In recent years, the availability of cannabis has seen remarkable growth. As the walls of prohibition crumble, enthusiasts are granted access to an overwhelming array of strains and products. Among these aficionados, a group known as the Flower Girls has emerged, gathering to elevate their appreciation of the cannabis flower. This society of smokers serves as a platform for cultivating connoisseurship, where discussions revolve around the intricacies of different strains and the quest for the “dankest” flower. When Flower Girls come together for a tasting session, they do so with mindful smoking, sharing insights and observations while considering factors such as origin, appearance, aroma, flavor, and effect.
To ensure that a proper tasting does not devolve into a casual gathering, focused attention and patience are crucial. The first step is to establish the cultivation methods and origins of the flowers being sampled. Was it grown under natural sunlight or artificial lights? Was it grown organically or conventionally? From seed or clone? In soil or hydroponically? Who is the farmer and what do we know about the genetics? Is it a new strain, a rare heirloom, an old favorite, or a chance cross?
Next, the flowers are examined. Are they pale, bright, or muted green? Do they have hints of purple? Are they large or small, dense or fluffy, dry or perfectly cured? Are they sticky with resin? A magnifying glass or handheld microscope can provide a closer look at the trichomes, the tiny crystals on the surface of the flower. Are they plentiful, with intact gland heads?
As anticipation builds, it is important to take the time to smell the flowers. Breaking apart buds with fingers and grinding them in a metal grinder reveals layers of aroma. Each person fills a clean glass pipe (never a bong or bubbler) with ground herb and takes a “dry hit” to preview the flavor. Finally, it is time to light the pipes. To avoid inhaling butane, Flower Girls use beeswax-dipped hemp wick for a cleaner and cooler smoke. When lighting a freshly packed pipe, the flame is held near the edge of the bowl to preserve the green for subsequent tokes. Slow inhalation and exhalation allow for concentration on taste and sensation. (It is crucial to remember to blow out the hemp wick. If a distracted Flower Girl forgets, her companions should promptly assist in extinguishing the flame.)
Initial impressions are then articulated. Is the smoke harsh or smooth? Is it sweet, sour, or spicy? Are there hints of fuel, pine, or citrus? And how does it make one feel? After a few restrained puffs, a pause allows for observation of the effects as they arise. Once the lighter side of the high has been reflected upon, it is time to roll a joint, or several. Each person takes a dry hit before lighting the joint with hemp wick. As the joint burns, the progressive unfolding of flavors and effects is monitored, with continual efforts to describe the experience.
In a hipster journalistic writing style, it is important to leave space between paragraphs to allow for reflection and contemplation. The Flower Girls’ gatherings are not just about getting high, but about appreciating the complexities and nuances of the cannabis flower. Through mindful smoking and thoughtful discussion, they strive to elevate their understanding and enjoyment of this beloved plant.
