Written by Ad OpsOrigins and Breeding History
Moby Dick Auto stands on the shoulders of a modern classic. The original Moby Dick was developed by the breeders who later regrouped as Silent Seeds, and it fused a legendary White Widow with an even more storied Haze. That photoperiod version earned its reputation for ocean-deep yields and a rousing sativa high. With the rise of day‑neutral genetics, the team integrated ruderalis to deliver the autoflowering expression without sacrificing the hallmark character.
Silent Seeds is credited with the autoflowering adaptation of this line, bringing their long Haze and Widow selection experience into the ruderalis domain. The result is a ruderalis/indica/sativa hybrid that preserves the its namesake’s citrus‑cedar incense and vigorous structure. Moby Dick Auto was refined across multiple filial generations to stabilize the auto trait while maintaining high cannabinoid potential. That balance is the reason it became a go‑to auto for both newcomers and seasoned growers.
The strain’s popularity spawned parallel takes from other seed houses, each interpreting the same core concept. Retail listings, for example, note that Barney’s Farm also markets a Moby Dick Auto and emphasize that growing this titan at home is easier than ever while keeping the distinctive aroma and effects. That commercial presence reflects broad demand, not divergence from the core identity created by Silent Seeds. Phenotype nuances do exist between breeders, but the signature profile remains intact: citrus‑pine Haze notes, assertive potency, and high yield potential for an auto.
As autos matured, performance caught up to many photoperiods, and Moby Dick Auto benefited from that leap. Early 2010s autos averaged 8–14% THC; today, stabilized lines like this routinely test above 17% and often exceed 20% in top conditions. That trajectory mirrors the technical gains in selection for auto timing, internode spacing, and terpene retention. Moby Dick Auto sits at the confluence of those improvements.
The strain’s staying power is tied to practical metrics. Growers consistently cite 70–85 days from sprout to harvest, reliable mid‑to‑high yields, and a terpene profile that is unmistakably Moby Dick. Those numbers, repeated across community grows and breeder sheets, explain its place in the canon of autos. It is not just a name; it is a well‑documented performer anchored in a specific lineage managed by Silent Seeds.
Genetic Lineage and Botany
The genetic backbone begins with White Widow, a balanced classic known for resin‑heavy flowers, and Haze, a sativa‑leaning blend with roots in Mexican, Colombian, Thai, and South Indian landrace lines. Into that framework, breeders introduced Cannabis ruderalis genetics to confer day‑neutral flowering. The ruderalis contribution is small in fraction but decisive in behavior, shifting the plant’s flowering trigger from light cycles to age. Botanical studies on autoflowering traits show that the Ruderalis‑derived genetic loci override photoperiodic responses.
Autoflowers like Moby Dick Auto typically complete their lifecycle in 10–12 weeks, and this line adheres to that window. The vegetative phase is compressed into the first 3–4 weeks as preflowers set in by days 21–30 from sprout. That timing remains stable under 18/6 or 20/4 light, a defining characteristic of day‑neutral cannabis. Autoflowering does not reduce total biomass by definition; it simply allocates time differently, and breeding determines whether yield matches photoperiod standards.
Phenotypically, this genotype expresses a sativa‑dominant architecture with moderate internodal spacing and elongated terminal colas. The White Widow ancestry’s indica influence tightens calyx formation and bolsters resin density. Haze pushes the terpene suite toward terpinolene, pinene, and citrus‑cedar notes, while the ruderalis fraction improves environmental resilience. Together, they create a plant that can handle varying photoperiods without losing aromatic complexity.
In terms of heterozygosity, autos often display slightly broader phenotypic variance than highly inbred photoperiod clones. Moby Dick Auto has nonetheless been stabilized sufficiently that height, timing, and aroma fall within predictable bands. Growers report that 80–90% of plants land in a consistent window for height and maturity when given uniform conditions. That level of predictability is crucial for tent growers planning canopy management.
