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The Now and Later strain, also called Now N Later, is one of several cannabis varieties named after nostalgic candies. While it hasn’t reached the mainstream popularity of Zkittlez, it shares a similar lineage and delivers a flavorful, candy-like smoking experience that keeps it on the radar of cannabis connoisseurs.

The history of the Now and Later strain traces back to its careful development from parent strains, with its unique genetics and increasing popularity helping it gain recognition among enthusiasts.

As its reputation grows, the Now and Later strain is making a notable impact in the cannabis market, showing strong potential to become a leading product in the industry.

If you’re searching for a balanced hybrid with bold flavors, high potency, and versatile effects, the Now and Later weed strain is worth exploring. This strain review covers its genetics, THC levels, terpene profile, flavor, aroma, effects, growing tips, and medical benefits—plus answers to popular questions. You may also be interested in our guide to the best weed strains of all time.

The image depicts the Now And Later strain of cannabis, showcasing its vibrant green buds that are dense and frosty, indicating high THC levels. This hybrid strain is known for its fruity and citrus flavor profile, offering therapeutic benefits for conditions like chronic pain and insomnia, while providing a relaxing and euphoric experience.

Introduction to the Now and Later Strain

The Now and Later strain, sometimes called Now & Later or Now N Laterz, stands out as a rare and top shelf hybrid weed strain developed by Beyond Top Shelf. This unique strain genetics combines the indica-dominant Zkittlez with the sativa-leaning Abula, resulting in a perfectly balanced hybrid that delivers both mental uplift and deep body relaxation.

With THC levels consistently testing between 20% and 26%, Now and Later is known for its intense high that appeals to experienced users seeking relief from chronic pain, muscle spasms, and insomnia.

The effects of this hybrid are notably indica-leaning, providing a powerful body sensation that soothes muscles and eases tension, while still offering a touch of sativa-driven mental clarity.

Whether you’re looking for a strain to help manage pain or simply want to experience a high-quality, potent hybrid, Now and Later’s carefully developed genetics and top shelf status make it a standout choice for those who appreciate both intensity and balance in their cannabis experience.

Now and Later Strain Genetics and Lineage

Now and Later is a 50/50 balanced hybrid whose origin lies in the crossbreeding of Abula and Zkittlez, combining the unique genetic backgrounds of both parent strains.

  • Abula – A Sativa-dominant strain prized for boosting appetite and energy. It has fruity, spicy notes and uplifting effects, making it ideal for daytime use.
  • Zkittlez – An award-winning Indica-dominant hybrid with a THC range of 13–15%. Famous for its sweet, berry, grape, and citrus candy flavors reminiscent of Skittles, Zkittlez is deeply relaxing and sedating at higher doses.

Genetic highlights:

  • Balanced hybrid genetics for versatile effects, featuring both sativa and indica characteristics
  • Flavor-forward lineage from Zkittlez
  • Appetite-stimulating influence from Abula

THC Content and Potency

The THC percentage of Now and Later typically falls between 20–26%, placing it firmly in the high-potency category. This makes it best suited for experienced cannabis consumers.

Because of its strength and relaxing finish, Now N Later is often recommended for evening or nighttime use. Expect a euphoric head high followed by heavy physical relaxation that can lead to sleep. The effects are long-lasting, delivering prolonged relief and making it ideal for relaxation, sleep, and pain management.

The onset of the high is slow, so it's important to take it slow and steady, allowing the effects to gradually build. The effects will continue for an extended period before they eventually subside.

Flavor, Aroma, and Terpene Profile

Flavor: Sweet citrus with woody undertones and subtle hints of spice and earth

Aroma: Inviting blend of candy sweetness, citrus zest, and earthiness, with hints of wood and spice. When the bud is broken or burned, the aroma transforms from sweet citrus to a more pronounced woody and rubber-like scent.

Dominant Terpenes:

  • Myrcene – Sedating, mood-enhancing, common in strains like Motorbreath, Blueberry Blast, and the popular Blue Dream, which is renowned for its notable terpene profile.
  • Caryophyllene – Spicy, peppery, with potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relief properties (found in Larry OG, Tangerine Dream).
  • Limonene – Citrusy, uplifting, and anti-inflammatory (abundant in Purple Punch, Tangie).
  • Linalool – Floral and slightly spicy, known for stress and anxiety relief (present in Peyote Cookies, Jungle Juice).

The bud of Now and Later is dense and resinous, showcasing vibrant colors and a frosty trichome layer, which speaks to its high quality and potent effects.

The terpene synergy in Now and Later gives it a smooth smoke that’s both flavorful and relaxing, making it appealing to both recreational and medical users. The terpene profile also contributes to the strain’s complex aroma, therapeutic benefits, and overall sensory experience.

Now and Later Strain Effects

Initial effects: Euphoric uplift, heightened mood, and mild energy boost. Users often report a strong sense of euphoria as a key effect, accompanied by a unique feeling of mental clarity and physical ease. 

Secondary effects: Progressive physical relaxation, tension relief, and eventual sedation. As the high unfolds, users feel a profound depth of relaxation and sedation, with the feeling intensifying and enveloping both mind and body.

Best for:

  • Relaxing after work
  • Unwinding before bed
  • Stress relief with a mood boost

Medical Benefits of the Now and Later Strain

A relaxed patient is seated comfortably, enjoying the therapeutic benefits of the Now N Later cannabis strain, which is known for its balanced effects on both body and mind. The atmosphere suggests a sense of relief from chronic pain and muscle spasms, enhanced by the strain's flavorful profile and aroma.

