What methods are used to determine the specific terpene profile of a cannabis plant? Is it based on the genetics of the plant or can growing conditions and techniques impact the final profile?
One answer “How are terpene profiles determined in cannabis plants?”
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When it comes to unlocking the unique flavor, aroma, and therapeutic effects of cannabis, terpene profile is key. Terpenes are the hydrocarbons responsible for cannabis’ unique smell and taste, and they’re believed to help explain its medicinal effects. The specific terpene profile of a cannabis plant can be largely determined by its genetics, but it can also be influenced by growing conditions and techniques.
It all comes down to understanding how to manipulate the terpene production pathways of the plant, which is largely determined by genetic makeup. That’s why there are a wide variety of cultivars on the market with different terpene profiles and different effects. The plant’s genetics can also be modified by selecting for certain traits, meaning you can choose a strain that already has the terpene profile you’re looking for or crosses two different strain to create a new one.
Beyond genetics, the terpene profile of a cannabis plant can be affected by its growing environment, such as available resources, temperature and humidity. For example, one study found that the terpene profiles of eight common cannabis strains grown in different countries varied drastically, suggesting that local climate can have a big impact on terpene production.
The terpenes produced by cannabis genetically determine the terpene profile, but how the plant is grown can determine the specific concentrations of each terpene. That means that the same genotype grown in different environments can result in different terpene ratios.
The type and amount of nutrients used in the growing process, light intensity and spectrum, and carbon dioxide levels can all influence the terpene profile of a cannabis plant. Each of these factors can be manipulated by the grower to maximize terpene production, including making sure plants get enough nitrogen as well as specific micronutrients, like magnesium and zinc. Additionally, many growers use light-spectrum tuning to optimize terpene production by adjusting the ratio between red and blue light during flowering.
Environmental stressors, such as abrupt changes in humidity and temperature, can also have an impact on terpene production. In their natural environment, cannabis plants face a wide range of environmental challenges, and certain stressors can cause plants to produce more terpenes in response.
At the end of the day, it’s important to note that the terpene profile of a cannabis plant is largely influenced by genetics but can be tweaked based on the grower’s skills and available resources. Understanding the right combination of genetics, environment and techniques to maximize terpene production is the key to unlocking the unique flavor, aroma, and therapeutic effects of cannabis.