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Top 5 best-selling cannabis strains of 2024

With the start of a new year, the Linda Seeds team evaluate your favourite cannabis seeds of 2024 – the genetics that, for one reason or another, were the most demanded by growers worldwide. In this post, we review the best sellers of 2024 and explain why these champions have emerged as the public’s favourites.

Which are the best-selling marijuana seeds?

In an exercise of democracy, let’s crown the most demanded cannabis jewels by popular vote… Strains whose flavour, yield, and effects stand out above all the others. With American flavours leading the industry for yet another year, here are our top 5. We hope to inspire you with these cannabis gems (as well as a few other new ones) to fill your garden in the season that is just about to start.

Oreoz: for those who want it all

This West Coast hybrid has taken the industry by storm with her extreme potency and incredible taste. A cannabis seed that has it all – a heavy yielder capable of filling your larder with the highest quality buds. With THC levels as high as 32%, Oreoz shouldn’t be taken lightly – this is extreme potency designed for those looking for incredibly strong sensations. Her psychoactivity starts with a dynamic high which, as time goes by, results in a powerful physical couch-lock effect – especially when you have consumed a generous amount. Created from the cross of Cookies and Cream and Secret Weapon, this strain can produce up to 600 grams per square metre when grown indoors.

Oreoz is perfect for you if…

You have a high tolerance to THC and are looking for a strong experience.
You want to get maximum yields without sacrificing the quality of your flowers.
You’re a fan of the American "cookies" flavours. We have designed this variety thinking of those with a sweet tooth – no doubt they’ll be over the moon with her chocolate and nutty flavour topped with diesel notes.

Amnesia Haze: a classic never dies

What more is there to say about this cannabis legend that remains a best seller after decades on the throne. Amnesia Haze marked a before and after in the 90’s, becoming one of the main pillars of the industry and taking Dutch coffee shops by storm. Three decades later, the fact that thousands of growers are still choosing this plant to fill their grows says it all. Our Amnesia Haze certainly lives up to this lady’s reputation: XXL harvests of buds that produce an effect that can best be described as psychedelic… cerebral, stimulating, and ideal for creative activities.

Amnesia Haze is ideal for you if…

You’re a true lover of Haze genetics and want to try an old school queen.
You enjoy sativa effects.
You’re looking for an out-of-this-world yield and have the space to house large plants.

Apple Fritter: a flavour that creates followers

Apple Fritter has become a winning horse thanks to her original terpene profile, which evokes flavours of sour apple with an earthy background and some spicy notes. When our technical team got down to work to create our own version of this American jewel, they knew that they would have to work super hard to improve it. Therefore, they chose an elite clone of the original Apple Fritter (Lumpy’s Cut – Sour Apple x Animal Cookies) and crossed it with our Do Si Dos to provide stability and prevent hermaphroditism. The result is a version of Apple Fritter that maintains all the aromatic characteristics for which this variety is well known, but surpasses her parent in terms of potency (31% THC), a slightly shorter flowering period, and more vigour. With this hybrid, you can easily obtain generous yields of 550 g per square metre. We have found that whoever tries Apple Fritter always comes back for more, and that’s the reason why she became one of our most demanded seeds in 2024.

Apple Fritter is for you if…

You have a good tolerance to the effects of THC and are looking for strong sensations.
You love trying original and complex cannabis flavours that surprise you.
You enjoy the quality of American strains.

Auto Gorilla Zkittlez: potency and flavour in autoflowering format

The reign of autoflowering seeds is now a reality, especially in countries like England or Germany, where this type of strains can be grown outdoors in the summer thanks to their short life cycle. Auto Gorilla Zkittlez has won the public over with her combination of Gorilla’s monster yielding capacity and the five-star flavour of the Zkittlez saga. With THC levels of around 20% and an intense and lasting indica effect, this strain is a must for users looking for quick results without compromising on quality – she’s ready in about 11 weeks from germination to harvest. She’s suitable for growers of all levels, so filling your grow with flowers totally frosted in resin that smell like wild berries is incredibly easy with Auto Gorilla Zkittlez – and this is the reason why this automatic strain is one of the most demanded.

Auto Gorilla Zkittlez is for you if…

You want quality harvests in record time.
You’re looking for a robust and productive auto that is a safe bet.
You’re a fan of premium American flavours.

