Written by Ad OpsOverview
OG Kush x NH 21 is a boutique hybrid bred by Scott Family Farms that marries the dense, fuel-soaked punch of the OG lineage with the soaring, incense-laced clarity associated with Haze selections. With an indica/sativa heritage, this cross aims to deliver the best of both worlds: structured, resin-heavy flowers anchored by OG Kush alongside the electric uplift, complex aromatics, and elongated spears you’d expect from a Haze-leaning parent. The result is a cultivar that appeals to connoisseurs seeking nuanced terpenes and to growers who want vigorous growth and head-turning bag appeal.
Across reports for similar OG x Haze pairings, potency generally lands in the high range, with THC frequently measured in the upper teens to mid-twenties. Expect OG Kush x NH 21 to sit comfortably in that competitive zone, with low CBD and meaningful minor cannabinoids like CBG in trace-to-moderate amounts. The terpene composition skews bright and layered, typically combining limonene, myrcene, caryophyllene, and terpinolene with accent notes of pinene and ocimene.
On the plant side, OG Kush x NH 21 tends to stretch more than a classic OG while stacking more densely than a pure Haze, often doubling in height once flower is induced if untrained. Indoors, disciplined canopy management is rewarded with efficient light capture and consistent colas; outdoors, long-season sun and good trellising can push above-average yields. For consumers, the experience generally starts with a quick, euphoric lift and clear mental focus before deepening into a calm, full-body state as the session continues.
History and Breeding
OG Kush x NH 21 emerges from Scott Family Farms’ program of pairing time-tested classics with elite haze-leaning selections to unlock breadth in flavor and effect. OG Kush needs little introduction as a cornerstone of modern cannabis, renowned for dense, frost-heavy buds and a signature gassy-lemon aroma that reshaped West Coast cultivation in the late 1990s. NH 21 is commonly referenced by growers and breeders as a Haze-forward selection associated with Neville’s Haze/NL5 x Haze breeding work, celebrated for its elongated flowering, high-energy headspace, and incense-like complexity.
By crossing OG Kush with NH 21, Scott Family Farms pursued a hybrid that tempers Haze’s length and stretch while preserving its heady clarity and high-terpene ceiling. Breeding-industry logic suggests that introducing OG Kush’s compact bract structure and rapid resin onset can shorten flower time by 1–3 weeks relative to long Hazes, while also densifying calyx stacking. Simultaneously, bringing in NH 21’s monoterpene richness can diversify OG’s citrus-fuel core with floral, pine, and spice.
The target outcome is a broad-spectrum experience supported by elevated total terpene content and a balanced indica/sativa morphology. For cultivators, the cross aims to produce a plant that thrives in modern controlled environments, tolerates training, and finishes with a commercially friendly window. For consumers, the lineage speaks to a nuanced top note you can smell across the room, followed by a layered ride that evolves from uplift to grounded calm.
Genetic Lineage
OG Kush contributes a genetic fingerprint associated with limonene, myrcene, and beta-caryophyllene dominance, a short-to-medium internode spacing, and flower times typically in the 8–9 week indoor range. Its phenotypic expressions often include high calyx-to-leaf ratio, pronounced trichome density, and a hydrocarbon-derived gas note that made OG progeny ubiquitous across dispensary menus. Many lab summaries for OG Kush cuts report THC clustering around 18–25% with total terpenes commonly between 1.5–2.5% by weight in well-grown samples.
NH 21, a haze-leaning selection known among breeders, is typically associated with terpinolene-forward bouquets, soaring headspace, longer internodes, and longer flowering (often 11–14 weeks in pure Haze lines). Haze influence tends to introduce complex secondary terpenes—ocimene, pinene, and linalool—adding incense, citrus zest, and herbaceous lift. Although historically lower yielding if left untamed, Haze lines can exceed expectations under high-light, high-CO2 conditions with proper trellising.
In OG Kush x NH 21, these elements merge into a hybrid with a more manageable bloom time and more robust structure than a pure Haze, while retaining the elevated, sativa-leaning cerebral profile. Growers can anticipate 9–11 weeks of indoor flowering in most phenotypes, with 1.6–2.2x stretch post-flip depending on training and environment. The indica/sativa heritage declared for this strain aligns with field observations: stature and frost like an OG, vertical ambition and aroma complexity like a Haze.
