Best Low Odor, Discreet Cannabis Strains To Grow At Home

Cannabis smells a lot, and while most of us may like it, others detest it. 

So, it can be a bit problematic for you, especially if you’re in a region that hasn’t legalized cannabis yet. Growing aromatic strains in such areas is like advertising to the world that you’re growing stinky marijuana. 

And, it doesn’t help that every strain is unique with its own aroma. It could be pungent, fruity, spicy, floral, earthy, and whatnot. Needless to say, it’s a bit difficult to hide the odor these plants emit, no matter how hard you try. 

So, it makes sense to grow strains that don’t produce too much odor. Right there, you’ve solved half the problem. 

If you’re looking for ways to reduce the odor in your grow room, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will list a few strains that perform well despite the low smell. Of course, we will also go over a few tips to reduce the odor. 

How do Cannabis Strains Get Their Unique Smell?

First, you’d probably want to know why your marijuana plants are so aromatic or stinky, depending on your perception. Well, it’s due to the unique combination of essential oils and terpenes present on the buds, which create a unique smell. Plants produce these aromas throughout their growth cycle, but it is the strongest during the flowering stage. 

Essentially, cannabis produces various terpenes, depending on its genetics. These terpenes can be classified into monoterpenoids, diterpenoids, triterpenoids, and sesquiterpenoids; and they are either monocyclic, polycyclic, or acyclic hydrocarbons made up of ethers, alcohols, ketones, and esters. 

These terpenes, in different combinations, produce distinct aromas. For example, a strain rich in limonene will produce a citrusy aroma, and if it has trace amounts of camphene, it will have woody undertones. Similarly, those rich in terpinolene will produce herbal aromas, and those with high concentrations of myrcene will have an earthy aroma. 

But this is merely scratching the surface when it comes to terpenes. Scientists have discovered over 200 terpenes on the cannabis plant. 

Why Do You Need To Reduce Cannabis Odor?

The more the terpenes, the better the flavor and aroma of your cannabis plant. But you don’t always want the most aromatic plant out there. Cannabis has a distinct aroma, regardless of the aroma profile or combination of terpenes, and people can easily spot the smell whenever it hits them. 

Depending on where you live, this may be bad news for you. The aroma is strong — there’s no getting around that; sometimes, it can be detected by up to a mile away! Here are a few instances where you may want to avoid growing strains that produce strong aromas:

• You live in a crowded neighborhood since the smell can be annoying for some 
• Cannabis cultivation is not yet legalized in your region 
• You want to keep your cannabis growth discreet to avoid attention from people
• You want to avoid the judgment from your neighbors — cannabis still has a stigma around it in some regions 

In such cases, you should avoid growing cannabis strains that produce a lot of aromas. It isn’t going to help you, and in some cases, it can even land you in serious trouble (read: legal trouble). 

Best Low-Odor Cannabis Strains You Can Grow at Home

So, if you are going through this dilemma of wanting to grow the best cannabis strains but have to worry about the law or your neighbors bothering you, what do you do? Simple. Start with low-odor cannabis strains. 

Low-odor cannabis strains are those that don’t produce strong and distinct aromas that can be detected if someone walks by your grow room. But don’t worry, that does not mean that they are less potent. 

Some of the best cannabis strains in the world have less odor naturally, but they are also known to produce potent highs and offer excellent flavors. And we’ve curated some of them here for you. Here are the best low-odor strains you can start with. 

1. Blue Mystic 

Blue Mystic is a hybrid cannabis strain that, given the name, is fogged in mystery. No one is sure who first developed this strain or where it comes from, which is why its genetic lineage is unknown. However, most experts believe that the cannabis strain is an offspring of Blueberry and Northern Lights. 

Nonetheless, don’t knock this strain just yet. It is an excellent cannabis strain with unique features. The buds are short and medium in size, but they are dense. They feature a neon green or forest green color with a few orange pistils peeking out of the buds. And they are frosted in trichomes. 

The buds produce a strong aroma of blueberry with notes of fresh earth. But don’t worry, this smell is dull and easy to confuse with regular gardening flowers. It won’t attract any attention to your grow room because it lacks the skunky notes that are often associated with cannabis strains like Sour Diesel. 

There’s another reason we consider the strain to be aptly named Blue Mystic, but it works in mysterious ways to produce a high or remedy certain ailments. For example, it contains a THC level of 21% but it is potent — in fact, it is known to make unsuspecting users a bit dizzy after hefty consumption. 