Strawberry Haze Auto: a strawberry aroma that’s hard to forget

This autoflowering seed was created from the cross of Arjan’s Strawberry Haze (a variety known for her original strawberry aroma) and an elite autoflowering strain. The result of this cross has been a hit among connoisseurs. This autoflowering hybrid maintains the organoleptic quality of her parent Strawberry Haze and the high speed and resistance of automatic strains. With a full life cycle of 10 weeks (from germination to harvest), Strawberry Haze Auto grows into a medium-sized plant, ideal for growing on balconies or terraces. This strain delivers a balanced effect, halfway between physical and cerebral.

Strawberry Haze Auto is for you if…

• You like sweet and fruity flavours.

• You want to get good yields in urban grows.

• You’re looking for the speed of an auto but without having to give up on a five-star terpene profile.

These varieties have been all the rage in 2024 for their exceptional characteristics, so if you’re looking for quality marijuana seeds for the 2025 outdoor season, you already know that these five winners will definitely not disappoint. But Linda Seeds’ team of breeders are not stopping there! We have new surprises ready for the 2025 outdoor season, and we’re convinced they will be a huge hit! So make sure to follow us to stay up to date with all our news and releases!

This is how pilot cannabis sales programmes work in the Netherlands and Switzerland

The debate on the regulation of cannabis continues to gain relevance worldwide. In this context, the pilot programmes developed in the Netherlands and Switzerland represent a public policy experiment aimed at providing empirical data that can support future regulatory decisions. These trials seek to analyse the social, economic, and health effects of the regulated sale of cannabis, offering models that could inspire other countries interested in moving forward with the legalisation of this substance.

As was made clear by Germany’s campaign to legalise marijuana, the European Union limits the cannabis reform measures that can be implemented among its member countries. And widespread trade of legal cannabis, such as that carried out in Canada, remains banned until the EU agreements are modernised. But regional pilot trials of cannabis marketing for adults are an interesting public policy experiment that is allowed by European legislation. The aim is to research and analyse trends in order to be better prepared when developing national policies and regulations for the cannabis industry. In the framework of these pilot models, a limited number of producers and retail outlets are allowed to engage in legal cannabis trading activities. In addition, adult users can register for the trials to obtain marijuana legally. Pilot trials are currently being conducted in Switzerland and the Netherlands, with additional trials expected to start in Germany in 2025 as part of the "Pillar 2" of its advanced recreational legalisation model. Up to 25 cities have already announced their intention to participate; and, last December, two Berlin boroughs (Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg and Neukölln) announced their plans to launch their pilot programmes through several specialty stores. Sales could begin next summer, provided that the political situation in the country doesn’t overturn or significantly modify the cannabis reforms, especially with early elections just around the corner.

The Netherlands: modernising the “coffee shop” approach

The Netherlands officially launched its fsirt pilot tests in Breda and Tilburg in December 2023. Since then, research projects have been expanded to Groningen, Zaanstad, Almere, Arnhem, Nijmegen, Voorne aan Zee, Heerlen, and Maastricht. The trials aim to phase out the Dutch "gedoog" policy, which decriminalises the possession of small quantities of cannabis and grants licences to sales outlets, whilst outlawing the production and sale in bulk. This "front door, back door" system was introduced in the 1970s to distinguish between "hard" and "soft" drugs at a time when Amsterdam had earned its reputation as a drug paradise. But this policy has unintentionally allowed criminal activities to flourish, with theft, violence, and money laundering remaining common in the sector. Consumers are often unaware of the exact content of their purchases, which complicates the response from health services. The experiment aims to close this back door to criminal activities. Currently, establishments in the 10 municipalities participating in the pilot programmes can sell a combination of regulated and "tolerated" cannabis products. Regulators have now set a fixed date for the transition to what is known as their experimental phase: From 7th April 2025, all licensed cannabis shops will be required to sell only regulated cannabis products. In theory, this phase will last four years. With a definitive date in sight, growers will be able to further adapt the supply of regulated marijuana and hashish to the demand of coffee shop owners. “This will benefit both the choice of coffee shops and the stability of supply”, said the Dutch government in a press release on the pilot tests being carried out. A team of researchers, under the supervision of an independent guidance and evaluation committee, will also investigate the effects of these trials on public health, crime, safety, and anti-social behaviour.

