Cannabis strains are available in several varieties, and categorised into three key main types: Sativa, Indica and Hybrid. Each of them contains a unique cannabinoid combination, such as CBD and THC, and terpenes, which empowers distinct effects on individuals.
Research shows that 70% of people support using medicinal cannabis. But how do you identify a good strain? What are the things to look out for? This blog will guide you!
How to Determine High-quality Cannabis Strains?
You are to expect the most potent benefits of cannabis only if the strain is of good quality. And for that, you have to pay heed to the following factors:
Tip #1: Check the Trichome Density
Trichomes are crystal-like, tiny structures on flowers, producing terpenes and cannabinoids. In cases of high-quality cannabis, you can find a sparkly or frosty appearance under magnification glass or light. Remember, the more trichomes, the more the aroma and potency.
The tiny structures develop a sticky and shiny layer on cannabis flowering, fostering their frosty look. Trichomes also produce cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and terpenes. Trichomes are often referred to as “crown jewels”, since they improve the potency, quality, and therapeutic advantages of cannabis strains. Research finds that up to 90% of plants’ THC is found in their trichomes.
Tip #2: Look at the Bud Structure
The appearance of cannabis buds indicates a lot about the efficiency and quality of a strain. While looking for high-quality hybrid strains, like the Permanent Marker strain (indica-based), you must avoid the stem-heavy, loose, and leafy buds, which are some of the key signs of poor genetics or cultivation. However, you can identify premium buds, which are mostly free from excessive stems or seeds and have well-trimmed structure with considerable density.
Sativa strains are mostly airy in nature, while indica strains look compact. If the buds look deep green in colour with purple, red, orange, and blue hair-like structures, with frosty white trichome heads, you must know that they are of high-quality strains. If the buds look brittle or dry, it is highly recommended to avoid them.
| Strain Type | Typical Bud Appearance | What to Look For |
| Indica | Dense, tight, thick buds | No gaps, sticky touch |
| Sativa | Fluffy, lighter, longer | Visible pistils, intact |
| Hybrid | Mix of both traits | Well-formed & resin-coated |
Table #1: Bud Structure by Strain Type
Tip #3: Examine the Colour
Since colours indicate the quality of cultivation and freshness of strains, you need to be careful about them. The vibrant green hues found in cannabis plants mostly indicate healthy plant quality, while the blue, deep purple, and orange show the presence of specific anthocyanin and flavonoid profiles, enhancing effects and aroma. However, Red pistils or orange reflect maturity.
On the other hand, avoid yellow, dull, and brownish buds, which show poor curing. It is highly recommended to consider a balanced colour contrast, which indicates properly dried and well-nitrated cannabis, fostering a potent and aromatic experience.
Tip #4: Evaluate the Aroma
The aroma of cannabis strains reflects potency and quality on a significant scale. The high-quality strains have a pleasant, complex, and strong scent due to the presence of abundant terpenes, which influence both the effects and flavours. For example, the Pineapple Express strain smells of tropical pineapple with a prominent blend of cedar, pine and citrus, developing a distinctive tropical aroma.
We advise you to look for fragrant and fresh aromas, such as diesel, citrus, or pine, which reflect potent and well-cured buds. You must avoid the strains with a grassy, musty, or hay-like smell, since there’s a high chance of mould. Moreover, the aroma of each strain reflects its terpene profile, which helps you choose the right one as per your desired experience, whether uplifting, relaxing or balanced.
| Aroma / Smell | Dominant Terpene | Possible Effects |
|---|---|---|
| Citrus / Lemon | Limonene | Uplifting, mood-boosting |
| Earthy / Musk | Myrcene | Relaxing, sedative |
| Pine | Pinene | Alertness, memory support |
| Lavender | Linalool | Calming, anti-anxiety |
| Diesel / Fuel | Caryophyllene | Stress relief, anti-inflammatory |
Table 2: Common Terpene Profiles and What They Indicate
Tip #5: Inspect the Trim Quality
During the selection of the best quality cannabis strain, you need to be careful about the trim quality, such as how properly the buds have been nurtured. High-quality cannabis is mostly hard-trimmed, which ensures the removal of excess leaves without any damage to trichomes. Apart from that, the buds with clean and tight trimming show careful post-harvest handling preserves aroma, potency, and flavour.
On the other hand, you can find sugar leaves on poorly trimmed buds, which affects the smoking experience and reduces the visual appeal. In that case, it is better to choose well-shaped and uniform buds with a negligible leaf residue.
Tip #6: Feel the Texture
A premium-quality cannabis strain, such as the Pineapple Express strain, is slightly sticky and springy, which ensures the presence of proper trichomes and professional curing, while the overly dry strains foster harsh smoking and overly moist ones hold a risk of mildew or mould. If it’s too crumbly or dry, ageing can be a factor in affecting the flavours and potency. On the other hand, the presence of excess moisture on cannabis strains affects the quality and freshness. Don’t forget to squeeze the bud, as you can find premium cannabis strains that will slightly bounce back.
Tip #7: Ask About Genetics & Source
High-end cannabis strains like Permanent Marker strain are mostly grown from reliable genetic sources, which can be easily traced by seed banks or breeders. It’s better to have prior knowledge regarding lab test results, harvest date, THC/CBD levels and the background of growers.
| Question | Why It Matters |
| What strain is this? | Know what you’re consuming |
| Do you have lab test results? | Confirms potency & safety |
| Who was the grower or brand? | Track reputation and consistency |
| When was it harvested or cured? | Freshness impacts quality |
Table 3: Questions to Ask Your Budtender or Supplier
Summary
Strong fragrances, vivid colours, well-structured buds, and dense trichomes are the key characteristics of high-quality cannabis. High-quality strains have balanced colours, compact, resin-rich blooms, and strong terpene aromas like pine or citrus. Freshness, potency, and a premium smoking experience are further ensured by proper trimming, springy texture, and confirmed genetics.
All Set to Find Cannabis Strains of the Highest Quality?
Unsure of where to find high-quality cannabis strains? Just find a reputable site online and shop to your heart’s desire! You are signing up for the experience of a lifetime!
