The Top 5 Strains for Pressing Rosin

Rosin is becoming the choice for consuming concentrates among a growing number of the country’s cannabis communities. And as we’ve detailed in past articles, all rosin yields are not equal. A subpar return can come from several options. Of course having top quality equipment, such as the Pikes Peak rosin press, can make a huge difference, if you want to hit big yield numbers with flower rosin you have to select the right strains.

You’ll want to focus on strains that offer massive trichome production. Another key to pressing quality rosin is how resinous your plants are in general. Remember, the more resinous it is, the more rosin you’ll yield. While indica and hybrids tend to be the best choice, some sativas are worth pressing as well. Here are a few of each that you should consider making into rosin:

GG4 (a/k/a Gorilla Glue #4)

GG4 Gorilla Glue Rosin Press PurePressureImage Source

GG4 is an incredibly popular strain for cannabis users of all ingestion methods. Formerly officially known as Gorilla Glue #4, this hybrid flower is not only the most popular of its phenotypes, but it's also one of the most in-demand strains in the U.S. market. It now takes on the moniker "GG4" due to a lawsuit, settled out of court, by the official manufacturers of Gorilla Glue brand adhesives. Many rosin pressers love its high potency and copious trichomes that make its flower look covered in permafrost. With a high THC content, this may not be the best dab to end a night since many varieties can be stimulating, but it does tend to be suitable for any other occasion.


Depending who you ask, GG4’s terpenes can be robust and distinguishable. Others say it is a more muted strain. If you’re unsure where you stand and want a robust, aromatic profile, consider starting with another suggestion from the list.

The White and its Crossed Strains

KindReviews Potguide PurePressure The White Rosin Pressing

An indica dominant hybrid, The White is not part of the White Widow family but instead named for the color of its buds. The origin of The White's name is the prime reason why rosin pressers love this strain. Its abundant, plentiful trichomes are perfect for pressing rivers of rosin.

The White’s beginnings are slightly unclear. However, what isn’t is its potency. Users are sure to enjoy the almost immediate impact of a White hit. Those looking for quick, lasting pain relief should consider this strain for pressing. However, its terpene profile isn't its strongest trait. As mentioned with GG4, if you're looking for a yield with noticeable terpenes, this strain might not be your top choice. If that is your preference, other OGs might fit your wants a bit more.

To learn more about the White, GG4 and other crosses, check out the awesome work by Nikka T of Essential Extracts.

The Chem Lineage

Chem Cannabis Rosin Press PurePressureImage Source

With Chems, choosing one above the others wouldn’t be fair. So, we’ll recommend the whole slew and let you decide from there. Chem Dawg has been at the cannabis for almost the entire 25+ years it’s been cultivated. While uncertain in origin, cannabis lovers are sure of this slightly indica dominant hybrid's THC content (15%-20%+) and its silvery trichomes.

It’s no wonder that a strain like this would be crossbred multiple times over. The ensuing results produced other excellent strains for rosin pressing. Others worthy of pressing include:

Because of these traits, even veteran users tread lightly when using Chemdawg and its offshoot strains. That being said, the results are worth it all.

Papaya and its Crosses

Papaya KindReviews PotGuide Rosin Pressing PurePressure

Papaya is a potent strain known for its disease resistance and early maturation. It's also beloved for being a powerful indica dominant hybrid that's excellent for cross breeding. The top crossbred strains are worthy candidates for water processed hash -- with some of the best washes and rosin coming from Kennnwall, along with many amazing crosses originating from Oni Seed Co.

Papaya fans cite its rich terpenes that fill the nose with fruit, mainly mango. Additional benefits of Papaya and many of its crosses include quick and long-lasting effects that typically bring joy while keeping a certain level of focus.

Sour Strains

Sour Kush Kindreviews PotGuide Image Rosin Pressing

Choosing a sour is much like Papaya strains. You can make a lot of great decisions. An additional benefit of sours are that you can choose a sativa dominant hybrid and still produce quality rosin. With these strains, you can opt for a 50:50 split or go for an indica or sativa dominant strain.

Start with a 50:50 like Sour Banana Sherbert for an 18%-24% potency and exciting terpene profile that straddles sour fruit and diesel. Sour Tangie works excellent if you want more sativa and prominent terpenes. The same can be said for the incredibly resinous Sour Kosher.

Also consider:

  • Sour Kush (Sativa dominant NYCD cross)
  • Sour Secret (80:20 indica dominant)
  • Sour Cream (For a stellar sour/haze combination)
  • Sour Krypt (For large, resinous buds)

Did we miss your favorite strain? It’s possible with so many great options for rosin pressing! Tell us your favorite strains in the comments to keep the discussion going.

Rosin Strains and Yields