As cannabis growers, one of the most exciting and nerve-wracking parts of the process is knowing when to harvest. Picking your cannabis plants at the right time is crucial to getting the best flavor, potency, and yield. But how can you be sure your plants are ready? In this blog, we’ll break down the signs and tips to help you harvest your cannabis plants at the perfect moment.
Trichomes: The Key to Potency
The trichomes on your cannabis plants are one of the most reliable indicators that it’s time to harvest. These tiny, crystal-like structures are responsible for producing cannabinoids like THC and CBD. As your plants near harvest time, you’ll want to look closely at the trichomes with a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe.
- Clear trichomes indicate that the plant is not yet ready, as THC levels are still developing.
- Cloudy/milky trichomes signal peak potency—this is when many growers choose to harvest.
- Amber trichomes show that THC is degrading into CBN, which can lead to more of a sedative effect.
For a balanced high, harvest when most trichomes are cloudy with a few amber ones mixed in.
Pistils: Color Changes Tell the Story
Pistils are the hair-like structures that emerge from the calyxes of the cannabis flowers. When the plant is young, these pistils are white, but as harvest time approaches, they will darken and curl inward.
- If 70-90% of the pistils have darkened and curled, it’s a good indication that your plants are ready to be harvested.
- If most pistils are still white and upright, your plants need more time.
Using the pistils to judge harvest time is less accurate than looking at trichomes, but it’s a helpful visual cue to use alongside trichome monitoring.
Timing: Flowering Cycle
Each cannabis strain has a different flowering cycle, typically ranging from 7 to 12 weeks for indoor grows. Outdoor plants are generally ready to harvest in the late fall, depending on the strain and local climate. Research your strain to know the average flowering time, and always keep an eye on the specific visual cues mentioned above.
The “Flushing” Process
Before you begin harvesting, it’s essential to “flush” your plants. This process involves watering your cannabis plants with pure water (no nutrients) for 1-2 weeks before harvest. Flushing helps to remove any chemical or nutrient buildup in the plants, resulting in a cleaner, smoother smoke and better flavor.
Post-Harvest: Drying and Curing
Harvesting doesn’t end with cutting the buds off the plant. Properly drying and curing your cannabis is key to preserving the quality of your harvest. Hang your freshly harvested buds in a dark, cool space with good airflow for 5-10 days until they feel dry to the touch. After drying, place the buds in airtight jars and “burp” them daily for 2-4 weeks to cure them properly.
Final Thoughts
Knowing when to harvest your cannabis plants is a skill that improves with experience. By closely monitoring your plants’ trichomes and pistils, timing the flowering cycle correctly, and following through with flushing, drying, and curing, you can ensure a high-quality harvest.
Stay patient, keep an eye on those visual cues, and remember: harvesting at the right time can make all the difference in the potency and flavor of your final product.
