Popcorn Buds: What Are They & Are They Good For You?

Key Takeaways

Popcorn buds are small cannabis flowers.
They develop due to overcrowding, poor lighting, and stress.
They can be used in various ways such as in a vape pen or edibles.
Despite their size, they offer potency and flavor comparable to larger buds.

Although not as popular as large buds, popcorn buds have a lot to offer. Through this guide, you’ll understand what popcorn buds are, their benefits and uses, as well as how to avoid them if you’re a grower.

What Are Popcorn Buds?

Popcorn buds (also called smalls) refer to small cannabis flowers, typically located on the lower branches of the plant due to inadequate light or stress factors. They are smaller, airier cannabis flowers that develop on the lower parts of the plant. These buds form due to reduced light exposure and limited airflow and are often less dense and lower quality than those from better-lit areas. While they may lack the dense structure and size, they retain comparable cannabinoid and terpene profiles, making them a viable option for consumption.

Why Are They Called Popcorn Buds?

The name comes from their petite size and shape resembling popped corn kernels.

Naturally, popcorn cannabis buds are produced in the lower branches of the cannabis plant. These areas typically receive less light and energy, leading to smaller, less developed flowers. Most growers cut them out to redirect the plant’s energy to the larger buds at the top.

What Causes Popcorn Buds?

They form due to stress which affects a plant’s ability to produce dense, full-sized flowers. Common stressors include:

Overcrowding or Overshading: Dense foliage or poor spacing between plants can limit light exposure, reducing the growth potential of lower buds.
Excessive heat and humidity may cause plants to develop airy buds as a defense mechanism against mold and pests.
Poor Watering and Feeding Practices: Overwatering, underwatering, or nutrient imbalances can lead to the development of smaller buds.
Pests and Plagues: Infestations during the flowering phase can also greatly impact bud size and quality.
Improper Training Techniques: Poorly timed low-stress (LST) or high-stress training (HST) methods can stunt growth and affect flower development.

How to Prevent Popcorn Buds

For growers aiming to maximize their harvest, here are techniques to reduce the occurrence of popcorn buds:

Lollipopping: Remove foliage and bud sites from the lower parts of the plant during late vegetative or early flowering stages. This redirects energy to the top colas.
Mainlining: Use manifolding to create an even canopy and encourage the development of large colas. Combine with lollipopping for optimal results.
ScrOG (Screen of Green): Train plants to grow through a screen, creating an even canopy. Prune vegetation beneath the screen to focus energy on the upper bud sites.
Outdoor Techniques: Ensure adequate sunlight for all parts of the plant by pruning and defoliating. Consider using shade screens to protect plants from excessive heat.

Processing Popcorn Buds at Harvest

If your harvest includes popcorn buds, there are several ways to process and utilize them effectively:

Trimming: Trim popcorn buds as you would larger flowers. For edibles or concentrates, detailed trimming isn’t necessary. For smoking, a cleaner trim enhances the experience.
Drying and Curing: Dry the buds until the branches snap easily, then store them in curing jars for enhanced flavor and potency. If you’re eager to try your harvest, you can smoke popcorn buds early while the rest cure.
Quick-Drying: In a pinch, you can quick-dry popcorn buds using low heat in an oven or fry pan. Be aware that this method sacrifices flavor and creates a harsher smoke.

Are Popcorn Buds Potent?

Yes, popcorn buds can be potent. Despite their smaller size, they often contain similar levels of cannabinoids and terpenes as larger buds. However, their airy structure may require a larger quantity to achieve the desired effects when smoking or vaping.

Are Popcorn Buds Good for You?

Now that we know popcorn buds are potent, the next thing we need to find out is whether they are good for you.

For Recreational Users
Popcorn buds are an excellent choice for recreational users who want a decent high without spending too much. While these smaller buds may lack the visual appeal of premium-grade cannabis, they are just as effective for achieving the desired effects.

For Medical Users
For medical cannabis users, popcorn buds offer a cost-effective way to access therapeutic relief. These smaller buds contain the same cannabinoids as larger, top-shelf flowers, making them a viable option for managing conditions like chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia.

Suitability for Edibles
Popcorn buds are a practical and economical choice for making cannabis-infused edibles. Their smaller size and less aesthetic quality make them ideal for grinding and incorporating into recipes without feeling wasteful.

How Can You Use Popcorn Buds?

Popcorn buds are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

Smoking/Vaping: Properly dried and cured popcorn buds make an acceptable smoke or vape option.
Edibles: Use popcorn buds to create cannabis-infused edibles. Their smaller size and low aesthetic appeal make them perfect for crafting edibles.
Concentrates: Popcorn buds also work wonders when crafting hash, bubble hash, tinctures or other kinds of concentrates. These can be made using either solvent based or solventless extraction.

Pros and Cons of Popcorn Buds

What are the pros and cons of popcorn buds?

Pros: Cost-effective option for cannabis consumers, versatile for smoking, vaping, or making edibles and concentrates, and comparable potency to larger buds.

Cons: Smaller sizes may require larger quantities for desired effects, less visually appealing than premium buds and misconceptions about quality due to size.

Conclusion

Popcorn buds may not be the star of the cannabis plant, but they’re far from waste. These compact nugs are not only budget-friendly but also versatile, making them a great option for those seeking value without compromising quality. Whether you’re a seasoned user or a curious beginner, popcorn buds can be a worthy addition to your cannabis journey.