Once you smoke it, your mouth will be filled with a flavor that’s similar to its aroma profile, and soon enough, you’ll be greeted with a euphoric high that will induce creativity and some energy into you. It may also calm your anxiety and make you more sociable. 

The high will start wearing off soon, and you’ll want to take a nap. The wear-off is relaxing and will de-stress you. This is why it is reportedly used by people who suffer from restlessness, PTSD, or insomnia. 

2. Durban Poison

Durban Poison is a legendary strain and its name is a call to its potent effects. This is a landrace strain from South Africa, known for its robust and sticky nature, and it can even thrive in various conditions. 

In fact, the strain has deep roots in African cultivation that can be traced back to at least the 14th century. By the time of Dutch colonization, it had spread across the continent, embraced by indigenous groups like the Khoikhoi, San, and Bantu, who referred to it as dagga.

In the late 1970s, American breeder Ed Rosenthal handpicked several plants from a stash of South African seeds, kickstarting a breeding journey that would refine Durban Poison's genetics. Passing on prime specimens to Mel Frank, and eventually to Amsterdam breeder, Sam the Skunkman, the genetics were further improved in terms of of resin production and flowering time.

Durban Poison buds are big, boasting a dense structure. Forest green leaves contrast with vibrant orange pistils, while a gorgeous, thick coating of milky-white trichomes lends a sticky texture. Breaking open the buds reveals a pungent aroma with hints of sweet licorice, with a taste reminiscent of pine sap.

Named after South Africa's second-largest city, Durban Poison stands as a testament to the continent's contribution to potent landrace strains. Its high resin content makes it a prized candidate for THC concentrates like shatter and wax.

Durban Poison delivers a clear, focused high that kicks in swiftly, heightening sensory experiences. Initially intense, it transitions into an active, cerebral buzz without inducing lethargy, making it ideal for creative pursuits or social interactions.

Medicinally, it offers mental relief, aiding in mindfulness so it may help with some ailments. Some users find it beneficial for maintaining focus amidst distractions.

It is suited for daytime use since it energizes without putting you into a couch lock. The stimulating high lasts 2 to 3 hours, but be careful as it can sometimes make you jittery or paranoid. 

Durban Poison delivers a mobile and engaging experience, whether enjoyed solo or in social settings, facilitating both creative endeavors and everyday tasks. No wonder it is one of the coffee strains that people go for when they want something similar to an espresso in a joint. 

Durban Poison's robust genetics make it a beginner-friendly choice for cultivation. Thriving outdoors in warm, semi-humid climates with consistent temperatures, it can reach impressive heights of up to 12 feet. You can manage its stature by early pruning, with flowering typically occurring within 8 to 9 weeks indoors or by late September outdoors, yielding above-average harvests.

3. Northern Lights 

Northern Lights, which was once known as CI #5 FG1, is now an award-winning strain, beloved by growers, medical users, and recreational enthusiasts alike. Its popularity spans the West Coast and Colorado, gracing dispensaries with its presence. While its precise lineage remains shrouded in mystery, it's believed to be a fusion of Thai and Afghani landrace strains, honed to perfection in Holland before finding its way to the shores of America.

Northern Lights flaunts dense, cone-shaped buds emitting a sweet aroma of pine and citrus, tinged with a hint of skunk. These nugs, ranging from light to medium green, are generously coated with trichomes, promising a potent experience.

It is renowned for its "two-hit and quit" reputation, delivering a profound body high, and inducing a blissful state of relaxation and sedation. If you are a beginner, though, you need to be careful as even modest doses may beckon a strong desire to sink into the nearest couch and succumb to munchies. 

On the other hand, seasoned users may find themselves more creative or focused, alongside a sense of contentment. Yet, as with any potent strain, you should be careful of the adverse effects such as dry mouth, dry eyes, dizziness, and paranoia, particularly at higher doses.

Northern Lights is best suited for the evenings and nights as it might offer relief from stress, anxiety, and chronic pain. 

But, the most important point is that Northern Lights has a low odor profile, so it is also ideal for discreet growth. Its minimal scent ensures privacy and peace of mind, especially when grown indoors. Whether you are cultivating it for personal use or commercial ventures, this strain promises quality yields without compromising on aroma control.

