# Cannabis Basics: Strains, THC, Flower Quality & More
Cannabis comes in many varieties, product types, and forms. Whether you're new to cannabis or simply interested in understanding more about the plant, learning the basics can make shopping at a dispensary easier.
You may have heard terms like indica, sativa, hybrid, THC, CBD, terpenes, and trichomes. These terms describe different aspects of cannabis, but they're not always explained clearly.
At Seattle Cannabis Co., we believe cannabis education should be accurate, approachable, and free from misleading claims.
This guide covers the fundamentals of cannabis flower, including how products are categorized, what cannabinoids and terpenes are, how flower is measured, and what to consider when comparing products.
What Is Cannabis?
Cannabis is a flowering plant that produces compounds known as cannabinoids and terpenes.
Cannabis plants are cultivated for several purposes, including fiber, seed production, and regulated cannabis products.
In Washington State, licensed cannabis producers cultivate cannabis for use in products such as:
- Dried cannabis flower
- Pre-rolls
- Cannabis concentrates
- Vape cartridges
- Edibles and infused beverages
- Other regulated cannabis products
Different products undergo different processing methods before reaching dispensary shelves.
Understanding Indica, Sativa, and Hybrid Cannabis
Indica, sativa, and hybrid are among the most common labels you'll see on cannabis products.
However, these categories aren't reliable predictors of how a particular product will affect someone.
What Is Sativa?
Sativa is a term historically associated with certain cannabis plant characteristics, including taller growth patterns and narrower leaves.
In modern cannabis retail, products labeled sativa may come from many different genetic backgrounds.
A sativa label doesn't guarantee a specific THC percentage, terpene profile, or experience.
What Is Indica?
Indica is another traditional cannabis classification.
Historically, the term has been associated with certain shorter, bushier cannabis plant characteristics.
Today, indica is commonly used as a retail category, but it doesn't establish that a product will produce any particular effect.
What Is a Hybrid?
Hybrid cannabis refers broadly to plants developed through crosses between different cannabis varieties.
Many modern commercial cannabis strains have complex genetic backgrounds.
A hybrid label alone doesn't reveal the complete chemical composition of a product.
Why Do These Labels Matter?
Indica, sativa, and hybrid remain useful as familiar retail categories.
However, when comparing cannabis products, it's also important to review the specific cannabinoid information, available terpene data, and producer details.
Two products with the same category label can have very different compositions.
What Are Cannabinoids?
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in cannabis.
The plant produces numerous cannabinoids, although THC and CBD are among the most widely recognized.
THC
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the primary intoxicating cannabinoid associated with cannabis.
Products containing THC can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
THC content varies by product and batch.
CBD
CBD, or cannabidiol, is another cannabinoid found in cannabis.
Unlike THC, CBD is not generally considered intoxicating in the same way.
Some products contain predominantly CBD, while others contain a combination of THC and CBD.
Other Cannabinoids
Cannabis products may also contain cannabinoids such as:
- CBG
- CBN
- CBC
- THCV
Their presence and concentration depend on the plant material and manufacturing process.
The presence of a particular cannabinoid does not establish that a product will treat a medical condition.
What Are Cannabis Terpenes?
Terpenes are naturally occurring compounds that contribute to the aromas of cannabis and many other plants.
Different cannabis varieties can contain different combinations of terpenes.
Common examples include:
Myrcene: Often associated with earthy, herbal, or musky aromas.
Limonene: Commonly associated with citrus-like aromas.
Pinene: Known for pine-like aromatic characteristics.
Linalool: Often associated with floral aromas.
Caryophyllene: Frequently described as peppery or spicy.
Terpene profiles can vary between strains, producers, and individual batches.
While terpenes are an important part of cannabis chemistry, their presence alone doesn't reliably predict a particular consumer experience.
What Are Cannabis Trichomes?
Trichomes are tiny structures found on the surfaces of cannabis flowers and other parts of the plant.
Many cannabis trichomes contain glands involved in producing cannabinoids and terpenes.