Switzerland: “Weed Care” and innovation in cannabis policy

In addition to the Netherlands, pilot trials for regional cannabis trade are also being conducted in several cities in Switzerland, including Zurich. And almost a year after the opening of the first legal stores, experts are already reporting on the sales and consumption trends that are taking place. This is thanks to the initial data collected from the Grashaus project in the canton of Basel-Landschaft (or Basel-Country), which started in late 2023 and has a duration of five years. The first of these shops opened in Allschwil last December, with specialists trained to educate participants on the safer use of marijuana and to provide advice on a range of cannabis products, such as dried flowers, hash, extracts, vaping liquids, and edibles. More than 700 people have enrolled in the study, which is designed to include up to 4,000 participants. About 80% of them identify as male, and almost a quarter are between the ages of 23 and 27. Throughout the whole period of study, consumer behaviour and the physical and mental health of participants are recorded. Social impacts, particularly those related to public safety and order, are analysed in close cooperation with the public prosecutor’s office and relevant health and social authorities.

Trend towards lower-risk forms of consumption

According to the data analysed so far, a decrease in the average consumption of flowers and hashish has been identified, with alternative formats such as extracts, vaporisers, and edibles showing the highest growth (around 50% from the start of the study). This may be due to specific professional advice being given on consumption methods that are less harmful than smoking. Researchers point out that, as a result of all this, the proportion of parallel purchases of products from the illegal market appears to be declining. Currently, the price of flowers ranges between eight and twelve Swiss francs per gram, depending on their THC content, but there has also been an interest in varieties with a balance between THC and CBD. Although timely price adjustments and product range extensions are planned to compete with the illegal market, the entire value chain is unified under one roof: cultivation, processing, and packaging are all done exclusively in Switzerland by the company SwissExtract, with the production process being fully documented from seed to final product. Professor Michael Schaub, scientific director of the Swiss Research Institute for Public Health and Addiction (ISGF), as well as the director of this study, commented: “The fact that we have been able to record these early successes, partly thanks to the specific professional advice at the points of sale, is a hopeful development. The ultimate aim of the pilot project is, of course, to always provide users with safe and high-quality products from controlled sources in order to minimise health risks”. As can be seen, the pilot programmes in the Netherlands and Switzerland represent a milestone in the global cannabis debate. Far from being simple local experiments, these initiatives provide the basis for informed and rigorous analysis that could influence policies in other countries. Over time, these studies could show that cannabis regulation is not only viable but also beneficial in terms of health, economics, and social justice.

Cannabis in the post-legalisation era: growing trends in emerging markets

Regulation is transforming the cannabis industry, marking the beginning of a new post-legalisation era. This is a paradigm shift that allows growers to operate transparently whilst generating economic and social change. We will now delve into how these markets are embracing cannabis cultivation, what the key trends are, and what challenges they face.

Trends in cannabis cultivation in new markets

Regulation in many countries has allowed marijuana cultivation to become a legal activity, with the advances that this entails:

Sustainability and organic growing: Cannabis cultivation can have a negative impact on the ecosystem if it’s not integrated properly, as has already happened in other more established legal markets (such as that of California). For this reason, many growers in areas like Humboldt County have seen the need to implement more sustainable techniques, such as "dry farming" or regenerative cultivation. The use of biological fertilisers, efficient management of resources like water, or the incorporation of renewable energy systems, are becoming key pillars in some of these emerging markets.

Automation and technology: Technological advances have entered the legal ecosystem with force. Some examples of this include IoT sensors for a better control of the grow parameters, LED lighting equipment to reduce production costs, vertical growing techniques to make the most of the space, and automated systems for yield maximisation. In addition, artificial intelligence is already being incorporated into cannabis cultivation, helping to prevent problems and monitor plant health through the implementation of techniques such as hyperspectral imaging and 3D scanning

Product quality and safety: Legal protection is accompanied by an increased demand for premium pesticide-free products with different cannabinoid profiles. Given that the mainstream public includes both consumers looking for high-THC strains, and those seeking other more sustainable effects from varieties rich in CBD or other cannabinoids, the specialisation and stability of cannabis genetics is definitely key.

