Introduction

Harvesting your outdoor pot plants at the right time is crucial for optimal yield, potency, and overall quality of your buds. Knowing when to harvest can make a significant difference in the flavor, aroma, and effects of your cannabis strains.

Factors to Consider

Several factors come into play when determining the optimal time to harvest your cannabis plants. These factors include:

Strain: Different strains have different flowering times, and you should know the estimated flowering time of your particular strain.

Trichome Colour: One of the most reliable indicators of a plant’s readiness for harvest is the color of the trichomes on the buds. Trichomes will start off clear before progressing to a milky or cloudy appearance, and then finally to an amber color.

Pistil Color: The pistils, or hairs, on the buds will change color as the plant matures. The pistils will start out white and gradually turn yellow, orange, red, or brown as the buds reach maturity.

Environmental conditions: The growing environment and local climate can also impact the timing of when to harvest your cannabis plants.

When to Harvest

As mentioned earlier, one of the most reliable indicators of a plant’s readiness for harvest is the color of the trichomes on the buds. Once the trichomes have turned from clear to milky, and if you prefer more of a sedative effect from your cannabis, you can harvest them at this point.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more stimulating, cerebral high, you can wait until the trichomes have turned amber and the pistils have turned amber or brown. At this point, the plant has reached its peak potency.

It is essential to note that waiting too long to harvest your plants can lead to the buds’ degradation, reducing the overall quality and potency.

Final Thoughts

Knowing when to harvest your outdoor pot plants requires careful observation, attention to the plant’s indicators, and an understanding of the specific strains you are growing. Harvesting at the right time will significantly impact the quality and quantity of your yield, so it’s essential to get it right.