The Soap, a potent hybrid cannabis strain created by Seed Junky Genetics and popularized by Cookies, is renowned for its unique floral aroma and powerful effects. According to Leafly, this sativa-leaning strain, bred from Animal Mints and Kush Mints, boasts an average THC content of 19% and is praised for its ability to induce focus, energy, and relief from stress and anxiety.
Origins and Genetics
The Soap strain was created through a collaboration between Seed Junky Genetics and Berner’s Cookies, debuting under the Minntz banner around 2018-2019. This hybrid is a cross between Animal Mints and Kush Mints, both of which are known for their potent effects and complex flavor profiles. Animal Mints, one of The Soap’s parents, is itself a cross of Animal Cookies and SinMint Cookies, while Kush Mints contributes to the strain’s minty characteristics. The breeding process, led by Seed Junky’s founder JBeezy (Anthony Hart), aimed to combine the best traits of these parent strains, resulting in The Soap’s unique aroma, flavor, and effects. This careful genetic selection has produced a strain that typically tests over 25% THC, making it a popular choice among cannabis enthusiasts and medical users alike.
Cultivation Guidelines
The Soap strain can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors, with specific requirements for optimal growth. Here’s a concise overview of key cultivation parameters:
| Cultivation Parameter | Indoor | Outdoor |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 30-60 inches | 60-80 inches |
| Flowering Time | 56-63 days | Harvest mid-October |
| Yield | 8-24 ounces (227-680 grams) | 16-64 ounces (450-1814 grams) |
| Climate | Controlled environment | Warm, sunny climate |
| Soil | Well-draining, nutrient-rich | Rich, well-drained soil |
For indoor cultivation, maintain temperatures between 70-85°F during the day and 65-75°F at night, with humidity around 40-50%. The Soap strain responds well to nutrient-rich feeding regimes, especially during flowering. Regular pruning and training techniques like topping and low-stress training (LST) can improve yields and potency. When growing outdoors, monitor for pests and weather changes, using organic pesticides if necessary.
Effects and Medicinal Benefits
The Soap strain is known for its potent effects and therapeutic benefits, making it popular among both recreational users and medical marijuana patients. Here’s an overview of its reported effects and medicinal applications:
| Effects | Medicinal Benefits |
|---|---|
| Energizing | Anxiety relief |
| Focused | Depression management |
| Aroused | Stress reduction |
| Uplifting | Chronic pain alleviation |
| Euphoric | Inflammation reduction |
The Soap’s effects are primarily energizing and uplifting, with users reporting increased focus and arousal. This makes it an ideal choice for daytime use, potentially enhancing productivity and creativity. Medically, it’s often chosen to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. Some users also report relief from chronic pain and inflammation. The strain’s potency, with THC levels often exceeding 25%, contributes to its strong effects. However, it’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and some users might experience side effects such as dry mouth or increased anxiety, particularly at higher doses. As with any cannabis product, it’s advisable to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed.
Terpene Profile
The Soap strain features a complex terpene profile that contributes to its unique aroma, flavor, and potential therapeutic effects. Here’s an overview of the key terpenes present in The Soap:
- Limonene: The dominant terpene in The Soap, responsible for its citrusy aroma and potentially uplifting effects
- Caryophyllene: Provides a spicy, peppery scent and may offer anti-inflammatory benefits
- Linalool: Contributes floral notes and is associated with stress-reducing properties
- Alpha Humulene: Adds earthy, woody aromas and may have anti-inflammatory effects
This terpene combination creates The Soap’s distinctive scent profile, described as a mix of mint, pine, and subtle cheese notes. The presence of these terpenes not only enhances the strain’s sensory appeal but may also contribute to its reported effects of focus, energy, and stress relief.
Cannabinoid Profile
The Soap strain is known for its high THC content and minimal CBD levels, contributing to its potent effects. Here’s a breakdown of its cannabinoid profile:
- THC content:
- Average range: 20-25%
- Some phenotypes testing as high as 34-35%
- CBD content:
- Typically less than 1%
- Reported as low as 0.07% in some lab tests
This cannabinoid profile positions The Soap as a potent strain, suitable for experienced users seeking strong psychoactive effects. The high THC content contributes to its reported energizing and euphoric effects, while the low CBD levels mean it may not provide significant anti-inflammatory benefits typically associated with CBD-rich strains. Users should be aware that the high THC content may lead to potential side effects such as dry mouth, dry eyes, or anxiety, especially in those with lower tolerance levels.
