They say that detecting good cannabis is as simple as observing its appearance and inhaling its scent. Premium smokable cannabis is often characterised by vibrant green leaves with a potent, fruity aroma. But do these attributes alone guarantee top-quality cannabis?

To truly assess cannabis quality, you need to understand the nuances. This detailed guide will take you through a professional cannabis flower judging process. Before diving into evaluation methods, let’s explore what can happen to cannabis over time and why it may degrade in quality.

Can Cannabis Age and Lose Its Potency?
6 Steps to Judge High-Quality THC Flower
High-Quality Cannabis Equals a Superior Experience

Can Cannabis Age and Lose Its Potency?

If you’ve ever visited a cannabis dispensary in a country where it’s legal, you may have noticed that cannabis products lack an expiry date. This may lead you to assume that cannabis doesn’t age. However, that’s a misconception. THC flowers can become stale if not stored correctly. Under ideal conditions, cannabis can retain its potency for an extended period.

Improper storage, on the other hand, can lead to mould growth, making the flower unpalatable. Mouldy cannabis resembles the fungi you find on expired bread, cheese, or other food items. Additionally, exposure to direct sunlight and air can cause cannabis to dry out, degrading its overall quality.

To maintain top-tier cannabis, it is crucial to follow professional recommendations. Here’s what experts suggest when evaluating cannabis quality:

Overly dry cannabis can result in a harsh smoking experience and irritation in the throat.
Changes in aroma or flavour over time indicate compromised quality.
Improperly dried cannabis is susceptible to mould, which poses health risks.
Poor storage conditions can alter the shape, colour, and fragrance of cannabis. Always purchase cannabis that has been stored in a cool, dark place away from environmental exposure.

Now that you understand how cannabis can degrade, it’s essential to learn how to assess its quality effectively.

A BEGINNERS GUIDE TO THC INFUSED EDIBLES

6 Steps to Judge High-Quality THC Flower

Whether browsing in a dispensary or shopping online, selecting the best cannabis can be overwhelming. Use these expert-approved steps to identify top-tier THC flower.

1. Observe the Colour

Premium cannabis should be lush green with vibrant hues. High-quality buds often feature orange or red hairs, indicating superior strains. In contrast, buds that appear overly brown or dark suggest age or subpar quality.

2. Assess the Texture

Ideal THC buds should strike a balance between moisture and dryness. They should not be overly damp or excessively brittle. Additionally, high-quality cannabis should not contain excessive seeds or stems. A well-structured bud ensures a smooth smoking experience.

3. Look for Trichomes (Glistening Crystals)

The tiny, shimmering crystals on cannabis buds are trichomes, which house the plant’s essential compounds, including cannabinoids and terpenes. More trichomes equate to better potency and richer flavour. When assessing cannabis, the more crystalline the bud, the better the quality.

4. Check for White Powder (Mould Indicator)

Breaking apart the flower allows you to detect potential contamination. If you notice a white powdery substance inside the bud, do not consume it. This is a sign of mould, which can be harmful.

Note: Trichomes and mould can sometimes be confused. Trichomes glisten like sugar crystals, whereas mildew appears as a powdery, dust-like coating. Always distinguish between the two before purchasing.

5. Smell the Cannabis

A high-quality cannabis flower emits a strong, skunky, and distinct aroma. If the scent is off-putting, consider avoiding it. Smell is a critical indicator of cannabis quality, and expert judges rely on it heavily.

With hundreds of cannabis strains available today, each possesses a unique scent profile. Additionally, the maturity of the plant at the time of harvest influences its aroma. Cannabis harvested early tends to have a milder scent, whereas well-matured flowers develop a more complex fragrance.

When assessing cannabis, remember that exceptional quality flowers exude a mix of sweet, woody, and diesel-like notes.

6. Taste the Flower

Top-quality cannabis should deliver rich flavours, including citrus, fruit, pine, or earthy and skunky undertones. If your THC flower tastes clean and natural without hints of mould or chemicals, it is likely a high-grade product.

High-Quality Cannabis Equals a Superior Experience

Cannabis has the potential to elevate your mood, boost energy levels, and provide deep relaxation—but only when it’s of premium quality. Proper storage ensures that cannabis retains its potency over time.

TOP 7 HEALTH BENEFITS OF CANNABIS EDIBLES

You don’t need to be a certified THC flower show judge to determine if cannabis is worth consuming. Keep these fundamentals in mind:

If your cannabis appears fresh, smells pleasant, and isn’t overly brittle, it is likely suitable for use.
If the buds look brown, misshapen, or unappealing, proceed with caution and examine further. Poor-quality cannabis can lead to an unpleasant smoking experience and potential health concerns.
If you experience adverse effects, consider whether you have consumed too much or if the cannabis itself is substandard. If overdosing is the issue, reduce intake. If the problem lies with the quality, dispose of the old flower and opt for top-shelf THC buds instead.

By following this cannabis judging guide and storing your weed correctly, you can enhance your smoking experience and ensure every session is as enjoyable as possible.

Disclaimer: This article provides information for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before using any THC related product.