When Do I Harvest My Outdoor Pot Plant?

If you have grown a marijuana plant outdoors and it has reached maturity, you may be wondering when it’s time to harvest. There are a few factors to consider, including the strain of plant, the weather conditions, and the size and appearance of the buds. In this article, we will guide you through the process of determining when your outdoor pot plant is ready to be harvested.

Factors to Consider

The first thing to consider when determining when to harvest your outdoor pot plant is the strain. Different strains have different flowering times, so it’s important to know when your specific strain is expected to reach maturity. This information can usually be found online or by asking the grower from whom you obtained the seeds or plant.

The next factor to consider is the weather conditions. If you live in a region with variable weather conditions, it’s important to consider the impact this may have on the maturity of the plant. High levels of humidity or rainfall may cause bud rot, which can significantly reduce the yield of your plant. Conversely, drought or extreme heat can cause the buds to dry out prematurely, which can also reduce the yield.

The size and appearance of the buds is also an important factor to consider when determining when to harvest your outdoor pot plant. Buds that are too small and immature may not produce a significant yield, while buds that are too large may have lost potency. As a general rule, buds that are mature and ready for harvest will be dense, resinous, and have a strong aroma.

Signs of Maturity

When your outdoor pot plant is reaching maturity, you will start to see signs that it’s time for harvest. The first sign is the appearance of pistils, which are small hair-like structures that grow out of the buds. Initially, the pistils will be white or green, but as the plant matures they will start to turn brown or red. This is a good sign that the plant is reaching maturity.

You can also check the trichomes on the buds using a magnifying glass. Trichomes are small mushroom-shaped structures that grow on the buds and contain the cannabinoids that give marijuana its psychoactive properties. When the trichomes are clear, the plant is not yet ready for harvest. However, when the trichomes turn cloudy or amber, this is a sign that the plant is nearing maturity and it’s time to harvest.

Harvesting Your Outdoor Pot Plant

When your outdoor pot plant is ready to be harvested, you will need to cut the buds from the plant and trim off any excess leaves. You should also remove any branches that do not have buds on them. Once you have harvested the buds, you should dry them slowly in a cool, dry area for several days. Once the buds are dry, you can store them in an airtight container until you are ready to use them.

In conclusion, the timing of when to harvest your outdoor pot plant will depend on a few different factors such as the strain of plant, weather conditions, and the size and appearance of the buds. By paying attention to the signs of maturity and understanding the different factors involved, you can ensure that you harvest your outdoor pot plant at the optimal time for the best possible yield and potency.