What is Popcorn Flower & Is It Worth It?
December 17, 2023
While top-shelf flower gets the most attention for its giant nugs and rich terpene profiles, it’s also much more expensive. You can get the same terpene and cannabinoid profile for a lot less money, without downgrading to marijuana shake, if you opt for popcorn flower. In this guide, we'll delve into the world of popcorn flower, understanding its characteristics, origins, potential uses, and the factors that make it a unique choice for any cannabis enthusiast.
What is Popcorn Flower?
Popcorn flower, also known as popcorn buds, refers to smaller, compact cannabis buds that grow lower on the plant than those A-grade nugs. Popcorn is typically about an inch in size—like a popcorn kernel. When the marijuana plant is harvested, these buds are separated from the larger, top-tier buds and often sold at a discount. While they may be diminutive in size, popcorn buds share the same trichomes and can have the same potency as their larger counterparts.
Where Does Popcorn Flower Come From?
When a marijuana plant grows, no matter if it's in a greenhouse or outdoors, some parts of the plant get more sun than others. Those that get the most sun at the top of the plant produce those big, beautiful buds you see on the top shelf at your dispensary. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t flower buds elsewhere on the plant and that is where we find popcorn flower.
Popcorn flower comes from the bottom of the marijuana plant, and they only grow to that small size because of the lack of light. While some growers trim popcorn off early so that the plant puts those nutrients into the premium nugs, there are bound to be some nugs left at the bottom of the plant. When harvested, these nugs are snipped and sold at a discount as popcorn.
What Can You Do With Popcorn Flower?
Popcorn flower, despite its smaller size, is versatile and can be used in various ways for significantly less money than the more flashy bud. Here are a few ways you can enjoy your popcorn flower:
- Smoking: Popcorn buds can be smoked just like larger buds. They provide a convenient option for those looking to enjoy cannabis without committing to a larger quantity.
- Edibles: Due to their smaller size and affordability, popcorn buds are a great option for infusing into homemade edibles. They can be decarboxylated and incorporated into recipes for a DIY culinary experience.
- Concentrates: Popcorn buds can also be used to make cannabis concentrates like rosin, providing an option for users who prefer a more potent form of consumption.
How Strong is Popcorn Flower?
There are two schools of thought. The first is that the potency of popcorn flower is comparable to that of larger buds from the same strain. The concentration of cannabinoids, including THC and CBD, remains consistent. The second school of thought is that because the growth of popcorn buds is naturally stunted, they must be less potent. Like most things, the truth is probably somewhere in the middle, so enjoy your popcorn the same way you would premium bud until you know whether its potency matches those higher-priced purchases.
Pros & Cons of Popcorn Flower
Popcorn flower often gets overlooked, and it shouldn’t be. If you hear cannabis enthusiasts talking about popcorn, they’re likely citing one of these three reasons for buying—or not buying—popcorn.
- Cheaper: Because popcorn flower grows at the bottom of the plant, it’s not as visually appealing as the top-of-the-plant flower. This means growers sell it at a lower cost, and those savings are passed on to budget-conscious cannabis consumers.
- Versatile: Just about everything you can do with top-quality marijuana flower can be done with popcorn bud, making it both effective and budget-friendly. You can roll them, press them, make edibles, or just pop them in your favorite pipe.
- Lower Potency: Because popcorn grows at the bottom of the plant, away from the sunlight that graces the top-tier bud, its growth may be a little bit different. This process may lead to a slightly less potent product. That said, the potency may be the same, so we suggest dosing popcorn the same way you would any other nug and then adjusting once you know its effects on you.
Answering FAQs About Popcorn Flower
Popcorn is often overlooked because of the lack of knowledge about this form of flower. Here are a few things to know that might help you make a future popcorn purchase:
How much does popcorn cost?
