Mr. Nice of North America and the Mr. Nice Global Network
Welcome to MrNice.com the Official Exclusive Representative of North America and The Direct Arm of Shantibaba and Mr. Nice SeedBank and Research Globally.
Mr. Nice Seeds, a Dutch cannabis seed bank, is a collaborative effort between Shantibaba and the legendary Howard Marks (also known as “Mr. Nice”). Their commitment to genetic diversity and refusal to chase fleeting trends sets them apart, making them a top choice for those seeking classic, robust cannabis strains.
HISTORY
In 2010, Mr. Nice of North America Started by Importing Mr. Nice and CBD Crew Seeds, Immediately Providing Help and Genetics to West Coast Medical Gardens, Collectives and Dispensaries, Running Countless Seed Booths in High Times and Emerald Cups, TradeShows, Cannacons, MJ Biz Conventions, HempFests, HempStocks, and others…
Love for the Plant
Shantibaba licensed, co-developed, and co-operated the first legal Hemp and Cannabis farms, Greenhouses, and Production and Processing Facilities in Washington, Colorado, and Oregon. As part of his continued investment into the brand and products he continued by co-securing intellectual property; Trademarks, Web Domains, Brand Development; Packaging, and Distribution. Mr. Nice is dedicated to providing the highest quality genetics with consistent flavors, aromas, and effects along with some of the most beautiful looking flower(s) you can find. This is pure love for the bud and purely for the people who love the Plant…”
Here are some of the remarkable strains produced by Mr. Nice Seeds:
Northern Lights No. 5:
aka: NL5
Northern Lights No. 5 is a classic indica strain known for its relaxing effects, earthy aroma, and resin-coated buds. It’s a staple in the cannabis world and has influenced countless other strains.
Super Silver Haze:
Super Silver Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid that combines genetics from Skunk, Northern Lights, and Haze. It offers an energetic high, citrusy flavor, and has won accolades in cannabis competitions.
White Widow:
aka: Black Widow
White Widow is an iconic strain bred by Shantibaba. It’s a balanced hybrid with resinous buds, uplifting effects, and an earthy taste. White Widow remains a favorite among enthusiasts.
Critical Mass:
Critical Mass is another strain associated with Mr. Nice Seeds. It’s an indica-dominant hybrid known for heavy yields, relaxation, and robust growth.
Other Strains:
Mr. Nice Seeds has a diverse catalog, including other classic strains like:
El Nino (La Niña)
Great White Shark (Shark Shock)
White Rhino (Medicine Man)
and more…
Remember, these strains are not just names—they represent a legacy of passion, expertise, and dedication to cannabis genetics.
The future..
2024 and more for the future. Mr. Nice brings us new technologies and abilities as well as ways to ensure the collection can be sustained and cultivated for many years to come. We are excited to provide ONLINE seeds to North America offering the best products and knowledge to the community and to make sure that the legacy of the strains is kept with the highest standards and continue to be the hallmark of cannabis for those who seek only the best of the best.
Mr. Nice Global Network:
Shantibaba has been active in leading the North American program for Mr. Nice and part of these proceeds collaboratively and collectively go towards the main goal of the “Mr. Nice Global Network”. This network is to expand the knowledge and education and discuss the rewards of cannabis to help promote the strength of healing with cannabinoids. In tradition, Shantibaba, Mr. Nice and the King of Cannabis, will continue to provide Research and Development to build awareness and help with shaping the future of cannabis. The zenith of genetics. Continued efforts from TeamNice members, Customers, Fans, Friends and community advocates, Mr. Nice has become the gold standard of seedbanks, and we sincerely Thank everyone who has been a proponent of the strains past and present.
More Plants. Less People.
For the future, Mr. Nice also plans on offering:
“MediNice” Research using Cannabinoids to Help Treat Ailments and Disease.
“JointEffortNice” Team Seed Pheno Hunting to expand different cultures of the healing plants and to invigorate the brand heritage.
“HelpNice” Develop opportunity for the community by connecting and collaboration. HelpNice vision is to Sponsor TeamNice Members to help find Jobs and help start-up Businesses with Knowledge, Seed Genetics, Mr. Nice Brand, Farm Technology, Stores, Racks, Dispensaries and Partners.
