Tear Gas
Chem D × Chem 91 × SFV/OGKB × GMO × Kush Mints × OGKB
Tear Gas is a modern, boutique hybrid cultivar that emerged from West Coast breeder circles in the early 2020s. Known for its intense, eye-watering aroma and potent effects, this strain delivers a powerful sensory experience. Its name reflects the pungent, nose-stinging scent that can be noticeable even before combustion.
Appearance
Tear Gas presents dense, conical colas with an OG-style spear shape, often displaying deep green hues with hints of purple when exposed to cooler temperatures. The calyxes swell and cluster tightly, forming compact nodes that develop into elongated bud structures. Small sugar leaves curl inward, covered in a heavy layer of trichomes that give the buds a frosted appearance.
The abundant resin resembles a 'sleet of trichomes,' with thick, glassy, and evenly distributed bulbous heads that sparkle under light. Pistils are typically thin and wiry, transitioning from tangerine to rust or auburn as the plant matures. A skilled trim is essential to preserve the trichome heads, which contribute to the strain's signature glare and capture its volatile aromatics.
Aroma & Flavor
The aroma of Tear Gas is intensely pungent, characterized by high-octane fuel, scorched rubber, and sour solvent notes, underpinned by a savory garlic-onion base. Many phenotypes also exhibit a lemon peel sharpness and a black pepper finish, with subtle herbal undertones. This powerful scent profile is often noticeable across a room shortly after opening its container.
On the palate, Tear Gas begins with diesel and lemon-pine solvent flavors, evolving into a chewy garlic-rubber sensation. A peppery sensation on the back of the throat is common, attributed to high beta-caryophyllene content. The exhale may reveal a slight sweetness coupled with herbal bitterness, reminiscent of charred rosemary and citrus pith.
Effects
Tear Gas is recognized for delivering potent effects, aligning with its high THC content and intense aroma. While specific effects are not detailed in the source, its 'gas' profile and high potency suggest a powerful experience often sought by experienced consumers. The strain's name implies an immediate and strong sensory impact.
Terpenes & Cannabinoids
This cultivar typically tests high in beta-caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene, with humulene and linalool often present as secondary terpenes. Total terpene content can exceed 2.0% in elite cuts, and optimized growing conditions may push this figure to 3.0% or higher, correlating with its pronounced aroma. The high THC content, ranging from 24-30%, contributes significantly to its potency, while CBD levels are generally below 1%.
Growing
Cultivating Tear Gas requires attention due to its chem/OG genetics, which can lead to lankier internodes and significant stretch during the flowering phase. The plants tend to develop heavy, resin-coated colas that often require support structures like trellising. Flowering typically lasts between 63–70 days, though some phenos may finish slightly earlier.
Optimal growing conditions are necessary to maximize its aromatic potential, as volatile terpenes can dissipate quickly with improper post-harvest handling. Airtight containers and humidity control are recommended for storage to preserve terpene integrity and contain the strong odor.
Origins & Lineage
Tear Gas is a relatively new hybrid cultivar that originated in West Coast breeder circles in the early 2020s. Due to its recent emergence and circulation primarily through clone-only channels, a universally disclosed official lineage is not available. However, community reports and breeder notes suggest a strong influence from Chem/OG genetics, potentially including Chem D, Chem 91, or SFV/OGKB.
Hypotheses regarding its parentage often include crosses involving GMO (Garlic Cookies) or similar garlic-forward genetics, which contribute to its characteristic sulfurous funk. Other potential contributing lines include Kush Mints or OGKB, aiming for structure and frost. These proposed lineages are based on sensory observations, such as its piercing fuel, garlic-onion aroma, and dense, OG-style colas, rather than definitive genetic documentation.