Small Buds vs. Big Buds: What’s the Difference?

CBD has taken the world by storm in the past few years. But when it comes to choosing between small buds vs. big buds, many buyers have no clue what the difference is. 

What do these two cannabis terms entail? Why are small buds cheaper? Is it because smaller buds are less potent? If you have the same questions, you’ve come to the right place!

Today, we will take a closer look at the differences between these two types of flower to help you get the best value out of your next CBD purchase! 

What are Big Buds?

Big buds refer to the top-heavy flowers harvested from the top portion of the hemp plant. Have you ever seen the big, beautiful buds surrounded by the plant’s leaves? Those are tops. 

CBD-rich trimmed tops absorb the most sunlight and are full of beneficial cannabinoids. They are hand-trimmed and carefully cured to ensure maximum CBD potency, which is why they’re usually more expensive.

These parts of the hemp flower are highly sought-after by CBD enthusiasts who want to indulge in a lavish cannabis experience. 

What are Small Buds?

Small buds, sometimes called “smalls,” are the more compact clusters found on the lower branches that break off during the trimming and curing process. While they aren’t as visually stunning as their big bud counterparts, they contain the same cannabinoids and terpenes. 

Basically, when it comes to small buds vs. big buds, size does not determine quality. It’s more about the yield and aesthetics. 

Top-Tier Small Buds vs. Big Buds

If the two varieties are just different sizes of the same thing, then why are smaller buds cheaper? Are small buds less potent than their larger counterparts?

Well, to start, most people who know nothing of the small buds vs. big buds debate avoid smaller buds because they think these parts of hemp flower have a lower quality than the top parts. Yet both have the same remarkable CBD content and terpene profile. 

The size of the buds makes no difference in the overall quality and potency of the product. 

Why are Small Buds Cheaper?

This mostly comes down to supply and demand. 

The only reason is their higher availability and lower appeal. Because they’re more accessible, there’s less of a market demand. It doesn’t make them any less effective to smoke or vape. If you want to enjoy CBD on a lower budget, smaller buds are for you!

Moisture and Longevity

Another distinction worth noting in the small buds vs. big buds debate is the moisture content. 

Smaller buds have less surface area to stick to, so they retain less moisture. On the other hand, larger buds may be sticky inside and retain more moisture. 

This decreased moisture content is crucial for preventing mold formation. If you have big buds, you have to be more cautious about how they’re stored. If you’re buying in bulk or storing for long periods, small buds are a better choice.

How to Use Small CBD Buds

Now that you know small buds are not less potent than larger buds, you can confidently use them to create a CBD wellness routine for yourself. 

One of the big differences between small buds vs. big buds is that the smaller ones grind up easily, making them great for portioning out and using them in prerolls, tinctures, and edibles.

Making Prerolls With Small CBD Flower

A great way of smoking hemp flower is to make your own prerolls using smaller buds. Here is how it’s done:

1. Gather your CBD flower, rolling papers, a grinder, and a packing tool like a pen. 
2. Break down the buds into a finer consistency using the grinder.
3. Spread the ground flower along the length of your rolling paper. 
4. Roll the paper and pack the flower with your pen. 
5. Lick the edge of the paper, seal it, smoke, and enjoy!

Making Tinctures With Smaller Buds

Want to experience the pure joy of making your own CBD tinctures at home? Small buds are the ticket! 

Here is how you can try this DIY project yourself:

1. Grind and dry your flower in the oven at 240°F for 40 minutes.
2. Place the ground buds in a mason jar and cover them with high-quality ethanol. 
3. Seal and leave the jar in a warm environment for several weeks, shaking it daily to ensure proper infusion.
4. Strain the mixture and store the tincture in a dark bottle in a cool place. 

Making Edibles With Smaller Buds

Cooking with CBD is easier than you think! You can use CBD-rich trimmed tops or hemp flower smalls to make delicious edibles. 

Here is a recipe for CBD-infused cookies:

1. Preheat the oven to 240°F.
2. Cream ⅓ cups of softened butter with ½ cup of sugar.
3. Add one egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. 
4. Combine 1 cup of flour with ½ teaspoon of baking powder and a pinch of salt in another bowl.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and add 1 cup of CBD flower.
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough on your baking sheet, flatten the tops, and bake them for 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown.
7. Let them cool on a wire rack before digging in!

Now, note that even if you’re still on the fence about small buds vs. big buds, note that tops will also work for the above uses. You’ll just have to put in a bit more work, which is why small buds are cheaper.

Buy CBD Flower From Rogue Origin

With a once-and-for-all answer to the small buds vs. big buds debate, we hope you’re more excited to try these two out and see what you think! 

Overall, it’s a price comparison, not a purchase comparison. One more time for the people in the back: small buds are NOT less potent.

If you want beautiful, Instagram-worthy nugs, go big! On the other hand, if you want the same level of strength without the added cost, small buds will do you just fine. Regardless, it’s best to shop from a reliable seller with a good track record. 

With over a decade of experience and tons of happy customers, Rogue Origin is here to help you get your hands on high-quality flower, grown right here in the sunny Oregon valley. Our cultivars, whether small buds vs. big buds, are USDA-certified and tested for potency and quality. You can try either one based on your preference. 

Shop CBD and hemp flower smalls today and get free shipping on $75+ orders. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions about our products. We’d love to hear from you!