“RewardNice” Loyalty programs, dealer opportunities, and even trips to meet and rendezvous with Shantibaba in Europe.
Please don’t forget to join and be part of the TeamNice future. We can’t make it without you. Everyone is Welcome.
Feel Free to call or email 24 Hours a Day. If we’re up we will answer:
info@mrnice.com
877-7 MR-NICE
877-767-6423
A Business doing Pleasure.
The cannabis world has been significantly influenced by the fascinating life of Howard Marks, who is also known as “Mr. Nice”. Let’s delve into some of the cannabis strains linked to this iconic personality. Let’s explore the strains he became famous for:
Super Silver Haze:
Super Silver Haze is another iconic strain associated with Howard Marks.
It’s a sativa-dominant hybrid known for its uplifting, energetic high and sweet, citrusy flavor.
Critical Mass:
Critical Mass is a heavy indica strain famous for its massive yields and relaxing effects.
Marks’ involvement in cannabis breeding helped elevate its reputation.
Neville’s Haze:
Although not directly attributed to Marks, Neville’s Haze gained prominence during the same era.
Marks’ influence on the cannabis community indirectly contributed to strains like Neville’s Haze.
Black Widow:
Black Widow (aka White Widow) is a classic hybrid strain. Its combination of sativa and indica genetics results in a balanced high.
While Marks isn’t solely responsible for this strain, it gained popularity during the same period when he was active in the cannabis scene.
His legacy is intertwined with the cannabis community, and his daring adventures as a smuggler-turned-writer continue to inspire.
Additionally, Mr. Nice Seeds, founded by Howard Marks and dedicated breeder Shantibaba, represents quality and dedication in the world of cannabis seeds.
Howard Marks’s journey—from smuggling to activism—remains a captivating tale, and his strains serve as a living tribute to his remarkable life.
Howard Marks was a Welsh Oxford graduate who would go on to supply 10% of the world’s cannabis market.
Howard Marks, also known as “Mr. Nice”, was a Welsh author, former teacher, and drug smuggler who achieved notoriety as an international cannabis smuggler through high-profile court cases. He was born on August 13, 1945, in Kenfig Hill, United Kingdom.
Howard Marks was a jet-setting fugitive, a cannabis icon and a leading proponent for legalization. Howard Marks, aka “Mr. Nice,” was a British writer, drug smuggler, and cannabis activist.
Marks studied physics and philosophy at Oxford University while selling marijuana on the side. He became one of the largest drug traffickers in the world, who at his peak in the 1970s controlled a substantial fraction of the world’s hashish and marijuana trade. He was connected with groups as diverse as the CIA, the IRA, MI6, and the Mafia.
He was eventually charged by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, convicted, and given a 25-year prison sentence. He was released in April 1995 after serving seven years. After his release from prison, he published a best-selling autobiography, “Mr. Nice” (1996) and campaigned publicly for changes in drugs legislation.
During the mid-1980s, Marks had 43 aliases, 89 phone lines, and owned 25 companies throughout the world. Whether bars, recording studios, or offshore banks, all were money laundering vehicles serving the core activity: dope dealing.
Marks passed away on April 10, 2016. His life and exploits have left a significant mark on the history of the cannabis trade.
His story is legendary, and his genetics are carried out by Scott Blakey aka Shantibaba.
- 1945: Born as Dennis Howard Marks on August 13 in Kenfig Hill, Glamorgan, Wales.
- His father was a captain in the Merchant Navy, and his mother was a teacher.
- Fluent in Welsh, he attended Garw Grammar School in Pontycymer.
- Marks gained admission to Balliol College, Oxford, where he studied physics from 1964 to 1967.
- Introduced to cannabis during his university days, he formed lasting friendships with notable figures like Julian Peto and Lynn Barber.
- 1970s: Marks became notorious as an international cannabis smuggler.
- Expands drug dealing operation, using numerous aliases and employing innovative smuggling methods across continents.
- He claimed to have smuggled consignments of cannabis as large as 30 tons!
- His connections spanned diverse groups, including the CIA, IRA, MI6, and the Mafia.
- In 1980, he bought a passport from convicted murderer Donald Nice, earning him the moniker “Mr. Nice”.
- 1988: Howard was indicted by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) on drug trafficking charges.
- 1991: Apprehended in Jamaica and extradited to the US.