Under magnification, glandular trichomes can resemble small stalks topped with rounded heads.
They often contribute to the frosty or crystalline appearance of cannabis flower.
Do More Trichomes Mean More THC?
Not necessarily.
A frosty appearance can indicate the presence of visible trichomes, but it doesn't accurately establish a flower's THC percentage.
The cannabinoid content of a regulated product is determined through laboratory testing rather than appearance alone.
Common Cannabis Flower Measurements
Cannabis flower is typically sold by weight.
Understanding common package sizes can make it easier to compare products and prices.
| Common Name | Approximate Weight |
|---|---|
| Gram | 1 gram |
| Eighth | 3.5 grams |
| Quarter | 7 grams |
| Half-ounce | 14 grams |
| Ounce | 28 grams |
These are conventional retail package sizes. Exact labeled net weights should always be checked.
Why Compare Price per Gram?
Products packaged in different sizes may have different prices per gram.
Comparing the total weight and price can help customers understand the cost difference between packages.
However, price alone doesn't establish product quality.
What Is a Cannabis Grinder?
A grinder is an accessory designed to break dried cannabis flower into smaller pieces.
Many grinders contain interlocking teeth inside a rotating chamber.
Common designs include:
Two-Piece Grinders
A two-piece grinder generally contains a top and bottom section with grinding teeth.
Three-Piece Grinders
Three-piece grinders typically include a separate chamber where ground material collects.
Four-Piece Grinders
Four-piece grinders often include an additional fine-mesh screen and collection chamber.
Some grinders collect fine plant material commonly referred to as kief.
What Is Kief?
Kief is a collection of loose cannabis trichomes and other fine plant particles separated from flower.
Its cannabinoid content can differ substantially from the original flower.
Grinders should be cleaned and maintained according to the manufacturer's instructions.
What Makes Cannabis Flower Different From One Product to Another?
Cannabis flower varies in appearance, aroma, moisture content, cannabinoid composition, and processing.
Several factors contribute to these differences.
Genetics
Different cannabis varieties have different genetic backgrounds.
Genetics influence plant characteristics, but environmental conditions and cultivation practices also matter.
Cultivation
Cannabis may be grown indoors, outdoors, or in greenhouse environments.
Each approach involves different growing conditions and production methods.
No single cultivation method guarantees better flower.
Harvesting
Harvest timing can influence the characteristics of the harvested plant material.
Drying and Curing
After harvest, cannabis flower is typically dried and may undergo a curing process.
These steps influence moisture content, aroma, texture, and storage characteristics.
Packaging and Storage
Exposure to light, heat, air, and moisture can affect cannabis flower over time.
Appropriate packaging helps protect products during storage and transportation.
How Can You Evaluate Cannabis Flower Quality?
There isn't one simple test that identifies the best cannabis flower.
Instead, consider several pieces of information together.
Product Appearance
Cannabis flower comes in different shapes, sizes, and colors.
Purple coloration, orange pistils, and visible trichomes are natural characteristics of some varieties.
None of these features guarantees a particular THC percentage or overall quality.
Aroma
Cannabis flower can have citrus, pine, earthy, floral, herbal, or other aromatic characteristics.
Aroma varies depending on the plant's chemical composition and how it was processed and stored.
Moisture and Texture
Flower that has become excessively dry may crumble easily.
Excess moisture can create undesirable storage conditions.
A product's texture should be considered alongside its other characteristics.
Harvest and Packaging Dates
When available, these dates provide information about the product's history.
A newer date doesn't automatically mean better quality, but it can be useful when comparing products.
Laboratory Information
Washington cannabis products are subject to applicable testing and labeling requirements.
Reviewing the labeled cannabinoid content provides more reliable information about THC and CBD than judging flower by appearance.
Testing does not make cannabis consumption risk-free.
Does Higher THC Mean Better Cannabis?
Not necessarily.
THC percentage is one measurable characteristic of a cannabis product, but it doesn't provide a complete picture.
