Critical Kush strain guide
Critical Kush is an indica from Barney's Farm, a cross of Critical Mass and OG Kush. People know it for an earthy, woody and spicy smell and a heavy, relaxed feel that most save for the evening.
Where does Critical Kush come from?
Critical Kush was bred by Barney's Farm, a seed company in Amsterdam. The breeder describes it as a blend of Critical Mass, a heavy-yielding cross of Afghani and Skunk #1, with its own cut of OG Kush.
Unlike many newer strains, its history is well documented, and it has been sold as seeds for years. That means plenty of people grow it, and growers say it finishes indoors in about 8 weeks.
What does Critical Kush smell and taste like?
Critical Kush smells earthy and woody first, with a peppery spice. Some batches add a little citrus or fruit, and a skunky note from the Critical Mass side.
Lab results most often show myrcene leading, followed by caryophyllene and limonene. Myrcene brings the earthy, herbal base, caryophyllene the pepper and limonene the hint of citrus. The flavour is usually smooth, earthy and a little sweet.
Critical Kush effects: what people report
People most often describe Critical Kush as relaxed and sleepy, with a strong body feel and often a case of the munchies. Some mention a happy, mellow mood at the start before the heaviness sets in, and many call it a couch strain.
Reviewers warn that it's easy to have too much because it comes on smoothly rather than all at once. These are experiences people report, not promises. Dry mouth, dry eyes and dizziness are the most common complaints.
How strong is Critical Kush?
Published figures vary a lot. Listings and seed company data put Critical Kush anywhere from about 14% to 25% THC, and some sources report a little CBD, up to about 2%, which is more than most modern strains.
If you're new to it, start small and give it time. The numbers on your label are what count, not the strain's reputation.
Buying Critical Kush in Canada
Because Critical Kush is grown from seed by many producers, two products with the same name can differ in strength and smell. Check the label for THC and CBD, since this is one strain where a small amount of CBD sometimes shows up.
You might find it as dried flower or pre-rolls. Look at the packaging date as well, since fresher flower holds more of that earthy, spicy smell.
Critical Kush vs OG Kush
OG Kush is one of Critical Kush's parents. OG Kush leans lemon, pine and fuel, while Critical Kush trades most of that for earth, wood and spice from its Critical Mass side. Both are known for relaxing, but Critical Kush is usually described as heavier and sleepier, and it's more likely to show a trace of CBD on the label. If you want gas and citrus, pick OG Kush. If you want something earthy and settled, try Critical Kush.
Strains like Critical Kush
If you like Critical Kush, these are close matches:
- OG Kush: one of its parents, with more lemon and fuel.
- Critical Mass: the other parent, an Afghani and Skunk #1 cross.
- Hindu Kush: a classic earthy indica with a similar settled feel.
- Bubba Kush: another heavy, earthy Kush with a similar evening reputation.