- Marks faced a 25-year prison sentence but was released in April 1995 after serving seven years.
- After his release, Marks penned a best-selling autobiography titled “Mr. Nice” (1996) which immediately becomes a bestseller. Find the book here:
- The book humorously and unabashedly described his life and massive drug deals.
- His involvement with intelligence agencies and criminal organizations added to the intrigue.
- Marks also became a vocal advocate for changes in drug legislation.
- 1997-2016: Embarks on a new career as a writer, broadcaster, and campaigner for cannabis legalization.
- His autobiography “Mr. Nice” (1996) became an instant bestseller and was made into a film in 2010, starring Rhys Ifans and Chloë Sevigny in the leading roles.
- Howard Marks left an indelible mark on the world of drug smuggling, literature, and advocacy.
- His story continues to captivate readers and serves as a testament to the complexities of life on the edge.
- Howard Marks passed away on April 10, 2016, at the age of 70, due to inoperable colorectal cancer.
- He is survived by his three children, Amber, Francesca and Patrick, from his marriage to Judy, and a daughter, Myfanwy, from a previous relationship; they were with him when he died.
- His impact extends beyond the drug trade; it encompasses literature, advocacy, and the enduring fascination with his audacious adventures
- His unique and controversial story keeping him relevant in popular culture.
- His autobiography serving as a source of both entertainment and reflection for readers.
- Marks had created the Mr. Nice Foundation before his death. This foundation ensured that just and important causes continued to receive attention even after he was gone.
- His life story continues to captivate readers, serving as a testament to the complexities of a life lived on the edge.
- His legacy prompts discussions about drug policy, criminal networks, and the human spirit.
- 2014 Howard Marks, a.k.a. Mr Nice, is one of the most public examples of free enterprise and goodwill in the cannabis industry, a forefather of cannabis and winner of the Cannabis Culture Award.
- Credit to the photo goes to Clifford Price, better known as Goldie, Terry Cryer and Nick Reynolds of the Mr. Nice Project. The back of the painting was signed by Goldie and Mr. Nice himself. The text on the front of the artwork comes from Howard Marks’ autobiography and he has stuck Rizla cigarette paper packets on the side.
- This portrait of Mr. Nice is on display in Amsterdam, together with the original prison ID card of Howard Marks which was already part of the collection of The Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum.
Scott Blakey, also known as Shantibaba, has left an indelible mark on the cannabis world through his breeding expertise and strain creations. aka Shantibaba Seedbank. Let’s explore some of the remarkable strains associated with him:
White Widow: aka Black Widow
White Widow is one of Shantibaba’s most iconic creations. It’s a balanced hybrid known for its resinous buds, uplifting effects, and earthy flavor. This strain has won numerous awards and remains a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts worldwide.
Mango Haze:
Shantibaba created Mango Haze as his personal selection while breeding Super Silver Haze. This strain is a parallel in lineage to the famous Super Silver Haze.
Super Silver Haze:
Super Silver Haze is another legendary strain bred by Shantibaba. It’s a sativa-dominant hybrid that combines the genetics of Skunk, Northern Lights, and Haze. Known for its energetic high and citrusy aroma, Super Silver Haze has earned accolades in cannabis competitions.
White Rhino: aka Medicine Man
White Rhino is a potent indica-dominant strain created by Shantibaba. It’s characterized by its dense, frosty buds and relaxing effects. White Rhino is often used for pain relief and relaxation.
Critical Mass:
Shantibaba developed Critical Mass as his answer for super heavy yields along with an equally strong KICK. It’s favored by growers due to its robust growth and abundant resin production.
El Nino: aka La Niña
El Nino is another strain attributed to Shantibaba. It’s a balanced hybrid with a sweet and fruity flavor profile. El Nino offers a pleasant combination of relaxation and euphoria.
Shantibaba’s legacy extends beyond strain names; it encompasses a passion for genetics, adventure, and the pursuit of excellence in cannabis breeding. His contributions continue to shape the cannabis industry, and his strains remain beloved by connoisseurs and cultivators alike. He is the founder and owner of Mr. Nice Seedbank, Shantibaba Seedbank, TopFlite Seeds, CBD Crew, and Sciva Corporation, and has been involved in the cannabis industry for over four decades.
