Best cannabis strains of summer 2026: A 12-strain review

Blue Nerds has been building up a head of steam for a few years, and we think summer 2026 is the ideal time to jump on the Blue Nerds train if you haven’t already been riding. A few strains are going around under the name Blue Nerds, aka Blue Nerdz, so, to clarify, we’re talking about the Runtz x The Original Z cultivar out of Global Genetics LA, not the (also good, but different) Watermelon Z x Forbidden Fruit versions. It’s just got a slight touch of fruity flavor over a bed of dankness that doesn’t overwhelm the palate and still maintains earthy notes, and it’s plenty potent besides. If strains like Lemon Cherry Gelato are your go-to but you’re tired of the same old, then pull this strain out of a locker and get to smoking.

Disco (Wedding Cake x Lime Vines) is about as good a dancing weed as you can get your hands on. It’s an indica-leaning hybrid courtesy of Fountainhead Seeds, in collab with Cookies, but boasts a pulsing, cerebral high that is usually more associated with strains on the sativa side of the line. It’ll keep you grounded without vegging out, focused without losing touch, and if you’re the type to get a bit paranoid while stoned in a crowd, then Disco is a peerless partner on the dance floor. Disco then, disco now, disco forever.

Crunch Berries comes to us from the pride of Tacoma, WA, Exotic Genetix, who made the strain by crossing Blueberry with their in-house line of Triple-OG. The strain has been a favorite of the PNW for years and is now almost certainly available in your neck of the woods, having grown in popularity due to its frankly uncanny aromatic resemblance to the breakfast cereal. It’s hard to find a better wake-and-bake strain than this one; the nostalgic scent and the just-potent-enough average THC% will have an experienced smoker greeting Saturday morning with a smile. Cartoons optional.

Devil Driver from Tiki Madman is a very potent strain descended from Melonade and the classic Sundae Driver. You may be more familiar with this strain’s heir, Dante’s Inferno, which has somewhat eclipsed the original strain, but we think that this sativa-dominant hybrid is worth traveling back through the generations. Devil Driver is a particularly loud strain with a powerful aroma, and while it shares its extreme, 28-30% THC potency with its most famous progeny, its flavor is all its own. Check it out, and get a little wild; after all, who isn’t tempted to let the devil drive now and again?

While great weed is timeless and a truly exceptional strain will treat you right throughout the year, we must admit, Grassroots’ Titan Express was simply made for summer. It’s the terps that make this true-blue sativa descended from Citradelic Sunset and Modified Muffin #10 perfect for the long days; you’ll be getting sweet lemons, earthy notes reminiscent of fresh cut grass, and a sharp, pungent dankness that will make you think of an old muscle car. It’s Norman Rockwell in a grinder, folks, but don’t expect to feel pastoral after you smoke. Prepare for some straight nitro and hold on tight, because the express doesn’t ever slow down.

A delightful descendant of Leafly Strain of the Year 2025 NomineeDulce de Uva and Sherbanger, Black Maple is a full, well-rounded sensory experience that leaves you feeling satisfied. Black Maple is the creation of Bloom Seed Co.’s Harry Palms, who is seemingly a person with an exceptional understanding of euphoria; his strain really is an all-purpose day improver. It’s a harmonious smoke that helps you connect to your body and the natural world through its deep, woody flavors, and its exceptional THC percentage can lead you on an odyssey of good vibes and peaceful feelings, all without collapsing into a giggling heap.

Kombucha is a 50/50 hybrid from the team at Symbiotic Genetics, the same crew that launched the world-famous Mimosa, and it must be said, I hope they never stop making strains with names pulled from drink menus because Kombucha is another absolute banger. It’s a cross of the world-famous Sour Diesel and Purple Punch F2, and maintains the heavy gas aroma that made Sour Diesel a household name. Pure, unapologetic diesel like this is always a pleasant surprise, while there is a touch of sweetness playing under the surface, Kombucha really does smell like the only truckstop for a hundred miles in any direction, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

I bought an eighth of Ginger Tea about three weeks ago, and I’m still holding on to the jar so I can keep smelling it. I would wear this strain as perfume, and I’m not kidding; the sharp, spicy scent smells like something a witch would use to lure passersby into the woods. Ginger Tea is a creation of the prolific Archive Seedbank, which combined their lovely Moonbow strain with a  Pure Thai x FaceOff OG cross to produce the sativa-leaning hybrid. It’s a daytime smoke for sure, full of euphoric, joyful energy. If you’ve got a big day planned, take a few puffs before you set out, and you’ll glide through your schedule.

One of the most talked about strains in the PNW, One Piece is a creation of Svin Gardens, who originated the strain from a single mystery seed. They list the genetics as a cross between Wedding Cake, which, judging by the luxurious, thick vanilla flavor, is a pretty safe bet, and an unknown parent. I have my theories about what that other strain may be, but it truly doesn’t matter; One Piece stands on its own as a fabulous example of an indica-leaning hybrid. It’s perfect for a chill night in gaming, socializing, or even watching anime. Climb aboard and bring along all your hopes and dreams before the lawyers catch wind and make them change the name.

A Jack Herer x Biscotti cross from the folks at Connected, Jack of Diamonds is a strain that anyone who uses cannabis in their creative process should make the acquaintance of. It’s got a sweet, fruity, and layered aroma with a slightly skunky undertone that lets you know that it’s playing for keeps. Jack of Diamonds is a creative strain first and foremost, but with some real get-up-and-go as well; it will help you explore ideas and motivate you to put your thoughts into action. Writing, painting, whatever you like to do, Jack of Diamonds is the artistic collaborator that you’ve been waiting for.

Toronja by POET hails from Trinity County in NorCal, carrying a bright, citrus-soaked profile that’s made for summer days. The jar opens with an invigorating burst of fresh grapefruit, before settling into deeper notes of chem, fuel, and earth. The flavor follows suit. Tart citrus leads the charge, with gas and funk on the exhale. The effects are high vibe and clear-headed, sharpening the senses while brightening the mood. It has an energetic quality that lends itself well to artistic pursuits. A steady physical ease that keeps the experience grounded. This is the kind of flower that belongs in a backpack or a picnic basket. Share it with friends as the afternoon drifts away. Dank, flavorful, and full of vibes, Toronja captures the endless blue skies of summer’s abundance. – Lindsay MaHarry

Purple Headies by Mendo Dope, available through Redwood Roots, hits like the golden hour when heat finally breaks. The flowers are dense and heavy with resin, stacked in tight clusters of violet and lavender. Bright orange pistils glow like embers, punctuating a glittering coat of trichomes. On the inhale, sweet dough, grape candy, and fuel mingle together. A sharp burst of grape Jolly Rancher hits first, followed by earthy gas and a lingering sweetness. A true hybrid, Purple Headies carries a buoyant, feel-good energy, opening space for conversation, laughter, and whatever comes next. Whether it’s a day at the river or an evening watching stars appear, Purple Headies will remind you how special the fleeting moments of summer truly are. – Lindsay MaHarry