The ruderalis/indica/sativa heritage also informs nutrient needs and stress responses. Indica traits support dense bud development, raising potassium demand late in bloom, while sativa vigor increases nitrogen appetite early. Ruderalis inputs confer a degree of cold tolerance and a lower threshold for photoperiod stress. The net result is a robust, medium‑tall auto that thrives under steady conditions and responds well to gentle training.
Appearance and Plant Structure
Moby Dick Auto generally presents as a medium‑tall autoflower with strong apical dominance and a symmetric lateral frame. Indoors, typical height ranges from 70–120 cm, while outdoor containers can push plants to 90–140 cm in favorable climates. Internodes are moderate in length, creating space for airflow while still stacking bud sites efficiently. The terminal cola often extends 25–45 cm, a visual hallmark that evokes the photoperiod original.
Leaves show a sativa‑leaning morphology with relatively narrow leaflets, often 7–9 fingers per mature fan. Coloration tends to deep green in nitrogen‑rich media, with lighter lime tones under high light and optimal nutrition. Anthocyanin expression is rare but possible in cool nights, most commonly as lilac hues on sugar leaves rather than full‑purple buds. The calyx‑to‑leaf ratio is favorable, which simplifies trimming and contributes to an attractive bag appeal.
Bud density is medium‑high, with a resin sheen readily visible by week 6 of the cycle. Trichomes develop thickly on bracts and sugar leaves, and heads are predominantly cloudy at maturity with a measurable proportion turning amber late. Under high PPFD, mild foxtailing can occur, especially on the uppermost flowers; careful light height management reduces this tendency. Pistils start ivory and age to orange‑amber as harvest approaches.
Stems are sturdy for an auto, but the main cola benefits from a soft tie or support to prevent lean in late flower. The plant’s skeletal strength supports multiple long laterals when trained, forming a crown of parallel colas around the central spear. In sea‑of‑green arrangements, single‑cola plants produce uniform pillars, whereas in larger pots with training, a bushier architecture emerges. Both approaches maintain the visual identity of elongated, resinous spires.
Bag appeal is elevated by the combination of silvery trichome coverage and subtle Haze spear shapes. Dried flowers cure to olive tones with bright orange pistils and sugar leaves that trim back cleanly. The finished product often exhibits a slightly elongated calyx form, differentiating it from rounder indica buds. Overall, the appearance communicates sativa energy with hybrid density, aligning with expectations set by the photoperiod Moby Dick lineage.
Aroma and Bouquet
The bouquet opens with citrus peel and sweet cedar, quickly giving way to classic Haze incense. Limonene adds sparkling lemon and grapefruit overtones, while alpha‑ and beta‑pinene contribute fresh pine and a hint of eucalyptus. Many phenotypes layer in a saline, ocean‑breeze nuance that growers poetically tie to the strain’s name. Under the nose, the aroma is assertive but elegant, more perfumed than skunky.
As flowers mature, the terpene intensity increases markedly between weeks 6 and 9. Carbon filtration is recommended in small tents, with many growers using a 4–6 inch carbon filter rated 200–400 CFM for a 1 m² space. Negative pressure and a quality filter reduce detectable odor to near‑zero, which is important given this strain’s strong aromatic output. Odor peaking typically occurs in the final two weeks when resin glands are at maximum production.
Breaking a cured flower releases deeper layers: sandalwood, peppered spice, and faint floral notes suggestive of linalool in minor amounts. The cedar‑pine backbone remains constant, but sweeter facets appear with proper curing in glass at 60–62% relative humidity. In jars, the headspace after 24 hours of rest becomes richly terpinolene‑forward, reminiscent of citrus cleaning oils and incense cones. This complexity is a key reason enthusiasts identify Moby Dick derivatives by scent alone.