Collaboration between cannabis producers and public organisations

Another emerging trend in some legal models (as in the case of Colombia) is the synergy between private companies and the country’s government. Thanks to its good climatic conditions and low production costs, Colombia has established itself as one of the leading countries in the export of medical cannabis. The state has made a strong commitment to the implementation of good agricultural practices and biosecurity measures to ensure the quality and safety of its products, whilst also incorporating advanced growing technologies for process optimisation. The country has also invested in R&D to develop new varieties with specific cannabinoid profiles and traits that are better adapted to the local climatic conditions. Another interesting proposal in Colombia has been the development of cannabis clusters in different regions of the country, which promote collaboration between producers, universities, and the government, to encourage the optimisation of cannabis growing techniques and marketing. This is a value chain that allows the sharing of resources, knowledge, and technology, with the different agencies working together to offer better quality products at a lower cost, thereby improving the region’s competitiveness at international level. This strategy has attracted significant foreign capital investment, generating local employment and contributing positively to the country’s economy. A good example of this is the Valle del Cauca cannabis cluster, where local producers have partnered with universities to improve growing techniques, while the government has helped to finance all the necessary infrastructure.

What challenges are the new legal cannabis markets facing?

One of the biggest challenges for these young markets is the complexity of regulation. Uncertainty about possible changes or setbacks in legislation can undermine confidence among investors, making long-term planning difficult. Expensive licensing or time-consuming bureaucratic processes are some of the obstacles faced by companies that don’t have enough economic muscle to wait.

Lack of infrastructure

In some newly established markets, especially in less developed countries, the lack of infrastructure is also a huge challenge. There are cases (as in South Africa or Thailand) where the lack of adequate facilities for GMP compliance has started a race against time for industry development. The major problems faced by these regions are power grid failures, the lack of adequate facilities for indoor cannabis cultivation, and the shortage of laboratories where quality testing can be carried out.

Access to funding

Despite regulation, companies in the sector are still facing problems to obtain funding from traditional banks due to the associated stigma and the complexity of the international framework. This is a factor which forces many to seek alternatives such as private funding or access to venture capital. This has slowed the growth of the industry in countries like South Africa, where producers are looking for alternatives to finance their crops, such as microcredits or cooperatives backed by foreign capital investments. In other countries like Colombia or Thailand, new solutions are emerging, such as cryptocurrency financing, which is a trend that is gaining more and more traction.

What are the drivers of growth?

Legal protection is undoubtedly the sector’s biggest catalyst for growth. An example of this is found in Morocco, where around 200 licences have already been granted following the legalisation of cannabis for medical use in 2021. These producers operate in a country where cannabis has been grown using traditional methods for centuries. Therefore, the transition to the legal market has not been easy for all of them, given that the implementation of the new regulations generates additional costs. However, the legalisation of cannabis under a framework that’s more accessible for locals (as in the case of Thailand) has led to both a massive proliferation of businesses related to the cannabis plant and to a huge wave of cannabis tourism. Furthermore, public education campaigns on the responsible use of cannabis, together with the results of scientific research supporting its properties, have increased social acceptance, which has allowed the sector to expand.

Conclusion

The post-legalisation era presents a vibrant outlook full of possibilities for cannabis cultivation. Despite regulatory and financial challenges, the combination of technological advances with improvements in product quality and public acceptance is paving the way for a promising future.

Black Friday: our best seeds with a 50 % discount!

Get the best indoor strains on Black Friday

Black Friday is here, bringing you a unique opportunity to purchase some of our most sought-after genetics at an unbeatable price. This year, you can find varieties that not only stand out for their unmatched quality, power, and personality, but also for their high adaptability and performance in controlled environments. These are perfect for both expert growers and for those looking to get started in the noble art of cannabis growing with the best products on the market. Make this indoor season unique by taking advantage of our Black Friday promo!

