On the hunt to buy premium craft cannabis but not sure what to look for? In this guide, I’ll break down the key things that matter—like how it’s grown, who’s growing it, and what separates the real craft from the overhyped stuff. Whether you’re after flavour, potency, or just a clean burn, this will help you buy with confidence.
Craft Cannabis Quality
When it comes to what craft cannabis is, the most important factor to consider is the quality of the product. There are several key aspects that contribute to the overall quality of cannabis, including cultivation methods, strain selection, and cannabinoid and terpene profiles.
Cultivation Methods
The cultivation methods used by growers play a significant role in the quality of the cannabis they produce. It is important to look for cultivators who use organic and sustainable farming practices, such as avoiding the use of pesticides and chemicals. By choosing cannabis that has been cultivated using natural methods, you can ensure that you are consuming a clean and healthy product.
Strain Selection
The strain of cannabis you choose can greatly impact your overall experience. Different strains have different characteristics and effects, so it is important to consider your personal preferences and needs when selecting a strain. Whether you prefer a relaxing indica, an uplifting sativa, or a balanced hybrid, craft cannabis offers a wide variety of unique and classic West Coast strains to choose from.
Cannabinoid and Terpene Profile
Cannabinoids and terpenes are the chemical compounds found in cannabis that contribute to its unique effects and aromas. When buying BC craft cannabis, it is important to consider the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of the product. Some strains may be higher in THC, the psychoactive compound, while others may have higher CBD levels, which are known for their potential therapeutic benefits. Additionally, the terpene profile of cannabis can greatly impact its taste and aroma, so it is worth exploring different profiles to find the flavours and aromas that you enjoy.
Credibility and Reputation
When buying craft cannabis, it is important to consider the credibility and reputation of the brand or producer. This can help ensure that you are purchasing a reliable and high-quality product.
Craft Cannabis Brands and Certifications
Small batch producers and brands that have been granted a license by Health Canada have undergone a rigorous regulatory process. This provides assurance that their products meet certain quality and safety standards. Additionally, some producers may have additional certifications or awards that further validate their credibility.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
Customer reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the quality and performance of craft cannabis products. Look for products with positive reviews and high ratings to ensure a satisfying experience. However, it is important to consider a range of reviews to get a balanced perspective.
Word-of-Mouth Recommendations: The Most Trusted
Recommendations from friends, family, or trusted weed connoisseurs can also be a valuable source of information when buying craft cannabis in Canada. If someone you trust has had a positive experience with a certain brand or strain, then by all means, it’s worth considering their recommendation.
Price
Price is another important consideration when buying craft cannabis. While quality should be the primary factor, it is still important to find products that offer value for money. In 2025, you should not pay more than $200 for an ounce of craft cannabis.
Comparison Shopping
One way to ensure you are getting the best price for craft Bud is to compare prices across different retailers. Take the time to research and compare prices from small batch producers, micro cultivators, dispensaries, and online retailers to find the best deals.
Value for Money
When considering the price of BC craft cannabis, it is important to also consider the value for money. Higher-priced products may offer unique strains, exceptional quality, or rare flavours that justify the higher cost. On the other hand, lower-priced products may still offer good quality and adequate effects. Ultimately, finding a balance between price and quality is key to getting the best value for your money.
Taste and Aroma
The taste and aroma of cannabis can greatly enhance your overall experience. Craft cannabis offers a wide range of flavour profiles and aromatic profiles to suit different preferences.
Flavour Profiles
Different strains of cannabis offer different flavour profiles, ranging from fruity and sweet to earthy and pungent. When choosing craft cannabis, take the time to explore the different flavour profiles available and consider your personal preferences. Whether you prefer a citrusy sativa or a sweet indica, there is a flavour profile to suit every taste.
Terpene Content
Terpenes are the aromatic compounds found in cannabis that contribute to its unique aroma and flavour. Different strains have different terpene profiles, which can greatly impact the taste and aroma of the cannabis. Some common terpenes found in craft cannabis include myrcene, limonene, and pinene. Exploring different terpene profiles can help you find the flavours and aromas that you enjoy the most.
Drying and Curing Process
The drying and curing process of cannabis can also impact its taste and aroma. Craft cannabis is typically dried and cured slowly to ensure optimal flavour and aroma. Avoiding cannabis that has been quickly dried or improperly cured can help you avoid harsh or unpleasant flavours.
