Shopping for your first cannabis strain while visiting NYC? It can be intimidating to set foot inside a dispensary and see all of the options available. You might start by reading the labels, but you get overwhelmed by the numbers, percentages, potencies, and more. What is a terpene, anyway?
To the beginner, the first trip to a dispensary can feel like wandering into a science lab. You don’t need a lab coat, but before you start shopping, you should have a plan. We’ll explain how to choose beginner-friendly cannabis strains, tell you what to look for on the label, and give you a few approachable strains and products to help you start exploring.
Why Strain Choice Matters for New Consumers
Everyone’s tastes and preferences are different. When you shop for cannabis for the first time, pick comfort over what’s popular. The product label is a good roadmap for your experience. It will tell you important information like THC percentage and serving sizes.
Pay attention to terpene profiles, too. These will tell you more about the product’s aroma and taste, so follow your nose. You’ll find products with bright citrus notes, sweet dessert vibes, or even strong diesel-like aromas.
For the best cannabis strains for beginners, aim for low to mid-range THC products that have clear labeling so you know what you are getting and how to use it. Start low and go slow. One or two light inhales, then wait 10-15 minutes before deciding on more. You can always add a little, but you can’t un-take it. Keep water nearby, a snack handy, and give yourself time to settle in.
Understanding Cannabis Types
Before we name names, let’s look at the main categories you’ll encounter. These are general guides, not rules. The chemistry on the label will tell you the full story.
Indica: Often associated with evening sessions or winding down, an indica strain can carry earthy, dessert, or fuel notes. Many beginners like the cozy, laid-back vibes, provided the THC isn’t sky-high.
Sativa: A sativa strain is commonly described as a brighter high or more daytime-friendly. You might find it with citrus, floral, or herbal aromas. THC can still be potent here, so don’t assume sativa equals lightweight.
Hybrid: A hybrid strain blends traits from both sides. For first-timers, hybrids with moderate THC and clear terpene profiles are an easy middle lane to take.
Beginner-Friendly Strains to Explore
Remember: this list is a starting point, not a mandate! Always check each jar’s label and rely on your friendly budtenders for their advice.
1. Mild THC Strains
- Strawnana: Sweet strawberry-banana aromatics with a smooth, dessert-like finish. Look for mid-teens THC batches, like the ones found in #Juan Pre-Rolls from PICC. These will keep the high gentle until you get a feel for the pacing. Great as a first bowl or a single pre-roll to share with a friend.
- Fish Scale: Creamy cookies with a mint snap. Potency can run high on some batches, so look for lower-THC jars from Cookies and take one or two light pulls at first.
- California Diesel: Citrus layered over fuel notes with a balanced feel. Pick a mid-range jar from Tony Tux and take a sniff. If you like the smell, you’ll love the flavor. It’s a good one to try to experience the diesel taste without getting too heavy.
2. Balanced THC:CBD Strains
Balanced usually means the THC and CBD show up in roughly equal amounts, which many newcomers find steadier than high-THC alone. MyHi’s gummies have a nice balance in an easy-to-dose package. Choose the berry-forward Blue Raz for a low-key catch-up or the classic grape flavor for a simple, tasty nightcap.
3. Terpene-Rich Hybrids
These hybrids really let you smell and taste the personality of the plant. If you shop by flavor, start with Jaunty products. Their carts and AIOs have true-to-strain profiles and smooth pulls. Start with:
- Blue Dream: Bright berry with a smooth finish. Approachable and easy to enjoy, it’s popular for a reason. Try it in an all-in-one vape for portability.
- Bloomfruit: Jaunty’s live rosin is solventless and has a bold taste. It’s juicy, fruity, and great for taking rosin out for a test drive.
- Pineapple Express: Tropical and zesty, this is a signature strain with a pineapple snap. Great everyday cart when you want something upbeat and full of flavor.
Where to Find Beginner-Friendly Cannabis in NYC
Want to choose cannabis strains for your first trip? Come talk to us. Qube is located at 1412 Broadway #102, just around the corner from Times Square in NYC. We love guiding new shoppers through the basics, then lining up jars so they can shop and compare.
We’ll help you find a strain that matches your plans for the day and gives you a reference point for your next visit. We’ll make sure your first steps into the world of cannabis are confident, comfortable ones. Stop into Qube for guidance on finding a strain that matches your comfort level.