With its high THC and balanced effects, Now N Later stands out for its ability to provide therapeutic benefits for a range of conditions. This strain can deliver relief for both physical and mental health issues, making it a versatile option for medical cannabis users.

Now N Later can help manage:

  • Appetite loss – Stimulates hunger and often causes the munchies, making it useful for patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy.
  • Chronic pain – THC and caryophyllene provide potential analgesic effects and help alleviate symptoms associated with chronic pain.
  • Muscle spasms, tension, and cramps – Myrcene and Linalool help ease tension and cramps.
  • Stress, anxiety, and depression – Limonene and Linalool promote a calmer mindset and can provide relief from mood disorders, including depression.
  • Insomnia – Sedative properties make it useful for nighttime relief.

Adverse Reactions and Precautions

While the Now and Later strain offers a range of therapeutic benefits, users should be mindful of potential adverse reactions due to its high THC levels and potent hybrid effects. Common side effects include dry mouth and dry eyes, which can be managed by staying hydrated and using eye drops if needed.

Some users may also experience headaches, especially if they are sensitive to strong strains or consume larger amounts.

The creeper nature of this strain means its effects can intensify over time, sometimes leading to an unexpectedly intense high that may cause anxiety or paranoia, particularly in those new to cannabis or with a low tolerance.

To minimize these risks, it’s best to start with a low dose and gradually increase as you gauge your body’s response. Paying attention to the strain’s terpene profile and your own sensitivity to THC can also help you enjoy the positive effects while avoiding discomfort.

By taking these precautions, users can safely access the therapeutic benefits of Now and Later, including relief from pain, muscle spasms, and insomnia, while keeping adverse reactions to a minimum.

Growing the Now and Later Strain

Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced growers
Growing Difficulty: Moderate (sensitive to environment, long flowering time; for optimal results, consider using the best cannabis fertilizer products)

Indoor Yields: 0.5–1 oz per sq ft
Outdoor Yields: 1–2 oz per sq ft (300–400g per plant)
Height: Outdoors, plants grow about 20 inches taller than indoors
Flowering Time: 70–80 days

Now and Later can also be cultivated in a greenhouse, offering flexibility for growers who want to control environmental factors. Careful monitoring during the flowering stage is essential to achieve optimal potency, flavor, and yield. Be especially vigilant for mold, as this strain can be susceptible in humid conditions, particularly in greenhouses or during late flowering.

While the longer flowering cycle is unusual for a strain with modest yields, the potency and flavor profile make Now and Later worth the wait for skilled growers.

Appearance of Now and Later Buds

Buds are small, dense, and dark green with occasional orange pistils. A frosting of white trichomes gleams under light, signaling its potency and resin production—great for both flower consumption and concentrate extraction.

FAQ's About the Now and Later Strain

Is Now and Later strain Indica or Sativa?

It’s a balanced 50/50 hybrid, offering both uplifting and relaxing effects.

What does the Now and Later strain taste like?

Expect sweet citrus and woody flavors with candy-like notes from its Zkittlez heritage.

How strong is Now and Later weed?

It ranges from 20–26% THC, making it quite potent and better suited for experienced users.

Is Now N Later good for medical marijuana patients?

Yes, especially for pain, stress, insomnia, appetite loss, and muscle spasms.

Can beginners grow Now and Later?

Not recommended—it’s better for growers with experience managing longer flowering strains.

Now N Later Strain Interesting Facts

-Now and Later has a THC content averaging 21%.

-Now and Later is considered a “creeper” strain, meaning its effects come on slowly.

-Now and Later has a complex flavor profile that can include apricot, grapes, watermelon, and citrus.

-Now and Later effects are mostly calming.

-Users commonly describe the smoke as smooth with a pleasant aftertaste.

-Many users reported feeling relaxed and tingly after using Now and Later.

-Users report that Now and Later offers significant relief from mood disorders, including depression.

-Now and Later seeds are not readily available.

-Now and Later requires regular pruning to flourish.

-Now and Later requires regular pruning to flourish.

-The flowering time for Now and Later is typically around 60-70 days indoors.

-Yield for Now and Later indoors typically ranges from 0.5 to 1 OZ/FT2.

-Outdoors, Now and Later yields approximately 1 to 2 OZ per plant.

Final Thoughts on the Now and Later Weed Strain

The Now and Later cannabis strain is a flavorful, potent hybrid that blends the best qualities of Abula and Zkittlez into one unforgettable smoke.

With its candy-inspired aroma, balanced effects, and relaxing finish, it’s a favorite for both medical and recreational users.

While its longer flowering period and moderate yields require patience from growers, the potency, terpene complexity, and overall experience make Now and Later a worthwhile addition to any collection. Learn how to grow weed and Now N Later at CTU!

Gavin Kushman. Cannabis strain writer in a cannabis garden
Gavin Kushman

Gavin is a worldly adventurer and cannabis connoisseur, embarking on journeys that take him to the far corners of the globe to explore and document the varied effects, flavors, and histories of both renowned and lesser-known strains. From the misty high-altitude farms of the Hindu Kush highlands to the vibrant cannabis cafes of Amsterdam, Gavin's quest for knowledge spans continents. A recognized authority in the cannabis industry, he frequently lends his expertise to leading publications such as Cannabis Training University, where his captivating blog articles chronicle his unique experiences with different cannabis strains.

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