Oreoz: a cannabis dessert that delights the senses

Not all cannabis varieties are born to become legends, but Oreoz certainly arrived on the scene to occupy a special place in our genetic library. This strain pays tribute to the iconic cookies but is much more than just an attractive name. She’s a true delicacy that delivers a rich and complex experience, combining great flavour, high potency, and a unique genetic lineage which is the result of the union between Cookies and Cream and Secret Weapon – two strains that stand out for their high trichome production and intoxicating aromas. The result is a flower covered in resin that shines like a jewel, with THC levels ranging between 20 and 30 %, and leaves that are initially dark green and then take on purple and black hues during the flowering, making her appearance even more attractive. But Oreoz’s true charm comes from her flavour – a combination of dark chocolate, acidic citrus fruits, walnuts, and a touch of spicy diesel. Perfect for those who like exotic desserts and enjoy an experience dominated by deep and lasting relaxation, which is the reason why she’s a popular choice for evening sessions. More than just a simple strain, Oreoz is an invitation to enjoy cannabis with all your senses.

Apple Fritter: the sweet secret of nostalgia

They say the best things in life are unexpected, and Apple Fritter is the perfect example of this… She’s a smart choice for those looking for something out of the ordinary. This strain, born from the cross of Sour Apple and Animal Cookies, and whose name evokes the irresistible aroma of freshly baked apple fritters, has transcended her multi-award-winning reputation to become a true cannabis icon. But what makes her so incredibly irresistible? The answer is not only based on her potency (her THC count can exceed 30 %) but also on the overall experience that she delivers. Just imagine this: You’re at the end of a long day, looking for a moment to switch off, and all you need is something to transport you. Apple Fritter is a passport to that moment of serenity. Every puff wraps you in a warm and comforting feeling, as if you were entering a kitchen where the aroma of sweet dough and caramelised apples floats in the air. This isn’t just any trip: it’s an encounter with nostalgia and well-being. That’s why you should try Apple Fritter. Because she’s not only a strain but an invitation to explore the extraordinary things in everyday life and to savour life with a touch of sweetness. Once you do it, you’ll understand why everybody’s talking about this beauty.

Amnesia Haze: the epicentre of cannabis excellence

There are cannabis strains that simply do what you’d expect from them, and then there’s Amnesia Haze – a true masterpiece that takes the cannabis experience to another level. This legendary strain not only offers a sensory adventure that has conquered hearts and minds all over the world, but she also redefines what it means to enjoy cannabis. All thanks to a sativa-dominant hybrid born from a mix of ancestral genetics from Southeast Asia, Jamaica, and Afghanistan - a perfect balance between the classic and the contemporary. But why is she so special? It all starts with her unmistakable aroma, an explosion of bright citrus fruits with earthy and spicy touches, as if nature itself invited you to explore a tropical forest after a storm. Her fragrance is just the prelude to an even deeper experience thanks to her ability to boost creativity and lift the spirits, making her the ideal companion for those seeking inspiration. Her looks are also worth admiring: compact and dense flowers covered with shiny trichomes that reflect the quality of her genetics. Amnesia Haze is not just any old strain… She’s a statement of intent, a trip you won’t forget... or perhaps you will, but certainly with a smile on your face.

Alien OG: a strain to look at the stars

Alien OG is one of those strains that seem to have been sent from outer space to redefine the way we understand quality. This indica-dominant gem has roots that go back to the iconic cross between the exotic Tahoe OG and the enigmatic Alien Kush, two genetics revered for their high potency and unique aromatic profile. And the result of this? A strain that is not only potent but also fascinating, ideal for those looking for something out of the ordinary. From the very first glance, the extraterrestrial appearance of Alien OG captivates you, with its compact buds coated in a dense layer of crystalline trichomes that shine like stardust. Her aroma is another of her strengths: an intense mix of fresh lemon, pine, and moist earth, which anticipates a flavour profile dominated by vibrant citrus notes that are intertwined with spicy nuances, leaving a delicious and persistent aftertaste. But what really puts Alien OG in orbit is her effects – a perfect balance between deep relaxation and an initial burst of cerebral euphoria that is ideal for those creative moments when you need to unleash your imagination. With THC levels that can exceed 25 %, she’s certainly not for beginners; but if you’re looking for something that transports you to another dimension, Alien OG is definitely the answer.

