Mandala #1 is a good choice if you are aiming for a quick crop with a sativa effect. Mandala Seeds recommend this strain especially for northern climates where harvesting by the end of September is a priority. This strain has two basic phenotypes (characteristic plant types). Most of the plants belong to the sativa dominant phenotype and grow in a Christmas tree shape. The leaf structure is similar to the Indica dominant phenotype. Purplish leaf stems and light red stripes along shoots are not uncommon and should not be mistaken for a nutrient deficiency. The young flowering plants have a perfumed woody-herbal fragrance when you rub the stems. Despite the sativa dominance the buds are chunky and the plants are easy to grow. The Indica type phenotype is apparent through it's squatter growth, thick main stem, and larger leaves. Branches are shorter, growing upwards close to the plant (perfect for SOG). The side shoots towards the top are also short and give the head buds a more compact structure. This pheno tends to develop a sweet-spicy smell during early flowering. Mandala #1 flowers with a spear-shaped head bud of considerable length that makes this a high yielder. Resin output is impressive - also outdoor. The prime head buds are coated with a thick layer of trichomes and glisten brightly in the sun. Some plants develop beautiful dark purple calyxes during mid-flowering: a trait which they inherited from the New Zealand Purple Indica in the paternal line. Harvesting is very simple since the calyx-to-leaf ratio is predominantly high.

Indoor

One of Mandala's breeding goals is to ensure that their strains are flexible and stable so that plants can be raised indoor and undergo the light stress of switching between artificial lighting and sunlight. It is therefore possible to start your garden indoor and shift the plants outdoor for flowering. Cloning and regenerating Mandala #1 is easy. Since this strain has a high percentage of landrace genetics that was adapted to growing on nutrient poor soil, the plants subsist easily in good horticultural grade potting soil and require little feeding if any. Mandala Seeds recommend providing an adequate pot size for healthy growth. Height is average and even the sativa phenotype can be accommodated in small indoor spaces if a 12/12 light period is started early. A Sea of Green style cultivation is best with the Indica phenotype, or with clones (rather than from seed) of both phenotypes. All plants are suitable for SCROG and other forms of training.

Outdoor

This early flowering strain shares the benefits of hardy landrace genetics and a very resinous hybrid to produce robust plants with high bud quality. Mandala #1 impresses with its high cold and pest resistance. The early flowering traits in this cross initiate bud development quickly enough for an abundant yield in September. Even if harsh weather circumstances require harvesting before all plants reach full maturity, they will still deliver a satisfying amount of resin-coated buds.