Cannabis Potency: Does California Bud Offer a Better High?

California legalized the recreational use of cannabis in 2016. Since then, many companies have poured resources into the science behind strains and genetic modification.

This has placed California at the forefront of innovation, resulting in higher potencies and better-quality marijuana plants. There is also an emphasis on education surrounding marijuana in the state, which has also boosted further investment into recreational and medicinal cannabis.

Recreational marijuana for use has been legal in California since 2016.

What Makes Cannabis Potent?

Cannabis potency correlates to the amount of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or more commonly referred to as THC, in the flower (or bud) of the cannabis plant. Higher THC levels equal a greater psychoactive effect on the mind and body of the user. 

According to the DEA, the amount of THC in cannabis has increased by more than 300% from 1995 to 2017. In 1995, the average bud would contain around 4% THC. But fast forward to 2017 and those numbers have increased to an average of 17%, with some reaching slightly over 30%! Why? One major factor is the massive funding of research by cannabis business owners, or cannapreneurs, in California. (The term cannapreneur refers to companies, individuals, and dispensaries who are involved in the cannabis industry.) This major investment has allowed for the development of different strains with varying potencies. 

It’s important to note that a higher THC content doesn’t necessarily mean a better psychoactive high. Some medical marijuana growers may want a higher THC content to relieve nausea, spasticity, certain types of pain, and other physical ailments, like multiple sclerosis. Others may prefer a lower THC content with a higher CBD count. The clients’ tolerance for THC and the level of CBD, if any, may also determine their preferred bud or product. So, when they say different strokes for different folks, they could certainly be talking about weed potency!

To ensure you have the right THC and CBD balance you’re looking for, it’s advised to reach out to a premier seller of cannabis clones to ensure you receive feminized plants with verified genetics. This saves you the hassle of growing male plants, which yields no buds. With feminized clones, you’ll also be in control of your harvests and yields, guaranteeing clients receive a quality product and can place orders in advance.

Over the years, the quality and potency of California cannabis have greatly improved.

So….Is Cannabis More Potent in California?

The short answer is no. Just because a strain is grown in California doesn’t mean the potency is higher. This is mainly because there are many different varieties, each with varying THC and CBD levels. Below are 5 popular strains bought by cannapreneurs in and around California and their correlating THC level:

1. Gorilla Glue #4

This all-time favorite strain is Sativa dominant and known for its high THC levels. Due to these high levels, it’s not recommended for novice users or day use. The name is derived from the many sticky trichomes that get glued to tools while trimming the buds. 

Genetic ratio: 65% Sativa – 35% Indica

THC content: 17% – 28%, can reach up to 30%

2. MAC 1

Another crowd-pleaser, MAC 1, is perfectly balanced with strong flavors and aromas resulting in a euphoric effect. Just like Gorilla Glue #4, it’s also not recommended for first-time users as it results in an intense high. The Mac 1 is a combination of two rare strains, Miracle 15 and Alien Cookies, hence the abbreviated name, MAC.

Genetic ratio: 50% Sativa – 50% Indica

THC content: 23% – 30%

3. Purple Mimosa

This crossbreed of Purple Punch and Clementine is best enjoyed throughout the day to treat anxiety, depression, headaches, appetite loss, nausea, and chronic stress. Some users take this strain to increase motivation and concentration throughout the day. The levels of THC can vary greatly, which is why it’s not recommended for those using cannabis for the first time. 

Genetic ratio: 70% Sativa – 30% Indica

THC content: 17% – 30%

4. Runtz

This beautiful strain, with its candy-like flavor, is very rare and can be difficult to find. It brings a euphoric effect and relaxing body high to users so it’s most often used for relaxed and lazy days. Use Runtz to alleviate insomnia, chronic pain, muscle soreness, inflammation, stress, anxiety, and more. 

Genetic ratio: 45% Sativa – 55% Indica

THC content: 19% – 29%

5. Wedding Cake

This 2018 Cannabis Cup-winning hybrid strain gets its name from cross-breeding Triangle Kush and Animal Mints, resulting in a smooth and tangy bud. Most often enjoyed later in the day thanks to its relaxing benefits, Wedding Cake has a sweet and vanilla cake frosting aromas once lit. 

Genetic ratio: 40% Sativa – 60% Indica

THC content: 25+%

Does High Potency Cannabis Strains Equal a Better Bud?

The quality of bud has less to do with the potency, and more to do with the research, funding, and knowledge behind a product. Because recreational cannabis has been legal in California for a number of years, users can find a variety of THC levels, tastes, and effects. If you want to create quality cannabis products or experiences in California, be sure to invest in quality clones.

At Homegrown Nursery, we supply the cannabis trade and licensed commercial growers with clones rather than seeds. This ensures our clients receive the cannabis potency they’re after, without the fuss of growing from seeds and potentially wasting time on growing male plants. If you’re a serious cannapreneur and want to grow your business by offering a consistently quality product, check out our wholesale marijuana dispensary where you can learn all about the different strains (and their potencies)!

Homegrown Nursery proudly signs the content on the Cannabis News Blog. We are a dependable source for healthy and feminized clones. For marijuana businesses and entrepreneurs, we offer special wholesale pricing. Get in touch for more details!