Cheese Ghost Train: a ticket to the unexpected

Some cannabis strains like to follow a safe path, but others like Cheese Ghost Train glide down the rails of the unusual, inviting you on a journey that redefines the extraordinary. This unique variety combines two completely opposite worlds, fusing Cheese’s robustness and funky character with the psychoactive intensity of Ghost Train Haze. The result is a collision that surprises, challenges, and, above all, fascinates. From the moment you come across her, you know that you’re in the presence of something special that fully intends to be noticed: her explosive aroma is a symphony that blends the piercing perfume of cured cheese with a sweet background reminiscent of tropical fruits that awakens your curiosity. But what really stands out about Cheese Ghost Train is her ability to adapt to your needs. Her THC levels, which can exceed 22 %, guarantee a respectable potency without becoming overwhelming, which is ideal for switching off without losing that spark that keeps you connected to the present. In terms of cultivation, the resilience of this strain shines through, with a relatively short flowering period for a variety with this level of complexity, which makes her an attractive option for those looking for high quality without the long wait. So don’t wait any longer: hop on board a train you definitely don’t want to miss, and discover why this strain has become one of the most intriguing in today’s cannabis scene.

The latest technology in cannabis cultivation

The cannabis industry is experiencing an exciting evolution as technological innovations transform the sector, with growers increasingly turning to advanced solutions to improve efficiency, yielding capacity, and crop quality. The key players of this transformation are automation and artificial intelligence (AI), but they’re certainly not the only protagonists. Let’s explore the innovations that are destined to revolutionise the world of cannabis growing!

Agriculture has always been an intensely technological field that has driven innovation since the Neolithic revolution more than 10,000 years ago. Likewise, the world of cannabis cultivation is now on the verge of a profound metamorphosis, driven by the control of machine learning, which will redefine our understanding of agriculture, genetics, and even nature itself. At the heart of this revolution is undoubtedly artificial intelligence (AI), which acts as a sentinel overseeing every stage of production. With its algorithms, AI will be able to analyse and optimise all aspects of cultivation, from seed to sale, turning data into a powerful tool to refine processes, predict trends, and drive profitability. But regulatory changes, such as those in the US or Germany, are also creating the ideal environment for further innovation, opening the floodgates to technology investment, experimentation, and the adoption of new and advanced cultivation and post-harvest practices. Let’s now analyse what advances will take this plant to new levels of sophistication.

Precision agriculture: the future of cultivation involves IoT sensors

Precision agriculture helps optimise environmental conditions such as light, humidity, and temperature in real time, thanks to intelligent sensors which are becoming more and more affordable and versatile. These sensors constantly monitor and adjust these conditions to ensure that each plant receives exactly what it needs at any given time. The result? Higher yields, better quality, and more consistent products; all achieved with minimal human intervention. Automated cultivation systems are another key trend. They include vertical growing facilities based on hydroponics or aeroponics which maximise the use of space by stacking plants in multiple layers. What’s more, these setups can deliver even greater benefits when combined with next-generation LED systems and robotics, which are already taking over the dangerous, boring, and repetitive tasks of cultivation (for example, harvesting), thereby increasing efficiency and reducing the need for manpower.

Hyperspectral imaging and 3D scanning to monitor cannabis health

AI-powered systems can also detect subtle changes in plant health before they are visible to the human eye. By using hyperspectral image recognition at different wavelengths (which allows the analysis of cannabis down to a molecular level) and 3D scanning (to monitor plant structural growth), accurate real-time models can be developed to help identify signs of stress, nutrient deficiencies, or disease through predictive analysis. Machine learning algorithms can also analyse historical weather data to predict the likelihood of pest infestations or fungal diseases. Even drones equipped with advanced sensors can monitor from above, providing real-time data. Early detection allows growers to rapidly take corrective action, avoiding widespread crop damage and ensuring the development of healthy plants with higher levels of cannabinoids.

Integration of nanotechnology applied to irrigation

Smart drip irrigation systems can accurately deliver water and nutrients directly to the roots, based on actual soil moisture levels and real-time weather conditions. This helps reduce water use by avoiding runoff and keeps the plants healthy and highly productive. The use of nanobubbles also significantly improves the ability of the roots to absorb oxygen, resulting in healthier, stronger, and hardier plants. Nanofertilisers, for instance, release nutrients in a controlled manner, which helps optimise absorption and minimise soil contamination. On the other hand, silver and copper nanoparticles, or polymer nanocapsules that release pesticides in a controlled way, have very specific applications in pest and disease control. They may help lead to more sustainable and high-yielding cannabis growing practices in the future.

