Gelato Weed Strain Review & Information

The Gelato strain has become a legendary cannabis strain adored by all, from cannabis beginners to cannabis connoisseurs. Gelato boasts a high THC potency and strong aromas that remind users of a sweet dessert.

No wonder Gelato got Leafly’s 2018 Strain of the Year award and it continues to gain fans. Gelato is an indica-dominant hybrid strain that will keep you energized, motivated, focused, and feeling good.

What Is The Gelato Strain?

The name Gelato conjures up a striking and tantalizing image of creamy and smooth Italian-style ice cream in a cup or cone. Gelato’s aroma and indulgent nature are a close representation of gelato ice cream’s richness and denseness.

Gelato marijuana strains have, on average, 17.5 percent THC content. The flower buds can range between 14 and 20 percent THC or slightly above and about 1 percent CBD. Gelato weed is a great cannabis strain for many reasons.

Gelato is also known as “Larry Bird,” in honor of the legendary basketball player who led the Boston Celtics to win three championships between 1981 and 1986.

It comes from a long line of purple-hued phenotypes. Cookie Fam breeders settled on phenotype #33 as their favorite, which also coincides with Larry Bird’s NBA jersey number.

Gelato weed has won critical acclaim including Leafly’s 2018 Strain of the Year award. Leafly stated that in November 2018 alone, “online users spent nearly 435,000 hours looking at the strain details and availability of Gelato at dispensaries near them, more than any other strain.” Needless to say, Gelato is a rising star among flower consumers.

The Gelato weed strain produces a balance of calming and energizing effects that can be modulated to the user’s preference. While Gelato is one of the strongest indica weed strains around, Gelato weed can still be an ideal strain for first-time users who know how to dose strong THC strains.

Is Gelato Strain Indica or Sativa?

Gelato strain comes form a mix of Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookie.

Gelato is an indica-dominant hybrid strain.

What is the Strongest Gelato Strain?

Why is Gelato Strain So Popular?

Gelato is popular due to its terpene profile and high THC percentage. Gelato has also been made popular in the media by Rap artists.

Gelato Strain Terpenes

Gelato terpenes include:

• Beta-myrcene
• Beta-caryophyllene
• Limonene
• Linalool
• Terpinolene

Gelato strains feature a distinct sweet, fruity, and grassy aroma with other notes interspersed in its wide aromatic spectrum. Users may also notice berry, lavender, and earthy notes.

One of the most common terpenes found in Gelato is beta-myrcene, which can also be found in lemongrass, bay leaves, thyme, and hops. Gelato also features the beta-caryophyllene terpene, which has a spicy and earthy aroma.

Alpha-pinene is responsible for the piney aroma in Gelato strains. Limonene contributes its citrusy scent in the mix. Linalool brings a lavender-like aroma to the complex smell of Gelato marijuana strains.

Gelato may also have some terpinolene, known for its complex herbal, floral, and piney aroma. The hoppy-smelling humulene terpene can also be found in Gelato strains.

Is Gelato Strain Top Shelf?

Gelato strain is considered a top shelf strain at most dispensaries and is often a higher price point than most others.

Gelato’s Genetics

Compared to other iconic marijuana strains, Gelato weed is a relatively novel cannabis strain. Gelato hails from the Bay Area in California. The prodigious Cookie Fam group along with Sherbinski combined parents Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies (Thin Mint GSC) and Sunset Sherbet strains in the 2000s.

Cookie Fam marijuana strains are known for their dessert-like aromas.

25,000 square-foot cultivation facility is based in Los Angeles and continues to innovate in the cannabis breeding space. Other popular Cookie Fam hybrid strains include:

• Sunset Sherbet strain
• Cherry Pie strain
• Biscotti strain
• London Pound Cake strain
• Mochi strain
• Wedding Cake strain

The history of the Gelato strain started when Sherbinski and Jigga’s Gelato began their pollinating project of Sunset Sherbet and Thin Mint Cookies genetics. Nearly every phenotype they created was high-quality with a unique flavor and aroma. Throughout the project, they numbered each phenotype. 25 phenotypes made the final cut and 75 didn’t make the cut. The seeds from this project would create the now legendary Gelato strain.

In the beginning, Cookie Fam breeders Sherbinski and Jigga kept the Gelato weed strain close to the vest, but eventually released Gelato bag seed and Gelato clones into the world. Growers can find these online or in dispensaries in legal states. New growers should watch out for counterfeit Gelato seeds and clones.

