Written by Ad OpsOrigins and Naming History
Moonbutter is a mostly indica cultivar developed by the breeder TeamingWithTerps, a name that signals a clear emphasis on aroma intensity and terpene expression. The strain’s emergence fits the broader wave of craft-bred, dessert-leaning genetics that surged in popularity from the late 2010s onward. During this period, consumer demand in legal U.S. markets increasingly favored terpene-rich flower, with dispensary menu audits commonly showing that aroma-driven “dessert” and “gas” profiles occupy a leading share of top-selling SKUs. Within that context, Moonbutter represents a modern phenotype-first approach: start with an indica-dominant foundation for structure and effect, then isolate standout terpene chemotypes for a signature nose and flavor.
The name Moonbutter evokes a creamy, soft mouthfeel and a mellow, lunar-themed calm, which aligns well with what many consumers associate with indica-dominant experiences. This naming convention also positions the cultivar among a family of “butter,” “cream,” and “moon” strains that cue dessert-like profiles and evening-friendly effects. Branding and naming matter in this category; consumer behavior research indicates that strain names and descriptors significantly influence purchasing decisions. In direct-to-consumer surveys, more than half of respondents report using a strain’s name as a primary information cue when selecting new flower.
As a breeder project, Moonbutter also reflects the wider shift from high-THC-first selection to terpene-first selection. While potency still matters to many shoppers, a growing portion of enthusiasts prioritize flavor, smoothness, and nuanced effects—traits that correlate more closely with terpene content than with THC alone. Craft lots of terpene-rich flower frequently test at 1.5–3.0% total terpene content by weight, compared to sub-1.0% totals seen in some mass-produced batches. Moonbutter is positioned to appeal to that craft sensibility, aiming for expressive aromatics without sacrificing the dense, relaxing structure indica-dominant fans expect.
Because TeamingWithTerps bred Moonbutter and lists it as mostly indica, growers and consumers can plan around a compact, manageable canopy and a body-forward effect profile. Indica-leaning stock typically delivers shorter internodes, rapid early flowering set, and a finishing window that often lands between 56 and 65 days. These traits support both small home gardens and larger, tightly run indoor rooms where efficiency and predictable morphology are prized. Moonbutter’s timing and structure make it a realistic candidate for quality-per-square-foot optimization.
While Moonbutter is still consolidating its reputation, it sits neatly within the modern indica revival that blends heritage structure with contemporary flavor. The cultivar taps into a market where hybridized indicas remain dominant for evening use, wind-down routines, and flavored smoke sessions. The breeder’s emphasis on terpene expression makes it an attractive test case for connoisseurs who rotate new genetics to compare noses and cure outcomes. In short, Moonbutter’s story is about combining familiar indica comforts with the heightened sensory impact craft shoppers now seek.
Genetic Lineage and Breeding Notes
TeamingWithTerps lists Moonbutter as mostly indica, but the specific parental cross has not been publicly disclosed. This is not unusual; many craft breeders keep lineages proprietary during early releases to protect the integrity of their work. Without official parentage, it is most responsible to focus on trait-based expectations derived from its indica heritage and the breeder’s terpene-forward ethos. That means dense buds, a relatively restrained stretch, and a prominent aroma that persists from late flower through a careful cure.
Indica-dominant breeding pools commonly draw from Afghan, Kush, Hindu Kush, and related landrace lines, often layered with contemporary dessert/hybrid introductions. Modern commercial indicas increasingly integrate Cookies- and Gelato-descended flavor architecture to enhance fruit, cream, or bakery notes without sacrificing resin production. These influences typically manifest as enhanced trichome density and thick calyxes, with anthocyanin expression (purple hues) appearing under cooler night temperatures. Moonbutter, by name and category, plausibly falls within this modern indica-dominant flavor lineage trend.