Scott Blakey, also known as Shantibaba, a famous cannabis breeder was born in Melbourne, Australia in 1964.
“Shanti” means peace and “Baba” means person, so Shantibaba means peaceful man.
- Age 13: Shantibaba began smoking cannabis and was instantly drawn to its experience.
- Completed high school at 16 and attended The University of Melbourne, studying science from 1981 to 1985.
- During university, he sold cannabis to fellow enthusiasts who shared his passion for the plant.
- 1980s: Shantibaba embarked on extensive travels across Asia, covering nearly 40,000 miles on his 1964 Royal Enfield Bullet motorbike.
- He collected cannabis seeds from local landrace strains in countries such as Burma, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, and India.
- In an ashram in Pondicherry, India, he was given the name “Shantibaba” (peace person) by local Sadhus.
- South America also beckoned, where he explored Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Bolivia, and Chile, gathering seeds and pods.
- 1988: Shantibaba moved to Amsterdam, becoming a key player in the city’s “coffee shop” scene.
- His extensive seed collection allowed him to produce high-quality charas.
- 1990s: Continues breeding and distributing cannabis seeds through his company, Shantibaba Seeds.
- In 1994, he co-founded the Greenhouse Seed Co. with Arjan Roskam.
- Collaborating closely with Nevil Schoenmakers, they won numerous awards, including the Cannabis Cup for strains like White Widow, Super Silver Haze, White Rhino, and El Nino.
- 2000's: Gains international recognition as a pioneer in cannabis breeding, with his strains winning numerous awards and becoming widely popular.
- 2000: Blakey moved to Switzerland and set up large grows where he became the first person to cultivate strains of cannabis with high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) for commercial purposes.
- 2009: Shantibaba co-founded the CBD crew as a collaboration between Mr. Nice Seedbank and Resin Seeds. CBD Crew was established for the purpose of researching and pioneering new strains in the medicinal cannabis field. CBD Crew is a science-based cannabis seed breeding company that enriches cannabis in CBD and simultaneously reduces the THC concentration.
- Notable CBD strains include CBD Critical Mass, CBD Shark Shock, CBD Skunk Haze, and the CBD Therapy and CBD Yummy. CBD Crew was the very first CBD enriched seed company in the market, helping companies such as Dutch Passion to develop and stabilize their first CBD-rich strains.
- 2003: Shantibaba was arrested at the Italy-Switzerland border for allegedly trafficking large quantities of cannabis and depositing millions of Euros into Swiss bank accounts.
- He was detained in a Swiss prison for two months before the charges were dropped.
- 2013: Shantibaba Seeds discontinues operations due to legal complications in the Netherlands.
- 2014: Publishes his autobiography, "The Cannabis Manifesto," advocating for responsible cannabis cultivation and use.
- Present: Remains active within the cannabis community, focusing on education, advocacy, and promoting sustainable and ethical cannabis practices.
- Shantibaba’s influence on cannabis breeding and genetics is profound.
- He recognized the medicinal potential of CBD-rich strains before they gained widespread attention.
- His work continues to shape the cannabis industry, emphasizing quality and innovation.
Nevil was born in Perth, Australia in 1956, to Dutch parents who immigrated after World War II. Nevil grew up with a love for nature and animals, especially birds.
Nevil started breeding parakeets when he was eight years old, and learned a lot about genetics and selection. Nevil also developed a curiosity for cannabis, which he is said to have first smoked when he was 13. He was fascinated by the different effects and flavors of the plant, and wanted to learn more about it.
Nevil Schoenmakers, the Australian-born cannabis breeder, is celebrated for his groundbreaking work in strain genetics. His legacy includes several iconic strains that have left an indelible mark on the cannabis community:
Neville’s Haze:
Neville’s Haze stands as one of his crowning achievements. This sativa-dominant strain is renowned for its potency, cerebral effects, and complex flavor profile. It combines equatorial sativas with Afghani indicas, resulting in a strain suited for temperate climates and indoor cultivation.
Super Silver Haze:
Super Silver Haze is another masterpiece by Nevil Schoenmakers and Shantibaba. A sativa-dominant hybrid, it blends genetics from Skunk, Northern Lights, and Haze. Known for its energetic high and citrusy aroma, Super Silver Haze has won numerous awards and remains a favorite among cannabis enthusiasts.
