Top 15 Best Strains to Grow Outdoors: 2022 Comparison

Growing cannabis outdoors is the easiest way to get big, healthy buds. In fact, even beginning growers can sometimes double their yield simply by moving plants outdoors. Of course, outdoors comes with more challenges. For example, an outdoor grow faces risks from pests, weather, and nosy neighbors. If you want to grow outside, you also have to be careful.

The first step to a successful outdoor grow is choosing the best outdoor weed strains. Selecting a good, hardy strain that’s suitable for your climate will go a long way towards ensuring good results.

The table below shows a quick comparison of our research on the best strains to grow outdoors:

Note: Our list is researched using seed banks from around the world to find you the best strains to grow outdoors. 

Additionally, these strains are selected for optimal growth in most conditions. These are hardy strains known for good growth in a variety of climates. However, if you have a specific microclimate, you may get better results by looking up specific grow needs. Otherwise, these plants are strong, high producing, and popular with outdoor growers. Our research should be a starting point for your own to find something that will excel in your climate.

Finally, any cannabis grow will vary based on factors like micro/macronutrients, climate, direct sun, pests, and care.

1. White Widow

White Widow is an old-school classic. This heavy-hitting strain is also incredibly easy to grow outdoors. That likely relates to the fact that it was bred for cool Dutch summers. However, it does make a hardy plant that excels in temperate climates. Additionally, this Sativa-dominant strain will excel in most of the U.S.

You’ll also likely see the highest yield in sun-heavy states like the West Coast. But, even northern states can see a good yield. Plus, with high trichome count, high resin, and a beautiful high, White Widow has been a grower’s favorite since she was introduced in the 90s.

• THC Levels: 20-24%
• Indica/Sativa: 60% Sativa/40% Indica
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 450-500g/900g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks) – 8-9 weeks/End of October without light restriction
• Plant Size:  150-190cm / 59-60 inches
• Optimal Climate: Temperate and sunny
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: Brazilian Sativa landrace/South Indian indica
• Effects: Uplifting, Relaxation, Energy, Happy
• Flavors/Aroma: Fruit, Pine, Pungent, Sweet

Blueberry

Blueberry is beloved for its smooth taste. It’s also one of the best weed strains for growing outdoors in northern climates. In fact, this Thai cross likes nothing better than a cool, dry autumn. However, Blueberry is sensitive to moisture. Therefore, if you live in a humid climate, you’ll likely want to skip. You’ll also want to ensure she gets some cover during flowering to prevent bud rot in case of rain.

Otherwise, this plant is a dream for many growers. For example, Blueberry delivers intense, berry flavors. You also get beautiful, big purple buds. In addition, her intense, lilac trichomes are rich with sugary resin. And, with plenty of room to grow her across the U.S., she’s a good fit for many growers.

Blueberry is a relatively short plant with compact growth. That means, if you’re relying on natural light, use topping or another pruning technique to ensure every bud gets enough sun.

• THC Levels: 16% (Low)
• Indica/Sativa: 80% Indica/ 20% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 450-550g per square meter/ 400 grams per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 9 weeks or mid-October without light restriction
• Plant Size: 100-150cm / 39-59 inches
• Optimal Climate: Moderate and dry
• Grow Difficulty: Medium
• Genetics: Purple Thai & Thai
• Effects: Euphoria, happiness, relaxation, sleepiness
• Flavors/Aroma: Berry, earthy, fruity, pine, sweet

3. Moby Dick

Moby Dick is a new strain that’s already popular for its heavy hitting highs. When grown outdoors, the plant is also massive. In fact, this cannabis plant normally reaches heights in excess of 3 meters. Don’t grow it if you might have issues with the neighbors.

However, in reward for taking care of a truly giant outdoor plant, you’ll get a significant harvest. For example, growers report seeing 1500 grams from a single plant. That’s impressive, even without considering this plant puts out massive buds. Plus, with up to 27% THC, this whale of a cannabis strain has earned the name.

Outdoors, you’ll get relatively easy growth. However, the more light, the better the grow. Plus, Moby Dick likes it warm. That’s at odds with flowering phase, which doesn’t begin until late October/early November. Therefore, if you live in a colder climate, use light restriction to get an earlier harvest.

