How To Know When To Harvest Cannabis

Learn How to Judge Whether or Not Your Cannabis Crops are Ready for Harvesting

One of the most critical stages in growing cannabis plants is knowing when to harvest the cannabis. This decision can greatly impact the potency, aroma, and overall quality of the final product.

From seed selection and planting to harvesting and processing, every step is carefully monitored to guarantee the best possible outcomes. And at the heart of this process lies the crucial decision of when to harvest. This is where growers rely on their expertise, as well as a deep understanding of the plant’s lifecycle and the signals it gives when it’s ready to be harvested. So, if you’re curious about the best cannabis quality assurance practices and want to learn how to know when to harvest cannabis like a pro, keep reading.

How Long Does Cannabis Take to Reach the Harvest Phase?

Picture this: a cannabis plant is like a masterpiece in progress, painting its own canvas with lush green leaves, sturdy stalks, and the promise of budding treasures. At the heart of this wonder lies the main stem, anchoring the plant and channeling nutrients up and down. From the stem, branches stretch outwards, each sporting an array of iconic fan leaves. These fan leaves, powered by the magic of photosynthesis, play a vital role in generating energy that fuels the plant’s growth.

And then, there’s the magic hidden beneath the canopy – nodes, where branches emerge and where the future of the plant takes shape. These nodes are a hotbed of potential, each harboring the possibility of growing into flowering sites that will eventually give birth to cherished buds.

Timing the Dance: How Long Until Harvest?

The journey from seed to harvest is a dance of nature, and each cannabis strain has its own rhythm. On average, it takes around 8 to 12 weeks for a cannabis plant to move from the vegetative phase to the harvest phase. However, remember that this is just a rough estimate; some strains might be ready earlier, while others might take a little longer to unveil their full potential.

Nature’s Symphony: Factors Influencing Harvest Timing

Ah, the symphony of nature! Just like a master conductor, Mother Nature orchestrates a harmonious blend of factors that determine when a cannabis plant is ready for harvest.

1. Strain Genetics – A Symphony of Variance: Just as our world is painted with diverse cultures, strains of cannabis showcase their unique genetic heritage. Sativas, indicas, hybrids – they each have their own rhythm. Sativas, known for their soaring highs, can take their time, often needing a few extra weeks. Indicas, on the other hand, are more like the early birds, maturing a tad faster. Hybrids? They dance somewhere in between. So, understanding your strain’s genetic makeup sets the stage for your plant’s journey.
2. Lighting and Environment – The Dance of Imitating Nature: Imagine being on a stage bathed in the perfect spotlight. Cannabis plants thrive under the same principle. If you’re cultivating indoors, your lighting setup is a crucial cue giver. Proper light schedules, mimicking the sun’s natural cycle, guide your plant’s growth stages. Outdoors, and the changing seasons orchestrate the journey. More light can mean faster growth, but balance is key, just like the harmony in a well-composed melody.
3. Nutrient Composition – The Feed for Green Brilliance: Every artist needs the right tools, and for cannabis, nutrients are the brushes that paint its vibrancy. A balanced nutrient regimen fuels the plant’s growth and influences its pace. Too much or too little can throw off the rhythm. Think of it as providing just the right notes for the plant to hit those high and low tones of development.
4. Temperature and Humidity – Elements of Atmospheric Art: Just as a breeze can change the mood of a landscape, temperature, and humidity can sway your plant’s progress. Warmer temperatures usually accelerate growth, but extreme heat can stress your plant. Humidity affects transpiration, the plant’s way of breathing. Finding that sweet spot in temperature and humidity is like crafting the ideal atmosphere for your plant to thrive.
5. Container Size – The Comfort of Roots: Roots need room to roam, and the size of your growing container can impact growth. Smaller pots might lead to more rapid root-bound development, which can expedite flowering. On the flip side, larger pots provide more room for roots to spread and can delay flowering. It’s all about finding the right home for your green companion.
6. Training Techniques – Sculpting Growth Patterns: Just as a sculptor shapes clay, cultivation techniques like topping, pruning, or LST (low-stress training) can mould your plant’s growth. These techniques influence the number of flowering sites and the overall shape of the plant. By applying these methods, you can choreograph your plant’s growth to suit your vision.
7. Environmental Stressors – The Challenge of Resilience: In the grand symphony of growth, external stressors can be unexpected crescendos. Pests, diseases, and weather fluctuations can all impact growth and influence the timing of the harvest phase. Nurturing a resilient plant through these challenges is like watching a performer shine even in the face of adversity.

