When to Harvest Pot Plants in Virginia

Virginia has recently legalized the use of medical marijuana. If you are a medical marijuana patient, you may be wondering when the ideal time is to harvest your pot plant. In this article, we will discuss the factors that can help you determine when to harvest your pot plants in Virginia.

Factors that Affect the Harvest Time of Pot Plants

There are several factors that can influence the optimal time to harvest your pot plants. The following are the most important factors to consider:

Strain of Marijuana

The strain of marijuana you are growing can have a significant impact on the ideal harvest time. Some strains mature faster than others, meaning they can be harvested earlier. If you are growing a Sativa strain, it can take longer to reach maturity than a Indica strain. Generally, Sativa strains can take up to 12 weeks to mature while Indica strains require around 8 weeks.

Growing Environment and Conditions

The growing environment, including factors like temperature, humidity, and light, can also influence when your pot plant will be ready for harvest. For example, if you grow your plants in an environment that is too cold, it may take longer for them to mature. On the other hand, if the growing conditions are too hot, your plants may mature much faster than anticipated.

Trichome Color

The color of the trichomes on your buds can also help determine the harvest time. Trichomes are tiny crystal-like structures that produce the cannabinoids and terpenes that give your pot plant its aroma, flavor, and effects. The trichomes start out clear, then become milky and finally turn amber. Many growers feel that their plants have reached their optimal time for harvest when the trichomes are about 50% milky and 50% amber.

How to Harvest Pot Plants

Once you’ve determined that your pot plants are ready for harvest, it’s time to start preparing for the actual process. Here are some basic steps to follow for harvesting pot plants in Virginia:

1. Prepare your tools and equipment.

You’ll need a few basic tools to harvest your pot plants, including pruning shears or scissors, gloves, a drying rack, and a container. Make sure that everything is clean and sterile to avoid contamination.

2. Cut the branches.

Use your pruning shears or scissors to cut the branches from the main plant. You don’t need to cut the entire plant down at once. Instead, harvest the buds in sections to make the drying and curing process easier.

3. Remove the leaves.

Remove any large leaves that are attached to the branches. You can leave the smaller leaves that are covered in trichomes, as they will be used to make hash later on.

4. Dry the buds.

Hang the buds on a drying rack in a cool, dry place with good air circulation. You can also use a drying box or tent if desired. Make sure to check the buds daily and remove any that are moldy or damp.

5. Cure the buds.

Once the buds are dry, it’s time to cure them. Place the buds into an airtight container and store them in a dark, cool place with a humidity reading between 60-65%. Open the container once a day to allow the buds to breathe and check for any signs of mold or mildew.

The Bottom Line

While there are many factors to consider when determining the optimal time to harvest your pot plants in Virginia, the most important thing is to pay attention to your plants and use your best judgment. Keep in mind the strains growing habits, the growing environment, and the trichome color, and you’ll be well on your way to harvesting a great crop of medical marijuana.