Cannabis products can differ in:
- Cannabinoid composition
- Terpene content
- Cultivation methods
- Drying and curing
- Packaging
- Product age
- Price
Choosing cannabis solely because it has the highest THC percentage overlooks these other factors.
Higher-THC products also carry increased risks of adverse effects, particularly for people with limited cannabis experience.
How Should Cannabis Flower Be Stored?
Cannabis flower can change over time when exposed to unfavorable storage conditions.
A few basic practices can help protect its condition.
Limit Light Exposure
Keep cannabis away from direct sunlight.
Avoid Excessive Heat
High temperatures can affect the product's aromatic compounds and overall condition.
Use Appropriate Containers
A properly sealed container can help limit unnecessary exposure to air and environmental moisture.
Avoid Adding Fruit Peels or Water
Some older cannabis guides recommend placing orange peels, lemon peels, or other household materials into containers to restore moisture.
This is not recommended.
Introducing moisture and organic material can increase the risk of microbial contamination.
Store Cannabis Securely
Keep cannabis in a locked location away from children and pets.
Retain the original product labeling so important information remains available.
What About Cannabis Seeds?
Cannabis plants can be grown from seeds or propagated through other cultivation methods.
Seeds may develop into male, female, or other plant expressions depending on genetics and growing conditions.
Female cannabis plants are commonly cultivated for flower production.
Male plants can contribute pollen used in breeding and seed production.
Can You Grow Cannabis at Home in Washington?
Washington's rules distinguish between general adult-use cannabis and qualifying medical cannabis cultivation.
Recreational cannabis legalization does not provide every adult with an unrestricted right to grow cannabis at home.
Certain qualifying medical cannabis patients may have cultivation rights under applicable state requirements.
Always check current Washington State regulations before attempting home cultivation.
Indoor, Outdoor, and Hydroponic Cannabis
Cannabis producers use different cultivation methods.
Indoor Cultivation
Indoor facilities use controlled lighting and environmental systems.
Outdoor Cultivation
Outdoor growing uses natural sunlight and seasonal environmental conditions.
Greenhouse Cultivation
Greenhouses combine natural sunlight with varying levels of environmental control.
Hydroponic Cultivation
Hydroponics refers to growing plants using nutrient solutions rather than relying on traditional soil as the primary growing medium.
Hydroponic systems can be used in different cultivation environments.
Each method has advantages and limitations.
No method automatically guarantees higher THC, better quality, or superior results.
Cannabis Flower vs. Other Product Types
Flower is only one of the product categories available at licensed dispensaries.
Pre-Rolls
Pre-rolls contain prepared cannabis flower in a ready-made joint.
Some varieties also contain added cannabis concentrates.
Concentrates
Concentrates are processed cannabis products containing concentrated cannabinoids.
Vape Products
Cannabis vape products use compatible electronic hardware and cannabis extracts.
Vaping carries health risks and should not be considered harmless.
Edibles
Edibles contain cannabis ingredients in food or beverage products.
Their onset and duration can differ substantially from inhaled cannabis.
Understanding these differences can help customers compare available formats.
Explore Cannabis Flower at Seattle Cannabis Co.
At Seattle Cannabis Co., we carry a rotating selection of cannabis flower, pre-rolls, concentrates, edibles, vape products, and more from Washington producers.
Our budtenders can help customers understand available product categories, cannabinoid information, packaging, and pricing.
Whether you're comparing indica, sativa, and hybrid labels or looking at different flower weights, understanding the basics can make shopping easier.
Browse our online menu to explore current inventory, product information, and promotions before visiting.
Visit Seattle Cannabis Co. or explore our online menu to see our current cannabis selection.
Responsible Cannabis Consumption
Adults 21+ Only. Recreational cannabis products are intended for adults age 21 or older with valid identification.
Cannabis can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
Smoking and vaping cannabis carry health risks.
Do not drive or operate machinery while impaired.
Keep all cannabis products securely stored away from children and pets.
Cannabis products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consume responsibly.
