by Jeff Eckenrode, director of operations

An American geneticist and molecular engineer, George M. Church, once said, “Your genetics are not your destiny.” 

And though this is true for human beings (you know: you, me & everybody else we know), it is an assumption that may not hold true for other forms of life, particularly plants. 

Genes, Genes, the Musical Fruit ...

The plant world is teeming with genetic diversity. There are hundreds of thousands of different species of plants living and thriving throughout the world today.

And that’s not to mention the genetic variations that can (and do) occur within each species.

For comparison, there have only been three species of humans in the last two million years (Homo habilis, erectus and sapien).

And although no two people are exactly, 100% genetically alike, it would be safe to say that plants have us beat hands-down when it comes to genetic variation.

And that makes me wonder:

When it comes to cannabis, how much do genes matter?

Survival of the Dankest

For a cannabis plant, good genetics can make all the difference when it comes to survival. Cannabis plants can grow in a variety of climates throughout the world, from hot & tropical zones to cold & mountainous regions. 

And like many plants throughout the world, cannabis has evolved and adapted to its environments so that it can protect itself from insects, microbes and other harsh environmental conditions. 

A Leafly article from 2016 noted that cannabinoids, like THC and CBD, are considered cannabis’ first and most important defense against predatory insects, molds, and fungus. And those cannabinoids may even play a role in attracting pollinators or prey. 

So it seems reasonable to suggest that a cannabis plant with the strongest, most dominant genetics will produce the best combination of cannabinoids to ward off its local predators, in order to thrive in its environment. 

And, depending on that plant’s environment, different combinations of THC, CBD and other cannabinoids could be more effective than other combinations--giving rise to the multitude of strains and genetic variations we can observe among cannabis!

And If you’ve ever visited Hashtag (or any other cannabis shop, for that matter), you probably noticed that there were a variety of different strains of cannabis flower, prerolls, and concentrates or vapor products for sale.

A strain, also known as a cultivar, genotype, or chemovar, is a common term for any genetically-unique form of cannabis. 

“But wait, I thought pot was pot, right?”

Au contraire, mon frère!

There are hundreds of different cannabis strains out there, each with their own bud shapes, sizes, flavors and effects. At Hashtag, we have at least 100 different strains on our shelves, ready for sale, at any given time. 

To celebrate 420 2020, we’ll be dropping two brand-new strains: Lodi Dodi and Purple Persuasion. They both come from one of our favorite growers, Emerald Jane’s, whose flower, prerolls, and concentrates we have proudly carried since 2015.

Who (or What) is Emerald Jane’s?

Based in Tacoma, Washington, Emerald Jane's sets the highest standards in cannabis quality and consistency. Their brand new, state-of-the-art Tier 2 indoor garden was built out of what used to be a full-sized hockey rink. 

Hashtag’s purchasing, marketing, and leadership teams were invited for an exclusive tour of Emerald Jane’s new facility in November 2019, so we naturally took a million photos of these beautiful plants to share with you!

The Emerald Jane's team, led by master grower Marty Duffy, produces some of the purest, most potent, small-batch cannabis available anywhere.

Their company mantra, "Every Plant, Every Day," sums up their goal to maximize the huge amount of attention that each plant receives from their team of highly-skilled & experienced growers. Every. Single. Day.

Exclusively at Hashtag: Emerald Jane’s two newest strains, Lodi Dodi & Purple Persuasion

What’s the big deal about these strains, anyway?

I smoked them both, just so I could tell you what y’all have to look forward to!

Lodi Dodi: Relaxed, Happy & Focused

Lodi Dodi is a sativa-dominant hybrid that’s gained significant popularity throughout Washington state.

Although its genetic origins remain a well-kept secret, Lodi Dodi is believed to descend from the soothing strain Mt. Rainier and the powerful Gorilla Glue #4. 

Despite its secretive origins, Lodi Dodi is well known for its powerful, zesty flavor.

Its unique flavor profile is best described as a marriage between tangy tropical fruit and fresh wildflowers.

Its pungent aroma blazes the trail towards a focused buzz and is renowned for its ability to spark creativity and boost your energy.

Whether you’re writing a blog *cough cough*, reading a book, or cooking from scratch, Lodi Dodi can help turn any routine task into a surprisingly aesthetic adventure!

Purple Persuasion: Smooth, Tingly & Uplifting 

Purple Persuasion is by far the darkest purple strain we have on our shelves.

If you’re a fan of rich, purple flavor and a well-balanced high, then this is the right bud for you. 

Bursting with sweet raspberry and grape flavors, Purple Persuasion’s aroma is jam-packed with earthy, dark notes, redolent of herbs and spices simmering softly in a Sunday morning crock pot. 

Its tickling, long-lasting effects are the perfect choice for cleaning your skateboard bearings, daydreaming on a lazy afternoon or posting up for a late gaming binge. 

From the crown of your head on down, Purple Persuasion’s high will fill you with a buzzy, warm energy that quickly spreads to the extremities.

As your body relaxes and the initial lift settles, your mind will drift lazily with a carefree sense of ease and euphoria.

With its rich, purple buds and bright, orange hairs, Purple Persuasion looks just as good as it tastes and feels.

Ok, how do I get some of that?

Hashtag will drop these two strains for sale on Tuesday, April 14, 2020!

Starting April 14, you can order one of each online, then pick up your order at Hashtag in the morning, afternoon or late at night!

So what are you waiting for? 

Pick some up and let us know what you think!