Bioreactors and cryogenic pasteurisation: redefining cannabis production

One of the most intriguing technological advances is that of bioreactors, which enable the production of cannabinoids without having to grow Cannabis sativa plants. By using genetically modified yeast, bioreactors can synthesise cannabinoids on a large scale. This could revolutionise cannabis production by offering a scalable and less regulated alternative to traditional cultivation, which would in turn significantly reduce its environmental impact, lower production costs, and make cannabis more accessible. The innovative technology of cryogenic pasteurisation also addresses one of the most pressing problems in the industry: microbial contamination. In a market valued at billions of euros, this is a critical issue to maintain product quality whilst managing complex regulatory barriers. This technique combines cryogenic steam, using liquid nitrogen, with a disinfection process that brings the product to very low temperatures in a short period. This helps destroy pathogens while preserving the active compounds of cannabis (such as cannabinoids and terpenes), retaining both its potency and aromatic profile.

High-performance phenotyping: the new frontier of genetics

But there can be no evolution in cultivation without good genetics to support it. While seeds and cuttings have long been the pillars of cannabis strains, tissue cultivation stands out as the future to help preserve the desired characteristics of each variety, protecting against pathogens and maintaining a more reliable and accessible gene bank. It is a propagation technique that involves the cultivation and maintenance of plant cells, tissues, or organs under aseptic conditions in a nutritious growing medium, usually in Petri dishes. This method enables the indefinite storage of a large number of seedlings or genes, all in a minimum space. It also helps ‘clean’ the genetics by propagating only the necessary cells, leaving behind unwanted pathogens such as hop latent viroid (HLVd), which is one of the riders of the current cannabis apocalypse. But if we combine tissue culture with genetic editing and improvement technologies, we gain unprecedented control over the genetic makeup of a plant. One of the most powerful tools is CRISPR-Cas9, a pair of molecular scissors that acts as a versatile and precise gene editing system. This enables scientists to modify specific genes with millimetric precision, to achieve desirable features faster than ever before. The future possibilities of gene editing in cannabis cultivation are truly exciting. With the potential to create unique and specialised strains, breeders can now explore new combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes, offering consumers an even wider range of experiences with cannabis, which can take this plant to levels of evolution never seen before.

Medical Cannabis or Cannabis Clubs

Germany: Differences between medical cannabis patients and cannabis club members

The recent legalisation of cannabis in Germany has opened up a new range of possibilities for consumers, but this has raised questions about what the best way is to access marijuana legally and safely. With the option of either registering as a medical cannabis patient or joining a Cannabis Social Club (CSC), many users are faced with the dilemma of deciding which of these alternatives best suits their needs.

Germany has taken a historic step by legalising the use of cannabis for adults, thereby becoming one of the few countries in Europe to regulate the recreational use of marijuana. From 1st April 2024, the new Cannabis Act (Cannabisgesetz or CanG) allows adults to carry up to 25 grams of cannabis for personal consumption in public spaces; to be in possession of 50 grams of cannabis in their place of residence; and to grow up to three cannabis plants for their personal use. What’s more, since 1st July 2024, non-profit growing associations (known as Cannabis Social Clubs or CSCs), with a maximum of 500 members, are authorised to grow cannabis for distribution among themselves. This regulation has also influenced access to medical cannabis (which has been legal since 2017), making the requirements even easier for patients seeking alternative treatments for various health conditions. According to the new Medical Cannabis Act (Medizinal-Cannabisgesetz or MedCanG), cannabis products are no longer subject to the Narcotic Drugs Act (BtMG), so they now receive the same treatment as, for instance, a 600 mg ibuprofen tablet or the usual prescription drugs. These changes are intended to simplify the process for doctors and pharmacists, which in turn is expected to exponentially increase the number of medical cannabis patients. Therefore, this creates two forms of access to cannabis (in addition to personal cultivation), with particular advantages that must be evaluated according to the profile and needs of each user. As the requirements become more relaxed, many Germans are wondering which of the two options is best for accessing cannabis. Let’s now have a look at the differences between the two.

