For cannabis enthusiasts committed to discovering the finest strains, an enduring quest is underway. Fortunately, some of the industry’s most accomplished cultivators are channeling their time and expertise into this pursuit through a practice known as pheno hunting.
Derived from the same root as “phenomenon,” a phenotype, or pheno, encapsulates the observable characteristics of an organism—an exclusive amalgamation of genetics and environment. In the realm of cannabis, these traits manifest in color, size, structure, taste, aroma, crystal or trichome density, total cannabinoid profile, growth rate, consumption effects, and other distinctive features that make each plant unique.
Conceptualize phenotypes as akin to siblings—two plants sharing the same lineage yet expressing themselves diversely. Pheno hunting, therefore, is the coined term for growers meticulously choosing the plant or plants exhibiting the most desirable traits from a batch of identical seeds. This selection could encompass specimens with captivating purple foliage, robust and delectable earthy-grape flavor profiles, or an ideal full-body high devoid of excessive sedation. The criteria for selection may range from sensory preferences on a small-batch scale to stringent testing for cannabinoid content, such as THC percentage or specific terpenes, ensuring medicinal consistency across substantial yields. The focus ultimately hinges on the objectives of the pheno hunter.
In many large-scale grow operations, constrained by market demands or financial constraints, the luxury of in-depth pheno hunting exploration may be unattainable. Priorities may shift towards selecting plants based on weight, productivity, or stress tolerance. However, for those with the resources to invest, the ultimate aspiration transcends these constraints.
At its essence, pheno hunting is a quest for excellence in quality, potency, and distinctiveness.
By providing expert growers with the necessary support and creative latitude, we empower them to elevate pheno hunting to new heights. Through investments in time, talent, and technology, our team dedicates their efforts to identifying extraordinary plants. From breeding and nurturing to comprehensive testing and the meticulous selection of top-tier specimens, skilled growers collaborate through every stage of this intricate process. With decades of cultivation expertise and an unmatched passion for the plant, their paramount goal is to introduce truly exceptional strains into the hands of the cannabis community.