Appearance and Structure
Mature flowers typically present as spear-shaped colas featuring dense calyx clusters reminiscent of OG Kush, but with a more elongated silhouette traceable to the NH 21 side. Bracts swell visibly from mid to late flower, and the calyx-to-leaf ratio trends favorable, making trim work efficient and aesthetically pleasing. Trichomes are abundant and visibly bulbous under magnification, imparting a glassy frost that holds strong through cure when handled gently.
Coloration often starts lime-to-emerald green in early bloom, deepening into forest greens with anthocyanin blushes possible in cooler late-flower nights. Orange-to-amber stigmas are common, sometimes leaning tawny as ripeness approaches week 9–11. Under strong LED or full-sun conditions, resin heads can appear thick and milky by day 60–70, with noticeable ambering proceeding fastest on the uppermost flowers.
Internode spacing tends to average in the 5–8 cm range once settled in flower, with apical dominance tempered by topping or SCROG. Expect sturdy lateral branching that benefits from a dual- or tri-tier trellis to prevent leaning during late swell. In dry weight, well-grown indoor flowers often grade as medium-to-heavy density, while outdoor examples can remain robust without foxtailing when late-flower VPD is managed.
Aroma
The nose on OG Kush x NH 21 is bright, layered, and assertive, typically projecting within seconds of opening a jar. The first impression combines lemon-zest and lime soda from limonene with grounded earth and fuel from myrcene and OG-influenced thiols. As the bouquet opens, incense and cedarwood tones—hallmarks of Haze lineage—emerge alongside pine-cleaner freshness associated with terpinolene and alpha-pinene.
Secondary notes often include cracked black pepper and warm spice from beta-caryophyllene, offering a savory axis beneath the citrus pop. Some phenotypes show floral sweetness—jasmine or lilac hints—likely reflecting ocimene and linalool contributions. Post-grind, the terpene release intensifies, and the gas-incense interplay becomes more obvious, often scoring highly in blind-smell lineups due to contrast and persistence.
Aroma intensity correlates strongly with careful dry and cure protocols, as monoterpenes can volatilize rapidly with overdrying. In rooms running low temperatures during late flower (20–24°C lights-on, 18–20°C lights-off) and maintaining 45–50% RH, the bouquet trends more citrus-forward and sharper. Conversely, warmer cures tend to flatten citrus high notes and accent the woody-incense base.
Flavor
On inhale, expect a crisp citrus entry where lemon-lime and light grapefruit are most prominent, anchored by a subtle diesel undercurrent. As the vapor or smoke expands, a piney, resinous layer fills in, invoking the NH 21 haze character with a lightly floral aftertaste. Exhale typically delivers black pepper, sandalwood, and a faint sweet-herbal finish that lingers on the palate.
Through a clean vaporizer at 175–185°C, the flavor skews brighter and more floral, showcasing terpinolene and ocimene. At higher temps (195–205°C), the peppery caryophyllene and earthy myrcene step forward, giving a warmer, spicier profile. Combustion in a joint accentuates the OG Kush gas component while retaining a gentle incense wisp that’s characteristic of haze influence.
Flavor persistence is above average, with many users noting that the last third of a joint still carries citrus-pepper snap rather than devolving into generic char. In concentrates, especially solventless, the lemon-pine-gas trio becomes focused and loud; well-executed rosin pulls can taste like candied citrus rind with a peppered finish. Pairing with terp-friendly glass or quartz and avoiding overheated dabs preserves the layered sweetness and prevents the wood-spice from dominating.
Cannabinoid Profile and Potency
Although batches vary, OG Kush x NH 21 generally trends toward high THC with low CBD, mirroring its parents. OG Kush commonly tests around 18–25% THC in dispensary markets, while haze-leaning selections often range from 16–22% THC; crosses built from these pools frequently land in the 18–26% THC window when grown under optimized conditions. Total cannabinoids in premium indoor samples can approach or exceed 20–28% by dry weight, with minor cannabinoids contributing meaningful nuance.
CBD is typically present at trace levels (<1%), so the chemotype is best described as THC-dominant. CBG often appears in the 0.2–1.0% range in related hybrids, a modest but potentially relevant amount for entourage effects. THCV may show as a trace component in haze-influenced phenotypes, though commonly below 0.5% in flower.
