8 Must-Know Factors That Affect a Strain’s Potency and Effects

Why is it important to maintain a consistent potency in the cannabis plant? Well, in the medical usage of cannabis, anything beyond 18% of THC is considered to be on the higher side. However, now, in the adult cannabis market, a THC percentage of around 25% is considered to be standard for potency.

It can be difficult to say what the standard THC percentage would be in the future, but certain factors determine the particular strain’s potency. As a grower, it is natural to be curious about this. Let’s talk about them in this blog.

Factors Influencing a Strain’s Effect and Potency

Before going into the details, let’s take a look at the influencing factors in the table given below:

Table 1: Factors That Influence Cannabis Potency & Effects

1. Genetics

It is probably the most common factor that determines how potent the cannabis strain will be. The genes of the parent cannabis plant play a crucial role in determining whether THC or CBD’s percentage will be higher.

You need to remember that the information offered by the breeder on the potential THC level of the plant should be taken as a guide. Depending on the potency of the parent plant’s gene, the hybrid will yield results.

When choosing a plant, source it from a reliable and transparent distributor/online store. There should be transparent information regarding the THC and CBD content of the plant. It will help you maintain a consistent potency of the hybrid plant you might be breeding.

2. Growing Environment and Condition

Besides the genetics of the plant, the environment where it is growing also plays a crucial role in managing its potency. To maintain a consistent potency of the cannabis plant, you will need to control exposure to light, humidity, and airflow. All these factors play a significant role in terpene production.

A prolonged exposure of cannabis flower to light can also lead to a reduction in cannabis potency. However, growers also use the defoliation technique (removing large leaves from the plant for better exposure to light and improving air circulation) to increase the cannabis plant’s potency.

If you are looking for a 100% sativa-dominant strain with approximately 25% THC content, then you can try the Durban Poison strain.  It is a solid example of a cannabis strain that meets the market standard of potency.

3. Harvest Time

The time a flower remains on the plant determines its level of potency. It has been seen that the more the flower stays on the plant, the more potent the plant becomes. However, there is a window for all the cannabis strains where the potency is at its maximum level. After that window, the THC concentration in the flower starts to decrease. It is called the cannabinoid dilution effect.

To retain a consistent potency in the cannabis strain, it is better to test the flowers weekly to know the change in potency within weeks. For example, the Headband strain takes about 10-12 weeks, from seed to cultivation. During this time, you can expect the highest potency of the flower.

4. Pollination and Hemaphrodism

Once the cannabis flowers are pollinated, the total cannabinoid content in the flowers decreases. In one experiment, it has been found that after fertilisation, the THC content is likely to reduce by approximately 75% in a high THC cannabis strain.

On the other hand, hermaphroditism denotes a cannabis plant that has both female and male reproductive systems. It increases the risk of pollination, thus reducing the overall potency.

5. Terpene Profile

All cannabis plants naturally produce terpenes that determine their aroma, flavour, and other effects. The calming effect you experience after inhaling a cannabis strain happens due to the effect of a terpene.

Some common terpenes found in cannabis plants, such as Myrcene, Limonene, and Pinene, determine how THC feels when inhaled. For example, the Headband strain offers earthy notes with a touch of citrus, which happens due to the presence of terpene.

6. Curing and Dying Techniques

After the harvesting of the cannabis flower is done, the grower starts the curing process. Through the curing process, terpenes can be preserved, and the residual compounds are filtered for a smooth consumption experience.

If curing is done too fast, it may leave some moisture in the cannabis. Poor curing can lead to degradation of cannabinoids, which may also reduce potency.

On the other hand, proper curing in a controlled humidity can yield maximum flavour and retain its potential. Proper curing is essential for maintaining maximum potential for strains like the Durban Poison strain and others.

7. Storage Condition

If you leave the cannabis flower exposed to light, heat, and oxygen, the THC in the cannabis flower will break down. Then the potent THC becomes less effective cannabinol (CBN). As a result, you fail to maintain the highest potency of the cannabis.

To maintain the highest potency of cannabis, you need to store it in a cool and airtight jar. If you store it improperly, you might lose its maximum potency.

8. Extraction or Consumption Method

The potency of the cannabis plant also depends on your process of consumption. You may consume cannabis in the following three ways: smoking, edibles, and concentrates.

Smoking cannabis delivers an immediate effect, but it stays for a shorter duration. On the other hand, edibles might give you a slower effect in the beginning, but it has a longer effect on you. Concentrates contain a higher percentage of THC and CBD, making them more effective when consumed.

Wrapping Up

In a cannabis strain, potency is not all about the THC or CBD content. It involves chemical balance, environment, harvesting time, storage, and many other factors. Following the right harvesting procedure and the after-harvesting process ensures that cannabis retains the highest potency.

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