When should I pull my pot plants?

Growing pot plants is a labor of love, and every step in the growth process requires careful attention. Pulling pot plants at the right time is important. The goal is to harvest the plants right before their potency starts to diminish.

The Timing of Pot Plant Pulling

When to pull the pot plants depends on the type of plants you are growing. Indica strains typically mature quicker than Sativa strains. Indicas are ready to harvest in about eight weeks. Sativa strains take longer to mature, usually ten weeks to 12 weeks. Hybrid strains fall somewhere in between.

Before you pull your pot plants, check them daily. Once the trichomes on the flowers start turning creamy white, like a glass of milk, it is time to check if the buds are ready to harvest. The easiest way to check whether the pot plant is ready is to inspect the trichomes.

Inspecting the Trichomes

Trichomes are the small crystalline resin glands on the flowers that produce THC, the active compound in marijuana. To inspect the trichomes, use a magnifying glass or loupe to see the crystals closely. Once the trichomes turn from clear to cloudy, the pot plant is at peak potency. However, if you wait until the trichomes turn dark amber or almost black, you will risk losing the potency of the buds.

How to Pull the Pot Plants

Once you’ve determined that your pot plants are ready to be pulled, it is time to harvest them. The best time to pull pot plants is early in the morning or late in the evening when the temperature is cooler. This is because low temperatures prevent resins from evaporating too quickly.

To pull the plants, use clean pruning shears and take care not to damage the bud. Cut at the base of the stem below the pot plant’s first node. Do not cut too much of the plant; leave a bit of stem and fan leaves attached to the buds. If you have a lot of plants to harvest, cut off the central stem and hang the entire plant upside down to let it dry.

Drying the Pot Plants

Once you have pulled your pot plants, it is important to dry them properly. Drying the pot plants can take anywhere from 3-10 days, depending on the temperature and humidity. The best temperature for drying is between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to hang the plants upside down in a cool, dark, dry environment. Keep the humidity between 45%-55%.

During the drying process, it is essential to check your plants daily. Once the stems are dry to the touch, the next step is to cure the buds. Curing helps to preserve the flavor and aroma of the buds. This process can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks. Once the curing process is complete, store the buds in airtight glass jars to keep the aroma fresh and to prevent mold growth.

In conclusion, pulling your pot plants at the right time is crucial for achieving good quality buds. Take your time, be patient, and follow the guidelines above for a successful harvest.