The purpose of use conditions access to cannabis in Germany

Medical cannabis in Germany is based on medical prescription, which means that a patient must obtain a prescription from an authorised doctor before they can purchase marijuana at a pharmacy. However, obtaining a prescription can be difficult, as it is necessary to demonstrate that cannabis is a reasonable medical option and that other treatments have been ineffective. But the process has now become relatively easy thanks to the proliferation of on-line telemedicine platforms which simplify this procedure (for instance, Dr Ansay, Bloomwell, or CannG). Users can get a medical prescription on these platforms just by answering a few questions, and then redeem the prescription directly at a partner pharmacy. This easy access has raised concerns about possible abuse of the system, so its continuity is currently in doubt, as it opens the door for people to obtain medical cannabis legally without a real therapeutic need. In contrast, joining a CSC doesn’t require a medical prescription, which makes access easier for people who don’t have a diagnosed condition, or who prefer to use cannabis for recreational purposes. Only those who have reached the age of 18 and have lived in Germany for at least 6 months may be admitted as members. Multiple memberships in several cannabis associations are not permitted.

The required amount of cannabis is linked to flexibility

Medical cannabis patients have greater flexibility in how much marijuana they can possess and carry, which may be essential for people who require more intensive use. According to the German Medical Cannabis Act (MedCanG), patients with a valid prescription are not subject to specific possession or transport limits, provided they can demonstrate that the cannabis is intended for their personal treatment. The maximum amount dispensed in pharmacies is usually determined by the doctor; and it tends to range between 30 and 100 grams per month, depending on the disease being treated. On the other hand, CSCs are subject to stricter limits, which may not be sufficient for users who consume large amounts. The quota is limited to 25 grams per day or 50 grams per month, with a monthly limit of 30 grams for teens between the ages of 18 and 21. In addition, CSCs can provide members with up to seven cannabis seeds or five cuttings per month, provided they have been created or grown within the community.

The types of cannabis products available make all the difference

In German pharmacies, medical cannabis products include dried flowers, oils, capsules, and standardised extracts. Doctors often prescribe marijuana varieties with a specific ratio of cannabinoids (such as THC and CBD), depending on the patient’s condition. Cannabis flowers are the most common, with THC concentrations ranging from 1% to more than 20%. Regarding the cannabis dispensed in CSCs, the legislation hasn’t set a maximum limit for its THC concentration. However, the THC content of marijuana should not exceed 10% for adolescents and young adults within the 18 - 21 age range.

The cost of cannabis products in Germany depends on coverage

In some cases, the cost of medical cannabis may be covered by health insurance either fully or partially, which significantly reduces patient expenditure. But, if the treatment is not covered, prices in pharmacies are generally higher than those of CSCs – between 20 and 25 euros per gram depending on the variety and product quality. Oils and extracts are usually more expensive, with prices that in some cases can exceed 100 euros per 10 ml of oil with a high THC concentration. The price of marijuana in cannabis social clubs also varies greatly according to the federal state and specific club, but they are generally significantly lower. While some clubs have prices of around 4 euros per gram for dried flowers, others may charge up to 10 euros per gram, depending on the strain. In addition to the cost of the cannabis itself, members must also pay membership fees, which can also vary considerably.

Legal implications are demonstrated behind the wheel

One of the most important aspects is traffic regulation. Medical cannabis patients have important advantages, as they can carry larger quantities and are also exempt from the limits on blood THC levels during controls, providing they can show that they’re using THC as a prescription drug for a specific condition. These benefits don’t apply to CSC members, who can be sanctioned if THC is detected in their blood whilst driving. The new Road Traffic Act (StVG), which came into force on 22nd August 2024, sets a legal limit of THC in the blood of 3.5 ng/ml (this had previously been set at 1 nanogram). It also prohibits the use of cannabis for novice drivers, and forbids the mixed consumption of cannabis and alcohol. For example, anyone caught driving with THC levels of 3.5 nanograms or higher, risks a €500 fine and a one-month driving ban. And, if you’ve also been drinking alcohol, then you will normally face a fine of 1,000 euros.

So what is the best option for purchasing cannabis in Germany?

The new German regulation provides several options for access to cannabis; and it is the user’s responsibility to assess which of these best suits their personal situation. The current trend shows that an increasing number of people are registering as cannabis patients, taking advantage of its easy access and legal advantages. However, CSCs represent a viable alternative for those seeking responsible and controlled consumption outside the medical field. Ultimately, the decision on which option to choose will depend on individual factors such as frequency of use, therapeutic needs, or willingness to face the potential legal drawbacks associated with recreational consumption.

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