Volatile Organic Compound Ratios

Volatile organic compound (VOC) ratios describe the proportions of different aromatic molecules present in cannabis plant material. These ratios—such as limonene-to-pinene or myrcene-to-caryophyllene—are shaped by genetics, growing conditions, and harvest timing. Breeders and researchers use VOC profiling to identify and stabilize chemotype patterns across generations. Understanding VOC ratios helps distinguish between phenotypes within a strain family and informs selective breeding for specific aromatic profiles. VOC analysis is commonly performed via gas chromatography or mass spectrometry in breeding programs and seed preservation work.

Breeders track VOC ratios as markers for genetic stability and phenotypic consistency. Desired ratios can be selected for over multiple generations to create distinct aromatic signatures within a cultivar.