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How Do You Know When Cannabis is Ready for Harvest?

When it comes to cultivating cannabis, one of the most crucial steps is knowing when to harvest your plants. Harvesting at the right time ensures that you get the most out of your plants in terms of potency, flavor, and overall quality. While it may seem like a daunting task, there are several key criteria to look for that will help you determine when your cannabis is ready to be harvested.

The Cannabis Leaves Begin To Turn Yellow

The first sign to look for is when the leaves of your cannabis plants begin to turn yellow. This is a signal that the plant is starting to use up its nutrients and is preparing for the final stages of its life cycle. However, it is important to note that if the leaves are turning yellow too early or too quickly, it may indicate a nutrient deficiency or other underlying issue.

Pistils Change Colour

Another important indicator is the colour of the pistils, which are the small hair-like structures that emerge from the flowers. During the early stages of flowering, the pistils are usually white and stick straight out. As the plant matures, the pistils will begin to change colour, usually turning red or brown. This is a strong indication that the plant is nearing its harvest window.

Trichrome Colour & Maturity

Trichomes, which are the resinous glands that contain the majority of the plant’s cannabinoids, is another critical aspect to consider. To determine the maturity of the trichomes, you will need a magnifying glass or a jeweller’s loupe. When the trichomes are clear or translucent, the plant is not yet ready for harvest. However, when they turn milky white or amber, it is a sign that the plant is at its peak potency. Harvesting at this stage will result in a more potent and psychoactive experience.

Bud Shape & Size

In addition to these visual cues, there are a few other factors to consider. One is the shape and size of the buds. As the plant matures, the buds will become denser and larger. They will also develop a more rounded shape. If the buds are still loose and airy, it is an indication that the plant needs more time to develop.

The Aroma of the Plant

Another aspect to pay attention to is the aroma. As the plant matures, it will start to emit a strong and distinct smell. Depending on the strain, this can range from fruity and sweet to skunky and pungent. If the plant has a strong aroma, it is another indication that it is nearing its harvest window.

Pro-Tip for Cannabis Producers

Cannabis producers are always seeking ways to optimize their harvests and ensure they are delivering the highest quality product to consumers. One way they can achieve this is by utilizing seed-to-sale cannabis software to track the lifecycle growth of their plants. This software allows producers to monitor every stage of the plant’s development, from seed to harvest, providing them with valuable data and insights that can help them determine the optimal time to harvest.

By using seed-to-sale cannabis software, producers can track key metrics such as plant height, leaf colour, and trichome development, which are all indicators of a plant’s readiness for harvest. The software also allows producers to input (or automatically gather) data on factors like temperature, humidity, and nutrient levels, which can affect the plant’s growth and development. With all this information at their fingertips, producers can make informed decisions about when to harvest their cannabis plants.

Did you know? GrowerIQ has an industry-leading Seed-to-Sale Cannabis Software (with quality management built in) that is designed to uncomplicate cannabis production for cannabis producers throughout the world.

Learn more here.

How To Tell If It’s Too Early to Harvest Cannabis?

Harvesting too early can result in a lacklustre product while harvesting too late can lead to a decrease in potency and an increase in undesirable effects. So, how can cannabis producers tell if it is too early to harvest their prized plants? Let’s explore some key indicators.

