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At Sweet Dirt, we pride ourselves on being your go-to source for high-quality, locally-grown, affordable cannabis. Whether you’re a cannabis flower connoisseur or just starting to dive into the world of weed, choosing the right flower can sometimes feel overwhelming.
Have no fear – we’re here to help! In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of cannabis flower, what to look for, and how to make sure you’re getting the best of the best when you shop at our dispensary in Maine.
Understanding the Different Categories of Cannabis Flower
Generally, cannabis flower falls into three main categories: Sativa, Indica, and Hybrid. Each of these classifications has its own unique characteristics, effects, and ideal uses.
Sativa
Sativa is often the go-to choice for daytime use because of its generally uplifting and energizing effects. Combined with the right terpene profile, sativa flower can be perfect for when you need a boost of creativity, focus, or just a little extra pep in your step. When it comes to growing cultivars with sativa genetics, these plants tend to have tall, thin plants with lighter-colored buds.
Indica
When it’s time to unwind, indica strains can be your best friend. The right combination of terpenes and cannabinoids in indica strains is known for their relaxing, body-focused effects. This makes indica cultivars ideal for evening use or when you’re looking to chill out. Indica plants are usually shorter and bushier in their stature.
Hybrid
As you can guess, Hybrid strains are a mix of Sativa and Indica. Hybrid strains can offer a balanced experience, combining the best of both worlds. Whether you’re looking for a little relaxation with a side of creativity or an uplifting vibe with a touch of calm, Hybrids are versatile and can be tailored to fit your needs.
How Do You Assess Elements of Cannabis Flower?
Once you’ve determined the classification of cannabis you’re after – the flower selection process doesn’t stop there!
When choosing the best cannabis flower, it’s essential to consider the sensory factors: appearance, aroma, flavor, and effects. Each of these elements plays a significant role in the overall high experience.
Appearance
Take a look at the flower you’re selecting. Notice the vibrant, deep colors that vary depending on the strain. Examine the many colors and shades of the bud – bright greens, rich purples, and hints of orange and red. Some buds may even look frosty in appearance, covered in glistening trichomes that contain all the potent cannabinoids and terpenes that offer the aromatic and flavor profile of the plant.
Aroma
All cannabis flower has a distinct, pungent aroma, but take a closer whiff of the bud and you’ll be able to identify different layers of rich aromas. From sweet, spicy, earthy, and fruity – the stronger the aroma, the better the quality of the flower. Trust that your nose knows!
Flavor
After the intricate aroma of the cannabis bud, it’s time to examine the flavor! Consider the aroma you picked up from this flower – does it reflect its flavor? The flavor of the cannabis flower should be complex and robust, not flat or dull.
Effects
Ultimately, the effects are what most people are after. Pay attention to the effects you feel from the flower. Are you feeling relaxed, more energized, or somewhere in between? Remember, everyone’s experience will be a bit different – writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you remember your experience later on, and help you be a more informed and conscious consumer overall.
Reading the Labels on Cannabis Packaging
Aside from the assessment you make on the appearance, aroma, flavor, and effects of cannabis flower, it’s crucial to know what’s inside. Here’s what you should look for on the label of your cannabis packaging:
CoA (Certificate of Analysis)
The CoA, or Certificate of Analysis, is proof that the cannabis product has been lab-tested for safety and potency. Each state has its own set of regulations regarding cannabis lab testing. In Maine, a licensed cannabis product to sell must have a CoA reported to ensure the product is clean of harmful contaminants and contains accurate cannabinoid levels.
THC & Cannabinoid Content
THC is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis, while cannabinoids like CBD are known for its calming properties without the high. By reading the cannabinoid content of the flower, you can make a better prediction of the type of “high” experience you’ll have. For instance, a flower with an equal ratio of CBD and THC will make for a more balanced, blissful experience. This is compared to a flower cultivar with higher THC content than CBD. Knowing the ratio of these cannabinoids in the flower you’re choosing can help you pick a strain that matches your desired experience.
Terpenes
These are the aromatic compounds found in plants, including cannabis, that give off a flurry of unique aromas and effects. Not every cannabis cultivar will include the same content of terpenes, making each strain a unique “thumbprint” of different cannabinoids and compounds. Different terpenes can enhance certain effects and experiences, like relaxation or focus, so be sure to seek strains with terpene profiles that match your needs.
Tips for Identifying Quality Cannabis in Maine:
- Curious about a specific cultivar, terpene, or cannabis product in general? Ask a budtender!
- When assessing different aromas in cannabis, trust your nose!
- Find the CoA for specific cannabinoid content, potency, and purity in your product.
- Ask about the product or brand’s cultivation practices. Knowing how the flower was grown can help you choose a cleaner, safer, and potentially more flavorful product.
- Consider the different terpenes and the effects they induce.
- For proper storing of your cannabis flower, store your flower in airtight containers and in a cool, dry place away from light or moisture.
Choosing the right cannabis flower is all about finding what works best for you. Whether you’re after a burst of creativity, a moment of relaxation, or a balanced experience, there’s a strain out there that’s just right and ready for you to try! At Sweet Dirt, our team of budtenders is here to answer your curiosities and help you navigate your dispensary shopping every step of the way.
Dig Up Quality Flower at Sweet Dirt
At Sweet Dirt, we take pride in working with trusted partners across Maine to bring you the highest quality flower at the unbeatable prices you deserve. Our cannabis flower is free of pesticides, fungicides, and harmful pathogens – all of our products are thoroughly lab-tested and carefully processed to ensure you’re getting the best experience possible, from the initial opening of the product to the final puff.
Browse through our recreational dispensary menu and you’ll find we offer a carefully curated collection of premium flower and pre-rolls from local Maine growers, hand-crafted edibles, cannabis-infused beverages, and potent vapes and concentrates. We’ve carefully selected cannabis flower and products based on their exceptional aroma, flavor, and effects on the body and mind.
Ready to enjoy true Maine craft cannabis? Find a Sweet Dirt dispensary near you in the Portland, Eliot, or Waterville neighborhoods. Read through our blog for more cannabis education for consumers.