Flavor and Aroma Profile
The Soap strain offers a unique and complex flavor and aroma profile that sets it apart from other cannabis varieties. Here’s a breakdown of its key sensory characteristics:
- Flavor notes:
- Sweet and minty primary taste
- Subtle floral undertones
- Hints of citrus and pine
- Slight cheese-like aftertaste
- Aroma profile:
- Fresh and clean scent, reminiscent of soap
- Earthy base notes
- Pungent mint and pine fragrance
- Subtle sour citrus undertones
- Terpene influence:
- Limonene contributes to the citrusy aroma
- Caryophyllene adds spicy, peppery notes
- Linalool provides floral nuances
The strain’s unique sensory profile is attributed to its genetic lineage, combining characteristics from Animal Mints and Kush Mints. Users often describe the experience as refreshing and invigorating, with the clean, soap-like aroma contributing to its name and popularity.
Medical Applications
The Soap strain has gained attention in the medical cannabis community for its potential therapeutic benefits. Here’s an overview of the conditions commonly treated with this strain and the supporting evidence:
- Anxiety: Many users report relief from anxiety symptoms, likely due to the strain’s calming effects
- Depression: The uplifting and mood-enhancing properties may help alleviate symptoms of depression
- Chronic pain: The Soap’s analgesic properties may offer relief for patients suffering from various types of chronic pain
- Stress: Its calming effects are reported to help manage stress levels effectively
- Insomnia: The sedative qualities can aid in improving sleep patterns for those with insomnia
- Appetite stimulation: Potentially beneficial for patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy
- Inflammatory conditions: The strain’s anti-inflammatory potential supports its use in treating conditions with inflammation as a key component
While clinical studies specific to The Soap strain are limited, anecdotal evidence from users and medical marijuana patients supports these potential benefits. It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and consultation with a healthcare professional is advised before using cannabis for medical purposes.
Recreational Use
The Soap strain has gained popularity among recreational users for its versatile effects and enjoyable experiences. Here’s an overview of common recreational uses and user experiences:
- Popular recreational settings:
- Social gatherings and parties
- Creative activities (art, music, writing)
- Outdoor adventures and nature exploration
- Relaxation and self-care routines
- User experiences:
- Enhanced focus and creativity
- Increased sociability and conversation
- Euphoric and uplifting mood
- Relaxation without excessive sedation
- Heightened sensory perception
- Reported benefits:
- Stress relief and mood enhancement
- Improved motivation for tasks and activities
- Enhanced appreciation of music and art
- Increased physical sensitivity, potentially beneficial for intimacy
Users often praise The Soap for its balanced effects, providing energy and focus without overwhelming anxiety. Its ability to promote sociability and creativity makes it a popular choice for social gatherings and artistic pursuits. However, as with any cannabis strain, individual experiences may vary, and responsible use is encouraged.
Growing Conditions
The Soap strain thrives in specific growing conditions that optimize its growth and potency. Here’s a concise overview of the optimal growing conditions for this strain:
| Factor | Optimal Condition |
|---|---|
| Climate | Warm, dry |
| Temperature | 70-85°F (21-29°C) during day, 65-75°F (18-24°C) at night |
| Humidity | 40-50% during flowering |
| Soil | Rich, well-draining with organic matter |
| pH | 6.0-6.5 |
| Light | 18-24 hours during vegetative stage, 12 hours during flowering |
The Soap strain prefers a warm, dry climate with controlled humidity. It grows best in rich, well-draining soil amended with organic matter. Maintaining proper pH levels and providing adequate light exposure are crucial for optimal growth and resin production. Indoor cultivation allows for better control of these conditions, potentially leading to higher yields and potency.
