Understanding Strain Selection for Solventless Extracts
Hunting For New Strains
We are constantly on the lookout for new cannabis varieties to expand our menu. Searching for these new strains can be a time-consuming and resource-intensive process, but it's also one of the most rewarding aspects of cannabis farming. During this process, our goals are premeditated but never written in stone, and they occasionally evolve mid-exploration. For some strains, our intention may be to find a good flower producer, a specific flavor profile, or a desirable effect. For others, we might be seeking their potential for high quality solventless extract production.
Strain Versatility
Certain strains can excel in both categories, with different phenotypes tailored to specific goals. For instance, Papaya Bx is known simultaneously for its impressive solventless extract production and stunning flowers, characterized by large buds, enticing aromas, and eye-catching pink stigmas. When we started our search for Papaya Bx, we knew there was a possibility of finding phenotypes with one or multiple uses, or even separate phenotypes for distinct purposes. As it turned out, we discovered three: one for flower production and two for solventless extract applications. Papaya Bx #164 showed good traits for flower production, while #62 and #87 have been exclusively released as Live Hash Rosin due to their exceptional hash production qualities.
Evaluation & Releases
Another key factor in releasing new varieties is time. Thoroughly evaluating a strain from seed through flower can take up to 18 months. Our standard practice is to grow promising genetics a second time in a limited but larger quantity than the initial single test plant. While a handful of plants will not produce enough material for a release in Premium Flower, it can offer an opportunity for a limited release in Live Hash Rosin. For example, Chem Fuego was released as Live Hash Rosin and Live Hash Rosin Cartridges using just five plants, while we continued evaluating the strain for its potential as Premium Flower. Chem Fuego's future on our menu as Premium Flower will depend on how it meets our evaluation standards for that product category.
The Future of Strain Selections
There are numerous factors and variables to consider as we introduce more strains to our menu. In the future, we may release some strains exclusively as either Premium Flower or Live Hash Rosin. However, if suitable, we may release a strain as both or feature separate phenotypes for Premium Flower and Live Hash Rosin production. The world of genetic exploration is one of the most rewarding, exciting, and challenging facets of our industry. Our commitment to unlocking this world for our patients demands adaptability, and we approach it with enthusiasm.