Different breeders’ versions preserve the core profile while varying in intensity. Silent Seeds’ take hews closely to the original Moby Dick’s incense and lemon‑cedar duet. Retail pages, including the Barney’s Farm listing, underscore that their Moby Dick Auto reproduction maintains the distinctive aroma while making home cultivation accessible. That alignment across catalogs suggests the aromatic theme is robust across selections when grown and cured well.
Environmental factors can accentuate certain notes. Cooler late‑flower temperatures (18–21°C nights) and gentle drying protocols help retain top notes and prevent terpene loss. Light intensity management prevents terpene burn‑off at the canopy apex, protecting delicate limonene and ocimene fractions. The result is a bouquet that remains bright and layered from harvest through the cure.
Flavor and Palate
On the palate, Moby Dick Auto delivers a citrus‑forward entry that quickly develops into woody incense and pine. The first draw often tastes like lemon peel and sweet cedar, followed by a drying pine note on the exhale. Subtle herbal tones of eucalyptus and faint floral sweetness add contour without turning overly sweet. The balance is clean, crisp, and unmistakably Haze‑leaning.
Vaporization highlights the upper register of the terpene spectrum. At 175–185°C, terpinolene and limonene shine, offering bright citrus with gentle sweetness. Increasing to 195–205°C unlocks beta‑caryophyllene’s peppery spice and more resinous pine. This temperature stepping reveals a tasting flight in a single session, rewarding users who enjoy nuanced profiles.
Combustion produces thicker mouthfeel and amplifies the cedar‑pine axis. Joint and pipe sessions often yield a longer‑lived aftertaste with resinous grip, especially from well‑cured flowers at 10–12% moisture content. Many users note that the smoke remains smooth when flush and dry are well managed, despite the terpene density. Poorly cured samples can taste astringent, so cure control is pivotal.
The finish is medium‑long, with a lingering lemon‑incense echo. In blind tastings among sativa‑leaning autos, palates often pick out Moby Dick Auto by that duo of citrus sparkle and polished wood. Sweetness stays restrained relative to dessert‑style cultivars, which is a selling point for classic haze fans. Overall, the flavor profile is refined rather than cloying.
Edibles and concentrates translate the same notes with variable emphasis. Rosin pressed at 90–95°C tends to preserve bright terpinolene and limonene, while higher‑temp presses accentuate resinous spice. Hydrocarbon extracts often capture the full incense spectrum but can tilt piney if purged aggressively. Across modalities, the flavor remains coherent with the aromatic promise.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Modern data for well‑grown Moby Dick Auto typically place THC in the 17–22% range by dry weight. Exceptional phenotypes under optimal conditions occasionally test higher, with select reports reaching 23–24%. CBD is usually low, commonly 0.1–0.6%, while CBG can appear in the 0.3–1.0% range. Total cannabinoids often sum to 18–25%, reflecting robust resin production for an autoflower.
In practical terms, a gram of 20% THC flower delivers roughly 200 mg of THC. For inhalation, bioavailability estimates vary widely (10–35%), but averaging 20% bioavailability suggests around 40 mg THC absorbed from a full gram. Most users consume far less per session; a typical 0.25 g joint of 20% THC flower contains about 50 mg THC total. That context helps calibrate dosing for new consumers seeking manageable effects.
Autos a decade ago averaged lower potency, but breeding progress closed that gap. Comparative datasets from dispensary menus and lab reports now show multiple auto lines routinely above 18% THC, including Moby Dick Auto. That places it in the mid‑to‑high tier of potency among autos and competitive with many photoperiod classics. The consistency of these results underscores the line’s stabilization by Silent Seeds and refined selections.
Minor cannabinoids contribute to the experience despite low absolute percentages. Trace amounts of THCV, CBC, and others may appear variably, typically under 0.2% each. While individually modest, these compounds interact with terpenes and THC to shape subjective effects. The entourage framework helps explain why two equally potent batches can feel subtly different.