Harvesting and Curing
Proper harvesting and curing techniques are crucial for maximizing the quality and potency of The Soap strain. Here are the key best practices for harvesting and curing this cannabis variety:
- Optimal harvesting time:
- When 70-80% of trichomes are milky white
- 20-30% of trichomes have turned amber
- Typically 56-70 days after flowering begins
- Harvesting process:
- Remove large fan leaves a day before harvest
- Cut branches into manageable sizes
- Trim sugar leaves while the plant is still wet
- Drying techniques:
- Hang branches upside down in a dark, cool space
- Maintain temperature around 70°F (21°C) and 50% humidity
- Use oscillating fans for air circulation
- Dry for 3-7 days until stems snap when bent
- Curing process:
- Place trimmed buds in airtight glass jars
- Store in a cool, dark place
- Open jars daily for the first week to release moisture
- Cure for 2-4 weeks for optimal flavor and potency
Proper harvesting and curing are essential for preserving The Soap’s unique aroma and maximizing its potent effects. Monitoring trichome color and maintaining ideal environmental conditions throughout the process will ensure the best possible end product.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Cultivation
Growing The Soap strain indoors versus outdoors presents distinct advantages and challenges for cultivators. Here’s a comparison of the two methods:
| Factor | Indoor Cultivation | Outdoor Cultivation |
|---|---|---|
| Environmental Control | Precise control over temperature, humidity, and lighting | Subject to natural weather conditions |
| Yield Potential | Typically smaller yields, but multiple harvests per year | Potentially larger yields, but usually one harvest per year |
| Cost | Higher initial setup and ongoing energy costs | Lower costs, relying on natural sunlight and rain |
| Quality Control | Better control over pests and diseases | More susceptible to pests, diseases, and environmental stressors |
| Space Requirements | Limited by available indoor space | Can utilize larger outdoor areas |
| Discretion | More discreet and secure | Potentially visible and less secure |
Indoor cultivation offers greater control over The Soap’s growing environment, allowing for year-round production and consistent quality. However, it comes with higher costs and energy consumption. Outdoor growing leverages natural conditions and can produce larger plants with unique terpene profiles, but is subject to weather variability and pest challenges. The choice between indoor and outdoor cultivation ultimately depends on the grower’s resources, climate, and specific goals for The Soap strain.
Obtaining The Soap Genetics
The Soap strain, being a highly sought-after cultivar, can be challenging to obtain for personal cultivation. Here’s a concise guide on sourcing seeds and clones of The Soap:
- Availability:
- Seeds are not commercially available
- Clones may be obtainable through select dispensaries
- Potential sources:
- Seed Junky Genetics (original breeder)
- Cookies (collaborator and distributor)
- Licensed dispensaries in legal states
- Tips for sourcing:
- Check reputable dispensaries for clone availability
- Be cautious of online sellers claiming to offer The Soap seeds
- Consider growing parent strains (Animal Mints or Kush Mints) as alternatives
- Quality considerations:
- Verify the source’s reputation and licensing
- Look for detailed genetic information and lab testing results
- Read user reviews and cultivation reports when available
Due to its limited availability, cultivators interested in growing The Soap may need to explore alternative strains with similar genetic profiles or wait for official releases from the original breeders.
Pest and Disease Management
Cultivating The Soap strain, like any cannabis variety, can be challenging due to various pests and diseases. Here’s an overview of common issues and management strategies:
- Common pests affecting The Soap strain:
- Spider mites: Tiny arachnids that feed on plant cells, causing stippling on leaves
- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck plant sap, leading to leaf distortion
- Thrips: Slender insects that cause silvery patches on leaves
- Whiteflies: Small, winged insects that feed on plant sap and excrete honeydew
- Common diseases:
- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease causing white, powdery spots on leaves
- Root rot: Caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to wilting and yellowing
- Prevention and management strategies:
- Regular monitoring: Inspect plants frequently for signs of infestation or disease
- Proper ventilation: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal growth
- Organic pesticides: Use insecticidal soaps or neem oil for pest control
- Beneficial insects: Introduce predatory insects like ladybugs to control pests naturally
- Pruning: Remove affected plant parts to prevent spread of disease
- Quarantine: Isolate new plants before introducing them to your grow area
- Organic pest control options:
- Insecticidal soaps: Effective against soft-bodied insects like aphids and mites
- Horticultural oils: Smother pests and their eggs
- Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Controls caterpillar pests
By implementing these strategies, growers can effectively manage pests and diseases, ensuring healthy growth and optimal yields of The Soap strain.
Yield Potential
The Soap strain is known for its impressive yields, both in indoor and outdoor cultivation settings. Here’s an overview of typical yield expectations for this popular strain:
- Indoor yields:
- Average: 400-500 grams per square meter (1.3-1.6 oz/sq ft)
- Range: 227-680 grams (8-24 ounces) per plant
- Outdoor yields:
- Average: 450-1814 grams (16-64 ounces) per plant
- Potential for higher yields in optimal conditions
- Factors affecting yield:
- Growing environment (indoor vs. outdoor)
- Cultivation techniques (training, pruning, etc.)
- Plant health and nutrition
- Light intensity and quality
- Grower’s experience level
It’s important to note that these figures are estimates, and actual yields can vary significantly based on growing conditions and cultivation practices. Experienced growers may achieve higher yields, while beginners might see lower results initially.