4. Jack Herer

Jack Herer, named after the iconic cannabis activist, is a strain that has garnered a loyal following among growers, medical users, and recreational enthusiasts. With its roots stretching back to the 1980s or 90s, this hybrid strain that Sensi Seeds developed has earned its place as an evergreen favorite. 

Though its exact genetic makeup remains a secret, it's believed to be a cross of Haze and a blend of Northern Lights #5 and Shiva Skunk.

Jack Herer may not immediately impress you with its pale to medium green buds, but don't let appearances deceive you. These dense, elongated nugs pack a punch, boasting a high trichome count that makes handling them a sticky affair — literally. 

But what they lack in visual appeal, they more than make up for in aroma. When properly cured, Jack Herer produces a deep floral aroma with hints of zesty orange and lemon, underscored by a subtle peppery note. 

Jack Herer boasts a low-odor profile, making it perfect for discreet cultivation. Whether you're growing indoors or outdoors, you can rest assured that this strain won't give away your little secret.

When lit, the buds release a surprisingly clean and herbal scent, akin to sage, with a smooth, herbal taste that lingers on the palate. 

Jack Herer wastes no time in making its presence felt, delivering a strong headrush that's invigorating rather than disorienting. As the initial buzz settles, a sense of relaxation spreads from the neck down to the limbs, leaving you feeling at ease but still alert and conversant. 

It's also renowned for its medicinal benefits, and while it may not be high in CBD, it still relieves those nagging aches and pains. Just be mindful that its stimulating effects may not make it the best choice for bedtime use.

5. Polar Express Auto

Polar Express is a fast-growing autoflowering strain that’s gaining a lot of traction in the community. This hybrid combines the original Lowryder, known as the first commercially available auto, with a carefully selected Californian Kush variety and Northern Lights #5.

The effects of Polar Express strike a delicate balance between physical relaxation and subtle upliftment. Its THC levels, reaching up to 15%, ensure a deeply relaxing experience best enjoyed during nighttime or when productivity isn't a top priority. Expect a soothing, almost tingling sensation enveloping your body, accompanied by a gentle cerebral buzz.

While Polar Express won't leave you completely couch-locked, it's the type of strain that encourages you to get a cozy spot on the couch for a while. Overall, it delivers a blissful stone that leaves users feeling happy, euphoric, relaxed, and likely a tad hungry.

Despite its potency, Polar Express is a master of disguise, producing minimal odor—a boon for stealthy growers flying under the radar. But don't let its stealthy nature fool you; this strain packs a punch with its smooth, flavorful smoke. It was simply designed for discretion. 

Polar Express stays compact, reaching an average height of about 80cm, though some growers claim heights of up to 110cm. While yields may not be massive, this strain is a godsend for guerrilla or stealth growers seeking quality buds with minimal effort. With a flowering time of approximately 60-80 days, Polar Express delivers a steady supply of top-notch weed without breaking a sweat.

6. White Rhino

White Rhino has bagged a lot of awards. It is renowned for its ability to churn out massive yields and is a favorite among growers seeking bountiful harvests. 

Originally developed by Green House Seeds, White Rhino shares lineage with the iconic White Widow, although the exact genetic makeup remains a mystery. Many experts speculate that it's a cross between White Widow and an enigmatic North American strain.

In terms of appearance, aroma, and flavor, White Rhino doesn't disappoint, either. Its bushy buds produce a woodsy, spicy scent, accompanied by earthy undertones—a true treat for the senses. The buds themselves boast a vibrant green hue with a generous coating of white frosty trichomes.

Named for the horn-like appearance of its top portion, this strain packs a punch with its potent high. If you are a beginner, you are advised to tread lightly, as it may take a moment for the full force of the high to kick in. 

But once it does, prepare for a euphoric wave that uplifts your mood while numbing the body. However, be mindful of potential side effects such as dry eyes and mouth, paranoia, headaches, and anxiety.

White Rhino is best enjoyed in the evening or at night, offering effective relief for insomnia. Its soothing effects on the body make it a go-to choice for patients battling chronic aches and pains. Additionally, it's sought after by those seeking relief from stress, anxiety, nausea, migraines, and a lack of appetite.

White Rhino is a also dream come true for growers. Indoors, it can yield up to a whopping 900 grams per square meter after a flowering period of around nine weeks. Outdoors, expect even larger yields of up to 1200 grams per plant, with harvests ready by April in the Southern Hemisphere and October in the Northern Hemisphere. 

