With the increasing legality of cannabis in many countries, more and more people are getting interested in cannabis cultivar lineage and genetics. Many cannabis users want to know about the genetics and lineage of their favorite cannabis cultivars. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the basics of cannabis cultivar lineage and genetics.
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Cannabis cultivars, also known as strains, have different genetic features that determine their growth, cannabinoid and terpene composition, and therapeutic effects. The genetic traits result in variations in the physical characteristics, flavors, and aromas of each cultivar. Cannabis cultivars can be classified based on their genetic lineage, which is their breeding history and parental lineage.
A single cannabis cultivar may have been bred from two or more parental lines. Breeders use a mix of selective breeding and hybridization techniques to create new cultivar varieties. Selective breeding refers to the process of choosing plants with desirable traits and breeding them together, while hybridization is a more complex process that involves crossbreeding plants of different genotypes.
There are three main cultivar lineage categories: landrace, hybrid, and heirloom. A landrace cultivar is one that has been developed in the region where it originated, and has never been crossbred with other cultivars. Hybrid cultivars are the result of breeding two or more different cultivars, while heirloom cultivars are typically passed down through generations without being modified.
Cultivar genetics play a significant role in determining the medical and recreational effects of cannabis. The two primary classes of cannabinoids found in cannabis are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is the primary psychoactive cannabinoid responsible for the “high” sensation, while CBD does not produce psychoactive effects but has been shown to have therapeutic properties. The cannabinoid composition of a cultivar depends on its genetics.
Terpenes are also crucial compounds in cannabis cultivars that are responsible for the unique flavors and aromas of each cultivar. Terpenes also play a role in determining the therapeutic effects of cannabis. For example, the terpene myrcene is known for its sedative properties and is typically found in indica cultivars, while the terpene limonene has been shown to have an energizing effect and is typically found in sativa cultivars.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, understanding the basics of cannabis cultivar lineage and genetics can help cannabis users make informed decisions about the cultivars they choose to use. With various cultivar lineages, each having unique genetic traits that contribute to their physical characteristics, flavors and aromas, and therapeutic value, it's important to do your research to identify the right cultivars for you. Consult your local cannabis delivery or weed delivery services to learn more about the different cultivars available and their respective lineage and genetics. Next time, you can select the cultivars that best meet your needs.