The first and most obvious sign that it is too early to harvest cannabis is the colour of the trichomes. Trichomes are tiny, crystal-like structures that cover the flowers of the cannabis plant. When they are clear and translucent, it is a clear indication that the plant is not yet ready for harvest.

Another way to determine if it is too early to harvest cannabis is by examining the pistils, which are the hair-like structures that protrude from the flowers. In the early stages of flowering, these pistils are white and vibrant. However, as the plant matures, these pistils will start to change colour. So avoid harvesting your cannabis when the pistils are still white & vibrant.

Lastly, the smell of the cannabis plant can also be a strong indicator of its readiness for harvest. As the plant matures, it will start to emit a pungent and distinct aroma. This aroma is a result of the terpenes, which are the aromatic compounds found in cannabis. So, avoid harvesting your cannabis until it’s releasing it’s signature fragrant aroma.

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How To Tell If It’s Too Late to Harvest Cannabis?

Switching topics, how can you tell if it is the right time to harvest? Here are some ways cannabis producers can determine if it is too late to harvest cannabis.

• Trichome Colour: As the plant develops, the trichomes will turn milky or cloudy, indicating that the cannabinoids are reaching their peak. If you wait longer, the trichomes may turn amber or brown, suggesting that the THC levels are degrading. Therefore, it is crucial to harvest when the trichomes are mostly cloudy for a balanced experience.
• Pistil Changes: As the harvest window approaches, the pistils will start to darken and curl inwards. This change indicates that the plant is reaching maturity. However, if you notice that most of the pistils have turned brown and curled excessively, it might suggest that the harvest is overdue.
• Aroma: If your cannabis plants’ fragrance is strong and pleasing, they are ready for harvest. If you detect a pungent, skunky smell, it might indicate that the harvest window has already passed, and the terpenes are degrading.

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4 Pro Tips for Harvesting Cannabis

Here are some pro tips to help cannabis producers harvest cannabis in an optimal manner.

1. Take Advantage of the Dark Period Before Harvest

The dark period refers to the period of time in the final stages of cannabis cultivation when growers intentionally subject their plants to complete darkness for a predetermined period, typically 48 to 72 hours, before harvest. During this time, the plants are kept in complete darkness, deprived of any exposure to light.

Now you might be wondering, why would growers intentionally subject their plants to darkness when light is essential for photosynthesis? Well, my fellow cannabis enthusiasts, the answer lies in the intricate dance between light and darkness that occurs in the final stages of the plant’s life cycle.

During the dark period, a series of biological processes take place within the cannabis plant. One of the most important processes is the accumulation of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other desirable compounds that give cannabis its unique aroma, flavor, and effects. The dark period stimulates the production and accumulation of these compounds, leading to a more potent and flavorful final product.

Additionally, the dark period triggers the plant’s response to stress. Just like us humans, plants can also experience stress, which can be caused by various factors such as temperature fluctuations or light intensity. Stress can play a role in the production of secondary metabolites, including cannabinoids and terpenes, which contribute to the overall quality and potency of cannabis.

Now, you might be wondering how you can implement the dark period before harvest in your own cannabis cultivation. Well, it’s quite simple! As you approach the final weeks of the flowering stage, gradually reduce the amount of light your plants receive. Start by reducing the light cycle from 12 hours to 10, then to 8, and finally to complete darkness for the designated period. Keep in mind that the specific timing and duration of the dark period may vary depending on the strain and desired outcomes.

