Intro: Two Cannabinoids, One Crucial Question
As the hemp market evolves, many growers are asking: should I plant CBG or CBD this season?
Both cannabinoids are non-intoxicating and offer unique wellness benefits. But from a grower’s standpoint, they differ in how they perform in the field, how tightly they toe the compliance line, and what the downstream market demands.
Let’s break it down—so you can make the most informed choice possible.
1. What’s the Difference Between CBG and CBD?
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CBG (Cannabigerol) is often called the “mother cannabinoid” because it’s the chemical precursor to both CBD and THC.
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CBD (Cannabidiol) is more well-known and established in both consumer markets and product formulations.
💡 Fun Fact: Without CBG, there would be no CBD or THC—it’s the foundational molecule from which other cannabinoids are synthesized during early flower development.
2. Compliance & Legal Considerations
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CBG strains typically have lower overall cannabinoid conversion later in flower, meaning they’re less likely to exceed the 0.3% Δ9-THC threshold.
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CBD strains, especially under stress or late-harvest, can spike in THC, which puts growers at risk of failing compliance tests.
🚨 If compliance is a top concern, CBG is generally safer.
3. Growing Characteristics
| Trait | CBG Strains | CBD Strains |
|---|---|---|
| Stretch | Low to moderate stretch | Moderate to high stretch |
| Canopy Control | Easier to manage (uniform height) | May require more training |
| Trichome Profile | Lower overall resin, but cleaner cuts | Sticky, resinous buds |
| Harvest Window | Early to mid-season | Mid to late season |
✅ CBG strains like White Buffalo and DBL offer tighter structure and earlier finishes, especially ideal for indoor or light-dep grows.
4. Market Demand and Pricing Trends
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CBD has a saturated market and falling bulk prices.
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CBG, while still niche, is gaining popularity in:
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Wellness drinks
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Topical creams
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Pet products
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Neuroprotective supplement formulations
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📈 The demand curve for CBG is still rising—early movers have an advantage.
5. Post-Harvest Considerations
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CBG biomass is less sticky and easier to trim.
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Extraction yields from high-CBGA genetics can be competitive with CBD, especially with CBGA-rich strains like DBL (23.63%).
6. Final Verdict: Which Should You Grow?
If you’re:
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A large-scale extractor: CBD may still be your go-to.
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A small to mid-sized grower seeking premium margins and lower compliance risk: CBG is your best bet.
👉 Try feminized strains like:
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Double Black Label(23.63% CBGA) -
White Buffalo(18% CBG) -
Summit CBG(14% CBGA)
Available now at CBGSeedSource.com
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