Determining the sex of a cannabis plant is crucial for cultivators, as only female plants produce the desired resinous buds. Male plants produce pollen sacs, and if left unchecked, will fertilize female plants, leading to seed production instead of potent flowers. Early sex identification allows growers to separate males, preventing unwanted pollination and maximizing the yield and quality of female plants.
Accurate sexing is beneficial for several reasons. Preventing pollination conserves the female plants’ energy, directing it toward bud development. Moreover, unpollinated female flowers, known as sinsemilla, produce significantly higher levels of cannabinoids like THC and CBD. Historically, this knowledge has been passed down among growers, evolving into established methods for early detection and efficient cultivation.