Terpene Flattening

Terpene flattening refers to a phenomenon where the aromatic profile of cannabis becomes less complex or distinct during cultivation, storage, or processing. This occurs when volatile terpenes degrade, oxidize, or evaporate due to environmental stress, heat exposure, light, or improper drying conditions. Breeders and cultivators observe that strains with robust terpene expression in controlled environments may show reduced aromatic intensity under suboptimal conditions. Understanding terpene stability is relevant to preservation practices and genetic selection for resilience. Research into terpene-rich cultivars often involves identifying genetics that maintain aromatic compounds across variable growing conditions.

Breeders working to develop stable, aromatic cultivars select for plants that retain terpene expression under stress and storage. Genetics with strong terpene synthesis pathways or protective secondary metabolites are often prioritized to counteract flattening effects.