Botrytis Resistance

Botrytis resistance is not a terpene but rather a phenotypic trait—a plant's ability to resist gray mold (Botrytis cinerea), a fungal pathogen common in humid growing environments. While resistance mechanisms are primarily genetic and structural rather than terpene-driven, some cannabinoid-rich cultivars have been selectively bred for improved disease tolerance. Lineage records frequently report that certain landrace genetics and modern crosses exhibit reduced susceptibility to botrytis under controlled conditions. This trait is of particular interest to breeders working in wet climates or indoor operations where humidity management is challenging. Botrytis resistance is often correlated with plant structure, airflow characteristics, and resin composition rather than a single aromatic compound.

Breeders working in high-humidity regions or outdoor climates prioritize botrytis-resistant parents to reduce crop loss and mold contamination. Crossing for this trait typically involves selecting cultivars with tight bud structure, lower leaf-to-flower ratios, and documented resistance history, rather than targeting specific terpene profiles.