Potency is sensitive to cultivation and post‑harvest factors. High light intensity with adequate CO2, balanced nutrition, and a 10–14 day slow dry at 60/60 conditions preserve cannabinoids and terpenes. Heat, oxygen, and light degrade THC to CBN over time, so storage in airtight, UV‑protected containers at 16–20°C stabilizes potency. Freshly cured Moby Dick Auto often feels “sharper” in onset, with maturation softening edges over several months.
Terpene Profile and Chemistry
Moby Dick Auto’s terpene profile is typically led by terpinolene, myrcene, limonene, and pinene, with beta‑caryophyllene providing a spicy anchor. Total terpene content commonly falls between 1.5% and 2.5% of dry weight in carefully grown and cured samples. Within that, terpinolene can represent 20–35% of the terpene fraction, limonene and myrcene often 10–25% each, and pinene is a consistent contributor. Minor constituents like ocimene, linalool, and humulene appear variably.
Terpinolene is associated with citrus‑pine aromatics and a clean, uplifting nose. Myrcene deepens the base with herbal and slightly musky tones, while limonene brightens the top end with citrus zest. Alpha‑ and beta‑pinene impart pine and can evoke eucalyptus, adding to the sense of clarity in the aroma. Beta‑caryophyllene, the only common terpene known to bind CB2 receptors, layers a peppered woodiness.
From a chemistry standpoint, monoterpenes like terpinolene and limonene are more volatile and prone to evaporation during dry and cure. That is why controlled drying at 18–21°C and 55–60% RH better preserves the top notes. Sesquiterpenes like caryophyllene are heavier and persist more readily, helping the profile retain structure even if some top notes dissipate. Gentle handling post‑trim further protects terpene content.
The terpene suite synergizes with cannabinoids to shape subjective effects. Limonene and pinene are frequently associated with bright, alert mood states, while myrcene can smooth the experience and augment body comfort. Caryophyllene’s CB2 activity is linked to anti‑inflammatory signaling in preclinical models, potentially moderating harsh edges. This interplay is why two batches at the same THC percentage can feel different if their terpene ratios diverge.
Storage and time alter the chemical balance. Oxidation can convert terpenes into related compounds, such as terpinolene shifting toward terpineol and other oxygenated derivatives, subtly changing the bouquet. Vacuum sealing and low‑oxygen storage slow this drift, extending peak aroma. Under best practices, Moby Dick Auto retains vibrant citrus‑incense character for many months.
Experiential Effects and Use Cases
Users consistently describe Moby Dick Auto as a bright, energizing experience with a clear cerebral lift. The onset via inhalation is rapid, often within 5–10 minutes, bringing focus, motivation, and sociability. A gentle body presence arrives later, smoothing edges without heavy sedation in moderate doses. The arc commonly lasts 2–3 hours before tapering to a clean comedown.
In community reports and strain database tags, a majority of users select energetic, uplifted, and creative descriptors for the Moby Dick family. While percentages differ by platform, tallies often show 60–80% of feedback aligning with those effects, with a smaller share citing relaxation. That distribution matches the sativa‑leaning genetic inputs and terpene dominance. The auto version mirrors this pattern closely when grown to maturity.
Dose shapes the experience substantially. At 5–10 mg THC inhaled equivalent, most users report clarity and enhanced mood with manageable intensity. At 15–25 mg, the head high becomes more immersive, sometimes racing for those sensitive to sativa‑forward strains. Above that, a subset experiences anxiety or jitteriness, especially in stimulating environments.
Functional use cases include daytime creative work, chores, outdoor activities, and social settings. Many describe improved task initiation and a sense of momentum, which can be helpful for breaking through lethargy. The strain’s late‑phase body ease also makes it suitable for winding down after active sessions. Evening use is enjoyable for experienced consumers, though newcomers may prefer earlier in the day.
Common side effects include dry mouth, dry eyes, and, at higher doses, transient anxiety in sensitive individuals. Hydration and paced dosing mitigate most issues, and pairing with calming environments helps. Because terpene content is robust, some users find the aroma alone invigorating; those prone to overstimulation may opt for smaller, spaced puffs. As always, individual biochemistry and setting play large roles in the final experience.