7. Frisian Duck

Frisian Duck is a cannabis strain but it doesn’t look like one. Cannabis leaves have a specific pattern but Frisian Duck’s leaves resemble a duck's webbed feet, hence the name. It's a hybrid of Frisian Dew and a mystery ruderalis variety resulting in a plant with such a unique appearance that most people won’t identify it as cannabis. If you’re growing outdoors and need a strain that doesn’t even look like cannabis, this strain’s meant just for you. 

Thanks to its leaf structure and subtle scent profile, Frisian Duck is a perfect choice for discreet outdoor operations. Its unique foliage helps it blend naturally along with other plants, making it very difficult to spot her. 

Coming to the aroma, Frisian Duck has woody notes complimenting subtle citrus and spicy fragrances. Its scent is relatively less compared to other strains, making it popular among growers that need to be discreet. 

But, don’t let her appearance confuse you. She may not look like cannabis, but the effects are indeed strong, thanks to almost 15 to 20% THC. The strain produces cerebral effects combined with gentle body relaxation. Whether you’re a newbie or a veteran, you can try Frisian Duck to understand why she’s so popular. 

One advantage of growing this strain is that she adapts well to most climates. While she thrives in warmer climates, you can help her produce high yields if you train her well. In essence, Frisian Duck is a great strain to grow outdoors if you’re concerned about the odors. 

Tips for Growing Low Odor Strains Discreetly: Indoor versus Outdoor Cultivation

If you're looking to keep your cannabis cultivation discreet, controlling the odor is crucial even if you are growing a low odor strain. And, this also depends on whether you’re growing indoors or outdoors. 

You can grow cannabis both indoors and outdoors but your choice will also have an impact on the odor produced by the strains. Each method has its advantages but you must consider a few factors, especially when it comes to managing the aroma. 

Indoor Cultivation

Growing indoors offers growers a controlled setting where you can carefully regulate elements like temperature, humidity, and light. This extends to managing the odor as well. Indoor growers have the option to use ventilation systems, carbon filters, and odor-neutralizing products to reduce the smell produced by cannabis plants.

Here are a few tips that can control the odor if you’re growing indoors:

• Carbon Filters: Incorporating a high-quality carbon filter into the ventilation system of your grow room could be one of the most efficient ways to eliminate cannabis odors. Proper installation of the carbon filter between the exhaust fan and vents is essential for optimal performance. 

These filters function by pulling air through activated carbon, which absorbs and captures the distinct smell cannabis is known for. With installation and upkeep, carbon filters can significantly diminish the odor associated with growing operations, but you should choose a filter that fits your grow room size. By scrubbing the air of any lingering odors, carbon filters provide a reliable solution for odor control, ensuring privacy and discretion in your growing space. 

Also, remember that although carbon filters can work for almost a year or so, you should replace them much before that to make sure they reduce the odor effectively. Typically, you’ll notice that you need to replace them when the odor returns back to your grow room. In addition, don’t switch off your filter even if it seems like there’s no smell. As you’ve gotten adjusted to the odor, you may not detect it, but others can do it, so let your filters run 24/7. Finally, reduce the humidity to less than 70% so the filters work efficiently. 

• Air Purification: You can also use air filtration and purification systems with HEPA filters. These devices are designed to eliminate particles and impurities from the air including compounds that cause odors ensuring that the air in the grow room remains clean and free of any smell.
• Negative Air Pressure: Negative air pressure is a practical approach for containing odors, particularly in smaller grow spaces. By ensuring that the output airflow exceeds the input airflow, negative pressure is created within the room, directing air through exhaust vents and minimizing odor leakage. To maintain air pressure in the grow room, you can use exhaust fans to extract air from the area. This method helps contain odors within the room and prevents them from seeping into surrounding spaces by drawing air in instead of pushing it out. When combined with other odor control measures, such as carbon filters, negative air pressure systems provide a comprehensive solution for discreet cultivation.
• Sealing and Insulation: Ensure proper sealing and insulation of the grow room to reduce the chances of odor leakage. Close any openings or crevices in walls, doors, windows, and ducts to prevent air leaks. 
• Odor Neutralizers: In addition to carbon filters, odor neutralizers can help mask any remaining cannabis scent. While carbon filters eliminate odors, neutralizers work to conceal them by binding with the cannabis smell and emitting a stronger fragrance. You must choose neutralizers specifically designed for cannabis odors to ensure effectiveness without altering the flavor of your buds. 
• Control Heat and Humidity: Temperature and humidity levels play a significant role in influencing odor intensity. Maintaining optimal conditions for your plants not only promotes healthy growth but also helps minimize odor.