The cost of popcorn flower in your dispensary is going to depend on your state and local taxes, along with any deals your dispensary is running. Generally speaking, the cost of popcorn is going to be lower than that of larger buds, offering an accessible option for consumers looking for a budget-friendly choice.
Why is it called popcorn bud?
The name "popcorn bud" stems from the physical characteristics of the flower. The buds are petite, round, and can be likened to popped popcorn in appearance.
What are smalls?
"Smalls" is another term for popcorn buds, emphasizing their smaller size compared to the top-tier bud.
Is Popcorn Bud Worth It?
Absolutely. Not only is it often sold at an affordable price—and sometimes as a deal—it can give you just about the same experience as the larger, more expensive bud. Cannabis popcorn is a great option if you’re interested in trying a strain but don’t want to fork over big bucks to get the nugs on the top shelf. Talk to your budtender to see what popcorn strains they have available.
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
Related posts
For cannabis enthusiasts, a quarter of cannabis is a practical amount—enough to explore new strains or enjoy multiple consumption methods without committing to a full ounce. Whether you’re rolling joints, packing one-hitters, or making edibles, a quarter ounce offers flexibility for both regular and occasional consumers. In this guide, we’ll explore how much is a quarter of cannabis, how many grams in a quad, how it compares to other measurements, and what you can do with it.
What is a Quarter of Cannabis?
A quarter of flower (also called a quad or a Q) is a quarter of an ounce, or seven grams of marijuana. For many cannabis enthusiasts, this is the goldilocks of cannabis measurements. It’s not so little marijuana that you can only have a session or two before you’re out, but it’s not so much that if you end up hating the strain, you feel like you’ve wasted a bunch of money.1
Keep in mind:
- A quarter ounce equals 7 grams (technically 7.0874 grams, but the industry rounds down to 7).
- It’s different from a “QP,” which stands for a quarter pound of cannabis.
This amount strikes a balance—it’s small enough for variety but large enough to last for multiple sessions.
What Does a Quarter of Cannabis Look Like?
Typically, a quarter ounce is about one to two handfuls of cannabis flower.2 However, not all quarters look alike, just like not all cannabis strains look alike. Its exact appearance depends on the type of cannabis flower. If you prefer a strain that grows giant, fat buds, a quarter could be just a couple of nuggets of cannabis. If you like strains with tightly bound, smaller buds, a quarter could look like quite a haul. In general, a quarter of cannabis can fit in one palm, maybe two palms if you have small hands. For many cannabis enthusiasts who consume cannabis regularly, a quarter can get you through a week of regular consumption.
How Much Does a Quarter Ounce of Flower Cost?
A quarter ounce can cost between $20 and $130, depending on the strain of flower.3 If you’re purchasing some premium, top-shelf flower, you’re going to pay premium, top-shelf prices. Conversely, if you purchase a quarter of popcorn, you’re going to pay less. You’ll also have to factor in state and local taxes, which can significantly impact the final cost. For regular cannabis enthusiasts, this amount is a cost-effective way to explore new beginner strains.
What Can You Do with a Quarter of Flower?
A quarter ounce offers plenty of options for consumption. Whether you prefer smoking a joint, vaping, or making edibles like cannabutter, 7 grams provides versatility:4
Roll 6 - 7 Joints
You can roll about 6–7 one-gram joints from a quarter ounce of cannabis so that you can have multiple smoking sessions.
Pack 30 One-Hitters
A one-hitter uses about 0.25 grams of cannabis, meaning you can pack roughly 30 one-hitters from a quarter ounce. This is ideal if you prefer microdoses of marijuana.
Roll 6 - 7 Blunts
Blunts typically require about 1 gram of cannabis each. So you can roll roughly 6–7 blunts with a quarter ounce, allowing you to smoke a blunt a day.
How Long Will a Quarter Last?
The longevity of a quarter of cannabis depends on your consumption habits. If you smoke or vape daily, it may last about a week. For occasional users, it could last several weeks or even months.
