How to Determine When to Harvest Pot Plants

Harvest time is the most exciting part of growing cannabis, as it represents the culmination of months of hard work. The timing of the harvest is crucial to ensure a successful grow. Harvest too soon, and your buds will be small and undeveloped. Harvest too late, and you risk losing potency and have the possibility of moldy buds. In this article, we’ll cover the essential steps to determine when to harvest pot plants.

Step 1: Look at the Trichomes

Trichomes are the tiny, crystal-like structures on the buds and leaves of the cannabis plant that produce cannabinoids and terpenes. As the plant matures, these trichomes change color, from clear to milky to amber. Generally, cloudy trichomes are an indication that the plant is ready for harvest. However, some strains may have different harvest windows, so it’s best to consult the breeder’s recommendations.

Step 2: Check the Pistils

Pistils are the small hair-like structures that protrude from the cannabis buds. In the early stages of flowering, the pistils are white, but they will turn red, orange, or brown as the plant matures. When at least half of the pistils have turned brown, it’s likely the plant is ready for harvest. However, as with trichomes, it’s more important to use the pistils in conjunction with other indicators.

Step 3: Monitor the Plant Height

The height of the plant can also give you a clue as to when to harvest. When the plant reaches its full height, it will likely stop growing and start focusing on producing buds. Depending on the strain, a good rule of thumb is to harvest the plant when it has reached 75-85% of its full height. However, as with other indicators, this can vary depending on the strain.

Step 4: Observe the Leaves

As the plant matures, the leaves will start to yellow and fall off. When the plant has lost about half of its leaves, it’s generally an indication that it’s time to harvest. However, this is not always the case, and it’s essential to use this indicator in conjunction with others. Also, some strains may hold onto their leaves longer than others.

Step 5: Smell the Buds

The smell of the buds can also give you a clue as to when to harvest. As the plant matures, the terpenes in the buds will change, and the scent will become more potent. When the buds give off a strong, pungent aroma, it’s likely time to harvest.

Conclusion

In conclusion, determining when to harvest pot plants is a crucial part of growing cannabis. By using a combination of the trichomes, pistils, plant height, leaf color, and aroma, you can ensure a successful harvest that results in potent, high-quality buds. Pay close attention to your plants and don’t be afraid to experiment with different indicators until you find what works best for you and your strain.