What Is Pheno Hunting?
Pheno hunting is a structured selection process used to identify the most desired phenotype within a group of plants grown from seed. Even when seeds come from the same genetic cross, each plant can express traits differently. Much like kids, they have the same two parents, and are similar, but are still unique to themselves.
One plant may produce heavier resin. Another may test higher in potency or have a different terpene profile. We try to make sure we have something for everyone, since everyone’s health is different.
What Does “Phenotype” Mean?
A phenotype refers to the observable traits of a plant. In cannabis, that includes factors such as resin production, trichome density, and overall yield.
These traits are shaped by genetics and growing conditions. Pheno hunting focuses on identifying the plant that performs best under specific controlled conditions.
How the Process Works
Our growers start by germinating multiple seeds from the same genetic line. Each plant is labeled and tracked throughout its life cycle. Male plants are removed immediately to prevent pollination. Female plants are evaluated through vegetative growth, flowering, harvest, dry, and cure.
Plants are assessed for trichome development, resin coverage, structural integrity, yield, potency, and terpene expression. Laboratory testing confirms cannabinoid levels and terpene composition. In Mississippi, this process is documented within the state’s seed to sale tracking system, METRC, to ensure traceability and compliance.
Once a superior phenotype is identified, it is preserved through cloning. Cloning maintains the exact genetic expression of that plant, allowing our cultivators to deliver consistent plants from harvest to harvest.
Quote from Josh Cason (Head of Cultivation, Southern Sky Brands)
Pheno hunting is one of the most underrated parts of cultivating medical cannabis considering we need to have terpene profiles in mind for all of our patients. While it’s very time consuming, starting plants from seeds like nature intended is in my mind the best way to go about finding the next generation of prized genetics.