From a breeder’s standpoint, stabilizing an indica-leaning phenotype that consistently delivers a creamy, rounded nose requires multi-generational selection. Successive filial generations are screened for terpene intensity, uniform internode spacing, and a compact lateral structure that takes well to training. It is common to select from 50–200 seedlings across several runs to isolate keeper phenotypes with low hermaphroditic expression and strong post-harvest aroma retention. Moonbutter’s positioning suggests a similar process emphasizing resin quality and flavor carry-through.
Growers should anticipate relatively quick floral initiation when flipping to 12/12, with visible pistil set typically within 7–10 days. Indica-dominant cultivars often display a 1.5–2.0x stretch, as opposed to sativa-leaning lines that can exceed 2.5x. That lower stretch offers canopy predictability, especially important in spaces with limited vertical clearance. In a phenotype hunt, select for specimens that stack evenly along the main arms without excessive leaf mass that can impede airflow.
Because official parents are undisclosed, document your own run parameters carefully to build a data-backed profile for your cut. Track day/night temps, VPD, PPFD, EC, and run-off pH alongside yield, terpene intensity, and bud density. Over three cycles, you can identify which environmental setpoints best unlock Moonbutter’s terpene potential and flower uniformity. This empirical approach is a reliable substitute for pedigree knowledge in small-batch cultivation.
Morphology and Visual Appearance
As a mostly indica cultivar, Moonbutter is expected to present a compact frame with thick lateral branches and broad, dark-green leaflets. Internodal spacing commonly sits between 2–4 cm in vegetative growth under adequate light intensity, tightening further as flowers set. The growth habit tends toward bushy, making early training and defoliation useful to open interior sites. A well-managed plant typically reaches 0.8–1.2 meters indoors before harvest, depending on veg duration and training technique.
Bud structure is dense and calyx-forward, supporting a weighty hand-feel after curing. Mature flowers often develop pronounced bract stacking and widespread trichome coverage that gives a frosty, sugar-coated appearance. Indica-dominant phenotypes are known for thick resin heads with good mechanical integrity, aiding in both whole-flower presentation and solventless extraction yields. Expect pistils to start cream or light peach, darkening to amber/tawny as ripeness approaches.
Under cooler nights of 16–19°C in late flower, some indica-leaning cultivars express anthocyanin pigmentation that leads to lavender or royal purple streaks. Whether Moonbutter shows this trait will depend on the specific phenotype and the environmental delta between day and night temperatures. Color expression is not a proxy for potency, but it can enhance bag appeal and visual differentiation. If you chase color, avoid abrupt drops that shock the plant and reduce essential oil production.
Leaves remain relatively broad through early bloom and can shade bud sites if unmanaged. Strategic removal of large fan leaves in weeks 3–5 of flower can increase light penetration and airflow without stalling growth. Keep defoliation measured, removing no more than 15–20% of large fans at a time to maintain photosynthetic capacity. Proper canopy flattening through low-stress training or a SCROG net helps maximize uniform bud development.
When properly dried and cured to 10–12% internal moisture, Moonbutter’s nugs should feel firm yet resilient to a gentle squeeze. Trichome heads remain intact with minimal handling when humidity is stabilized around 58–62% for storage. The surface sheen often looks slightly oily after a month-long cure, a sign that resin has settled and terpenes are maturing harmoniously. This appearance aligns with consumer-preferred indicators of quality in craft indica-dominant flower.
Aroma (Nose)
The name Moonbutter suggests a creamy, confectionary-leaning nose, which in cannabis typically arises from a specific balance of terpenes and minor volatiles rather than a single compound. Many creamy or soft dessert profiles express notable myrcene, linalool, and caryophyllene, with a supporting brightener like limonene. In some phenotypes, low-level esters and aldehydes can contribute a buttered, vanilla-adjacent roundness. Together, these molecules produce an aroma that reads as smooth and plush rather than sharp or piney.
Expect the early veg and pre-flower stem rub to hint at the eventual scent profile, often presenting an herbal-sweet base. As trichomes swell in weeks 5–7 of flower, the nose tends to intensify and differentiate, with the top note becoming clearer. Compared to citrus-forward profiles, the Moonbutter family of aromas is more subdued at first sniff but lingers longer in the air. This lingering tail is a hallmark of caryophyllene-rich bouquets blending with linalool’s floral softness.
