A Complete Guide to Purchasing Quality Cannabis Flower

When it comes to purchasing cannabis flower, your choice should depend upon much more than just a strain name. It should also depend on much more than whether a strain is classified as an Indica, Sativa, or hybrid as well. Let’s take a closer look at some things to always consider when purchasing cannabis flower and why they are important!

The Smell

One of the first things that many of us do when purchasing cannabis flower is to smell it, and this is for a great reason. The smell of cannabis flower can tell you many things. For example, if it smells like fresh-cut grass, it could mean that it was improperly cured and that the naturally existing chlorophyll in the plant is turning to ammonia. Another example is that of cannabis smelling like wet clothes or dirty water. This could be a sign that mold or mildew is present, as the terpenes that naturally exist in the cannabis plant does not result in either of these smells.

The most common aromas associated with quality and properly cultivated and cured cannabis are described as being earthy, woody, fruity, and citrusy by most. Some specific strains may also put off a smell that is described as being like diesel, hence the name of some strains containing this description.

The Look

Like the smell of cannabis flower, the way it looks can also say a lot. When purchasing cannabis flower, you can determine a lot of things by simply observing the bud. Does it have a frosty appearance? If so, it is likely tasty and potent as it is rich with trichomes. Does it have red hairs? Are they in abundance? If so, this could be a good or a bad thing depending on the cultivator.

Some strains naturally have what are commonly described as being red hairs. Their existence is what stands some strains apart from others, however, when they are found in great abundance, it could mean that the cultivator is using plant growth regulators, also known as PGRs during cultivation.

According to Humboldt Seeds, “Due to their apparent toxic nature, many have subsequently been banned for use on consumable food crops since the 1970s and are regarded as pesticides in many countries.” Cannabis flower that has been cultivated us PGRs are commonly dense and tight in appearance.

The Cannabinoid and Terpene Content

When it comes to the benefits that cannabis has to offer, a lot of it lies within the cannabinoids and terpenes in which it contains. It has been proven time and time again, both scientifically and anecdotally, that full-spectrum cannabis that includes a broad spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes offers the most benefits. However, for some, knowing the cannabinoids and terpene content is much more.

When utilizing cannabinoid-based therapies to treat conditions or diseases, it is vital for many patients to tailor their relief based on the benefits of particular terpenes and cannabinoids. By looking at the cannabinoid and terpene content in a specific strain and offering of cannabis flower, you can better tailor your experience to meet your needs.

Testing Results

The testing results that are made available to consumers and patients say a lot about a product. If a company is fully transparent with test results, chances are they are offering a high-quality product that offers substantial purity. If they do not make testing results available, it is hard to say whether the product they are offering is pure or of quality.

Cannabis testing is much more than just terpene and cannabinoid content. Knowing that there are no residual solvents, pesticides, or heavy metals in your flower could mean the difference between relief or illness.

What do you look for when purchasing cannabis flower? Do you have other suggestions for patients or consumers? If so, leave us a note in the comments below!