• THC Levels: 27% (High)
• Indica/Sativa: 25% Indica/ 75% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 1500g per plant/650g per sqm
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 9 weeks or Late-October without light restriction
• Plant Size: 300-350cm / 118-140 inches
• Optimal Climate: Warm Mediterranean/ Sunny
• Grow Difficulty: Moderate
• Genetics: White Widow X Haze
• Effects: Euphoria, powerful, destressing, happy, giggles
• Flavors/Aroma: Citrus, Earthy, Sweet, Lemon

 4. Hulkberry

Hulkberry is another beast of an outdoor grower. This big, bold Sativa-dominant plant excels in most climates. It also doesn’t need that much light restriction. That makes it perfect for even colder climates. Plus, unlike some other plants, Hulkberry doesn’t mind cooler temperatures.

The plant itself grows up to 200cm outdoors. You’ll also get big, orange-covered bud with sticky trichomes. And, with THC of up to 27%, this new breed is sure to be a favorite if it isn’t already. Hulkberry also grows dense, so consider using topping to ensure every bud has space to grow big.

• THC Levels: 27% (high)
• Indica/Sativa: 35% Indica/65% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 400-450g or 650-700g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 9-11, late September without light restriction
• Plant Size: CM + Inches: 160-200cm / 62-79 inches
• Optimal Climate: Moderate and sunny
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: OG Kush X Strawberry Diesel
• Effects: Creative, strong, Energetic,
• Flavors/Aroma: Lemon, Fruity, Sweet, Fuel, Berry

5. Super Skunk

Super Skunk blends two of the world’s most popular strains. So, it’s no wonder that this plant is big, bold, and an ideal choice for growing outdoors. And, while Super Skunk delivers on THC, it’s also one of the higher CBD strains on this list. In fact, Super Skunk delivers up to 2.4% CBD. That makes it incredibly popular with medical users.

Additionally, Super Skunk is incredibly easy-going outdoors. For example, the plant isn’t too big. It’s also relatively forgiving to temperature shifts. However, you should note that it smells, a lot, of skunk during flowering. Otherwise, try to plant Super Skunk in as much sun as possible. For example, Oregon and California growers can see close to double standard yields.

• THC Levels: 19% (Medium)
• Indica/Sativa: 20% Indica/80% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Up to 2.4% (High)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 400-600g or up to 400g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 7-8 weeks or late September/early October without light restriction
• Plant Size: CM + Inches: 140-180cm/ 55-70 inches
• Optimal Climate: Sunny and warm
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: Skunk #1 x Afghani
• Effects: Body Buzz, Relaxation, Calming, Happy
• Flavors/Aroma: Sweet, Pungent, Spicy

6. Critical Sour

Critical Sour is a multi-way cross, bred for big buds, high THC, and ease of growth. That makes her the best of all worlds for many growers. In fact, Critical Sour thrives outdoors in most climates. Which makes sense, as it is considered one of the best possible strains to grow outdoors.

Plus, this award-winning hybrid delivers excellent flavor. Light sour notes are accompanied by fruit, earth, and spice, for a flavor combination you won’t find elsewhere.

Critical Sour is incredibly hardy. You’ll get good yields in most environments. Her thick stems are also well-equipped to handle even moderate wind. And, with wide internodal spacing, you’ll have minimal pruning to let in light. Overall, you’ll get an easy plant with good yields and a strong high.

• THC Levels: 22% (Medium)
• Indica/Sativa: 50% Indica/50% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 300-400g or 180-250g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 8-9 weeks or September to early October without light restriction
• Plant Size: CM + Inches: 100-250cm / 39-99 inches
• Optimal Climate: Moderate but hardy everywhere
• Grow Difficulty” Easy
• Genetics: Maroc X Grapefruit X Auto Critical X Auto NL x Auto Critical
• Effects: Body high, stress relief, heavy high
• Flavors/Aroma: Fruit, earth, Spice, sour

7. Strawberry Kush

Strawberry Kush is a top outdoor grower for those with some experience. However, with a range of phenotypes, this strain isn’t quite as predictable as you might like. That aside, you normally get high yield and good bud. Strawberry Kush is also renowned for a rich, heady flavor.

At the same time, this plant might need some extra care. For example, some phenotypes greatly benefit from pruning methods. Others require very little care. You’ll want to use trimming or lollipopping for optimal yield.

Otherwise, Strawberry Kush is easy. She’ll bloom in almost any climate. And, she’s not too picky about temperature or moisture.

