SIGHT
TRICHOME CONTENT
The abundance of trichomes on the flower is an indication of high-quality cannabis. Tiny crystal-like resin glands covering the flower contain the flavour and aromatic components of cannabis as well the cannabinoids. The most common cannabinoids are THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (Cannabidiol). They can make the flower appear crystallized or “frosty” and glisten in the light.
COLOUR
Color is one of the most noticeable traits of a healthy cannabis flower. The following colours are strong indicators of a high-quality plant: Healthy, vibrant shades of colour can range from green, purple and orange. An abundance of trichomes can make the flower look silver-grey to white. When pistils (hairs) are present on the flower they can range from a light yellow to a deep reddish hue. When combusted, high-quality cannabis will burn a white-grey ash. Vaporizing cannabis does not produce ash.
SIZE & SHAPE
Size and shape do not matter. Variety in size of the flower is a good sign. It is difficult to determine high quality purely from size, shape and density due to the characteristics of many different flower strains.
TRIM OF THE FLOWER
What to look for:
- Tight trim
- Proper trim removes extra leaf matter revealing the flower.
- The flower reveals the structure and integrity of the flower.
- Excess leaves may lead to a harsher taste.
- Unwanted leaf material and excess stem are removed.
TOUCH
Gives when squeezed but bounces back when released.
More dense strains may not bounce back as much.
Should have a sticky or tacky (resinous) feel.
Fingers can be left with a sticky feel.
If the flower is too wet, it has not been properly cured.
The internal stem should snap, which means it was properly cured.
The stem is dry, however, the flower has a little bit of moisture.
When broken in half, the stem will make a ‘snap’ noise.
The flower should be tight in your fingers.
Dry, loose flowers are an indicator of poor quality.
AROMA
Most strains will expose their scent immediately just by opening the container.
Breaking or grinding the flower can bring out the underlying aromas.
SOME AROMAS THAT CAN BE EXPECTED FROM QUALITY FLOWER ARE:?
SOME AROMAS FROM POOR QUALITY FLOWER INCLUDE:?
TASTE
Here are a few things to consider as you learn to distinguish between different flavours in the flower strains.
The aroma may set up the flavor.
Often, the aroma of the flower will match the taste.
The taste should be pleasant and enjoyable, never harsh.
Smooth and not burn your mouth or throat.
Some flavors line up with the strain’s aromas and others might suggest a different profile. Some strains such as Lemon Skunk offer a bolder taste; some such as Blue Dream are smoother.
SENSATION
No matter the strain, the first sensation that comes from cannabis is the sensation of life, or of being high. THC can be characterized as a stimulant. Varying experience levels may affect how people feel with each strain and the number of times people are lifted. The amount of cannabinoids that just entered the body (how much has been consumed) and body chemistry may also play a part in the sensations that come from cannabis.