The Rise of THC

During the last few decades, marijuana producers have been working to create the perfect, healthy and powerful plant: a super hybrid. They did it by crossbreeding thousands of strains, trying to increase the THC level as much as possible.

Twenty years ago, cannabis had an average of 1.37% of THC, in 2008 the average became 8.5%. The laws that allow the consumption gradually allowed more research, in this case legal researches too, and the growers in Colorado have been allowed to cultivate strains that reach levels of 20-25%.Afarmer in Denver even claimed he reached the 33% level, adding that the strain he obtained was also analysed and that the THC level was confirmed: between 30 and 33.5% indeed. The farmer said this percentage was the result of a simple technique: you have to grow your plants in small spaces in order to be able to monitor them very carefully; record the whole process and prevent the contamination of the plants; do not give them too much light or heat and fertilize them well.

Of course, besides the treatment, genetics plays its important part. So far the most impressive results come from farmers who have chosen varieties that were already potent; they added their constant care and attention, and then they crossbred the strains repeatedly until they obtained the super weed they wanted. This said, despite the efforts of the farmers, it will probably be difficult to witness a new substantial increase in the THC levels of the plant—it certainly cannot grow forever. Cannabis lovers, however, argue that it is still better to get strong plants with these methodologies because they fear the arrival on the market of the giants of the GMO industry.

Organically grown cannabis contains several chemicals, superbly balanced, which make it more than just a great recreational tool. What has allowed legalization in many countries is the assumption that cannabis does not hurt, and its psychotropic qualities do not lead to addiction. Plus, the plant constitutes a cure form many health problems. All this could be destroyed by strains modified to strengthen the THC levels, without any respect for the other chemical features of the plant.

Experts suggest to those who want to enjoy high THC strains to choose quality seeds (http://greenhouseseeds.nl/), grow them with care, without exceeding with light, water or fertilizer, and produce a healthy, balanced product.