Knowing the optimal time to harvest is crucial for both the potency and flavour of the buds. Harvesting too early or too late can dramatically impact the quality of your yield. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help growers identify the ideal harvesting window for their plants.

Understanding the Harvesting Window

Generally, plants have a harvesting window of a few weeks. While it’s not an exact science, the perfect time within this window depends on the desired effect and flavour profile. The earliest part of the window will have higher active compound content, offering a more stimulating effect, while the latter part may lead to a more relaxing effect.

Check the Flowering Time

• Sativa-like strains usually take longer (10-12 weeks) to flower.
• Indica-like strains typically have shorter flowering times (8-10 weeks).
• Hybrids can vary, so always refer to the breeder’s guidelines.

This is a general rule, and the actual time will vary for different strains. Always cross-check with visual cues.

Inspect the Pistils

Pistils are the hair-like structures on the buds. Initially, they are white and stick straight out. Over time, they curl in an darken to an amber reddish brown colour.

• 60-70% darkened pistils usually means the plant is ready for harvest.
• 80-90% darkened indicates a more calming, anti-anxiety effect.

Examine the Trichomes

Trichomes are the tiny, crystal-like appendages on the buds and leaves that produce active compounds. They’re best viewed with a magnifier (e.g., magnifying loupe).

• Clear trichomes: Not yet ready, they’re still producing active compounds.
• Milky white trichomes: Peak compound content, resulting in the most potent effect.
• Amber trichomes: Some of the compounds have converted, leading to more relaxing, sedative effects.

For a balanced effect, many growers harvest when trichomes are a mix of milky white and 10-20% amber.

Assess the Bud Structure and Density

As the flowers mature, they will become denser. Harvesting when buds are fully developed and dense can lead to a better yield and quality.

Fan Leaves Yellowing

Towards the end of the flowering phase, it’s natural for the larger fan leaves to turn yellow as the plant sends its remaining nutrients to the buds. This is an additional sign that the plant is nearing harvest.

Flush the Plants

Before harvesting, consider flushing the plants (i.e., giving them only plain water) for 1-2 weeks. This process removes any remaining nutrients in the soil, leading to a purer flavour in the buds. See Flushing your Plants to learn more.

Things to Remember

• Strain Variability: Different strains might have slightly different harvesting cues. Always consult strain-specific information.
• Individual Preferences: Some growers might prefer a more energetic effect and harvest earlier, while others might wait for a calming effect.
• Be Patient: Waiting a few more days can make a significant difference in potency and effect. Regularly inspect your plants.

In conclusion, knowing when to harvest requires keen observation and sometimes a bit of experimentation. With time and experience, growers will be able to make more informed decisions and achieve the desired outcome from their plants.

FAQs

How do you know when bud is ready for harvest?

To determine when cannabis buds are ready for harvest, growers typically rely on two primary methods: observing the pistils and examining the trichomes.

Pistil Method

• Color Change: The pistils, which are the hair-like structures on the buds, start off white and change to darker hues (orange, red, or brown) as the plant matures.
• Harvest Timing:
  • < 50% Color Change: Too young to harvest.
  • 60-70% Color Change: Ideal time to harvest.
  • 80-100% Color Change: The plant may be overripe, so caution is advised

What do trichomes look like when ready to harvest?

When determining if cannabis buds are ready to harvest based on trichome appearance, growers typically look for the following characteristics:

Trichome Color

• Clear Trichomes: Not ready for harvest yet. THC production has begun but other cannabinoids haven’t fully developed.
• Milky/Cloudy Trichomes: Approaching peak ripeness. This indicates high THC content.
• Amber Trichomes: THC is starting to degrade into CBN, producing more sedative effects.

Optimal Harvest Window

Some growers aim for the following trichome composition:

• 70% Milky/Cloudy
• 15% Clear
• 15% Amber

This balance is believed to provide peak potency and desired effects.

How do you know when buds are over ripe?

Trichome Appearance

• More than 15% amber trichomes: This indicates the buds are becoming overripe. The ideal ratio for peak potency is about 70% milky-white, 15% clear, and 15% amber trichomes.
• All amber trichomes: If most or all trichomes have turned amber, the buds are significantly overripe.

Pistil Color

• 100% dark pistils: When all pistils have turned red-orange or brown, with no white ones remaining, it’s a sign of overripeness.

Overall Bud Appearance

• Darkening color: Overripe buds may lose their vibrant green color and appear darker or brownish.
• Smaller, shriveled buds: As they lose water content, overripe buds may appear smaller and less plump.