If the phrase “award-winning cannabis strain” gets your attention, you’re in for a treat. Just like its namesake, the Gary Payton weed strain is a force of nature. A zesty hybrid that delivers a flavorful and balanced experience, it’s named for the NBA Hall of Famer known as “The Glove” for his tenacious defense.
Since it’s a Cookies grow, you already know it’s a premium, craft-grown offering. Expect bold flavor, a smooth smoke, and effects that hit just right. Plus, you won’t find it just anywhere; it’s available exclusively at Takoma, home to DC’s only Cookies Corner.
In this review, we’re diving into what makes the Gary Payton strain a standout. We’ll trace its genetic roots, break down its effects and potency, explore its unmistakable look and aroma, and more. Ready to play?
Gary Payton by Cookies: A Star Player is Born
Since its drop, Cookies’ Gary Payton strain has racked up a string of awards, including 1st place in the 2022 Errl Cup and 2nd for Solvent Concentrate at the Emerald Cup from the same year. It’s a collaboration between Cookies and Powerzzzup Genetics, a slow-burning grow house that’s been making waves in the cannabis cultivation world. If the success of the Gary Payton strain is any indication, you’ll be hearing a lot more from them in the months and years to come.
True to Cookies’ standards, the Gary Payton strain is all about the genetics. With some very famous parent strains, it’s no surprise that the hybrid has just as many fans as the star himself.
- Y Griega: Often known simply as The Y, this energizing sativa is typically chosen for both its jumbo-sized, resin-coated buds and its durable, creative calm. With vibrant aromas of sour citrus and sweet vanilla, it’s a go-to for riding out the day.
- Snowman: An offshoot of the world-famous GSC family of strains, this gassy, Diesel-scented hybrid may impart a deeply euphoric finish that has helped many fans spark creativity and reflection. As for the name? A reference to the bountiful frosty trichomes that coat its buds.
Is Gary Payton Indica or Sativa?
As a balanced hybrid, the Gary Payton strain combines classic, relaxing indica with energizing and uplifting sativa. That may be one reason it’s found so many devotees; many consumers report that it delivers a perfectly even experience, combining euphoric inspiration with physical calm.
How Potent is the Gary Payton Strain?
As with all cannabis strains, the single best way to predict Gary Payton’s strain effects is its THC content. THC, of course, is the primary cannabinoid in cannabis, and the one most associated with those unforgettable psychoactive effects.
With an average THC level in the 22% – 25% range, the Gary Payton strain is a pretty potent option, especially for those newer to cannabis. We always recommend starting low and going slow to better understand how this strain works with your individual body and mind.
Though it contains negligible amounts of CBD, Gary Payton contains roughly 1% CBG, a minor cannabinoid linked with the potential to reduce pain and inflammation, among other benefits.
The Sensory Playbook: Gary Payton’s Look, Scent, and Taste
With sticky, popcorn-shaped nugs in deep green and vibrant purple, Gary Payton cannabis flower practically begs to be sampled. With vibrant orange pistils and a dusting of faintly amber trichomes, you’ll agree: This bud packs some serious bag appeal.
When it comes to flavors and aromas, some pick up on spicy, peppery notes, while others detect the alluring scents of apricot and lavender. Whatever you’re smelling, it’s a reflection of the strain’s terpenes, the fragrant essential oils that give all cannabis strains their distinctive aromas. The top three terpenes you’re most likely to find in Cookies’ Gary Payton include:
- Caryophyllene: Often behind the bold notes of black pepper and cinnamon in the Gary Payton strain, caryophyllene is unique among terpenes for the way it interacts with the body. It’s commonly found in herbs and spices like cloves and basil and is known for its warm, spicy kick.
- Limonene: If you’re picking up a citrusy, lemon-forward aroma, that’s likely limonene. This bright, zesty terpene shows up in everything from citrus peels to juniper, and it’s often associated with uplifting, energetic strains.
- Linalool: Floral and slightly herbal, linalool gives off that signature lavender-like aroma. It’s a common component in many relaxing strains and plays a big part in shaping Gary Payton’s smooth, nuanced terpene profile.
It’s this unique mix of terpenes that gives Gary Payton its standout aroma and smooth, layered experience.
How High Can You Jump? Gary Payton Strain Effects
At Takoma Wellness, we don’t play favorites when it comes to sativas vs indicas vs hybrids. That said, so many of our guests have commented on Gary Payton’s pleasing balance, so we’d be remiss not to mention it. Whether you love relaxing, body-centered effects, or a burst of cerebral stimulation, this cultivar’s got you covered.
What does it feel like? It’s commonly described as even-keeled, mildly energizing, and calming in equal measure, hitting like a “best-of” when it comes to balanced, mind and body effects.
Growing the Gary Payton Strain: Tips and Tricks
Though most cultivators feel it does better indoors, the Gary Payton strain is a refreshingly easy one to cultivate. Plus, it can deliver better-than-average yields. It tends to grow tall, so be sure to practice solid topping and pruning techniques to ensure a strong and well-balanced physical structure. Many growers also comment on its preference for higher-than-average humidity and warmer temperatures.
At 8 to 9 weeks, flowering time is relatively brief. If you’re cultivating outdoors, you should plan on harvesting as September turns to October, depending on local climate conditions. When it’s carefully managed indoors, you can expect it to yield up to 500 grams per square meter in optimal conditions.
Takoma x Cookies: The Gary Payton Strain You Can’t Miss
As a perfectly balanced hybrid, the Gary Payton strain has something for everyone who loves cannabis: A profoundly relaxing edge, typically euphoric and uplifting effects, and the memorable flavors and aromas you’ll only find in top-shelf, craft-grown cannabis.
Interested in trying Gary Payton for yourself? As the District’s official Cookies Corner, we’re one of the only sources for this absolute blockbuster of a strain, along with other authentic Cookies strains, merch, and goodies you can’t get anywhere else.
Shop our menu for this and other star power strains, or come on in and experience it for yourself.