Total terpene content in quality indoor flower commonly ranges between 1.5–3.0% by weight, and dessert-leaning indicas frequently test within that band. Within this range, cultivars perceived as “buttery” or “creamy” often maintain moderate limonene to keep the aroma lively without tipping into sharp citrus. Growers can enhance aroma by maintaining flower-room VPD in the 1.2–1.5 kPa range and avoiding excessive late-flower heat. High heat volatilizes monoterpenes and can flatten the nose even when visual quality remains high.
Post-harvest handling is critical to preserving Moonbutter’s aromatic character. Drying at 60°F/60% RH for 10–14 days has become a widely adopted standard because it reduces terpene loss and chlorophyll harshness. Rapid dry cycles—such as 3–5 days in low humidity—often yield weaker, grassy aromas even when initial terpene content was promising. Precision in the dry and cure stages can preserve an additional 10–30% of volatile aromatic content compared to rushed processes, according to craft grower benchmarks.
When the cure is done well, opening a jar of Moonbutter should release a layered nose that combines soft sweetness with herbal-spice tones and a rounded finish. Some cuts may lean nuttier or more pastry-like, while others keep a quiet floral underpinning. The unifying descriptor is smoothness—an absence of harsh, biting notes common in terpene imbalances or poorly cured batches. This olfactory profile pairs naturally with evening rituals where nuanced scent enhances the experience.
Flavor and Mouthfeel
On the palate, Moonbutter aims for a silky, rounded flavor that echoes its name. Inhalation often presents a gentle sweetness and herbal cream, with a low-acid profile that feels soft on the tongue. Exhale tends to reveal subtle spice from caryophyllene and a faint floral or vanilla-adjacent tail if linalool and certain aldehydes are present. The cumulative effect is a finish that lingers without dryness or bite.
Mouthfeel is influenced by terpene ratios, smoke temperature, and moisture content at the time of consumption. Flower cured to around 62% relative humidity in storage jars generally burns evenly and produces a fuller, smoother aerosol. Excessively dry herb (below 55% RH) burns hot and can mute the soft creaminess Moonbutter targets. Conversely, overly moist flower produces off-flavors and uneven combustion.
Vaporization highlights the cultivar’s subtle dessert notes more cleanly than combustion. At 175–185°C, monoterpenes like myrcene and limonene volatilize readily, delivering peak flavor clarity. Raising the temperature to 190–200°C increases perceived potency but begins to tilt the profile toward spicier, earthier sesquiterpenes like caryophyllene and humulene. Users seeking the softest, creamiest expression often prefer the lower vapor range for the first few draws.
When paired with food or drink, Moonbutter matches well with low-acidity options such as oat milk lattes, almond butter snacks, or mild cheeses. High-acid beverages can overshadow the nuanced sweetness and make the finish feel thinner. If you’re looking to spotlight the buttery component, neutral palate cleansers like sparkling water maintain the profile’s integrity. Small details like glassware cleanliness and fresh grinder teeth also affect perceived flavor fidelity.
Consistency in flavor across jars is a function of both genetic stability and post-harvest technique. To maximize repeatability, keep drying parameters stable, burp jars daily for the first 10–14 days, and track weight loss to reach a final moisture content near 10–12%. Many small-batch producers report that a patient, 4–6 week cure deepens confectionary notes by allowing chlorophyll and starches to continue breaking down. For Moonbutter, that extra time can be the difference between pleasant and profoundly memorable flavor.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency Expectations
As an indica-leaning modern cultivar, Moonbutter is expected to present THC-dominant chemotypes with trace CBD. In legal U.S. retail markets, median THC for indoor flower commonly falls in the 18–22% range, with premium lots testing 22–28% when grown and cured optimally. For a mostly indica like Moonbutter, a realistic expectation is 18–25% THC across typical grows, with occasional outliers on either side. CBD is likely below 1%, while minor cannabinoids like CBG often appear between 0.3–1.0%.
