# Popcorn buds

> Popcorn buds are small, separate buds, usually from lower branches, often sold cheaper as "smalls" though they can be the same quality as the tops.

- Canonical: https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/popcorn-buds.html
- Also written: popcorn, popcorn nugs, popcorns, smalls
- Glossary category: Grower slang and culture
- Status: Draft: awaiting expert review · Updated: 2026-10-31
- Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/), attribute "GenetixBay cannabis glossary"

Popcorn buds are small, round buds about the size of a popcorn kernel to a thumbnail, usually from lower branches or side shoots. Retail calls them "smalls".

## In practice

Because they are small, popcorn buds sell for less than large [colas](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/cola.md) from the same plant. Chemically they can be close to the [tops](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/top-shelf.md) if they had decent light, though buds deep in the shade usually test somewhat lower. They dry faster than big colas, so a mixed batch needs attention to avoid [over-drying](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/over-drying.md) the small ones. Many growers reduce popcorn by removing the weakest lower sites early, or by training so more sites reach the top of the canopy, where light is strongest. Others keep them on purpose as a personal stash of good flower at no extra cost.

## Don't confuse with

- **Larf**: airy and underdeveloped; popcorn can be dense.
- **Shake**: broken fragments, not whole small buds.

## Related terms

[Larf](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/larf.md), [Nugs](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/nugs.md), [Shake](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/shake.md), [Canopy](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/glossary/canopy.md)

## Read more

- [Defoliation and lollipopping: what to remove, when, and the evidence](https://genetixbay.com/knowledge/training/defoliation-lollipopping.md)