Harvesting Cannabis Buds is a rewarding time for Canadian Cannabis growers. It is the time when you have to be extra careful and ensure the superior quality and potency of cannabis.
Cannabis bud harvest takes months of hard work to prune and train before being chopped off. When your cannabis is ready, it gives you signs like the pistils turning amber and trichomes are no longer translucent. You can use a hand lens to know the timing and strain knowledge to lower cannabinoid degradation.
Harvesting early or late may affect the potency and yields. So, to maximize cannabis yields, you need to know the processing, drying, and curing stages to maximize your rewards.
Key Points:
- To maximize potency and yield, give proper attention by following expert advice.
- Understand plant anatomy and life cycle, know when to harvest, and how to harvest using the best techniques and tools.
- Know methods to cure and store harvested buds to maintain potency and quality.
- Avoid mistakes like early harvest or too late, and perform different trimming techniques and hygiene maintenance.
- The last is storing the harvested bud properly to ensure the quality and safety of the final product.
Understanding Cannabis Plant Anatomy and Plant Cycle
1. Cannabis Plant Anatomy
Cannabis plants comprise three parts: stem, root, and flowers. The stem carries nourishment from the roots to flowers and other parts of the plants and provides stability. The roots are essential for growth and development by absorbing nutrients ( macro and micro nutrients including NPK) from soil and the flowers harvested and ingested. It contains terpenes, cannabinoids, THC, flavonoids, and many other components.
2. Cannabis Plant Life Cycle
The first stage of the cannabis plant life cycle is the vegetative stage, where the cannabis seed sprouts and forms roots, leaves, and stems. The second phase is the flowering phase, where cannabis buds grow.
During the flowering stage, it produces trichomes and pistils for harvest. Trichomes are tiny structures that grow on leaves and buds containing terpenes and cannabinoids for unique flavor and potency. As the plant matures, trichomes change color from cloudy to amber, indicating your cannabis buds harvest is ready.
Pistils are also tiny hair but grow on the buds. They are white during the early phase and then start to change color to red, brown, or orange as the plant ages. It is an indicator of when to harvest.
Also Read: Germination Guide for Growing Cannabis
When to Harvest Cannabis Plant?
The cannabis bud harvest timing depends on the strains you choose. Cannabis has three categories: indica, sativa, and hybrid.
So, what is the harvest time for different types of cannabis strains? Sativa plants bloom in 10-16 weeks, while Indica plants take 8-10 weeks. It is because sativa takes time to bloom to produce high psychoactivity, and Indica has large flowers and is more sedate.
Hybrid combines the qualities of both sativa and indica strains, so its characteristics are somewhere between these, and its flowering time depends on environmental factors such as temperature, light, etc.
So, what is the right time to harvest? It depends on what is the reason for your cannabis cultivation. Are you growing cannabis for medical purposes? If yes! Then, wait for the peak of cannabinoid concentration. But for recreational purposes, you can harvest them at maturity.
So, if you are thinking of growing your cannabis indoors or outdoors, get online cannabis seeds from a reputed Cannabis seed bank in Canada.
Identifying the Right Time To Harvest Cannabis Buds
When to harvest CBD hemp for maximum potency? Harvesting cannabis buds at the right time is crucial when it comes to ensuring the quality and potency of cannabis buds. It depends on many factors, like plant strain, growing conditions, and desired effects. Here is how to identify ripe CBD buds for harvest:
1. Trichome Color and Harvest Time
Tiny resin glands on the buds are called trichomes and are vital for determining harvest time. They have THC and CBD providing medicinal and psychoactive properties. They should be cloudy and plump, feeling sticky when touched. It indicates peak potency. Sativa plants generally reach this stage 6-8 weeks after flowering, while Indicas take 8-10 weeks. When trichomes are clear and translucent- it is more energized, relaxing, and sedating.