It is useful to remember that most lab results report THCA as the primary acidic precursor rather than decarboxylated THC. Under combustion or vaporization, THCA converts to THC with an efficiency factor of roughly 0.877 after accounting for molecular weight differences. That means a COA showing 25% THCA translates to approximately 21.9% potential THC before considering losses from heat or storage. Storage conditions influence potency over time; elevated temperatures and light exposure accelerate cannabinoid degradation.
Batch-to-batch variability is normal in small-batch cannabis, with standard deviation in THC often ranging 2–4 percentage points even within a single cultivar. Environmental differences—light intensity, DLI, VPD, and nutrition—play a significant role in final potency. CO2 supplementation in sealed rooms (800–1200 ppm) can increase biomass and cannabinoid yield by 20–30% relative to ambient conditions, provided light intensity and nutrition are sufficient. Conversely, late-flower heat stress can depress terpene content and, occasionally, cannabinoid concentration.
For consumers, potency is better understood as the interaction of cannabinoids with terpenes and individual tolerance. Two different lots each testing 22% THC can feel noticeably different depending on the terpene ratios and the consumer’s set and setting. Indica-leaning profiles frequently produce stronger body relaxation at similar THC levels compared to sharper, limonene-heavy sativa profiles. Moonbutter likely aligns with the body-forward, calming end of that spectrum.
While Moonbutter is THC-dominant, paying attention to minor cannabinoids is still valuable. CBG between 0.5–1.0% can modulate perceived smoothness and focus, while trace CBC and THCV may subtly shape mood and appetite responses. The exact distribution will depend on phenotype and cultivation conditions. Lab testing remains the most reliable way to dial in your specific cut’s cannabinoid fingerprint.
Terpene Spectrum and Chemistry
Without published lab results specific to Moonbutter, the most responsible approach is to outline the terpene spectrum commonly found in indica-dominant dessert profiles and relate it to the cultivar’s name and breeder intent. Expect myrcene, caryophyllene, and limonene to appear among the leading components, with possible supporting roles for linalool and humulene. Total terpene content in well-grown indoor craft flower typically ranges 1.5–3.0% by weight, and exceptional lots can exceed 3.5–4.0%. Within that total, individual terpenes often land in the low single-digit mg/g range.
As a working baseline, a Moonbutter-like profile might show myrcene around 3–8 mg/g, caryophyllene 2–6 mg/g, limonene 1–4 mg/g, linalool 0.5–3 mg/g, and humulene 0.5–2 mg/g. These figures fall within observed ranges for many indica-dominant dessert cultivars but should be treated as expectations rather than guarantees. Myrcene contributes herbal-sweet depth and a soft, velvety mouthfeel, while caryophyllene adds warmth and subtle spice. Limonene lifts the aroma’s top end, and linalool imparts a floral, calming undertone.
Terpenes volatilize at different temperatures, making vaporization temperature control a useful tool for flavor exploration. Myrcene and limonene deliver strongly between 175–185°C, while caryophyllene expresses more fully above 190°C. Maintaining flower-room temperatures in the mid-20s°C during late bloom helps retain monoterpenes that are more heat sensitive. Careful drying at 60°F/60% RH minimizes post-harvest loss of these volatiles.
The entourage effect—the interaction between cannabinoids and terpenes—matters in how Moonbutter feels. Caryophyllene is unique as a terpene that binds to CB2 receptors, potentially modulating body sensation and inflammation pathways. Linalool and myrcene are both associated with calming properties in aromatherapy literature, which maps well onto the indica-leaning experience consumers often report. The combined presence of these terpenes can produce a gentle, full-body relaxation without necessarily increasing THC percentage.