• THC Levels: 18-23% (Medium)
• Indica/Sativa: 75% Indica/ 25% sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 500-700g per square meter or 450g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 9-10 weeks or mid-October without light restriction
• Plant Size: CM + Inches: 90-180cm / 35-70 inches
• Optimal Climate: Moderate and sunny
• Grow Difficulty: Medium
• Genetics: Kush x Strawberry
• Effects: Relaxing, Uplifting, Stress relief, body high
• Flavors/Aroma: Strawberry, Fresh, Floral

8. Amnesia Haze

If you’re looking for an outdoor growing classic, the Amnesia Haze is it. This beauty delivers big in bud and THC but is relatively small and compact. That makes her easy to grow away from neighbors. However, Amnesia Haze does tend to smell during flowering.

While growers do appreciate her small size, Amnesia Haze is dense. That means you’ll want to invest in pruning or stress training to ensure the buds get enough light. Plus, this strain is especially prone to pests outdoors. Take preventive measures where possible.

In some cases, you might want to use a trellis. That’s especially true if you live in a very sunny climate, where buds are likely to get bigger. A trellis also helps in case you have more wind, because the stems are less likely to snap.

Otherwise, Amnesia is as easy as it comes. You’ll have a relatively stress-free grow and then a massive harvest.  Plus, Amnesia’s massive green buds are rich in THC and CBD for incredible highs.

• THC Levels: 16.7-21% (Medium)
• Indica/Sativa: 30% Indica/70% Sativa
• CBD Levels: 1-5% (Low to High)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 600-650g or up to 700g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 10-11, or late October without light restriction
• Plant Size: 100-120cm/ 39-47 inches
• Optimal Climate: Moderate and warm
• Grow Difficulty: Medium
• Genetics: Haze, Thai landrace, Hawaiian landrace, Afghani landrace
• Effects: Creative, Uplifting, invigorating, euphoria
• Flavors/Aroma: Lemon, Earth

9. OG Kush

OG Kush is one of the oldest high THC strains on the market. It’s also perfect for outdoor cultivation. However, you do have to keep it dry. OG Kush is especially prone to mildew and powdery mildew. That means it’s not a great choice if you live in a very humid climate.

While OG Kush’s heritage is mostly unknown, this plant is a tried-and-true favorite. There isn’t a grower that doesn’t loave this hybrid. However, you don’t always get predictable growth or predictable THC. OG Kush has a range of up to 5% differences in normal THC content with the same growing conditions.

Otherwise, OG Kush is easy. Cover her up when it rains. Plant her in buckets if you want a more manageable plant size. And, use some pruning techniques to keep the big leaves down. From there, all you have to do is wait. OG Kush will reward you with massive buds in early October.

• THC Levels: 17-24% (High)
• Indica/Sativa: 75% Indica/25% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 450-500 or up to 450 per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 8 or early October without light restriction
• Plant Size: 180-230cm / 70-86 inches
• Optimal Climate: Sunny and temperate
• Grow Difficulty: Medium
• Genetics: Chemdawg, Hindu Kush, ?
• Effects: Euphoria, Happy, Relaxation, Uplifting
• Flavors/Aroma: Earthy, Lemon, Pine, Woody, Spicy

10. Super Silver Haze

Super Silver Haze first hit the market in 1997. Since then, it’s become one of the most popular strains for growers everywhere. It’s also hardy and well-suited to many outdoor conditions. However, this strain does like humidity. That makes her a poor choice for arid climates.

If you do live in a humid climate, Super Silver Haze will keep on giving. You get massive buds. Super Silver is very resistant to mold and mildew. You’ll also get thick heavy colas – so consider staking or using a trellis. That’s more important if you live in a windy area.

Otherwise, Super Silver blends some of the world’s most popular strains. This beauty mixes Northern Lights, Skunk #1, and Haze. You’ll get huge buds, good yield, and intense highs. Plus, with most bud focused on central colas, this plant is easy to prune and lollipop. You’ll want to use these methods in most climates as well. Unless you have enough sun that it doesn’t matter, you’ll get much bigger yields by cutting back branches so every bud gets more sun.

• THC Levels: 18% (Medium)
• Indica/Sativa: 10% Indica/ 90% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 450-500g or 425g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 9-11 weeks or Mid-October without light restriction
• Plant Size: 170-230cm / 67-90 inches
• Optimal Climate: Moderate and humid
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: Northern Lights, Haze, Skunk #1
• Effects: Creativity, Energy, Euphoria, Happiness, Uplifted
• Flavors/Aroma: Earthy, Herbal, Lemon, Skunk

11. Northern Soul

Northern Soul blends Northern Lights and Skunk #1 to produce a beautiful, heady weed plant. This strain delivers higher yields outdoors. However, with long flowering times, isn’t especially suited to northern climates. You’ll have to wait till end October or early November to harvest in most areas. However, you can use light restriction to speed things up.

