How Does Cannabis Genetics Matter in Terms of Marijuana

In the context of cannabis, knowing the genetics is important. By knowing the genetics of cannabis, the growth needs, pattern of growing, and the effectiveness of the marijuana seeds can be understood. The genetics of cannabis can determine the plant’s appearance, growth, and effects upon consumption. Typically, cannabis genetics incorporates the inherited traits of the parent plants into the offspring.

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The Genetic Composition of Cannabis Strains

Cannabis genetics are mainly regulated by two key drivers: genes and chromosomes. Chromosomes in the genes are present in pairs, with each pair carrying the genetic information from both parents’ plants. These genes can determine the plant’s characteristics.

There are mainly two broad types of cannabis strains in terms of genetic composition. They are Sativa and Indica strains.

Cannabis Sativa

Cannabis sativa plants are tall and thin. They have narrow leaves. Typically, a summer strain, sativa plants take more time to grow. These plants are known for their energising and elevating effects.

Cannabis Indica

Indica plants are bushy, with broad, prominent leaves. It takes typically 8 to 12 weeks for the flowering and harvest. Among users, the Indica strain is popular for relaxation and sedative effects.

Hybrid strains are also popular, which are created by crossing different indica and sativa strains. These strains have a mix of characteristics from both the parent plants. Some hybrids have indica-dominated traits, while others can have sativa-dominated characteristics. Hybrid strains can also be balanced. For example, Black Cherry Gushers strain is a hybrid cannabis strain that has a balanced indica-sativa ratio (50-50).

The Science Behind Breeding Cannabis Strains

The process of breeding marijuana seeds includes crossing two parent plants with preferred traits, which would be reflected in the offspring plants. Since potency, flavour, and resistance are dependent on the traits of the parent plants, breeders select the parent plants wisely to get the expected results.
Here are the things that are considered while breeding cannabis strains:

Choosing the Parent Plants

While opting for the parent plants, breeders consider both the desired and stabilising traits of the parent plants. For example, if a breeder wants to create a strain with high CBD with a skunky flavour, they can cross a high CBD strain with another plant with an indica strain with high 321-MBT flavour responsible for the skunky aroma of the plant.

It takes 4 to 8 months to properly grow the cannabis from the parent plant. Growing cannabis from cross-breeding between parent plants takes less time than growing from marijuana seeds.

Phenotypes and Genotypes

The phenotype of cannabis focuses on the physical traits of the cannabis plants. These traits include appearance, smell, and the influence these strains impose on the users. On the other hand, the genotype of the cannabis strain focuses on retaining the potential attributes of the plants.

The Importance of Genetics in Developing Cannabis Strains

Having a clear idea about cannabis genetics for the breeders and users helps them to get the right offspring strain, be it a hybrid Black Cherry Gushers strain or any indica- or sativa-dominated strain. Here is what is determined by the genetics in cannabis plants:

Effects on Users

The cannabinoid profile of the cannabis strain is the main driver that regulates its effect on the users. There are high-THC strains with high psychoactive effects, while high-CBD strains are consumed for therapeutic purposes without getting the elevated feeling. Blended with different terpenes and cannabinoids, different strains can impact users differently.

Flavours and Scent

Terpenes are considered the reason behind the flavour and the scent of the cannabis strains. Whether you prefer a sweet, fruity flavour or the earthy scent, the terpene profile is also determined by the genetic structure of the plants.

Growth Characteristics

The cannabis genetics also control how a cannabis plant can experience growth. The height, flowering time, and pest-resistance of the cannabis plants are also determined by genetics.

Why Genetics Matters for Consumers?

For consumers, it is important to understand the genetics of cannabis, which helps them to make informed choices.

Customised Experience

If you know the genetic background of the marijuana seeds, you can cross the desired breed to get offspring plants with tailored traits.

Consistency

Strains with consistent genetics tend to deliver consistent results and flavours, which makes the cannabis more predictable. Growers can grow the strain with similar chemical and physical characteristics.

Exploration

Understanding genetics enables people to explore and experiment with different strains, depending on the preference of the users.

Wrapping Up

Cannabis genetics is a field that plays a significant role in developing new strains and growing plants as per consumer preferences. Growers breed cannabis plants to explore the optimal realm of high-quality cannabis. Whether you prefer to explore classic strains or want to go innovative, knowing about the cannabis genetics is essential.

Explore Different Cannabis Strains Through Breeding!

Want to experience different cannabis strains? Consult with experienced cannabis breeders to get the desired experience.

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