Cultivators can push terpene expression by managing VPD (1.2–1.5 kPa in mid-late flower), avoiding late-stage nutrient excesses that dull the nose, and implementing a slow, controlled dry. Light intensity also plays a role; sustained PPFD of 700–900 µmol/m²/s in mid flower, rising to 900–1,050 µmol/m²/s under CO2 enrichment, supports robust resin production. Overly intense light without CO2 can cause stress responses that diminish aromatic nuance. Consistency in these parameters is a practical pathway to coax maximum Moonbutter aroma.
Experiential Effects and Use Patterns
Moonbutter’s mostly indica heritage suggests a calm, body-forward experience with a mellow mental backdrop. Inhaled routes typically onset within 5–10 minutes, peaking around 30–60 minutes and tapering over 2–3 hours. Many users reserve indica-dominant cultivars for late afternoon or evening wind-down to avoid daytime sluggishness. The smooth, rounded flavor can make Moonbutter a pleasant companion to quiet activities, music, or stretching routines.
Compared to sharper, citrus-dominant sativa profiles, Moonbutter is likely to present lower perceived anxiety risk for sensitive users, though individual responses vary widely. The presence of linalool and myrcene, if prominent, may contribute to a perceived calming effect that pairs well with decompression. At moderate doses, users often report muscle relaxation and a reduction in physical restlessness. At higher doses, couchlock and increased appetite become more likely.
Dose titration is key, particularly for newer consumers or those returning after long breaks. For inhalation, 1–2 small puffs followed by a 10-minute waiting period allows a reasonable assessment of potency. Edible or sublingual use requires more patience, with onset ranging from 45–120 minutes and duration 4–8 hours. Start low and go slow remains best practice, especially with THC-dominant indicas.
Common side effects of THC-dominant flower include dry mouth, red eyes, and short-term memory lapses, which are generally dose-dependent. Hydration and light, salty snacks can help mitigate mild discomfort. Some individuals experience transient orthostatic lightheadedness; changing positions slowly can reduce this. If anxiety or racing thoughts arise unexpectedly, deep breathing and a calm environment typically help until the effects subside.
Because Moonbutter’s flavor is designed to be smooth, it can be easy to consume more than intended during a leisurely session. Setting a pre-session plan—including a target dose and activity—helps keep the experience aligned with your goals. For many, a small evening serving paired with a calming routine maximizes benefit with minimal next-day fog. As always, avoid operating vehicles or heavy machinery under the influence.
Potential Medical Applications and Safety
Although Moonbutter-specific clinical data are not available, its indica-leaning, THC-dominant profile aligns with common patient-reported benefits seen in broader cannabis research. Surveys of medical cannabis users consistently show that pain, insomnia, anxiety, and stress are top indications, often cited by more than 60% of participants. Indica-dominant chemotypes are frequently preferred for sleep initiation and muscle relaxation. The presence of caryophyllene and linalool, when prominent, may support perceived anti-inflammatory and calming effects.
For sleep, THC-dominant preparations have shown small-to-moderate improvements in sleep onset latency and sleep continuity in clinical and observational studies. Many patients anecdotally report falling asleep faster and waking fewer times after indica-dominant use in the evening. However, higher doses can contribute to next-day grogginess and tolerance if used nightly. Using the lowest effective dose and rotating cannabinoid ratios can mitigate tolerance development.
Chronic pain patients often report meaningful reductions in pain scores with cannabis, particularly for neuropathic or musculoskeletal pain. While effect sizes vary, patient registries and pragmatic trials suggest clinically relevant improvements for a sizable subset, with acceptable safety profiles when dosing is gradual. For Moonbutter-like profiles, the body relaxation and potential anti-nociceptive synergy between THC and caryophyllene are commonly cited benefits. Topical or transdermal adjuncts may complement inhaled dosing for localized issues.
Anxiety responses to THC are individualized; while many find indica-leaning strains calming, others can experience paradoxical anxiety at higher doses. Starting with small doses and limiting stimulants (like caffeine) around session time can reduce risk. If anxiety-prone, pairing THC with CBD in a 1:1 or 2:1 THC:CBD blend is a common strategy, though Moonbutter itself is likely low in CBD. Supportive set and setting remain essential clinical principles for adverse effect minimization.