Otherwise, Northern Soul delivers a high volume of small, dense buds. That, plus heavy resin and trichome count leave many growers happy. Additionally, you’ll need minimal care. And, with high mold resistance, this strain is ideal for high humidity and warm climates.

What else. This plant smells a lot during flowering. Plus, it’s new enough to the market that you’ll be among the early adopters of this strain. That’s also why there are no standards set for normal THC content. It is high. You can likely expect to get 16-23% THC. Otherwise, more growers just have to pick her up, measure growth, and publish results.

The same applies to growth. Northern Soul is definitely a high producer. But the strain is new. So, it’s important to wait to see how average grows do in different environments.

• THC Levels: High
• Indica/Sativa: Indica dominant
• CBD Levels: Unknown
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 400+
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 8-9 or late October without light restriction
• Plant Size: 180-230cm / 70-90 inches
• Optimal Climate: Warm and humid
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: Northern Lights X Skunk #1
• Effects: Sedation, Relaxation, Uplifting, Euphoria
• Flavors/Aroma: Fruit, Sweet, Spice, Skunk

12. Early Skunk

Early Skunk has the genetics to provide massive indoor yields. But, her temperature and disease resistance make this one of the top outdoor strains. In fact, with up to 500g per plant, this might be one of our favorite strains to grow outdoors.

Why? Early Skunk is bred for northern European climates. That means she thrives across most of the U.S.

If you do happen to have more sun you’ll likely just get more bud out of her. Otherwise, you might want to pay attention and use sun screening. Plus, with a harvest in mid-September, this early harvest is ideal for even the coldest climates. Of course, that speeds up a lot if you use light restriction. Get a cover, and this beauty is ready for harvest in just 7 weeks. That’s impressively fat for nearly any plant, without considering high yields.

Of course, easy growth isn’t everything. This beginner-friendly strain also packs a punch. You’ll get rich, sticky buds with a ton of floral and skunk flavor that’s hard to find elsewhere.

• THC Levels: Medium
• Indica/Sativa: 65% Indica/35% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 400-500g or 500g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 7-9 weeks or Late September without light restriction
• Plant Size: 215-304cm / 85-120 inches
• Optimal Climate: Temperate
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: Early Pearl x Skunk #1
• Effects: Focus, relaxation, happy, euphoria, creativity
• Flavors/Aroma: Skunk, floral, earth, wood,

13. Shaman Regular

This Dutch Passion favorite is stunning in every way. Shaman Regular, also known as Shaman, is big, fast-growing, and incredibly purple. At harvest, you’ll get massive, gorgeous purple buds. And, with high disease and weather resistance, this might be one of the best outdoor cannabis strains if you like purple. Shaman offers moderate THC content but soaring highs.

Additionally, this plant grows dense. You’ll want to use light pruning to get maximum yield. Only about 50% of plants will show off bright purple colors. But, even without the purple, this plant’s rich green leaves and bright white trichomes are stunning.

But then, if looks aren’t quite your thing, Shaman delivers in other ways too. Growers also love the smooth highs, psychedelics, and ease of growth.

Shaman regular is also incredibly predictable outdoors. In low light climates, you can expect an average of 500g per plant. High disease resistance means you’ll have little to worry about in terms of mold or mildew. Essentially, this is an all-around easy win unless you want a higher THC count.

• THC Levels: 12-18% (Medium)
• Indica/Sativa: 25% Indica/75% sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter) 500g, or 500-800g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 7-9 weeks or late September without light restriction
• Plant Size: 100-150cm / 39-59 inches
• Optimal Climate: Temperate and humid
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: Purple #1 x Skunk
• Effects: uplifting, relaxation, body buzz
• Flavors/Aroma: berries, sweet

14. Durban Poison

Durban Poison might be the single easiest strain to grow outdoors in sunny climates. On the other hand, it’s a poor choice for low-sun environments. With sun, this beauty will shoot up to deliver up to 700g of incredibly sticky bud per plant. That incredible sticky also extends to the leaves. So, extractors can get more by using trim.

If you have 8+ weeks of sun this strain will shoot up. You also want to make sure you’re prepared to stake or trellis, or the big buds might snap the branches. For the same reason, you want to keep her out of the wind. Additionally, this plant grows tall. With outdoor heights averaging 7 feet, she’s hard to hide. And, with a strong smell at flowering, that would be pretty impossible anyway.