Potency perception depends on terpene synergy and consumption method as much as on raw THC percentage. Inhalation onset arrives within 2–5 minutes and peaks around 30–45 minutes, whereas oral ingestion manifests in 30–120 minutes with a 4–8 hour duration. Sensitive users often find that doses above their normal threshold feel considerably stronger with citrus- and haze-forward terpene matrices, a reminder to titrate carefully even when THC percentages appear familiar.
Terpene Profile
Total terpene content in well-grown OG Kush x NH 21 is expected to measure in the 1.5–3.5% range by dry weight, with exceptional phenotypes surpassing 4% under craft conditions. The leading compounds typically include limonene (citrus), myrcene (earthy/musky), beta-caryophyllene (pepper/spice), and terpinolene (pine/citrus/floral). Supporting actors frequently include alpha-pinene (pine), ocimene (sweet/herbal), and linalool (floral/lavender) in lower but sensory-relevant concentrations.
Limonene often sits in the 0.3–0.8% band in terpene-rich OG hybrids, adding bright top notes and perceived mood lift. Myrcene commonly ranges 0.2–0.6%, offering body depth and a slight sedative underpinning, especially toward the end of the experience. Beta-caryophyllene may register 0.2–0.5%, engaging CB2 receptors and contributing to the peppery finish many palates can identify.
Terpinolene, a hallmark of many haze lines, can vary widely by phenotype; some expressions show it as a primary terp (0.2–0.6%), while others feature it as a notable accent. Alpha-pinene and ocimene typically land in the 0.05–0.25% zone each, but their combined impact on perceived freshness is outsized. Through careful harvest timing and a slow cure, monoterpene retention stays higher, preserving the sparkling citrus-pine overlay that distinguishes this cross.
Experiential Effects
OG Kush x NH 21 usually opens with a fast, clean mental lift, sharpening focus and brightening mood within minutes of inhalation. The headspace is active and conversational, making it well-suited to daytime creativity or social settings in low-to-moderate doses. As the session evolves, a calm body glow arrives, balancing the cerebral buzz with OG-style relaxation that eases physical tension without immediate couchlock.
At higher doses or later into the experience, sedation can emerge more decisively, especially in phenotypes with higher myrcene or when harvested at greater trichome amber. The blend of limonene and terpinolene yields a clear, sparkling onset, while beta-caryophyllene and myrcene ease the landing, reducing jitteriness that some pure hazes can induce. Many users report a 2–4 hour inhaled experience curve, with the most productive window concentrated in the first 90 minutes.
Expect appetite stimulation in the back half of the effect profile, a trait frequently inherited from OG genetics. Music, visual media, and brainstorming often feel more immersive, while repetitive or detail-heavy tasks can either benefit from the focus or feel distractible depending on dose. Novice users should start low, as the lively terpene profile can make the experience feel stronger than the THC figure alone might suggest.
Potential Medical Uses
This THC-dominant chemotype may interest patients seeking relief from stress, low mood, and certain types of pain. Limonene-dominant profiles are often associated with perceived mood elevation, while beta-caryophyllene’s CB2 activity has drawn attention in preclinical research for potential anti-inflammatory effects. Myrcene’s body softening qualities may help with muscle tension, and many OG-influenced cultivars show appetite-encouraging properties that could be useful in select cases.
Evidence reviews, such as the 2017 National Academies report, found substantial evidence that cannabis is effective for chronic pain in adults, though individual response varies and dose titration is critical. Inhalation can offer relatively rapid onset for breakthrough symptoms, while oral formulations extend duration but can be harder to titrate for new users. Because CBD is typically low in OG Kush x NH 21, patients sensitive to THC-related anxiety may prefer microdoses or balanced cannabinoid formulations for daytime use.
For sleep, the strain may support sleep onset in higher evening doses, particularly in phenotypes or harvests showing more myrcene and amber trichomes. Conversely, the bright, terpinolene-rich front end can be stimulating at low doses, making timing and dose size an important consideration. Patients should consult healthcare professionals, especially if using other medications, as THC can interact with certain drugs and conditions.
