How to Grow Ace of Spades
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Ace of Spades
Cannabis sativa subsp. indica
herbAce of Spades is a hybrid cannabis cultivar known for its dark, dense buds and potent effects. It is a cross between Black Diamond and Ace High strains, combining indica and sativa genetics. This strain is popular among cultivators for its relatively quick flowering time and robust growth characteristics.
When should you plant Ace of Spades in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Ace of Spades timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Ace of Spades
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Ace of Spades
Around Jun 16≈ 60 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Ace of Spades dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growth Stages
Seedling
1-2 weeksCotyledons emerge, followed by first true leaves; plant is small and delicate with pale green coloration
Maintain high humidity (65-75%), gentle airflow, consistent moisture, and 18-24 hours of light; use grow lights at 24-36 inches away
Vegetative
3-8 weeksRapid stem and leaf growth; plant develops multiple nodes and branches; dark green foliage with characteristic serrated leaves
Maintain 18-hour photoperiod, high nitrogen fertilizer, prune for bushier growth, increase fan airflow, train branches if desired
Early Flowering
2-3 weeksSwitch to 12-hour photoperiod triggers flowering; white pistils emerge from calyxes, plant stops vertical growth
Reduce nitrogen, increase phosphorus and potassium, maintain 65-70°F night temperature, reduce humidity to 40-50%
Mid to Late Flowering
3-4 weeksDense bud development with thick resin coating; pistils darken from white to orange-brown; buds become heavy and compact
Continue bloom nutrients, support heavy buds with stakes or nets, monitor for mold/pests, reduce watering frequency
Harvest Ready
Variable based on preferenceTrichomes become milky-amber in appearance; pistils are 70-90% brown; leaves fade yellow; buds are dense and frosty
Flush medium with pH-balanced water for 7-10 days prior, monitor trichome color with magnification, harvest when target potency reached
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or miticide; increase humidity; ensure proper airflow; use beneficial predatory mites
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Use sticky traps; spray with insecticidal soap; apply pyrethrin-based sprays; introduce parasitic wasps
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Reduce humidity below 50%; improve air circulation; apply sulfur or potassium bicarbonate; remove affected leaves
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Maintain humidity below 50%; ensure strong airflow; remove affected buds immediately; avoid overhead watering
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; introduce ladybugs; use reflective mulch; remove infested leaves
Uses
Pain and Inflammation Relief
MedicinalCannabis contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD that interact with the endocannabinoid system to reduce pain perception and inflammation. This strain's indica genetics are traditionally associated with relaxing, analgesic effects. [source]
Sleep Support
MedicinalThe indica-dominant profile of Ace of Spades is reputed to promote relaxation and sedation, making it popular among those seeking natural sleep aid properties. [source]
Appetite Stimulation
MedicinalTHC is known to stimulate appetite through interaction with hypothalamic appetite centers, a property valuable for those with cachexia or reduced appetite. [source]
Infusions and Edibles
CulinaryDried flower can be used to create cannabis-infused oils, butters, or consumed in edible products after proper decarboxylation to activate cannabinoids. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest when trichomes are 70-90% milky white with 10-30% amber appearance for balanced potency and effects. Cut main cola and surrounding branches, then hang-dry in darkness at 60-65°F with 45-55% humidity for 7-14 days. Cure in airtight jars for 2-4 weeks, burping daily to prevent mold and develop flavor complexity.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The 'Ace of Spades' name references the dark coloring and spade-shaped appearance of the plant's leaves and the strain's reputation as a 'premium' cultivar.
- 🌱 This strain exhibits late-stage color changes, with some phenotypes developing deep purple or near-black hues in the final weeks of flowering due to anthocyanin pigmentation under cool nighttime temperatures.
- 🌱 Ace of Spades has a relatively short 60-70 day flowering window compared to many sativa-dominant strains, making it attractive for indoor commercial production and home growers.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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