It’s important to keep your flower fresh and prevent it from drying out or losing potency. So store flower properly by keeping it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
How Does a Quarter Compare to Other Marijuana Measurements?
Understanding how a quarter of cannabis compares to other measurements can help you make smarter purchasing decisions. Cannabis is sold by weight, primarily using the metric system, so here’s how a quarter fits into the mix:
How Many Grams Are in a Quarter of Marijuana?
A quarter ounce of cannabis is equal to 7 grams. This is standard across the industry and is enough flower for several sessions.
How Many Eighths Are in a Quarter of Marijuana?
A quarter is made up of two-eighths, with an eighth of cannabis weighing 3.5 grams. This makes a quarter a convenient option to split cannabis flower into smaller portions.5
How Many Quarters in an Ounce?
Since an ounce of cannabis is 28 grams, simply divide it into four quarters to get 7 grams.
FAQs About a Quarter of Cannabis
When it comes to buying a quarter of cannabis, you might have some questions like “How much is a quarter pound of cannabis” and whether that’s the same as “How much is a quarter of cannabis?” Whether you’re a seasoned consumer or new to cannabis, these FAQs will help you make informed decisions and get the most out of your purchase. And if you want to know more, ask your favorite LivWell budtender for guidance.
How much is a quarter of zaza?
Zaza refers to exotic, high-end strains, which typically cost more than standard cannabis. Expect to pay on the higher end of the price range for a quarter or 7 grams of zaza.
Can I legally possess a quarter of flower?
In states where cannabis is legal, possessing a quarter ounce is typically allowed. Always check your state’s specific laws to ensure compliance.6
Is a quarter the same as a quarter pound of cannabis?
No, a quarter of cannabis isn’t the same as a quarter pound. A quarter refers to one-fourth of an ounce or 7 grams, not a quarter pound. A “QP” (pronounced cue-pee) is short for a quarter pound of cannabis, and it’s equal to 4 ounces since there are 16 ounces in a pound. A QP weighs 113.4 grams.
Is 3.5 grams of cannabis a quarter?
No, 3.5 grams is an eighth, which is one-eighth (⅛) of an ounce.
Is two eighths a quad?
Yes, two eighths equal one quarter or quad. An eighth of an ounce is 3.5 grams, so doubling it gives you 7 grams of cannabis or a quarter.
Buying a Quarter of Flower
A quarter of cannabis is a practical amount for regular cannasseurs who want to explore new strains or stock up without committing to an ounce. With 7 grams of flower, you can roll several joints or blunts, pack dozens of one-hitters, or even try your hand at making cannabutter.
For the best experience, store your flower properly and choose strains suited to your preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned consumer or stepping up from smaller quantities, buying a quarter offers the perfect balance of flexibility and value. Remember to check in with a LivWell budtender if you’re still unsure about cannabis measurements and how much you can legally buy as a smart dispensary shopper.
Sources:
1. “The complete guide to weed measurements and prices,” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/weed-measurements
2. “Weed Measurements Guide: Quantities, Weights, Prices,” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/weed-measurements
3. “Quarter,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/quarter
4. “A visual guide to the most common measurements of weed,” Business Insider, May 13, 2022, https://www.insider.com/guides/home/weed-measurements
5. “How much is an eighth of weed?” MIC, November 10, 2020, https://www.mic.com/articles/165720/how-much-is-an-eighth-of-weed-price-weight-photos-size-slang-and-more
6. “State Laws,” NORML, https://norml.org/laws/
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
If you’ve ever opened a bag of cannabis flower and noticed tiny bits at the bottom, you’ve already seen marijuana shake. Shake is the tiny pieces that break off during handling, and while it’s less potent than whole flower, it’s versatile, budget-friendly, and shouldn’t be thrown away. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from what is shake to how to use it.
What is Shake?
