Holy Smokes i thought THC% was solely dependent on genetics. I totally appreciate the heads up and excellent reference
THC percentages are somewhat misunderstood. To find what a THC percentage is all the cannabinoids are separated from the rest of the matter inside of the trichome heads that are tested. The amount/percentage that is THC is in relation to the total amount of cannabinoids.
But not all high percentage THC ratings mean more potent, it only means there is a higher percentage of THC. What makes or breaks a high or a stone is the combination, the percentages of the various cannabinoids, so a higher percentage does not always mean more potent. It might only equate to a longer lasting high or a different type of high.
Something to remember, but few people seem to know, is that heavy trichome production is not necessarily an indication of a potent plant. Some hemp strains have moderate layers of trichomes yet pack only a headache. In drug strains a dense stand of trichomes is a sign that it could be of high potency, but certainly not a guarantee.This is because the resins that flow within may or may not hold the THC and other cannabinoids in the most desired percentages that we are looking for. Many landrace equatorial sativa strains are anything but frosty looking, in part because there are more trichomes in the inner parts of the buds, but also because they are not as heavy producers of trichomes or resin. But they can have incredible soaring highs. That is in part because unlike many strains they not only produce THC but also THCV. THCV increases the speed and the intensity of a high. It is also what is largely responsible for the feelings of paranoia some people feel when they smoke certain strains and they find themselves taking an unexpected rocket-sled ride.
It is not only THC but instead the combination of the various cannabinoids combined. Unfortunately people tend to purchase strains mainly by their THC rating alone, even though THC percentage ratings alone are not always proof of true potency. That is why a strain like Durban Poison, that has THC ratings of around 8.6% from one breeder to 5% to 10% from another, can get someone much higher than some other strain that has a THC rating of maybe 15% or 18%.
If the 'blend' is off true potency will not be found.
Indica varieties often look more heavily crystallized than Sativas, yet typically don't have the same mind-warp capabilities. Even with a known high-THC clone, THC level and cannabinoid ratios may change depending on environmental conditions.
What defines drug strain cannabis is the plant's ability to convert cannabidiol (CBD) or possibly cannabichromene (CBC) into THC.1