Ocimene Kush by Greenshock Farms
Breeders are always in search of unicorns—those magically unique plants that check all the boxes of desirable traits and are so rare as to be nonexistent. Finding unicorns is the thrill behind the “phenohunt,” a term introduced by cannabis breeders to describe the process of sowing seeds and observing plants to find those with a trait they seek and can breed with. The unicorn doesn’t just have a desired trait; it has many desirable traits and instills the thrill of something new and exciting.
Strategies employed in selecting ideal phenotypes (or different expressions within a DNA family) may range from highly systematic to casual. Some may select phenotypes from dry flowers without considering the growth process or commercial viability. In contrast, others employ meticulous observation throughout the life cycle, post-harvest processing, and end-use.
A comprehensive phenotypic analysis requires regular observations and documentation. Substantial time and financial investments can be made in this process, from third-party analysis to time spent observing, measuring, and documenting individual plants.
Larger gene pools increase the odds of finding a unicorn with rare, desirable expressions, but also increase the odds of overlooking potential winners.
The range of plants observed in a single phenohunt varies widely. Superior phenotypes can be found in both large and small quantities of seeds, illustrating the unpredictable nature of this endeavor. Selection from small gene pools, less than 50 seeds in some cases, is a prevalent method. However, the more a breeder knows their lines, the more they can predict outcomes and narrow their approach.
Working with larger gene pools increases the probability of discovering an exceptional phenotype. However, the process is protracted due to the increased time and labor required to monitor, observe, and document hundreds to thousands of plants. Larger gene pools increase the odds of finding a unicorn with rare, desirable expressions, but also increase the odds of overlooking potential winners. The larger the progeny, the harder it is to physically examine every plant and test them for effect and flavor. Effect and flavor are subjective and cannot always be predicted with analytics.
Larger gene pools increase the odds of finding a unicorn with rare, desirable expressions, but also increase the odds of overlooking potential winners.
Dive into the thrill of the phenohunt in week five of Live Cannabis Breeding with James Loud, where we will be joined by guest lecturer Mark Greyshock of Greenshock Farms. For over 30 years, Mark Greyshock and Greenshock Farms have defined California craft cannabis. With over 40 awards, including nine consecutive Emerald Cup wins and three Golden Bears at the California State Fair, Greenshock is known for exceptional genetics, rich terpene profiles, and natural resilience. Rooted in authenticity and innovation, they continue to lead the evolution of premium, award-winning cannabis breeding.
Don’t miss your chance to learn how to breed from the world’s greatest breeders and genetics experts, including James Loud, Arjan Roskam, Reggie Gaudino, PhD, Justin Givens, Mark Greyshock, Brian Crocket, and Dale Hunt, PhD. Enroll now and receive a free breeder’s kit from James Loud Genetics.
After completing this six-week certification program, you will understand basic botany and genetics, how to choose breeding strategies, target traits, produce unique cultivars, set up a space, build a genetic library, design a breeding space, and protect your genetics. Enroll now, Get a free kit.