Safety considerations mirror general THC guidance. Avoid use during pregnancy or when planning to drive or operate machinery. Drug-drug interactions are possible; THC and terpenes can influence CYP450 enzymes, and caryophyllene has CB2 activity. Patients should consult clinicians, especially when taking sedatives, anticoagulants, or medications with narrow therapeutic indices. Adverse events like dry mouth and dizziness are common but usually mild; responsible dosing and hydration are practical mitigations.
Comprehensive Cultivation Guide
Moonbutter’s mostly indica heritage makes it a cooperative cultivar for both home and professional environments. The growth habit is compact and responds well to training, with a moderate stretch after the flip. Plan for 8–9 weeks of flowering in most phenotypes, with some resin-forward cuts preferring 9–10 weeks to reach peak terpene maturity. Indoor growers aiming for maksimum flavor should prioritize environmental stability and a patient dry-and-cure protocol.
Environment and climate control are foundational. In vegetative growth, target 24–28°C by day, 18–22°C by night, and 60–70% RH for vigorous leaf and root development. In early flower (weeks 1–3), shift to 24–26°C and 55–60% RH, with a VPD around 1.0–1.2 kPa. From mid to late flower (weeks 4–8+), 22–25°C and 45–50% RH with VPD in the 1.2–1.5 kPa range help suppress pathogens and preserve terpenes.
Lighting should be scaled to plant health and CO2 availability. In veg, PPFD of 300–500 µmol/m²/s fosters tight internodes without excess stretch. In flower, aim for 700–900 µmol/m²/s, increasing to 900–1,050 µmol/m²/s if enriching with CO2 at 800–1,200 ppm. Daily light integral (DLI) targets of 35–45 mol/m²/day in bloom are effective for dense, resinous buds without overwhelming the canopy.
Substrate choice is flexible. High-quality coco coir with perlite offers responsive control and rapid growth, while living soil systems reward patience with rich flavor and forgiving buffers. In coco, maintain pH at 5.8–6.2; in soil, 6.2–6.8 is ideal for nutrient availability. Pot sizes of 3–5 gallons for indoor photoperiods balance root mass with manageable irrigation schedules.
Nutrition should follow a gentle ramp with disciplined runoff monitoring. In veg, EC of 1.2–1.6 (600–800 ppm on a 500-scale) supports robust growth, with nitrogen and calcium/magnesium as focal points. In early flower, lift EC to 1.6–1.8, tapering nitrogen as you increase phosphorus and potassium. Mid-late flower often performs best around EC 1.8–2.2, watching for tip burn and leaf darkening as cues to back off.
Moonbutter, like many indica-dominant cultivars, appreciates ample calcium and magnesium, especially under LED lighting. Supplemental Ca/Mg at 0.5–1.0 mL/L in coco-based systems can prevent interveinal chlorosis and weak stems. Silica at 0.5–1.0 mL/L strengthens cell walls and improves stress tolerance, particularly in high-intensity rooms. Always mix nutrients thoroughly and measure runoff EC and pH at least weekly to avoid hidden imbalances.
Training enhances yield and uniformity. Low-stress training (LST) during veg to spread the canopy and top once at the 4th–6th node to encourage lateral branching. A single-layer SCROG net set 20–30 cm above the pot rim can create a flat canopy that maximizes light capture. Indica structure takes well to lollipopping in late veg or week 2–3 of flower to concentrate energy on top sites.
Defoliation should be measured and purposeful. Remove large fan leaves that shade flowering sites, but avoid stripping more than 15–20% in a single session. A two-stage approach works well: a cleanup at day 21 and a lighter pass at day 42 of flower. Proper airflow after defoliation reduces microclimates that invite powdery mildew and botrytis.