Shake refers to the small pieces of cannabis flower that “shake” or fall off during handling—and that’s where it got its name. These bits include tiny buds, trichomes, and sometimes small stems or leaves. Shake is often a mix of several strains, though you can buy single-strain shake. While it’s less potent than whole flower, shake is more affordable and can be used in various ways, from packing it into a bowl to adding it to your favorite food or beverage for an edible. Shake is a great option for budget-conscious cannabis enthusiasts.1
How Do You Use Shake?
Shake can be used in many ways, making it a versatile choice for cannabis connoisseurs.
Smoke Shake
You can sprinkle shake into a bowl, use it to roll joints, or pack it into a blunt. Shake also works well as a filler for larger joints, giving you an affordable way to stretch your stash. Or if you’re simply on a very tight budget, you can buy only shake instead of using the leftovers from a bud in the packet.2
Make Edibles or Tea
Edibles with shake are ideal. You can easily make cannabutter or cannaflour. Be sure to decarboxylate (heat) it first to activate the THC. You can also use shake to brew tea—simply steep it in hot water with your favorite tea, strain, add honey or lemon, and enjoy.
Create Tinctures & Topicals
Make DIY tinctures or topicals with shake for a budget-friendly way to experiment with different combinations. This is especially great if you’re trying to find what works best for your needs, and you can even microdose with a THC tincture made from shake.3 To make your own tincture, decarboxylate shake and soak it with high-proof alcohol for a full day. Stir the mixture occasionally, strain it, and pour it into a dropper bottle.
Pros of Purchasing Shake
If you’re looking for a cost-effective and flexible cannabis option, shake might just be what you need. While it’s not as flashy as full buds, it offers several advantages that make it worth considering:
- Cheaper: Shake is significantly less expensive than whole flower, making it a budget-friendly choice for cannabis consumers.
- Convenient: It’s already broken down, so there’s less need for grinding, saving you time and effort during preparation.
- Versatile: Shake can be used in a variety of ways, from smoking in a bowl or joint to making edibles, tea, or even tinctures.
Cons of Purchasing Shake
While shake has its perks, there are a few downsides to keep in mind. Depending on your preferences, these factors might make it less ideal for your needs:
- Inconsistent: Shake is often a mix of different strains, meaning the flavor, aroma, and effects can vary from batch to batch.
- Less potent: Over time, marijuana shake can lose potency due to exposure to light, air, and heat, which can convert THC into CBN and dull its effects.
- Appearance: Shake isn’t as visually appealing as whole cannabis flower. And while this doesn’t matter for practical use, it may not appeal to all cannabis enthusiasts.
Comparing Shake to Other Types of Cannabis Flower
Shake often gets confused with other cannabis byproducts, but each has unique characteristics. Here’s how shake compares to other types of cannabis flower:4
- Shake vs Popcorn: Popcorn flower refers to smaller buds that grow near the stalk of the cannabis plant. These buds are compact and slightly less potent than premium flower but still full buds. Shake, in contrast, is made up of loose bits that fall off during processing, making it more fragmented.
- Shake vs Trim: Trim consists of the leaves and trimmings that cultivators remove from buds during harvesting. Trim often includes sugar leaves, which have fewer cannabinoids. Shake, however, comes from small flower pieces and trichomes, making it more potent and flavorful than trim.
- Shake vs Kief: Kief is made up of dried trichomes, the resin glands of the cannabis plant that contain high concentrations of cannabinoids and terpenes. Kief is far more potent than shake and is often used as a topper or in making hash. Shake contains a mix of plant material and trichomes, making it less concentrated and potent than kief.
FAQs About Shake
If you’ve been curious about marijuana shake or wonder if it’s the right option for you, these common questions might help clear things up. Whether you’re considering shake for its affordability or versatility, understanding how it compares to other cannabis products can make your decision easier. And remember, you can always ask a budtender at your local LivWell dispensary for personalized advice.
Is shake bad?
