Humboldt Seed Company (HSC), the largest licensed cannabis seed seller in California, has launched two new cannabis strains that are seedless and have higher levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis. The strains, named OG Kush Triploid and Donutz Triploid, are the result of years of research and development by HSC and its partners.
What are triploids and how are they created?
Triploids are plants that have three sets of chromosomes instead of the usual two. This makes them 99% seedless, as they are unable to produce viable pollen or seeds. Triploids are not genetically modified organisms (GMOs), as they are created by inducing an extra set of chromosomes through natural breeding techniques and selective pressures.
HSC discovered a naturally occurring triploid cannabis plant in 2019 during a phenotype hunt in Grass Valley, California. Since then, they have been working with Richard Philbrook, a molecular biologist at Dark Heart Labs, to create stable and high-THC triploid seeds. They have also conducted extensive field trials with leading licensed California farms, such as Full Moon Farms, Burr’s Place, Casa Flor, and Sonoma Hills Farm.
What are the benefits of triploid cannabis seeds?
According to HSC, triploid cannabis seeds have several advantages over conventional diploid seeds, such as:
- Increased THC levels: Triploid cannabis plants have higher trichome density and longer trichome stalks, which produce more THC and other cannabinoids. HSC claims that their triploid strains have THC levels ranging from 30% to 35%, compared to the average of 18% to 25% for diploid strains.
- Increased flower and rosin yields: Triploid cannabis plants have larger buds and bigger calyxes, which result in more flower and rosin production. Rosin is a solventless cannabis extract that is made by applying heat and pressure to cannabis flowers. HSC says that their triploid strains can produce up to 30% more rosin than diploid strains.
- Increased vigor and stability: Triploid cannabis plants are more vigorous and resilient than diploid plants, as they have more genetic diversity and can adapt better to environmental stress. Triploid cannabis plants also maintain their genetic integrity, as they do not cross-pollinate with other plants or produce unwanted seeds.
What are the features of the new triploid cannabis strains?
HSC has released two triploid cannabis strains to the U.S. market, with plans to launch them in Europe later this year. The strains are:
- OG Kush Triploid: An upgraded version of the classic OG Kush, a popular indica-dominant hybrid that is known for its euphoric and relaxing effects. OG Kush Triploid has sparkly, bright green, tennis ball-sized buds that have a piney and earthy aroma. It has a THC level of 30% to 34% and a CBD level of 0.1% to 0.3%.
- Donutz Triploid: A modern and stunning strain that has beautiful, frosty, indoor-style buds that resemble donuts. Donutz Triploid has a sweet and fruity flavor that is reminiscent of berries and cream. It has a THC level of 30% to 35% and a CBD level of 0.1% to 0.2%.
Both strains are intended to simplify home growing and provide a solution for commercial cultivators to remain competitive in an ever-changing market. HSC says that their triploid seeds are easy to grow, as they do not require any special care or equipment. They also say that their triploid seeds are legal to grow and consume wherever cannabis is legal to cultivate.
What are the reactions of the cannabis community?
The cannabis community has welcomed the introduction of triploid cannabis seeds, as they offer a new and improved option for cannabis enthusiasts and professionals. Ed Rosenthal, a cannabis horticulture expert and author, has praised HSC for their innovation and quality. He said:
“Triploid technology has revolutionized fruit production worldwide, notably in seedless watermelons and grapes—now it’s coming to cannabis. I had a chance to compare the triploid and diploid plants at the Humboldt Seed Company 2023 phenotype hunt. The triploids appeared more vigorous, had larger buds and higher trichome density, increasing the value for both the consumer and farmer.”
HSC has also received positive feedback from their customers and partners, who have reported excellent results from growing and consuming their triploid strains. HSC says that they are committed to providing the best cannabis seeds in the world, and that they will continue to develop novel and terpene-rich strains for the cannabis industry.
