Runtz Automatic is a 70% indica hybrid that combines the popular strain with indica ruderalis genetics to create an autoflowering version of the crowd-favourite. This strain’s genetic lineage is a Who’s-Who of famous strains, combining Zkittlez (a blend containing Skunk, Afghani, and Jack Herer) with Gelato (a cross of Sunset Sherbet and Girl Scout Cookies).
The result is an extremely compact strain with a distinct yet manageable odour and high yields, which makes it a great choice for indoor growers who aren't overly concerned with discretion. While autoflowering strains may not be ideal for advanced growing techniques, their ease and reliability make them great choices for novice growers or those who simply have a full schedule.
Growth pattern of Runtz Automatic
Runtz Automatic cannabis seeds grow into extremely short plants with somewhat tight internodal spacing and robust vegetation. Overall, this compact plant boasts a bushy, sturdy structure with a strong central cola surrounded by smaller, resinous buds. Since this is an automatic strain, there’s no need to worry about switching your light, and these plants will begin flowering on their own after a few weeks.
If grown indoors, growers should expect these plants to top out at around 25-80 cm in height. While that’s incredibly short, these plants can still produce high yields of 250-325 grams per square metre over the course of their 60 to 65-day flowering period. Outdoor growers can expect these plants to get slightly larger, though they’re unlikely to top 100 cm and can produce up to 250 grams per plant.
The flowers from Runtz Automatic are chunky and frosty with lime green and purple hues, accented by vibrant orange pistils. The main cola dominates the top half of the plant while the lower branches sport smaller, equally dense buds. These flowers aren’t incredibly leafy, and the buds, while suitably resinous, are not so coated as to complicate trimming, making it a relatively hassle-free task.
Due to this strain’s automatic nature, it is not ideal for advanced growing techniques as growers have no control over when the plants begin to bloom. Methods like mainlining or SCROG (screen of green), which require prolonged vegetation, are simply not an option with these plants. Additionally, their delicate branches make practices like supercropping or lollipopping impractical. While their compact size might seem suited for a sea of green (SOG) setup, the lack of control over flowering can make this a challenge.
Effects, taste, and smell of Runtz Automatic
As these plants reach the end of their flowering cycle, they begin to give off an intensely sweet and fruity aroma with notes of tropical candy and a light earthy undertone. This smell becomes even more pronounced as the plant matures. Growers who value their privacy should consider taking extra steps to mask these plants’ odour.
Once the buds have finished curing, they take on a mellower—though no less pleasant—aroma which mixes tropical fruits, sugary candy, and subtle hints of citrus zest to create a sweet and tangy bouquet. Sampling Runtz Automatic shows off a flavourful blend of tropical fruit candy on the inhale, with creamy undertones and a slightly herbal edge on the exhale. Overall, this strain is sweet and dessert-like as the name would suggest.
The effects of Runtz Automatic are fairly long-lasting and start with a burst of euphoria and uplifting creative energy before transitioning into a deep body-stoned feeling. Overall, this strain is a fantastic choice for unwinding after a burst of productivity before gradually melting into the couch.
Did you know?
Much like its parent Zkittlez, Runtz is named in honour of a popular American candy.
Originally, Runtz was bred by the Runtz Crew in Los Angeles in 2010, but gained immense popularity after its debut at the Emerald Cup in 2017.
