3 Things That Matter More Than THC % in THCA Flower
THCA percentage gets a lot of attention — and we get it. A high number looks impressive. But ask any seasoned cannabis connoisseur, and they’ll tell you: THC isn’t everything. In fact, it’s not even the most important thing.
If you want a better smoking experience — smoother, tastier, and more effective — here are three factors that matter even more than the number on the label.
1. Terpene Profile
Terpenes are the aromatic oils that give each strain its distinct scent — citrusy, earthy, piney, fruity, or floral. But they do more than smell good.
Terpenes interact with cannabinoids to shape how a strain feels. This is part of what’s known as the entourage effect. A flower with rich, balanced terpenes may leave you feeling more uplifted, focused, or relaxed — depending on the profile.
👉 A 24% THCA flower with excellent terpenes often delivers a better high than a 30% strain with little aroma or flavor.
2. Freshness
Freshness matters. Over time, cannabinoids degrade and terpenes evaporate. The result? Harsh smoke, muted flavor, and less satisfying effects.
How to tell:
- Smell it — fresh flower has a strong, pleasant aroma.
- Feel it — it should be springy, slightly sticky, not crumbly or bone-dry.
- Look at it — vibrant color and frosty trichomes are a good sign.
👉 The freshest flower tends to be the best flower.
3. Cure Quality
Curing is the slow process of drying and aging the buds after harvest. Done right, it brings out complex flavors, smooths out the smoke, and enhances overall quality.
A proper cure can take weeks — and it separates mids from truly premium craft flower.
👉 Even average genetics can shine with a good cure. And even top-shelf strains fall flat if they’re rushed to market.
The Bottom Line:
Don’t be fooled by the percentage. There’s more to great cannabis than numbers. At PhenomWell, we carefully curate flower that doesn’t just test well — it smells, smokes, and feels exceptional.