2. Trimming Buds Before Harvesting

Trimming buds before harvest is a personal choice that can depend on various factors, including your personal preference, the strain of cannabis you are growing, and the specific goals you have for your harvest. Here are a few considerations to help you make an informed decision:

1. Appearance: Trimming buds before harvest can enhance the overall appearance of your final product. By removing excess fan leaves and sugar leaves, you can create a more visually appealing bud with a higher flower-to-leaf ratio. This can be especially important if you plan to sell your cannabis or showcase it to others.
2. Potency: Trimming buds before harvest can potentially increase the potency of your final product. The trichomes, which contain the majority of the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes, are concentrated in the flowers. By removing excess foliage, you allow more light and air to reach the buds, promoting trichome development. This can result in a higher concentration of cannabinoids, providing a more potent experience.
3. Efficiency: Trimming buds before harvest can streamline the drying and curing process. Removing excess foliage reduces the moisture content of the plant, allowing the buds to dry more evenly and efficiently. This can help prevent mould and mildew issues that can arise during the drying process, ensuring a higher-quality end product.

On the other hand, there are a few reasons why you might choose to skip trimming before harvest:

1. Preservation of Trichomes: Trimming buds before harvest can result in the loss of valuable trichomes. While some trichomes may be lost during the trimming process, leaving the foliage intact can help protect and preserve the delicate resin glands. If preserving trichomes is a top priority for you, then skipping the trimming process may be the way to go.
2. Time and Labor: Trimming buds before harvest can be time-consuming and labour-intensive. Depending on the size of your crop, it can take hours or even days to trim all the buds. If you are short on time or prefer to minimize manual labour, you may skip the trimming process and opt for a more hands-off approach.

3. Washing Buds Before Harvest

Cannabis plants can gather dust, debris, and other particles from the environment while they’re growing. And here’s where the idea of washing buds before harvest enters the stage. Proponents of this practice suggest that a gentle cleanse can remove unwanted residues, ensuring your buds reach their maximum flavor potential.

The Counterpoint: A Case of Caution

But hold onto your hats, fellow cultivators. Some voices in the community express caution when it comes to washing buds. They point out that washing could potentially strip away precious trichomes, those resinous gems loaded with cannabinoids and terpenes. After all, trichomes are the very essence of the cannabis experience, and we wouldn’t want to disrupt their delicate dance.

The Decision: A Careful Balance

So, what’s the verdict? Well, it’s a matter of choice, and a pinch of common sense. If you do decide to give your buds a rinse, remember, less is more. A gentle spray of clean water and a careful drying process can help maintain the integrity of those coveted trichomes. Yet, if you choose to forgo the bath, you’re not alone. Many experienced cultivators opt to skip the washing step and instead focus on a thorough drying and curing process to enhance flavor and potency.

4. Have a Complete Cannabis Harvest Plan Ready

Harvest plans help cannabis producers maximize the quality and potency of their cannabis. By carefully planning the timing of your harvest, you can ensure that your plants are harvested at their peak potency and flavour. This means waiting until the trichomes on your buds have reached the desired level of maturity, which is when they are their most potent.

A good harvest plan also helps prevent over or under-harvesting. Harvesting too early will result in buds that are not fully developed, leading to a lower potency and less desirable flavour. On the other hand, waiting too long to harvest can result in buds that have started to degrade, losing both potency and flavour. By having a clear plan in place, you can avoid these pitfalls and ensure that you are harvesting your cannabis at the optimal time.

Next Step in the Cannabis Harvest with Seed-To-Sale Cannabis Software

Seed-to-sale cannabis software is revolutionizing the way cannabis producers manage their operations, from seed to sale. One essential aspect of this software is its ability to facilitate batch-based tracking for the next phase in processing harvested cannabis. This feature is crucial as it enables producers to maintain consistency and quality throughout their production process.

With batch-based tracking, producers can easily monitor and manage each batch of harvested cannabis as it progresses through the various stages of processing. This includes drying, curing, trimming, and packaging. By assigning a unique batch identifier to each batch, producers can track its movement and progress in real time, ensuring that it receives the proper care and attention at every step.

Discover how GrowerIQ’s seed-to-sale software can help you set up all of the components of a successful cannabis production operation without any hassle. Questions we haven’t covered? Please reach out and let us know. GrowerIQ serves clients coast to coast, and we’re ready to help your team today.