Types Of Gelato Marijuana Strains

Cookie Fam’s line of Gelato marijuana strain phenotypes produce varying potencies and aromas. Generally, the Gelato marijuana strain refers to the #33 phenotype. Other popular Gelato phenotypes include the Michael Jordan (phenotype #45), in honor of Michael Jordan’s basketball jersey number.

Bacio Gelato (#41) is the strongest Gelato weed strain out of the lot. With a higher THC potency comes more sedation, which can be beneficial for some users who want to sink into their couch or bed. Bacio Gelato has a strong citrus, skunky, and earthy aroma. Gelato #41 is the perfect strain for high-tolerance users or those that want to relax all day.

Mochi Gelato (#47) has energizing effects that’ll get you up and moving. Users enjoy its fruity and minty aroma. It’s similar to other Gelato strains in terms of potency and smell.

Gello Gelato (#43) is a cross between Mochi Gelato and Bacio Gelato. The result is a piney and fruit-forward aroma and some earthy notes. Gello Gelato’s effects are more balanced than Bacio’s and more mellow than Mochi’s. It’s the ideal day or evening marijuana strain.

Acaiberry Gelato (#49) is a sativa-dominant phenotype with strong tropical aromas and flavors. Acaiberry Gelato provides users with a relaxing experience during any time of the day.

Gelato plants have also given rise to new and exciting cannabis strains such as The Bling cannabis strain, which is a cross between Humboldt Frost, Reserve OG, and Humboldt Gelato. Humboldt Seed Company painstakingly phenohunted for the most desirable and high-yielding Gelato-descended phenotype.

Bred by Noble Farms, VVS Chem is a cross between Chemdog D, Chemdog 91, and Gelato marijuana strains. Like other Gelato children, VVS Chem has a sweet and fruity aroma. VVS Chem also has a distinct gassy overtone paired with citrus and piney notes.

Wedding Gelato strain is a cross between Gelato #33 and Wedding Cake strains. Gelato Cake elicits a strong dose of energy and a pleasant hazy aura that can liven up any situation.

Glazed Apricot Gelato is a cross between Gelato #1 and Legend Orange Apricot. This cross produces a sweet and citrus aroma and sky-high potency. A heavy dose of this Gelato-related strain can lead to some serious couchlock.

Jet Fuel Gelato is a cross between Gelato #45 and (High Octane OG x Jet Fuel G6). This exclusive strain from Compound Genetics has Gelato’s signature purple hues and high resin production. Jet Fuel Gelato’s gassy and dessert-like aroma creates a pleasant mix. This indica-dominant hybrid strain produces a heady euphoria that’ll keep you happy and mellow.

Caramel Apple Gelato is a sweet-tasting and smelling strain that elicits relaxation and a boost in mood. Caramel Apple Gelato is a cross between Apple Cider and Jet Fuel Gelato strains. Users can enjoy its diesel and fruity notes and THC-rich trichomes.

Gelato Sunrise is a cross between Sunset Sherbet, Thin Mint Girl Scout Cookies, and Gorilla Glue. The combination of these hardy genetics produces a sweet, fruity, citrusy, and piney aroma. Gelato Sunrise provides users with a blissful experience and full-body relaxation.

Pineapple Gelato is a combination of Gelato and Pineapple genetics. It is a heavenly blend of gassy, pineapple, and tropical fruit flavors and aromas. Pineapple Gelato is the perfect strain to wind down without feeling heavily sedated.

Los Angeles Kush’s Black Gelato marijuana strain combines their LA Sunset and Thin Mints genetics. Black Gelato has purple buds with a spicy aromatic kick.

Platinum Gelato is a cross between Gelato #45 and Platinum Candy (Platinum x Candyland). Platinum Gelato is named after its high resin production, which radiates like a polished platinum surface.

Gelato Punch is a blend between Gelato #33 and Purple Punch strains. Bred by Elev8 Seeds, Gelato Punch can be grown both indoors and outdoors. Gelato Punch has notes of lavender, berries, and citrus fruits.

Gelatti is another Cookies Fam creation made by combining Gelato and OG Biscotti genetics. Gelatti produces dense and resinous buds with a diesel-like, musky, and minty aroma and a high THC content.