In good light, Durban Poison delivers a huge amount of massive, orange-covered buds. Most harvests are in late September. Alternatively, you can light restrict if you want to chop sooner.

That aside, this is a favorite for outdoor growers across the West Coast. Of course, as a pure Sativa, you’ll have to like Sativa highs. Otherwise, this landrace is as easy as it comes.

• THC Levels: 20% (Medium)
• Indica/Sativa: 100% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Less than 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter): 500-700g, or up to 700g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks): 8-9 or Late September
• Plant Size: 203-228cm / 80-90 inches
• Optimal Climate: Sunny and warm
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: African Landrace
• Effects: Euphoria, Happiness, Relaxation, Uplifting
• Flavors/Aroma: Cheese, Citrus, Earth, Fruit, Skunk, Sweet

15. LSD

LSD might be the classic of classics for growing marijuana outdoors. In fact, this strain has been used for outdoor growing since the 70s. With easy growth, high THC, and early harvest, it’s easy to see why. In addition, LSD is minimal fuss. For example, no expertise, special training, or pruning needed. However, you might see some benefits by taking off the big top leaves when flowering starts.

Of course, LSD isn’t ideal everywhere. More sun means more harvest. If you live in a low light area, this might not be the best strain to grow outdoors. Otherwise, LSD definitely shines.

For example, LSD contains up to 24% THC. But, she still delivers incredibly smooth, psychedelic highs. That’s a huge plus for everyone looking for a big high without the couchlock. LSD is also relatively easy to grow. You might need some staking. Otherwise, this hybrid has no real quirks or difficulties. Just set and deliver minimal care for harvests of up to 500g per plant in early September.

• THC Levels: 24%
• Indica/Sativa: 45% Indica/55% Sativa
• CBD Levels: Under 1% (Low)
• Outdoor Yield (Grams per Square Meter) 500g/ 500g per plant
• Flowering Time (Weeks) 9-10 weeks or early-to-mid September without light restriction
• Plant Size: 70-120 cm / 28/47 inches
• Optimal Climate: Temperate and Sunny
• Grow Difficulty: Easy
• Genetics: Skunk #1 x Mazar
• Effects: Cerebral, Psychedelic, Relaxing, Body High
• Flavors/Aroma: Sweet, Citrus, Earthy

Growing Outdoor Strains Q&A

If you’re new to growing cannabis outdoors, chances are, you have questions. This FAQ should help.

What Are the Best Types of Strains to Grow Outdoors?

That depends on your climate. For example, if you live in the east or central United States, you likely want to seek out Dutch and European hybrids. These strains are bred for temperate climates and cool summers. Most also exhibit much better mold and mildew resistance, because they were bred in a humid climate. On the other hand, if you live in a sunny state, you have more options. For example, you can look for West Coast hybrids, Sativa landraces, and Jamaican strains like Lambs Breath.

What is the Highest Yielding Outdoor Strain?

Yield will always depend on care, nutrients, and weather. However, strains like Big Bud, Super Skunk, Amnesia Haze, Strawberry Kush, Sour Diesel, and Northern Lights are tried and true favorites. On the other hand, breeders like Dutch Passion recommends you try hybrids like Friesian Duck or Passion #1 for northern climates. They also point to Durban Poison for growers with sunny climates.

Do Sativas Yield More than Indicas?

Sativa strains have a much higher base yield. However, they also have a much lower average THC percentage. That’s why many modern plants are hybrids. The idea is to increase yield and THC/CBD content for an ideal plant.

Additionally, both plants hit differently. Most growers should try out different strains to see what they like and what they like to smoke before settling on something based on yield.

Can You Grow Indoor Strains Outdoors?

Yes. Most indoor strains do very well outdoors. However, this isn’t always the case. For example, some strains have very specific temperature and humidity requirements. Not meeting those will mean a sickly plant or low yield. Always check the needs of your specific strain before growing cannabis outdoors.

However, many strains will produce a higher yield outdoors. That’s almost a given, if you can provide it good conditions.

Next Steps

In most cases, the best strains to grow outdoors are the ones that best match your local climate. You might also have other concerns. For example, stealth. Or, you might want to choose a plant for taste and flavor. There’s a lot that goes into finding the perfect strain for you and most growers never settle on just one. It’s always a good idea to experiment, try more things, and see what you like. With good care, most strains will offer decent yield.

Harry Williams

Harry is a cannabis growing veteran, recognized marijuana seed cultivation expert and founder of GrowReporter. Harry has spent the last 20+ years educating thousands of people about his techniques and methods.