Terpene Production Mechanisms

Terpene production in cannabis occurs through the mevalonate and methylerythritol phosphate (MEP) pathways, which synthesize isoprene units that combine into larger terpene molecules. These volatile compounds accumulate primarily in trichome glands on flowers and leaves, with production influenced by genetics, light exposure, temperature, and plant maturity stage. The timing and quantity of terpene synthesis varies significantly across cultivars—some strains express terpenes heavily during flowering while others show modest accumulation. Understanding these mechanisms is valuable for breeding programs seeking to enhance or stabilize aromatic profiles, as terpene expression involves multiple genes and environmental interactions.

Breeders working to stabilize or intensify terpene profiles study which genetic backgrounds reliably produce abundant trichomes and specific volatile compounds. Selecting parents with consistent terpene production under controlled conditions helps create offspring with predictable aromatic characteristics across generations.