Lemon Gelato is an indica-dominant hybrid cross between Lemon Haze, Sunset Sherbet, and Thin Mint GSC strains. Lemon Gelato has a unique blueberry, lemony, and sweet scent.

Elev8 Seeds’ Strawberry Gelato combines Gelato #33 and Strawberry Snow Cone strains. Haute Genetique’s Strawberry Gelato strain is derived from Strawberry Cookies and Acai Gelato strains.

Elev8 Seeds has also bred other Gelato creations such as Gelato Sundae, a cross between Gelato #33 and Sundae Driver strains. Gelato Sundae delivers a high yield and pungent aroma.

Gelato Kiss is a cross between Gelato #33 and Sour Patch Kiss. Users can expect a tangy and sour flavor with sweet notes to balance the tartness.

Gelonade, a cross between Gelato #41 and Lemon Tree genetics, is one of the most flavorful strains ever. Users can expect invigorating effects that can instantly improve their moods. Its complex aroma of fruit, citrus, banana, and vanilla is quite a treat to smoke, vape, and dab.

Gelato Sorbet from DNA Genetics is a cross between Gelato #33 and Sorbet strains. The result are flower buds with vivid colors ranging from green to purple. Its aroma includes fruity and dank notes. Gelato Sorbet produces calming and blissful effects, the perfect way to unwind after work.

Gelato Mints is an indica-dominant strain from Exotic Genetix. This THC-rich strain is a combination of It’s It and Cookies and Cream genetics. Its gassy aromatic notes blend well with the lemon, pine, and kush flavors. Day or night, this strain provides relaxing and motivating effects.

Gelato Glue combines the genetics of two legendary strains: Original Glue and Gelato. This high-THC strain can make users feel euphoric, blissful, and giggly. On the inhale, users may notice hints of pine, diesel, and chocolate.

Dolce Gelato is a hybrid mix between Gelato and an unknown cannabis strain. For fans of strains with a pungent odor, this strain does not disappoint. You’ll notice sweet and woody notes on the inhale. Its effects are very balanced, so you can feel relaxed and happy without feeling sedated or paranoid.

Gelato Dream was bred by crossing Gelato #41 and Loud Dream strains. On average, THC levels are around 19 percent. Users report a sweet, citrus, and fruity aromatic profile and mellowing and euphoric effects.

Gelato Pebbles, a blend of Gelato #33 and Cookie Pebbles, comes from Green Team Genetics. This sweet-smelling strain has an aroma of berries, milk, and candy.

Runtz, one of the hottest strains as of late, is another Cookies creation bred by crossing Zkittlez and Gelato strains. Runtz boasts a strong fruity flavor that tastes just like candy. Runtz was named Leafly’s 2020 Strain of the Year. Users can expect energizing and euphoric effects.

Frosty Gelato from Grower’s Choice is a cross between Gelato and Brain Damage strains. In 2018, it won 1st place at the Highlife Cup in the Skunk Strain category. This Gelato variety has all the flavor of the original with an even higher THC concentration.

Gelato Appearance

Gelato’s flower buds have a standard indica appearance. Generally, its buds are small and compact but are very dense. In terms of color, the flower buds have a vivid and striking array of colors. Its buds have a deep green color with purple accents.

Gelato Strain Effects

Gelato can make users feel the following effects:

• Relaxed
• Happy
• Euphoric
• Uplifted
• Creative

Gelato’s even-keeled effects provide just the right amount of euphoria and relaxation. Users will experience a balanced blend of uplifting and mellowing effects. This strain can provide a potent dose of THC while maintaining mental focus and facilitating creative pursuits. Users can’t help but to feel happy, productive, and physically relaxed after consuming.

Strain Medical Benefits

Gelato can provide relief for the following:

• Anxiety
• Stress
• Depression
• Pain
• Insomnia

Gelato’s strong and balanced effects have made it a popular strain among many medical patients. Patients have used this marijuana strain to relieve symptoms associated with a variety of medical conditions including depression, stress, anxiety, pain, insomnia, inflammation, fatigue, loss of appetite, and more.

In terms of physical relief, it has been known to relax the body and help with muscle spasms, headaches, inflammation, and chronic pain. Some users with insomnia or other sleeping problems take Gelato at night to help them fall asleep.

Gelato also offers mental relief from anxiety, depression, and stress. For those with anxiety, we recommend a few puffs of it to reduce stress levels without causing overexcitement and paranoia.