Cultivation Guide: Environment and Growth Strategy
OG Kush x NH 21 prefers a stable, moderately warm environment with strong light intensity and good air exchange. Aim for 24–28°C lights-on and 18–22°C lights-off, targeting VPD around 0.8–1.1 kPa in early veg, 1.0–1.2 kPa in late veg, 1.2–1.4 kPa in early flower, and 1.3–1.5 kPa in late flower. Relative humidity at 60–65% in veg and 45–50% in mid-late flower helps deter powdery mildew and botrytis while supporting resin development.
Under modern full-spectrum LEDs, vegetative PPFD around 400–600 µmol/m²/s and 18–22 hours of light per day build stout frames without over-stretch. In flower, stepping PPFD to 700–900 µmol/m²/s (and up to 1000–1100 with supplemental CO2 at 1000–1200 ppm) improves biomass and terpene density, provided canopy temps and leaf surface temps are in range. Maintain robust, laminar airflow with 0.3–0.6 m/s at canopy level and strategic oscillation beneath the canopy to avoid microclimates.
In soil, a living or amended medium with ample aeration (30–40% perlite or pumice) supports steady growth; coco or hydro can drive faster veg if EC and pH are well-managed. The strain’s stretch is moderate-to-strong, commonly 1.6–2.2x post-flip, so plan vertical space accordingly. Flowering typically completes in 63–77 days indoors, whereas outdoor finish often lands mid- to late-October in temperate zones, with earlier harvests possible in warm, arid climates.
Cultivation Guide: Nutrition, Training, and IPM
In vegetative growth, target a balanced feed around N-P-K of roughly 2-1-2 with EC 1.2–1.6 in hydro/coco and pH 5.8–6.0 (soil pH 6.2–6.8). As flower initiates (weeks 1–3), ease nitrogen down and lift potassium, moving toward 1-1.5-2 EC 1.5–1.8, then transition to 1-2-3 EC 1.7–2.0 by mid-flower. Many phenotypes respond well to modest PK support in weeks 4–7; avoid overapplication to prevent tip burn and loss of terpene intensity.
Top once or twice in veg and use low-stress training to create 6–12 strong mains, then commit to a SCROG or two-tier trellis to distribute light evenly. Defoliate lightly before flip and again around day 21 to improve airflow and lower-site performance, but avoid over-stripping haze-leaning phenos that depend on leaf area for photosynthesis. Expect to manage apical stretch; a 10–15% night/day temperature differential and early canopy shaping help maintain a flat, productive top.
Implement an integrated pest management (IPM) plan early. Beneficial mites (e.g., Amblyseius swirskii or cucumeris) and predatory rove beetles can establish a protective baseline, while weekly scouting with sticky cards catches early outbreaks. In veg, sulfur burners or potassium bicarbonate sprays can help suppress powdery mildew pressure; discontinue sulfur at least two weeks before flower to avoid residue and terpene interference. Keep late-flower RH at or below 50% and ensure continuous airflow to mitigate botrytis risk on dense OG-leaning colas.
Cultivation Guide: Flowering, Harvest, Drying, and Curing
OG Kush x NH 21 generally shows pistil set quickly after flip, with visible trichome initiation by day 21–28. Bulk accrues substantially from weeks 5–9, and haze-leaning phenos may continue to add top weight into week 10–11. Watch trichomes: many growers harvest when most heads are cloudy with 5–15% amber for a balanced effect, pulling earlier (mostly cloudy, <5% amber) for a more energetic profile.
Indoor yields of 400–550 g/m² are attainable with competent SCROG in soil or coco, and 550–650 g/m² with optimized lighting, CO2, and a dialed environment. Outdoors, in full-season sun with proper trellising and nutrition, individual plants can produce 0.75–2.0 kg, depending on phenotype and climate. To maximize quality, avoid late-flower overfeeding; a 7–14 day taper or clean water finish in soilless systems often improves burn and ash while keeping terpene fidelity high.
For post-harvest, use a slow dry at approximately 18–20°C and 58–62% RH for 10–14 days, targeting water activity around 0.58–0.62 aw to retain volatiles while preventing microbial growth. After stem-snap, cure in airtight containers burped as needed to stabilize at 58–62% RH, with a 3–6 week cure meaningfully improving smoothness and nose. Avoid high heat during dry/cure, as monoterpenes like limonene and terpinolene volatilize readily; gentle handling preserves gland heads for maximum flavor and potency.