Gradually reducing humidity during the flowering stage can effectively mitigate odor, as high humidity levels tend to intensify the scent. 

Additionally, controlling heat buildup, especially from high-powered lights, is crucial for odor control. Consider using LED lights, which emit less heat compared to HID or CFL lights, to maintain a cooler growth environment. 

By managing temperature and humidity levels effectively, you can reduce cannabis odor and enhance the discretion of your cultivation operation. In addition, make sure your grow room has enough ventilation to keep the air moving. Use fans that move back and forth to help air flow and spread air evenly. 

You should also keep your grow room tidy and clear of any dead plant material to reduce the odor. Finally, choose low-odor strains in the first place as breeders would have bred them specifically for their qualities.

However, despite taking all these measures to control the odor, sometimes it can still seep out, especially in larger setups. Therefore, you have to make sure that your grow room is properly sealed to prevent the odor from escaping and drawing attention.

Outdoor Cultivation

Growing outside means you get sunlight, lots of room to grow your plants, and lower energy costs compared to setups. However, growing outdoors comes with its set of challenges, especially if you’re growing in confined spaces and are trying to reduce the odor. 

There are many advantages of growing outdoors, but a major con is that you don’t have as much control over the plants as you do when growing indoors. Therefore, your best is to go for strains that don’t produce too much aroma. Apart from that, here are a few ways to reduce the odor even if your plants are outside enjoying the sunlight. 

• Strategic Plant Positioning: Consider the wind pattern and nearby properties when planting cannabis outdoors. Strategically place plants to limit the spread of odors toward neighboring homes or public spaces. You can also use barriers or fences but they won’t be as effective as controlling the odor when growing plants indoors. 
• Companion Planting: Companion planting is a great way to hide your plants from curious people. All you have to do is grow other types of plants around your cannabis plants to mask the smell. Not only does this reduce the odor but it also makes it hard for people to recognize cannabis unless they look closely. Herbs such as lavender, rosemary, mint, and basil are fragrant and reduce the smell of cannabis to a certain extent. Thus, if you place them strategically around your plants, you can control the odor somewhat. 
• Commercial Odor-Reducing Products: There are various products you can buy to reduce the odor as they consist of ingredients aimed at neutralizing or masking the odors released by cannabis plants. For example, you can go for odor neutralizers as they make the odors undetectable or less noticeable to humans. They often contain enzymes or natural extracts that target the volatile compounds of cannabis and break them down. 

Or, you can use various types of sprays and concentrates designed to reduce odor. You will need to spray them on the plants. They usually consist of oils, botanical extracts, or special blends of odor-fighting agents that effectively mask or eliminate cannabis odor. However, this method will not work if you’re growing too many plants. 

As you can understand by now, growing indoors and outdoors have their advantages and disadvantages, but when it comes to odor, it’s better to cultivate cannabis indoors as you have more control. 

Summary: Best Low Odor, Disreet Cannabis Strains To Grow At Home

In conclusion, effectively managing cannabis odor in your grow room is crucial for maintaining discretion and privacy. We've outlined various methods you can use to control odor and ensure peace of mind. The decision on which method to choose ultimately depends on you, depending on your specific needs and preferences.

If you're just starting out in cannabis cultivation, beginning with a low-odor strain is an excellent option. These strains naturally emit minimal odor, reducing the need for extensive odor control measures. 

Still, investing in carbon filters is highly recommended. Carbon filters provide the most effective means of scrubbing odor from the air, ensuring that even your neighbors remain unaware of your cannabis cultivation activities.

Regardless of the method you choose, it's essential to complement odor control measures with negative air pressure and careful management of heat and humidity levels. These additional steps help further mitigate odor and ensure optimal growing conditions for your cannabis plants.

Ultimately, select the method and strain that best aligns with your needs and circumstances. Whether you opt for low-odor strains, carbon filters, or odor neutralizers, integrating odor control measures into your cultivation practices will help you cultivate cannabis discreetly and confidently.