Outdoor vs. Indoor Cannabis: What’s the Difference?

As you start diving further into cannabis, you notice subtle differences from one strain to the next. If you’re becoming something of a cannabis enthusiast or connoisseur, you likely want to smoke the best buds possible, meaning that each factor can contribute to the final experience.

To that end, there’s one question that many users ask: is weed better when it’s grown indoors or outside?

While the true answer is subjective for many different reasons, there are some objective comparisons one can make between indoor and outdoor weed. So, if you’re wondering, “outdoor vs. indoor cannabis: what’s the difference?” we are going to break it down once and for all.

Comparing Indoor vs. Outdoor Cannabis

Before we dive in, keep in mind that cannabis cultivation is not precise. Strains can vary for many reasons, so these comparisons are not rigid across the cannabis spectrum.

Trichome Density

Trichomes are the small white fibers you’ll see on the outside of a cannabis bud. These fibers contain THC and other cannabinoids, and they can be a visual cue for cultivars to know when to harvest.

As a rule, indoor weed has a higher trichome density because the plants are smaller and are not exposed to the elements.

Terpenes

Terpenes are an essential component of cannabis and can affect how well you get high. When comparing indoor vs. outdoor weed, it seems that sunlight is the critical factor. Basically, the more natural sun the plants receive, the stronger the terpenes. Artificial light still can’t compare.

Size

Outdoor plants tend to grow larger and have thicker, denser buds. So, a cultivar may harvest up to 10 pounds of buds from a single plant outdoors, while the same plant may only yield two pounds inside.

While the size of the bud doesn’t necessarily affect its potency, it can affect other elements like price (more buds equals better pricing).

Entourage Effect

Although THC and CBD get all the attention, true cannabis enthusiasts know there are over 100 cannabinoids in the plant. Some of these other elements can affect the results, including cannabinoids like CBN, Delta-9 THC, and more.

Generally, outdoor crops have stronger cannabinoids because of natural sunlight, so you get a more enhanced “entourage effect” of each element working in tandem.

Final Verdict: Which is Better?

If you’re only paying attention to terpenes and cannabinoids, it would seem like outdoor weed is better than indoor. However, indoor cannabis does come with a few advantages, such as:

• Fewer Pests and Diseases – It’s much easier for cultivars to keep pests and diseases at bay.
• More Control – High-end cultivars pay close attention to their plants, offering organic ingredients and cleaning procedures. So, the results are more consistent overall.

Buy Your Cannabis From Foothill Wellness

Whether you like indoor or outdoor cannabis better (or concentrates!), Foothill Wellness has everything you need. Browse our selection of top-tier strains and see which ones can help you feel the best.