2. Pistil Color and Harvest Time
Pistils are hair-like structures on the buds that change from white to amber or golden as the plant matures. It usually occurs alongside the optimal trichome color, signaling readiness for harvest. The more pistils are reddish, the more mature the plant is. However, some strains may have colored pistils from the beginning, remember, it is secondary.
3. Plant Size and Harvest Time
The plant reaches its maximum and stops growing, producing buds with leaves curling downwards in most cases. It is the time when you should begin with your work. It typically happens 7-9 weeks after flowering, but it’s not the sole indicator. Do not harvest pre-mature or overdue, it may impact the high properties of the cannabis buds and may form molds later. So, harvest only when the plant is fully ready.
How does the weather or growing environment affect harvest timing? In Outdoors, cooler temperatures can trigger early flowering and potentially lower CBD content. Excessive rain or humidity can increase mold risk, impacting harvest timing. While indoors, consistent conditions offer more control over harvest timing compared to outdoor variability.
Also, Refer to the: Harvesting and Processing of Cannabis Seeds
The significance of trichome color and maturity in determining harvest readiness
Tiny “hairs” on cannabis buds, called trichomes, hold the key to harvest time. Their color tells the story:
- Clear: Not ready yet, low potency.
- Cloudy/Milky: Peak potency, great flavor, and effects.
- Amber: Some THC turns to CBN, offering different effects (relaxation, sleep).
Remember:
- Different strains have different “harvest windows.”
- Consider your desired effects (potency, flavor, etc.)
- Overall plant health matters too!
By understanding trichome color, you can harvest cannabis at the perfect time for the best experience.
How to Harvest Cannabis Buds?
Here is the step-by-step guide to harvesting cannabis buds for better results and high yields:
- After ensuring it is the right time to harvest, knowing the harvesting process is crucial. Harvesting cannabis buds is easy. Start by removing large leaves as they have little or no THC, so if you remove it will be easy to trim the plant.
- With the help of scissors, cut down the stem from the base. Hang the plant upside down in a cool and dry place. Use a wire for air drying and maintain proper ventilation to surpass mold growth.
- Once buds are dry, cut them from the stem. Empty the remaining stems or leaves and carefully trim the buds, keeping them intact.
- Now, store the buds in an airtight container. Ensure the bud is completely dry. Store in a cool and dry place to preserve potency and flavor. Your high-quality cannabis buds are harvested.
Tools and Techniques for Harvesting Cannabis Buds
Are there any specific tools or equipment needed for harvesting? Yes! Here are the harvesting tools you need:
- Gloves: Come in various materials like nitrile or latex, offering protection from resin and improved grip.
- Tables: They can have integrated features like ventilation systems to control dust and lighting for better visibility.
- Bins: Have multiple compartments to separate different grades of trimmed material and minimize waste.
- Scissors: Have curved blades that conform to the bud shape for cleaner cuts. Consider ergonomic designs for comfort during extended use.
- Bags: Available in different sizes and can be reusable for sustainable practices. Opt for micron-sized mesh to collect valuable trichomes for concentrates.
- Trimming machines: Require regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure optimal performance and minimize damage.
Drying Your Cannabis Buds: The Easy Way
After harvest, it’s time to dry your cannabis! Drying is key for good quality buds. Here’s how:
The 3 Main Ways:
- Hang drying: This is the most common way. Hang trimmed branches upside down in a cool, dark, and airy room (like a closet with a fan). Aim for 60-70°F and 50-60% humidity. Drying takes 7-14 days.
- Rack drying: Similar to hanging, but you lay trimmed buds on a drying rack instead. This works well for smaller amounts or limited space. Just make sure there’s enough space between buds for air to flow.
- Dehydrator drying: This uses a special machine to control temperature and humidity precisely. It’s faster (2-3 days) than other methods, but requires more equipment and care to avoid over-drying.pen_spark
What are Some Cannabis Trimming Methods after Harvesting Cannabis Buds
The following methods are used for the trimming of cannabis:
1. Hand Trimming vs. Machine Trimming
Hand trimming is an indoor and outdoor harvesting technique offering superior precision and control, allowing for the meticulous removal of unwanted leaves while preserving valuable trichomes. This method is preferred for high-quality and premium buds. However, it’s labor-intensive and time-consuming.