Potential Medical Applications
While formal clinical trials on this specific cultivar are limited, its cannabinoid and terpene profile suggests several potential use cases. The uplifting mood and motivation reported by many users can be helpful for situational low mood and fatigue. Limonene‑rich profiles have been explored for mood support, and pinene has been associated with alertness in preliminary research. These factors may be desirable for daytime symptom management when sedation is not wanted.
Beta‑caryophyllene’s CB2 receptor activity has been linked in preclinical models to anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects. Combined with THC’s well‑documented analgesic and antiemetic properties, Moby Dick Auto may provide relief for mild aches and tension in some users. The gentle body component at mid‑dose can soften discomfort without heavy couch‑lock in many cases. This balance is often cited by patients who need functionality alongside relief.
Headache and migraine sufferers sometimes report benefit with sativa‑leaning profiles that do not constrict too heavily. The pine‑citrus terpene mix may contribute to perceived clarity and reduce the sense of heaviness. However, overly stimulating doses can exacerbate sensitivity, so titration is essential. Vaporization at lower temperatures allows controlled, small doses to gauge response.
Appetite stimulation is a known THC effect and may be present, though typically less pronounced than in sedative indica‑dominant cultivars. For users dealing with mild appetite suppression, small inhaled doses before meals may help. Conversely, those seeking to avoid munchies can keep doses modest and pair use with light activities. Timing sessions away from late night also moderates appetite effects.
This section is informational and not medical advice. Individual response varies widely, and medical cannabis patients should consult their clinicians about strain selection, dosing, and potential interactions. Start low, go slow, and document responses over multiple sessions to establish a reliable personal profile. For sensitive individuals, blends with CBD or smaller, spaced inhales can smooth the ride while preserving functional benefits.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Lifecycle and timing: Moby Dick Auto commonly completes from sprout to harvest in 70–85 days. Many phenotypes show preflowers at days 21–30, with rapid bulk from days 35–65. Indoor yields typically land between 350–550 g/m² under efficient LEDs, while single plant yields of 60–180 g are common depending on pot size and technique. Outdoors, 80–220 g per plant is achievable in 12–20 L containers in warm seasons.
Germination and early growth: Soak or paper‑towel methods produce radicles within 24–48 hours for fresh seed, with reputable seed lots often showing 90%+ germination. Plant directly into the final container to avoid transplant shock, as autos have limited time to recover. Use a light, airy substrate (e.g., peat‑coco‑perlite blend) with initial EC 0.4–0.6 and pH 6.2–6.5 for soil/soilless, 5.8–6.1 for hydro. Maintain 24–26°C and 65–75% RH the first 10 days.
Containers and media: Final pot sizes of 11–15 L (3–4 gallons) balance root volume with cycle length; larger 18–20 L pots can increase yield but require more space and care. Fabric pots improve oxygenation and reduce overwatering risk. For organic growers, a pre‑amended light super soil with gentle top‑dressing at week 3 and 5 works well. In coco, aim for frequent fertigation to 10–20% runoff with balanced Ca/Mg.
Lighting strategy: Autos thrive under 18/6 or 20/4 throughout the cycle; both work, with 20/4 offering marginally faster growth for some growers. Target PPFD 400–600 µmol/m²/s in the first three weeks, then 700–900 µmol/m²/s through bulk flower. This equates to a daily light integral (DLI) around 35–45 mol/m²/day, appropriate for autos without CO2 supplementation. Keep canopy temperatures 24–28°C lights on, 20–22°C lights off.
Environment and VPD: Maintain RH 60–70% in weeks 1–3, 50–60% in weeks 4–6, and 45–55% late bloom to discourage botrytis. Translate those targets to VPD roughly 0.9–1.2 kPa early and 1.2–1.5 kPa mid‑late bloom. Strong but gentle airflow with oscillating fans prevents microclimates around dense colas. Fresh air exchange and a matched carbon filter keep odors contained and CO2 refreshed.