Irrigation frequency depends on substrate and root mass. In coco, smaller, more frequent feedings (1–3 times daily at peak) maintain ideal root zone oxygenation. Aim for 10–20% runoff per day to flush accumulated salts. In soil, water thoroughly to runoff and allow the top 2–3 cm to dry before the next irrigation to promote root exploration and avoid gnats.
CO2 enrichment increases growth and can boost yield by 20–30% when matched with adequate PPFD and nutrition. Keep enrichment within 800–1,200 ppm during lights-on and revert to ambient during dark cycles. Ensure sealed rooms have strong dehumidification to handle the additional transpiration. Monitor leaf temperature with an IR thermometer to align VPD accurately with plant reality.
Pest and disease management should be preventive. Implement an IPM program that includes clean stock, quarantine of new clones, and routine scouting with sticky cards. Beneficial insects, such as predatory mites (Neoseiulus californicus, Phytoseiulus persimilis), can be introduced prophylactically. Environmental discipline—proper airflow, RH control, and sanitation—remains your most effective tool against outbreaks.
Flowering time is typically 8–9 weeks for indica-dominant cultivars like Moonbutter, with some phenotypes benefiting from an extra week for full terpene maturation. Evaluate ripeness using a combination of pistil color, calyx swelling, and trichome head development (cloudy with 5–15% amber for a relaxing profile). Avoid chasing excessive amber if preserving a fresher, less sedative effect is your goal. Harvest windows of 56–65 days are common sweet spots for flavor and resin quality.
Harvest and drying protocols significantly affect final quality. Many craft cultivators prefer whole-plant or large-branch hanging to slow the dry and protect trichomes. Dry at 60°F and 60% RH for 10–14 days, maintaining gentle airflow that does not blow directly on the flowers. A slow dry preserves more aromatics and produces smoother smoke than a rapid dry.
Curing should begin when small stems snap rather than bend. Trim carefully to minimize trichome damage, then jar at roughly 62% RH using reliable hygrometers to monitor. Burp jars daily for 10–14 days to exchange air and remove residual moisture, then reduce to every few days. A 4–6 week cure deepens flavor complexity and rounds off any remaining grassy notes.
Yield expectations depend on environment, skill, and phenotype. With modern LEDs, dialed climate control, and training, indoor growers often achieve 0.8–1.5 grams per watt, while typical hobby results land around 0.6–1.0 g/W. In area terms, 400–600 g/m² is a reasonable target for a well-filled SCROG under 600–800 W/m² of quality light. Outdoor plants in favorable climates can produce 400–800 grams per plant, though weather and pest pressure drive wide variability.
Phenotype selection is worth the effort if you have seed access. Starting with 10–20 seeds can reveal meaningful variation in terpene intensity, bud density, and finishing time. Track each plant’s data—stretch factor, trichome production by week, and post-cure aroma—and retain the most consistent performers. The best Moonbutter cuts will combine efficient structure with unmistakable, lingering aroma.
Cloning and propagation are straightforward with healthy stock. Take 8–12 cm cuttings with two nodes, remove lower leaves, and place in a mild rooting gel before setting in cubes or plugs. Maintain 24–26°C, 80–95% RH, and gentle light (100–200 µmol/m²/s) for 7–14 days until roots emerge. Harden off by gradually lowering humidity over 3–5 days before transplant.
Common mistakes to avoid include overfeeding late in flower, which can mute terpenes and slow the dry, and excessive defoliation that stalls carbohydrate production. Another frequent issue is underestimating dehumidification needs; transpiration increases as plants bulk up, raising RH and disease risk. Finally, rushing the dry-and-cure stage erases gains made over months of careful cultivation. Patience in the last 3–6 weeks determines whether Moonbutter reaches its full aromatic and textural potential.
For long-term storage, keep finished jars in the dark at 15–20°C with 58–62% RH. Avoid frequent temperature swings, which drive moisture migration and terpene loss. Properly stored flower retains quality for several months, though the most delicate top notes gradually fade. If you plan to hold inventory, vacuum-sealed, cold-stored options can extend the aromatic lifespan while protecting trichomes.