Gelato Strain Side Effects

Gelato side effects:

• Dry mouth
• Dry eyes
• Dizzy
• Paranoid
• Anxious

Generally, this strain does not produce any intense negative side effects making it the ideal strain for those worried about “greening out.” Overconsumption of it, however, can lead to some mild side effects including dry mouth, dry eyes, dizziness, paranoia, and anxiety.

We recommend new users start off with a small dose of Gelato and slowly and gradually build up to their desired effects. Smoking too much too soon can cause mild anxiety and stress for new and low-tolerance users.

For more information on how to avoid overconsumption, read our blog post on how to avoid “greening out.”

Gelato Cannabis Products

Gelato cannabis products include:

• Flower buds
• Pre-rolls
• Vape cartridges
• Concentrates

Gelato flower buds are sold in varying quantities, but most brands sell 3.5 grams per package in a jar or other container. Consumers can also find pre-rolls for the ultimate convenience in flower smoking when you’re on-the-go.

Gelato’s prized genetics can be distilled into an array of cannabis-infused products that aren’t flower. Apart from flower buds, it can come in a variety of concentrate forms including vape cartridges, disposable vape pens, crumble, shatter, hash, sauces, and live resin. Gelato’s high trichome production makes it a valuable strain for cannabis extraction.

How to Grow Gelato Strain

Under optimal growing conditions, Gelato produces tight and chunky buds that can have a purple and blue tint when grown in cold weather. This strain produces a high amount of cannabinoids and terpenes and a moderate to high yield. The flower buds are spotted with striking orange pistils jutting from the bud and icy trichomes glistening from its leaves.

Gelato can be difficult to grow, especially for first-time marijuana growers. Growers can buy seeds from online seed banks or a licensed dispensary. I Love Growing Marijuana lists feminized Gelato seeds in packs of five, ten, or twenty seeds. I Love Growing Marijuana also offers free shipping to orders to the U.S. and the UK.

Before ordering marijuana seeds, check with your state and country laws to confirm the legality of your purchase and delivery. U.S. customs can seize packages they suspect hold cannabis seeds, even if they are sold for “souvenir purposes.” The best way to obtain Gelato genetics is in mature legal marijuana markets such as California, Oregon, and Colorado.

In states with legal cannabis, users can buy Gelato seeds and clones from dispensaries. Users must be at least 21 years of age and have a valid ID to buy from a retail store. Make sure to check the home cultivation limit in your state to stay within the legal limit.

Gelato can grow both indoors and outdoors. Indoors, this strain produces a short and stocky plant. Gelato’s dark violet buds can mature within eight to nine weeks of entering the 12/12 flowering cycle. Outdoor growers can expect to see the strain mature by mid-October in the Northern Hemisphere. It prefers warm and humid outdoor conditions.

Gelato strains tend to produce large fan leaves that many many cultivators shy away from trimming, unless absolutely necessary. Some experienced growers may expose the strain to cold temperatures during the vegetative state to stimulate anthocyanin production that makes its leaves purple and blue.

While its pungent and sweet aroma is beloved by all, it can require growers to use efficient odor control techniques such as monitoring temperature and humidity levels, maintaining proper air circulation, and absorbing odors with products such as activated carbon filters. Read our blog post on “how to get rid of cannabis odor” to keep aroma under control.

Where To Find Gelato Flower and Concentrate Products

Cannabis consumers will have the most luck finding Gelato marijuana strains in mature cannabis markets such as Washington, Oregon, California, and also Nevada, Maryland, Oklahoma, and Arizona. As Gelato’s popularity grows, you will find it in nearly every cannabis market in the U.S.

According to Leafly, Gelato is most popular in the following cities: Seattle, WA, Portland, OR, Los Angeles, CA, Phoenix, AZ, Oklahoma City, OK, Everett, WA, Vancouver, WA, Las Vegas, NV, Baltimore, MD, and Tulsa, OK.

Gelato flower buds can run customers about $60 per eighth or between $10 and $15 for a pre-roll. A gram of concentrate ranging from live resin to crumble to sauce can go for about $40 per gram.

Gelato Strain Price

Gelato strain price on average is $12-$15 per gram, $45-58 per 1/8th oz, $96-$108 per 1/4 oz, and $202-$212 per 1/2 oz.

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