What makes a given cannabis strain unique?

 

Recent advances in the understanding of the human endo cannabinoid system has shed some interesting light on the way we view our experience of cannabinoids such as THC, CBD etc. The human endo cannabinoid system, which allows cannabinoids to be absorbed/used, has only been studied since the 1990’s. The medical world is only just beginning to understand cannabinoid medicine after decades of misplaced prohibition stifled much meaningful research.

Not only does our own unique endo cannabinoid system control the way that cannabinoids are used, it may also affect the way we each feel the effects of cannabis on our mind and body. So, one person’s experience from smoking a strong indica may be somewhat different to another person. That’s the first important consideration when looking at favourite cannabis strains. One person’s preferred strain may be quite different to another person.

This is something that cannabis seed companies have been aware of for many years. When new cannabis strains are stabilised by a seedbank they usually conduct a ‘smoke test’ with a range of experienced smokers. Some will prefer indicas, others sativa, others hybrids. Some prefer a 1:1 THC:CBD ratio for a less intense high as a daytime smoke.

Other cannabis lovers demand the highest THC levels and only grow extremely high THC seeds. Sometimes a good way to quickly assess the comparative smoke quality of various strains is to collect a few bud samples from different strains and evaluate them over a few days, making careful notes about the effects.

When evaluating a new variety a seed company will often find that some growers, but rarely all, will give a variety top marks. So far as cannabis is concerned, we all have our own personal attributes and qualities which we rate differently. Your favourite strain is quite likely to be different to that of someone else. But why is that? What specifically is it that really attracts you to certain strains? Products made from different strains can be obtained from the dispensaries in Dillon CO.

Genetic lineage

The genetics found in our favourite cannabis strains are precisely what makes them so special to us. These genetics shape the cannabinoids and terpenes found in your preferred cannabis strains. They determine the cannabinoid profile/quantities and the resulting type of high that you feel. Whether you prefer a fruity aroma, an OG aroma or a rich skunky scent the genetics in the cannabis seeds determine the final qualities.

Cannabinoid content

Many assume that the best strain for them is the one which contains the highest THC levels. However, many experienced cannabis users have found that the blend of cannabinoids, terpenes and taste is more important than simply a ‘high’ THC level.

Many cannabis users find that some of the highest THC strains are just a little too powerful for them. Or perhaps, they reserve the strongest strains for the evening and prefer a lighter smoke (or a CBD rich strain) if they have the option of a light daytime smoke/vape.

Exploring your own preferences and studiously comparing one strain against another is something the connoisseur cannabis user enjoys doing. Cultivating a few different strains on your next grow is one easy way for you to start comparing and contrasting how different strains effect you. Soon you will develop a fine tuned sense of the different strains and what they do for you.

Terpene content

Terpene profile has been one of the most important qualities in recent years. Many growers now demand a rich and tasty terpene profile in order to really enjoy their smoke. Some of the cannabis seed families allow you to choose a particular flavour profile. The Orange family of cannabis seeds, for example, allow you to select fruitier citrus terpenes. Afghani Kush genetics will deliver a deliciously hash scented crop.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors may influence the type of cannabis that you can grow. If you can only grow outdoors, for example, your climate may prevent you from growing certain outdoor strains. Those with short summers may be forced to grow autoflower seeds outdoors, rather than feminised seeds.

Indoor growers may have limited vertical space to grow in. If so, it may be worthwhile considering some high quality indica seeds which will stay low and not use up too much vertical growing space.