User Reviews and Experiences
The Soap strain has garnered significant attention from cannabis enthusiasts, with users and growers sharing largely positive experiences. Here’s a summary of user reviews and testimonials:
| Aspect | User Feedback |
|---|---|
| Effects | Energizing, focused, uplifting |
| Potency | Strong, suitable for experienced users |
| Flavor | Sweet, minty, with floral notes |
| Aroma | Fresh, clean, reminiscent of soap |
| Cultivation | Moderate difficulty, good yields |
| Medical Benefits | Effective for stress, anxiety, pain |
Users frequently praise The Soap for its potent effects, describing it as energizing and focus-enhancing. Many report feeling uplifted and creative, making it popular for daytime use. The strain’s unique flavor profile is often highlighted, with users enjoying its sweet and minty taste with floral undertones. Growers generally report good yields and moderate cultivation difficulty, though some note its sensitivity to environmental changes. Medical users often cite its effectiveness in managing stress, anxiety, and chronic pain. However, some users caution about potential side effects like dry mouth and eyes, especially at higher doses.
Comparison with Other Strains
The Soap strain stands out among popular cannabis varieties due to its unique characteristics and effects. Here’s a comparison of The Soap with other well-known strains:
| Aspect | The Soap | Animal Mints | Kush Mints | Girl Scout Cookies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Effects | Energizing, focused | Relaxing, euphoric | Balanced, uplifting | Euphoric, relaxing |
| THC Content | 19-25% | 20-25% | 20-26% | 18-22% |
| Flavor Profile | Mint, pine, cheese | Sweet, minty | Mint, vanilla | Sweet, earthy |
| Cultivation Difficulty | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate to difficult | Moderate |
| Yield | Above average | Average | Above average | Average |
The Soap inherits traits from both its parent strains, Animal Mints and Kush Mints, but offers a unique combination of effects and flavors. While it shares the minty notes of its parents, The Soap’s distinctive cheese and pine undertones set it apart. In terms of effects, The Soap tends to be more energizing than Animal Mints, which is known for its relaxing properties. Compared to Girl Scout Cookies, another popular hybrid, The Soap generally offers more focus-enhancing effects while maintaining a similar level of euphoria. Cultivation-wise, The Soap is considered moderately difficult to grow, similar to its parent strains, but may offer higher yields than some other popular varieties.
Legal Status and Availability
The legal status and availability of The Soap strain vary significantly across different regions and countries, primarily due to differing cannabis laws. Here’s an overview of its legal status and availability:
- Legal status:
- United States: Legal in states with recreational or medical cannabis laws, illegal under federal law
- Canada: Legal for both medical and recreational use nationwide
- Netherlands: Available in coffee shops, but cultivation is technically illegal
- Most European countries: Illegal, with exceptions for medical use in some nations
- Australia: Legal for medical use, recreational use remains illegal
- Availability:
- Dispensaries: Widely available in legal U.S. states and Canadian provinces
- Online stores: Limited availability due to legal restrictions on interstate commerce
- Coffee shops: Found in some Dutch establishments
- Black market: Present in regions where cannabis remains illegal, but quality and authenticity cannot be guaranteed
- Considerations:
- Always check local laws before purchasing or possessing cannabis products
- Availability and pricing may vary depending on supply and demand in legal markets
- Medical cannabis programs may have different regulations regarding strain availability
It’s important to note that cannabis laws are subject to change, and individuals should always verify the current legal status in their specific location before attempting to obtain or use The Soap strain.
Cultural Impact and Popularity
The Soap strain has gained significant traction in popular culture, particularly within the cannabis community. Here’s an overview of its presence and influence:
- Media presence:
- Featured in cannabis magazines like High Times and Leafly
- Regularly discussed on cannabis-focused podcasts and YouTube channels
- Mentioned in social media posts by cannabis influencers and enthusiasts
- Celebrity endorsements:
- Berner, founder of Cookies, has promoted The Soap as part of his brand’s lineup
- Rapper Wiz Khalifa has mentioned The Soap in interviews about his favorite strains
- Cannabis activist and comedian Tommy Chong has praised The Soap’s effects
- Cultural impact:
- Inspired merchandise such as t-shirts and rolling trays featuring The Soap branding
- Mentioned in some hip-hop lyrics, reflecting its popularity in music culture
- Featured in cannabis-themed events and competitions
- Industry recognition:
- Won awards at cannabis cups for its unique terpene profile and effects
- Frequently highlighted in “strain of the month” features on cannabis websites
The Soap’s popularity in cannabis culture has contributed to its reputation as a premium, sought-after strain, influencing both consumer preferences and industry trends.