Shake isn’t bad—it’s value depends on your preferences and how you plan to use it. Ultimately, it’s a budget-friendly and versatile option for cannabis enthusiasts.
Are shake and trim the same?
Shake and trim aren’t the same thing. Trim refers to the leaves trimmed from the buds, while shake is the small pieces of flower that fall off.
Is shake as potent as flower?
Shake is often less potent than flower, but the difference depends on storage and quality.
Is shake worth it?
Shake can be worth it if you’re looking for an affordable option or planning to use it for edibles or tinctures.
Purchasing Cannabis Shake
Shake can be an affordable and versatile option for many cannabis consumers. If you’re curious to try it, visit your local LivWell dispensary to explore their selection and speak with a budtender to find the perfect product.
Sources:
1. “What is shake?” Weedmaps, https://weedmaps.com/learn/products-and-how-to-consume/what-is-shake
2. “What Is Shake Weed: Everything You Need To Know,” Veriheal, July 3, 2024, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/cannabis-shake-what-can-you-do-with-it/
3. “What Is Shake Weed?” Leadwell, https://leafwell.com/blog/shake-weed/
4. “Do Cannabis Edibles Expire? Tips for Maximizing Freshness and Potency,” Veriheal, November 16, 2024, https://www.veriheal.com/blog/do-edibles-expire/
5. “Shake,” Leafly, https://www.leafly.com/learn/cannabis-glossary/shake
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
AIO vapes, or all-in-one vaporizers, are the ultimate convenience for cannabis enthusiasts. These pre-filled disposable devices combine the vape cartridge and battery into one easy-to-use package, making them perfect for beginners and experienced vapers alike. Whether you’re looking for portability, low maintenance, or a cost-effective way to smoke cannabis, an AIO vape is a solid choice.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about these handy devices, from what disposable vapes are to how they work and the pros and cons of using them.
What Is an AIO Vape?
An AIO (all-in-one) vape is a portable, hand-held vaporizer that combines a pre-filled cartridge and a battery into a single disposable device. AIO vapes are typically less expensive than purchasing a separate battery and cartridge, allowing the canna-consumer to try a wide array of flavors, strains, and concentrates at a smaller cost. The simplicity of the design makes it incredibly user-friendly and convenient–these vapes are ready to use right out of the box.1
How Do Disposable Vape Pens Work?
A disposable THC vape is a straight-forward, easy-to-explain product:3
- The built-in battery powers a heating chamber (called the atomizer) that warms the cannabis oil in the cartridge, turning it into a vapor for inhalation.
- The vapor is inhaled through the mouthpiece. (You may have to press a power button, depending on the brand.)
- Rechargeable models let you continue using the device until the oil is gone, while non-rechargeable ones are discarded once the battery dies, even if there’s oil left inside.
What Are the Pros and Cons of Disposable Vapes?
Like other cannabis products, disposable vapes come with their own set of pros and cons, making them suitable for some consumers but not ideal for others.
Pros:
- Low maintenance and easy to use: No need to fuss with settings or separate components; inhale and enjoy.
- Convenient for on-the-go use: Compact and discreet, AIO vapes are perfect for travel or quick sessions.
- Affordable: Since they combine the cartridge and battery, disposables are budget-friendly compared to refillable setups.
Cons:
- No customization or temperature control: You’re limited to the preset features of the device.
- Single-use design isn’t eco-friendly: Disposable vapes contribute to electronic and plastic waste.
- Limited variety: You’re restricted to the strain and oil type already in the device without the option to swap cartridges for variety or experimentation.
Despite these drawbacks, the simplicity and portability of an AIO vape make it a popular choice for casual or first-time cannabis enthusiasts.
How to Choose a Disposable (AIO) Vape?
