Cannabis phenotypes: why plants of the same strain differ in shape, growth, and yield

Cannabis phenotypes are the key to understanding why plants of the same strain can look completely different. Cannabis genetics set the foundation, but it is the growing conditions that determine the shape of the plants, their growth rate, and the final yield.

What are cannabis phenotypes and where do the differences come from

Cannabis phenotypes are a set of external characteristics of a plant that manifest themselves through the interaction of its genetics and environmental conditions. Even within a single cannabis strain, different phenotypes of marijuana varieties can be observed: some plants will be taller and slimmer, while others will be more compact and dense.

1. The differences in cannabis phenotypes are explained by the fact that each seed carries a unique combination of genes, and the marijuana growing environment (light, temperature, humidity, soil composition) enhances or suppresses certain traits.
2. Cannabis genetics determine the basic potential of the plant, but it is the growing conditions that determine which phenotype will manifest itself in a particular plant.

It is important to understand that the phenotype affects not only the shape and growth of cannabis plants, but also their chemical composition — for example, how cannabinoids are formed inside the plant. Under different conditions, the same strain can produce different amounts of THC, CBD, and other compounds, which directly affects the effect and yield of cannabis.

Thus, cannabis phenotypes are a living demonstration of how genetics and environment interact, creating unique differences even within a single strain.

Indica and sativa phenotypes: key characteristics

Indica and sativa phenotypes form two main directions in the morphology and development of cannabis bushes. Despite the fact that both types belong to the same species, their differences are noticeable already at the growth stage.

Indica

• The plants are compact, stocky, with broad leaves.
• Flowering occurs faster, and the buds are dense and heavy.
• Indica cannabis often yields higher in a limited space.

Sativa

• The plants are elongated, with thin, long leaves.
• The flowering period is longer, which requires patience from the grower.
• Cannabis yield may be lower, but the taste and aroma are rich and complex.

Hybrid cannabis strains

• They combine the characteristics of both types, creating unique phenotypes of marijuana strains.
• Depending on the dominance of the genetics, the bushes can be either compact or tall.
• This is where it is particularly noticeable how selection has changed the structure of the bush: modern hybrids have an optimized shape that allows for a stable yield and adaptation to different marijuana growing conditions.

Thus, the differences in cannabis phenotypes between indica, sativa, and hybrids are the result of both the natural genetics of cannabis and years of breeding aimed at improving the shape, growth, and yield of cannabis plants.

The influence of phenotype on yield and bush growth

Cannabis phenotypes directly determine how effectively the plant will develop and what the final yield will be. Even with the same cannabis genetics, different marijuana growing conditions can result in plants that differ in shape, growth rate, and number of buds.

• Compact phenotypes (mostly indica) allow for high cannabis yields in limited space.
• Tall phenotypes of marijuana strains (sativa) require more space and time, but offer unique flavor and aroma profiles.
• An important factor is the type of lighting used for growing: the light spectrum and intensity directly affect the growth of marijuana plants and the manifestation of the phenotype.

The influence of phenotype and conditions on yield

Thus, the influence of phenotype on yield depends not only on cannabis genetics, but also on how marijuana is grown—from the shape of the cannabis bushes to the type of lighting used for growing.

This text is for informational purposes only and does not contain instructions for cultivation. Any actions involving plants of the Cannabis genus must comply with the laws of your country/region.