Machine trimming is faster and more efficient, making it suitable for large-scale operations. It is an outdoor harvesting technique harsher on the buds, potentially damaging trichomes and impacting potency and flavor.
2. Wet Trimming vs. Dry Trimming
Wet trimming happens on freshly cut plants with higher moisture content. It can be easy and clean but may result in loss of terpenes (aromatic compounds) and delayed drying.
Dry trimming is done on partially dried plants with more brittle leaves. This method can be more challenging but can preserve the flavor and aroma of the buds more effectively.
What are the proper methods for harvesting cannabis buds without damaging them? Overall, we recommend Hand trimming for harvesting cannabis buds without damage as the machine is faster but harsh on plants. But this depends on whether you are doing a large-scale production or home growing.
How to Cure and Store the Harvested Cannabis Buds
What is Curing and its Process?
Curing is a crucial step after harvesting cannabis buds. It involves slowly drying the buds in a controlled environment to reduce moisture content to prevent mold growth and extend the shelf life of the buds. It also enhances flavor and aroma, allowing terpenes to mature and develop in a more pleasant and potent smoke.
There are various methods for curing cannabis buds, each with its advantages and considerations:
1. Hanging Dry
This traditional method involves hanging the entire plant or individual branches upside down in a warm, dry, and well-ventilated area. It is a simple and cost-effective method, but it requires careful monitoring to avoid uneven drying and mold growth.
2. Dehumidifier Drying
This method utilizes a dehumidifier to control humidity levels and accelerate drying. It offers greater control over the drying process but requires additional equipment.
3. Curing Boxes
These are sealed containers equipped with humidity and temperature controls. They offer the most controlled environment for curing but are generally the most expensive option.
Whatever option you choose, maintain optimal temperature (60-70°F) and humidity (55-65%), ensure proper airflow, rotate buds regularly, and monitor progress to prevent stagnant air and mold formation.
Where to store harvested cannabis buds?
How can the harvested plants be preserved or processed for later use? Once properly cured, store your buds in a cool, dry place (around 60°F) with minimal light exposure. Aim for a moisture content of 10-12% for long-term storage.
Are there any post-harvest techniques that can further enhance the quality of the plants? Airtight containers or vacuum bags are ideal for storing buds to prevent contamination and maintain freshness post-harvest. Properly stored buds can last for several months without losing quality.
Maximizing potency during harvest – Cannabis bud yield- Tips
When is the optimal time to harvest the plants for the best quality and yield? To maximize cannabis potency and yield during harvest, consider the following points:
1. Timing and Trichomes
While cloudy trichomes generally signify peak potency, amber trichomes can indicate higher levels of CBN, a cannabinoid that may offer sedative or sleep-promoting effects. Depending on desired outcomes- harvesting with a mix of cloudy and amber trichomes may be preferred.
2. Flushing
The practice of flushing is debated within the cannabis community. While some believe it removes nutrients that affect taste and potency, others argue it has minimal impact on final product quality. Further research is needed to determine the definitive effects of flushing.
3. Drying and Curing
Drying time can vary depending on humidity and bud size. Aim for slow, even drying to preserve terpenes and cannabinoids. Open curing containers in between to release excess moisture and prevent mold growth.
4. Harvesting Techniques
Wear gloves to minimize trichome loss and protect hands from sticky resin. Cutting close to the stem minimizes wasted plant material.
5. Trimming Tips
Utilize trimming scissors with curved blades for optimal handling. Separate different grades of trimmed material for various uses.
6. Environmental Conditions
Maintain consistent temperature (around 60-70°F) and humidity (50-60%) throughout the process. Adequate airflow is crucial to prevent moisture buildup and mold growth.