G13 Skunk:
G13 Skunk is a hybrid strain that combines the legendary G13 (rumored to be a government experiment) with Skunk genetics. It offers a balanced experience, with both uplifting and relaxing effects.
G13 x Hash Plant:
G13 x Hash Plant pays homage to Howard Marks (Mr. Nice) and Nevil Schoenmakers. It merges G13 genetics with Hash Plant, resulting in an indica-dominant strain known for its resin production and soothing properties.
Other Contributions:
Nevil Schoenmakers’ influence extends beyond specific strain names. He played a pivotal role in creating strains like Northern Lights Haze, Nevil’s Skunk, Super Skunk, Silver Pearl, and Silver Haze.
His dedication to genetics and breeding excellence continues to resonate in the cannabis world.
Nevil Schoenmakers’ legacy lives on through these remarkable strains, each a testament to his passion and innovation.
- Born on February 2, 1956, in Perth, Australia to Dutch parents.
- Schoenmakers had a rebellious youth and developed a passion for biology and genetics. He even bred parakeets at the young age of eight.
- After graduating, he worked in a university biology lab.
- In 1976, Schoenmakers moved to the Netherlands.
- There, he began growing cannabis for personal use.
- Realizing that commercially available cannabis strains didn’t perform well in the Netherlands’ climate, Schoenmakers decided to improve genetics.
- In 1984, he established “The Seed Bank”, the first cannabis seedbank.
- Schoenmakers met David Paul Watson (also known as “Sam the Skunkman”) and acquired premier Californian varieties like “Original Haze,” “Skunk #1,” “Early Girl,” and “California Orange.”
- Schoenmakers collected potent cannabis strains and crossed them to create his own varieties.
- He combined equatorial sativas with Afghani indicas to develop strains suitable for temperate climates and indoor growing.
- By 1986, his seed company had sales to over 15,000 growers in the United States alone.
- In 1990, Schoenmakers became a target of the DEA Operation Green Merchant.
- He was arrested by Australian authorities while visiting family in Perth.
- Incarcerated in Fremantle jail for almost a year without bail, awaiting extradition to the U.S.
- Just weeks before his Federal Court hearing in 1991, he was granted bail and subsequently disappeared from Australia.
- Although on the FBI’s most-wanted list, his activities were legal under Dutch law, leading to refusal of extradition.
- In 1991, Schoenmakers sold The Seed Bank to Sensi Seeds.
- He worked briefly as their head breeder before founding the Greenhouse Seed Company with Arjan Roskam.
- Nevil Schoenmakers remains a legend in cannabis breeding, leaving behind a lasting impact on the industry.
Nevil Schoenmakers, the influential cannabis breeder, passed away on March 30, 2019. His life was marked by significant contributions to the world of cannabis genetics and cultivation. Unfortunately, he lost his battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy that continues to shape the industry.
Schoenmakers was known for founding the first cannabis seedbank, “The Seed Bank of Holland,” in the early 1980s. His work revolutionized cannabis breeding, and he played a pivotal role in creating iconic strains like Original Haze and Super Silver Haze. Despite legal challenges and controversies, his impact on cannabis culture remains enduring .
In popular culture, he was aptly described as the “King of Cannabis” by High Times magazine in 1985. His dedication to improving cannabis genetics and advocating for its medicinal use left an indelible mark on the community.
Notables:
White Widow
aka Black Widow
Description: White Widow is a balanced hybrid known for its resinous white buds, uplifting effects, and sweet-spicy flavor profile. Her genetics went on to create: Great White Shark, White Rhino, and El Niño…
Description: Super Silver Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid with a powerful, energetic high, with some phenotypes expressing a delightful citrus aroma.
Description: Neville’s Haze is a Must Try, Highly potent (3/4 sativa) strain with cerebral effects and longer flowering time.
Description: Critical Mass is an indica-dominant hybrid. Note: Critical Mass is probably the most popular strain used by breeders (in history) to add yield and power to their genetics.
White Rhino
aka Medicine Man
Description: White Rhino is an indica-dominant hybrid known for its extreme potency, earthy flavor, and relaxing effects.
El Niño
aka La Niña
Description: El Nino is a balanced hybrid with a sweet and fruity taste, offering a calming experience.