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As summer starts winding down and the golden-hour glow hits a little earlier, there’s still time to soak up every last chill sesh, BBQ night, or spontaneous lake day. And if you’re anything like us, your end-of-summer vibe isn’t complete without the right strain in rotation.
At Hippos Cannabis, we’ve handpicked a mix of standout strains that match the season’s mellow-but-magnetic energy. Whether you're kicking back fireside, hitting the last festival of the summer, or reflecting with a journal in hand and the fan on full blast.
Why End-of-Summer Strains Hit Different
Late summer brings its own unique rhythm. It's not the nonstop hustle of early summer, but it’s not quite fall either. It's the sweet spot for intentional highs. Strains that help you lean into the moment, stay energized when you need to, and wind down when it’s time to reflect.
The best strains for this season are:
- Balanced hybrids for both chill and chatter
- Sativa-dominant strains to squeeze out those sun-drenched days
- Potent indicas to help you reset and recharge
So let’s get into it. These are our top picks to end the summer on a high note.
1. Lemon Cherry Gelato – Sweet, Smooth, and Euphoric
- Type: Hybrid (Sunset Sherbet x Girl Scout Cookies x an unknown Lemon strain)
- THC: Typically high, often 25%+
- Flavor Notes: Bright cherry, citrus, creamy vanilla, and diesel
- Aroma: Sweet and fruity with a skunky twist
Lemon Cherry Gelato delivers a balanced hybrid high: a pleasantly uplifting head buzz; tingly and euphoric, gradually easing into full‑body relaxation without being overwhelming. It brings happy vibes perfect for social situations. With THC around 20%–28%, it’s powerful yet controllable for most seasoned users.
The flavor is dessert-like; bright citrus lemon meets sweet cherry and berry, lingering with hints of fresh pine and earthy herbs. It’s a favorite among flavor seekers and vibe chasers alike, ideal for late‑afternoon wind-downs, creative social sessions, or chill evenings.
Why It Works Now: It’s that perfect middle ground: relaxed but still alert.
Pair With: Lawn chairs, vinyl records, or a laid-back smoke circle with your besties.
Hippos Tip: Ideal for hybrid fans who want both a cerebral lift and body melt.
2. Durban Poison – Focused, Fresh, and Energizing
- Type: Pure Sativa (landrace from South Africa)
- THC: Ranges from 18%–24%
- Flavor Notes: Sweet pine, citrus rind, herbal spice
- Aroma: Earthy, fresh, and slightly floral
Durban Poison is a true wake-and-bake classic. This legendary landrace strain is known for boosting focus, creativity, and physical energy without the fog. It’s your best friend for staying productive and dialed-in, even as the summer haze lingers.
The flavor profile is distinct: sharp pine, sweet licorice/anise, earthy spice, and herbal citrus notes. This legendary strain is a favorite for productive mornings, creative flow states, or active afternoons, perfect for when you want to stay dialed-in as the day heats up.
Why It Works Now: Keeps your vibe elevated for the last round of warm-weather plans.
Pair With: Morning coffee, farmers markets, or afternoon journaling sessions.
More about it: Durban Poison strain spotlight
3. PB Soufflé – Nutty, Earthy, and Incredibly Relaxing
- Type: Indica-dominant hybrid (Dosidos x Lava Cake)
- THC: Medium to high (20%+)
- Flavor Notes: Nutty, creamy, cocoa, and herbal
- Aroma: Deep, earthy, slightly sweet
PB Soufflé brings richness in both flavor and effect. This indica-leaning hybrid kicks off with a gentle wave of mental clarity and uplifted calm, clearing the noise without clouding your head. As the high deepens, it melts into full relaxation; soothing without any foginess allowing you to stay present and engaged. It’s a great pick for slow-paced days, reflective moods, or deep conversations as the sun dips low and the sky turns peachy.
Flavor-wise, PB Soufflé is a standout. Expect buttery, nutty notes on the inhale, like a peanut butter cookie fresh out of the oven, followed by a touch of earthy spice, chocolate, and herbal sweetness on the exhale. Its aroma is just as rich: warm, pungent, and dessert-forward, with hints of sweet dough and toasted nuts. Whether you're savoring it solo or passing it around with friends, PB Soufflé sets the tone for a chill, thoughtful vibe.
Why It Works Now: Helps bridge the gap between summer slowdown and fall focus.
Pair With: A quiet night on the patio, fire pit chats, or unwinding after a long day.
Hippos Tip: The flavor makes this one a sensory treat; don’t rush it.
4. GMO (Garlic Cookies) – Funky, Potent, and Perfectly Smooth
- Type: Indica-dominant hybrid (Girl Scout Cookies x Chemdawg)
- THC: Often above 25%
- Flavor Notes: Garlic, diesel, savory spice
- Aroma: Skunky, earthy, and bold
GMO (GMO Cookies or Garlic Cookies) is absolutely not for the faint of palate or tolerance. This heavy indica-dominant hybrid (≈ 90% indica / 10% sativa) packs massive THC levels, often in the 25–30% range, making it a true heavyweight performer.
Its effects hit quickly: expect a sharp, euphoric head rush that leads almost immediately into deep, full‑body melt. It’s that kind of luxuriously heavy high that makes you forget what “plans” even are. Perfect for those nights when the only thing on your agenda is melting into your favorite spot and letting the world fade away.
The terpene profile is boldly pungent dominated by caryophyllene, limonene, and myrcene. This creates a funk-forward blend of garlic, onion, diesel, and earthy spice with fleeting hints of coffee.
Why It Works Now: It's the strain equivalent of “Do Not Disturb.”
Pair With: Deep couch dives, binge-watching marathons, or a long overdue nap.
Pro Tip: Ideal for those who need a reset or want a full-stop sesh to close out the week.
Tips for a Late-Summer Sesh
- Hydrate Often: Keep your water bottle handy especially if you're outdoors.
- Mix It Up: Rotate your sativa, hybrid, and indica depending on time of day and setting.
- Store Flower Right: Humidity packs can help maintain freshness during summer heat.
- Try Strain Journaling: Capture how different strains hit you so you’re ready for fall rotation.
Need help picking your vibe? Our guide to day vs. night strains can help you find the right match.
Make the Most of Summer at Hippos
Whether you’re soaking up one last river float or getting cozy before the seasonal shift, Hippos Cannabis has the flower to make your summer sendoff unforgettable. Visit your closest Hippos dispensary, and we’ll help you discover the perfect strain for your end-of-season plans.