Also Refer: Advanced Guide for Growing Cannabis in Canada
Common Mistakes to Avoid During Cannabis Harvest
To avoid common mistakes during cannabis harvest, consider the following points
1. Harvesting at the Wrong Time
Harvesting too early (before trichomes turn cloudy/amber) results in lower potency and a harsh taste. Harvesting too late (after trichomes turn amber) can lead to reduced THC content and a more couch-lock effect.
2. Rough Handling of Buds
Excessive handling damages trichomes, the tiny resin glands containing valuable cannabinoids. It reduces potency and affects the final product’s quality.
3. Over-Trimming
Aggressive trimming removes sugar leaves that protect trichomes, leading to potency loss and potential changes in taste and aroma.
4. Improper Drying
Drying buds too quickly results in a harsh taste and unpleasant smoke. Drying buds too slowly increases the risk of mold growth.
5. Inadequate Storage
Storing buds in a humid, warm environment encourages mold growth and potency loss. Store buds in airtight containers in a cool, dark, and dry place (around 60°F). Vacuum sealing can further enhance storage longevity.
Related- Troubleshooting Guide
The Legality of Growing Cannabis Plants in Canada
Growing cannabis is legal in Canada under the Industrial Hemp Regulations administered by Health Canada. Provinces like Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Yukon require a license from Health Canada under the Industrial Hemp Regulations to cultivate, process, distribute, import, or export industrial hemp.
Specific requirements and documents, such as Criminal record checks for all applicants, GPS coordinates for cultivation sites, and Information on the source and type of seeds used.
FAQs: Harvesting Cannabis Buds
Here are the frequently asked questions on harvesting of cannabis buds:
1. What are the differences between harvesting indoor and outdoor CBD?
Indoor offers controlled conditions (temperature, humidity, light), while outdoor uses natural elements, leading to potential variability. Indoor harvests can be scheduled based on light cycles, while outdoor harvests depend on seasonal changes and weather. Indoor requires managing specific indoor pests, while outdoor requires managing outdoor pests and potential wildlife issues.
2. How does lighting impact CBD content in cannabis?
The light intensity can influence CBD production. Research suggests higher light intensity may increase CBD content, while specific light spectrums may favor CBD or THC production.
3. When is the optimal time to harvest plants for the best quality and yield?
The optimal cannabis harvesting time depends on the desired outcome (CBD or THC) and strain characteristics. Look for visual cues like trichome color, abundance, and plant maturity. Consulting experienced growers or testing trichome maturity is recommended.
4. Are there any visual cues to indicate the plants are ready for harvest?
Yes! There are several visual cues cannabis buds indicate, like cloudy or amber trichomes, pistil hairs changed from white to amber or brown, and some may turn yellow or brown as the plant matures.
5. What factors influence the quality and potency of the harvested plants?
Factors that influence the quality and potency of harvested cannabis are genetics, growing conditions, harvest timing, drying, curing, and storage.
6. How can the harvesting process be optimized to maximize the desired qualities?
To optimize desired qualities in harvested hemp, research your specific strain and try to understand its optimal harvest window and desired characteristics, and monitor trichome development by using a loupe to determine harvest timing for your desired CBD content. Also, ensure proper drying and curing conditions with consistent humidity, temperature, and airflow.
7. Are there any sustainable practices to implement during the harvesting process?
Composting plant waste to create nutrient-rich soil amendments or repurposing harvest materials by reusing containers or materials whenever possible can be sustainable practices. It also minimizes water usage by implementing water-saving techniques during drying and processing. This way, you can reuse or repurpose the waste generated by harvesting.
Happy Harvesting! Cannabis Buds!
A successful cannabis buds harvest requires careful timing and attention to detail. Canadian CBD growers can ensure high-quality harvests with maximum yield and potency by waiting until the trichomes are fully developed.
With the right techniques, ethical sourcing of CBD cannabis seeds, and regular monitoring, enjoy the fruits of your labor in the form of potent, flavorful cannabis buds. Visit the FarmKing Website if you are looking to buy cannabis seeds in Canada.
