Professional Marijuana Grower July-August 2019 Issue

by Eric Hopper INCREASING TERPENE PRODUCTION FOR BETTER FLAVOR & QUALITY The unique odor and flavor profile of a cannabis plant can be attributed to specific chemical compounds called terpenes. Like THC and other sought-after cannabinoids, the majority of the terpenes are found in a cannabis plant’s trichomes (the mushroom-like structures that cover the leaves and flowers of a female cannabis plant). In nature, all species of plants create terpenes. Plants create terpenes to attract pollinators, to repel hungry an- imals or pest insects, and/or to attract beneficial insects or predatory animals for protection. In most plants, in- cluding cannabis, the concentration of terpenes increas- es as the plant matures. In other words, when the plant gets closer to its reproductive stage, more energy is used to attract pollinators or to protect it. As a cannabis plant reaches the end of its flowering stage, the terpenes are at their maximum content. When it is considered that the terpenes basically give each cannabis plant its unique flavor and odor, it should come as no surprise that hor- ticulturists are employing products and techniques that specifically target increasing terpene production. Terpenes Found in Cannabis In most cases, it is not a single terpene, but a combina- tion of multiple terpenes that contribute to a cannabis flower’s unique odors and flavors. Each terpene lends different characteristics to the cannabis plant’s overall flavors and odors. The following are just a few of the sought-after terpenes produced by cannabis plants. Pinene Pinene is a terpene many are familiar with because it is associated with the fragrance of pine trees. The pine tree, or “piney”, smell found in some cannabis varieties is attributed to pinene. It is also believed that the terpene pinene is responsible for the “skunk” smell found in certain cannabis plants. 22 • Professional Marijuana Grower Limonene Limonene is another fairly recognizable terpene. This citrusy terpene is also found in the rind of citrus fruits. A strong citrus smell in cannabis flowers is most likely created by the presence of limonene. Terpineol Terpineol is a terpene with a lilac, citrus, or apple blos- som odor. Terpineol is found in low concentrations in the essential oils of many plants, including cannabis. July/August 2019

Professional Marijuana Grower July-August 2019 Issue | Page 22