Bud Basics: What Exactly is a “Nug”?

“Nug” is one of those cannabis-terms you’ll see online, in menus, or overhear. But what does it really mean?

Definition:

• A “nug” typically refers to a single piece of trimmed cannabis flower (a bud) that has good shape, density and trichome coating.

• It’s also used loosely to mean high-quality flower in general.

What to look for in a true nug:

• Smell: a strong aroma of terpenes (citrus, pine, diesel, etc.).

• Appearance: a dense, resin-covered piece—avoid brown, too dry, or crunchy buds.

• Feel: firm but slightly springy. Doesn’t crumble at a touch.

Mini-nugs & pop-corn:
Smaller buds (near the base of the plant) are often called pop-corn nugs—size doesn’t always equal quality.

Why this matters for your experience: Better-nugs often mean more consistent THC/terpene profiles. When Joyful Shores opens in January 2026, we’ll help you pick flower by quality, not just price or size.

Credit: Embarc Blog (goembarc.com)