The History of Hemp Genetics

Where do the first cannabis genetics come from? How did they get to Europe? Which genetics are considered the oldest? Find the answers to these and many other questions in our new article describing the history of individual cannabis genetics.

The Beginning of Cannabis in Europe: Amsterdam Was the Cannabis Center

The oldest genetics began to be bred in Amsterdam, approximately in the late 60s and early 70s. Subsequently, Amsterdam became the cannabis center for all of Europe. Traders from exotic countries who imported cannabis gathered there. Nevertheless, the Netherlands was not a country inclined to legalization. The Hippie movements that emerged worldwide in the 1960s helped the most in the early development of cannabis in Europe.

Cannabis Was Imported to Amsterdam from All Over the World

Cannabis Genetics in Europe Back Then

The cannabis market in Amsterdam was based on importing marijuana from all corners of the world. Later, coffee shops were established, which became very popular. Cannabis genetics were imported from:

  • Africa
  • India
  • Thailand
  • Central America
  • North America

Hash was also imported, especially from Afghanistan, Nepal, and eastern countries. Pioneers used imported marijuana seeds to experiment with cannabis crossbreeding, so they could later create their own seed banks and sell cannabis genetics there.

Cannabis Genetics in North America Back Then

There are several opinions on how cannabis arrived in this country. Either it was a native species that grew naturally there, or it was brought from Chile or Brazil. Similarly, cannabis was not met with a friendly attitude and full legalization in North America. This changed again with the hippie movement, which used cannabis mainly for recreational purposes.

First (and Oldest) Cannabis Varieties

Skunk 1

As we wrote in the previous article about cannabis genetics – its breeding began very long ago, and based on crossing different genetics, the most diverse cannabis varieties were created. Such a case is the Skunk 1 variety. The variety was bred in California by the famous grower David Watson. The genetics in Skunk 1 contains Acapulco, Afghan, and Colombian gold. Then, Skunk itself was used as a genetic basis for many other varieties. The Skunk 1 variety is known to be easy to grow in any conditions and offers rich yields.

Haze

The second cannabis variety considered significant is Haze. It originated from cannabis sativa varieties that came from hybrids. Haze varieties usually have a high THC content. They also differ in growing length because their maturation takes a bit longer than other varieties. Estimated, their flowering time can last up to 16 weeks, which is really long. We also have feminized seeds CBD Skunk Haze, which have more than 5% cannabidiol content.

Northern Lights

Northern Lights is also among the old varieties. It originates from Indica. It is the result of crossing Thai landrace strains and Afghan strains. Many growers claim it comes from Washington. It belongs to the early genetics that form the basis of many current varieties. You can also find it in a CBD version, namely CBD Northern Light – feminized cannabis seeds.

Blueberry

The beginning of this old variety also dates back to the 1970s. The original Blueberry variety combines Indica and Sativa genetics. It is very often used to cross new varieties. You can try CBD Blueberry seeds, which have a short flowering time and grow to medium height.

The above "old school" genetics are a golden tradition because they have been used for a very long time to cross new varieties. CBD versions have also been created from them, which are legal and beneficial for growers. Don't hesitate to check out our CBD seeds offer to see what we're talking about.