Nutrition: This hybrid appreciates moderate nitrogen early and increased potassium and phosphorus from week 4 onward. In coco/hydro, feed EC 1.1–1.3 weeks 2–3, EC 1.4–1.6 weeks 4–6, and EC 1.6–2.0 weeks 6–10 depending on plant response. Maintain pH 5.8–6.0 in soilless/hydro and 6.2–6.6 in soil. Supplement Ca/Mg at 0.2–0.4 EC if using RO water or high‑intensity LED lighting.
Training and canopy management: Start low‑stress training as early as nodes 3–4 (around days 10–14) to open the plant and spread colas. Avoid topping after day 18; autos can stall if high‑stress techniques are applied too late. A modest defoliation at days 21–28 and again at day 42 can improve airflow without slowing growth. In small tents, a soft SCROG net installed by day 20 helps maintain a flat, efficient canopy.
Irrigation practices: Water to light runoff and allow the medium to approach, but not reach, dryback between irrigations. In coco, multiple small feeds per day during heavy bloom keep EC stable and roots oxygenated. In soil, water thoroughly then wait for top 2–3 cm to dry before the next irrigation. Avoid overwatering in the first two weeks; small plants in large pots are especially susceptible.
CO2 and advanced controls: If using supplemental CO2, 900–1200 ppm under PPFD 900–1000 µmol/m²/s can boost biomass 10–20% in dialed‑in rooms. Ensure temperature, humidity, and nutrient supply scale appropriately, or CO2 benefits will not materialize. Far‑red end‑of‑day treatments can subtly affect morphology, but autos already flower on age, so photoperiod hacks are less influential. Focus on uniform light distribution and airflow for the best returns.
Pest and disease management: Implement integrated pest management with weekly inspections, yellow sticky cards, and preventive biologicals such as Bacillus subtilis for foliar protection. Keep RH under 55% late in bloom to avoid botrytis in the long colas. Sanitation, quarantines for new clones (if any), and tool hygiene minimize risk. This line is reasonably resilient, but dense top colas benefit from proactive airflow.
Odor control and discretion: The aroma is strong, so a correctly sized carbon filter and sealed ducting are essential. For a 1–1.2 m² tent, a 4–6 inch fan with 200–400 CFM of true airflow matched to the filter is a common, effective setup. Retail pages, including the Barney’s Farm Moby Dick Auto listing, emphasize that home cultivation is easier than ever, but odor management remains a must. Proper negative pressure ensures no leaks during late bloom.
Harvest, dry, and cure: Monitor trichomes, aiming for mostly cloudy with 5–10% amber for a balanced effect. Many growers begin plain water feed 7–10 days before harvest in hydro/coco to stabilize salts; organic soils often need no flush. Dry 10–14 days at 18–20°C and 58–62% RH with gentle airflow, then cure in jars, burping daily for the first week. Target a stable 0.55–0.65 water activity for long‑term storage and terpene preservation.
Outdoor and greenhouse tips: In temperate zones, schedule spring and late‑summer runs to avoid prolonged cold or extreme heat. Containers of 20–30 L and full sun exposure maximize outdoor potential; aim for at least 8+ hours of direct sun. Autos ignore day length but still respond to light intensity; clear greenhouse coverings and clean films improve PPFD. Protect from heavy rain late in bloom, and shake off morning dew to prevent mold.
Expected results and phenotypic range: Under balanced indoor conditions, expect 350–550 g/m² and harvest by day 75–85 from sprout. Height will cluster around 80–110 cm indoors with 11–15 L pots and LST, with sativa‑leaning phenos reaching higher. Terpene intensity increases significantly when dried slowly and cured patiently for 4–8 weeks. Across runs, the signature lemon‑cedar‑incense aroma and energetic effect remain consistent, honoring the Silent Seeds lineage.