The best Craft Cannabis brands will go into great detail about their curing methodology and showcase their techniques to grow the best cannabis the west coast has to offer.
Potency
The potency of cannabis refers to the levels of THC and CBD present in the product. THC is the psychoactive compound responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis, while CBD is a non-psychoactive compound known for its potential therapeutic benefits.
THC Levels
When choosing craft cannabis, it is important to consider the THC levels of the product. Different strains and products can have varying levels of THC, ranging from low to high. If you are looking for a more intense experience, you may opt for strains with higher THC levels. However, it is important to start with lower THC levels if you are new to cannabis or have a low tolerance.
CBD Levels
CBD levels are another important consideration when buying craft cannabis. Some strains and products have higher CBD levels, which can offer potential therapeutic effects such as relaxation and pain relief. If you are looking for the potential benefits of CBD without the psychoactive effects of THC, consider choosing products with high CBD levels with trace amounts of THC.
Laboratory Testing
To ensure the accuracy of potency claims, all licensed craft cannabis producers have to send their products for laboratory testing. Laboratory testing provides detailed information about the levels of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids and terpenes present in the product.
Sustainability
Sustainability is an important consideration when buying any product, including cannabis. BC craft cannabis offers several sustainable practices that can minimize its environmental impact.
Organic Farming Practices
Many craft cannabis producers prioritize organic farming practices. This means avoiding the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals. By choosing cannabis that has been cultivated using organic practices, you are supporting sustainable agriculture and minimizing the potential environmental impact of cannabis production.
Eco-friendly Packaging
Packaging is another area where craft cannabis producers are making efforts to be more sustainable. Look for products that use eco-friendly packaging materials, such as biodegradable or recyclable packaging. Additionally, some producers offer product packaging that is made from sustainable materials, such as hemp plastic.
Customer Service
Customer service is an important aspect of the buying experience, especially when it comes to cannabis. Friendly and responsive communication, flexible return and exchange policies, and educational resources are qualities to look for.
Responsive Communication
Look for retailers and producers that prioritize responsive communication. Whether you have questions about a product, need assistance with an order, or have any other concerns, it is important to have a reliable point of contact (Budtender) that can provide prompt and helpful responses.
Return and Exchange Policies
Having flexible return and exchange policies can provide peace of mind when buying craft cannabis. Look for retailers that offer reasonable return and exchange options, especially if you are trying a new product or strain.
Reliable retailers will clearly post their Return Policies for the public to take note.
Educational Resources
Cannabis can be complex, and it is important to have access to educational resources when making purchasing decisions. Look for retailers or producers that provide educational resources, such as product guides, strain information, and usage recommendations. This can help you make informed decisions and find the products that best suit your needs.
What Really Matters: Important Factor to Consider when Choosing the Best Craft Cannabis
What Really Matters: Important Factor to Consider when Choosing the Best Craft CannabisOh, the times are a-changing, my friends! Now, imagine walking into your local dispensary or ordering online some of your soon-to-be favorite craft strains. But this isn’t just any strain. It proudly shows off a comprehensive list of its major terpenes and cannabinoids right on the packaging, is like holding a secret recipe to cloud nine. It’s a crystal-clear signal that we’re dealing with top-shelf strains here, folks. These aren’t just any plants; they’re the VIPs of the cannabis world, cultivated with a level of dedication that would make even the most stoic of farmers shed a tear of pride.
Care About the Details on the Packaging Label
So next time you’re pondering a cannabis product at your dispensary, and are faced with the choice between a list as long as your arm of terpenes and cannabinoids on the package or the top three chart-toppers, remember: it’s not just about the quantity, it’s about the journey to quality. Choose the cannabis brand and retailer who takes the extra care to list the details about their products.
Conclusion
Several key factors should be considered when buying craft cannabis. Quality, source of cannabis, price, taste and aroma, potency, sustainability, credibility and reputation, product variety, labelling and packaging, and customer service are all important aspects to evaluate.
By considering these factors and exploring the diverse range of craft cannabis products available, you can find the perfect cannabis experience that suits your preferences and needs.
Cheers to the growers who make every puff a story worth telling!
