Introduction

Harvesting your outdoor pot plants is an exciting time for any cannabis grower, but it can also be a nerve-wracking experience. Knowing when to harvest your plants is crucial to ensure that you get the most potent and flavorful buds possible. In this guide, we'll discuss the different factors that influence when to harvest your outdoor pot plants so that you can make an informed decision.

Factors to Consider

Several factors affect when to harvest your outdoor pot plants. The primary factor is the strain of cannabis you are growing. Different strains have different maturation times and will require different harvesting schedules. The environment in which your plants are growing, including the temperature, humidity, and light cycle, also plays a crucial role in determining when to harvest.

The trichomes on the buds are another crucial factor in determining when to harvest. Trichomes are tiny resin glands that cover the buds and contain the plant's cannabinoids (THC, CBD) and terpenes (flavor and aroma). As the buds mature, the trichomes will change in color, which can indicate when they are at their peak potency.

When to Harvest Based on Trichomes

If you're looking to harvest your outdoor pot plants based on trichomes, there are a few things to keep in mind. One essential tip is to invest in a microscope or magnifying glass to get a good look at the trichomes. Trichomes are incredibly small, and it can be challenging to see them with the naked eye.

When the trichomes are clear or milky, the buds are not yet mature and won't provide the maximum potency. When the trichomes start to turn amber, the buds are at peak potency, and it's time to harvest. Be mindful of harvesting too soon, as this can impact the overall quality and potency of your buds.

When to Harvest Based on Strain

The strain of cannabis you're growing will also impact when to harvest. Indica strains tend to mature faster, and Sativa strains require more time to develop. As a general rule, most strains will be ready for harvest between 8 to 10 weeks after the flowering stage begins.

One way to determine when to harvest based on strain is to pay attention to the pistils on the buds. Pistils are the small, hair-like structures that grow out of the buds. When the pistils start to turn brown and curl inwards, this is a good indication that it's time to harvest.

Conclusion

Harvesting outdoor pot plants is an exciting but nerve-wracking experience for any grower. Knowing when to harvest is crucial to ensure that you get the most potent and flavorful buds possible. Whether you're basing your harvest schedule on trichomes or the strain of cannabis you're growing, paying attention to the different factors that impact maturation time will help you make the best decision for your grow.