower to reduce botrytis risk. Vapor Pressure Deficit targets of 0.8–1.2 kPa in veg and 1.2–1.5 kPa in mid-to-late flower balance growth and resin preservation. Good airflow with 20–30 air exchanges per hour in tents mitigates microclimates in dense canopies.
Lighting and photoperiod: In veg, provide 18/6 photoperiod with 300–600 PPFD for compact nodes; in flower, 12/12 at 900–1,100 PPFD for resin and yield. Daily Light Integral targets for flower are 35–45 mol/m²/day without supplemental CO₂; with 800–1,200 ppm CO₂, plants can utilize 45–55 mol/m²/day. Maintain light-to-canopy distances that keep leaf surface temperatures 1–2°C above ambient under LEDs. Avoid excessive intensity beyond leaf thermal tolerance to prevent terpene volatilization.
Media and nutrition: The cultivar performs well in quality soil, coco, or hydroponics. Soil pH should be 6.2–6.8; coco/hydro pH 5.8–6.0. Feed EC around 1.2–1.6 in veg, rising to 1.8–2.2 during peak flower; dial back if tip burn appears. Many growers report a moderate nitrogen appetite in early flower and a definite need for adequate Ca/Mg, especially under LEDs.
Training and canopy management: Low-Stress Training (LST) and Screen of Green (SCROG) maximize even tops and light penetration. Given the plant’s density, selective defoliation at day 21 and day 42 of flower improves airflow without over-stripping. Topping once or twice in veg creates 6–12 main colas on a 5–8 week veg schedule. Sea of Green (SOG) also works well, with 9–16 plants per m² in small containers for rapid turnover.
Watering and irrigation: In soil, aim for wet-dry cycles that allow 10–20% runoff, preventing salt buildup. In coco, frequent fertigation (1–3 times daily) supports steady cation exchange and robust growth. Maintain root-zone temperatures at 20–22°C to optimize uptake. Oxygenate reservoirs and avoid EC spikes to keep resin production consistent.
Flowering timeline and yield: Flowering generally completes in 56–63 days, with some phenotypes happy at day 65 for heavier sedative effects. Indoor yields of 450–600 g/m² are common under 600–700 W/m² effective lighting. Outdoors, 600–900 g per plant is achievable in favorable climates with long sun exposure. The strain’s high bud density makes late-season humidity management critical.
Pest and disease resistance: The thick flower structure is susceptible to botrytis if RH runs high in late bloom. Preventative IPM including canopy thinning, sticky traps, and weekly foliar inspections in veg is recommended. The cultivar handles powdery mildew better when leaf surfaces are kept dry and airflow is strong. Beneficials like predatory mites and bacillus-based biofungicides can be integrated early.
Outdoor cultivation: Master Kush Grand thrives in Mediterranean-like climates with warm, dry finishes. In the Northern Hemisphere, transplant after last frost and plan for harvest from late September to early October depending on latitude. Position plants for maximum morning sun to dry dew quickly and reduce mold pressure. Mulch to stabilize root-zone moisture and temperature during hot spells.
Harvest, drying, and curing: Harvest when trichomes are mostly cloudy with 5–15% amber for a balanced but potent effect. Dry for 10–14 days at 60°F (15.5°C) and 60% RH with gentle airflow, targeting 10–15% weight loss. Cure at 58–62% RH in sealed containers, burping daily for the first week, then weekly for 4–8 weeks. Proper cure preserves 80–90% of peak terpene intensity compared to rushed drying.
Extraction considerations: The cultivar’s resin density supports solventless and hydrocarbon methods. Ice water hash from fresh-frozen material can return 3–5% of starting weight in high-quality heads, depending on wash technique and phenotype. Solventless rosin yields of 18–25% from properly dried flowers are reported by experienced pressers. Keep wash water near 34–36°F (1–2°C) to minimize grease and preserve head integrity.
Nutrient troubleshooting: Leaf tip burn signals excess EC; back down nutrients 10–20% and ensure runoff. Interveinal chlorosis in mid-flower often points to magnesium deficiency; supplement 25–50 ppm Mg as needed. Calcium-related issues (necrotic spots, weak stems) benefit from steady Ca supply and pH control. Avoid heavy late-veg nitrogen that can delay flower onset and soften bud density.
Cloning and propagation: Cuttings root in 7–14 days with 0.3–0.6% IBA gel or powder under 70–80% RH domes. Maintain 22–24°C at the root zone and gentle light (100–200 PPFD) during early rooting. Transplant as soon as vigorous white roots show to prevent lignification and stall. Uniform clones simplify canopy management and phenotypic consistency.
Legal and operational notes: In regions with plant count limits, SCROG maximizes per-plant yields while keeping height manageable. Odor control with quality carbon filtration is recommended, as aroma becomes intense by week 6 of bloom. Keep meticulous records of EC, pH, and environmental conditions to correlate with resin output. Over multiple cycles, dial in harvest day to match your desired sedation-to-clarity ratio.