When selecting an AIO vape, keep these factors in mind:
Non-Rechargeable vs. Rechargeable
When choosing an AIO vape or THC cartridge, consider whether you prefer a non-rechargeable or rechargeable model. Non-rechargeable vapes are convenient and straightforward—use them until the battery dies and dispose of them. However, you may waste some product if the battery runs out before the oil is finished. Rechargeable models, on the other hand, allow you to fully use the oil before throwing out the device, making them a more economical choice for regular cannasseurs.
Distillate vs. Concentrate
An all-in-one vape often comes pre-filled with either distillate or live resin, each offering unique benefits. Distillate is a purified form of THC with added terpenes for flavor. However, it doesn’t fully replicate the plant’s natural profile. Cannabis concentrates, like live resin or rosin, retain more of the plant’s original cannabinoids and terpenes, providing a fuller, more flavorful experience that’s closer to the natural cannabis plant. Your choice depends on your preferences.4
FAQs About Disposable THC Vapes
Disposable THC vapes are popular for their convenience and simplicity, but they can still raise a few questions like “What is a disposable vaporizer?” From understanding how long they last to choosing the right type, knowing the basics can help you get the most out of your vape. Here, we’ve answered some of the most common questions to make your vaping experience as smooth as possible. Or, if you need personalized recommendations, chat with your favorite LivWell budtender.
How long does a disposable vape pen battery last?
The lifespan of a disposable vape pen battery depends on how often you use it. For regular cannabis enthusiasts, the battery may last up to a week, while occasional consumers could stretch it over several weeks. Most batteries are designed to last until the oil is depleted or the battery dies, whichever comes first.
How will I know my vape pen is empty?
You’ll know your vape pen is empty when it stops producing vapor, even though the battery has some charge left. Many pens also show visible signs, like the clear or empty oil reservoir. If the flavor diminishes or you notice weak hits, it’s likely time to replace the device.
Do I have to visit a dispensary to buy disposable vapes?
It's highly recommended you purchase disposable vapes from a licensed dispensary. Dispensaries ensure that the products are tested for safety, properly labeled, and meet quality standards.
How much does an AIO vape cost?
Prices for an AIO vape pen range from $15 to $100, depending on size and the type of oil or concentrate inside.
What does “all-in-one vape pen” mean?
An all-in-one or AIO vape pen is a single device that includes both the battery and cartridge, so you don’t need to buy extra components.
Are all-in-one vapes reusable?
AIO vapes can be “reusable,” meaning you can recharge the battery until the oil is empty, and then you discard the vape pen. Most all-in-one vapes are disposable, so you throw the device away as soon as the battery dies.
More About Disposable AIO Vape Pens
Disposable AIO vapes are perfect for cannabis enthusiasts seeking simplicity, portability, and convenience. They’re great for beginners and experienced cannasseurs, offering a hassle-free way to enjoy cannabis concentrates. Just remember to choose a reputable dispensary to ensure safety and quality, and ask your budtender to help you choose the best AIO vape pen if you’re unsure.
Sources:
1. “A guide to the different types of cannabis vape carts,” Leafly, August 29, 2022, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/types-of-cannabis-vape-carts
2. “What Are the Different Types of Weed Pens?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/weed-pen-types
3. “Anatomy of a vape pen,” Leafly, September 27, 2021, https://www.leafly.com/news/cannabis-101/vape-pen-anatomy
4. “Dab Pen vs Vape Pen: What’s the Difference?” Leafwell, October 7, 2024, https://leafwell.com/blog/dab-pen-vs-vape-pen
Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations. Use of Marijuana Concentrate may lead to: Psychotic symptoms and/or Psychotic disorder (delusions, hallucinations, or difficulty distinguishing reality); Mental Health Symptoms/Problems; Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) (uncontrolled and repetitive vomiting); Cannabis use disorder/dependence, including physical and psychological dependence. Please consume responsibly. This product may cause impairment and may be habit forming. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. State laws impact what dispensaries can and can’t sell to recreational customers and medical marijuana patients. Not every type of product, consumption method, dosage form, or potency mentioned on this blog will be permitted in all locations.
