Weed harvesting, particularly cannabis, involves a detailed process to ensure the best quality, potency, and flavor of the final product. Here's a general overview of the key steps in harvesting cannabis:
1. Timing the Harvest
- Trichome Inspection: The most common method for determining when to harvest is by examining the trichomes (tiny resin glands). Using a magnifying glass or microscope, you can observe the color of the trichomes. Typically, harvest is best when:
- Clear trichomes: Too early.
- Cloudy/milky trichomes: Optimal THC levels.
- Amber trichomes: More CBN, which provides a more sedative effect.
- Pistils: Another visual cue is the color of the pistils (hairs on the buds). When about 70-90% of the pistils have darkened and curled in, the plant is likely ready for harvest.
2. Cutting the Plant
- Using sterilized shears, you can cut down the entire plant or cut branches individually. This depends on whether you prefer wet trimming (trimming right after cutting) or dry trimming (trimming after the plant has dried).
3. Trimming (Wet or Dry)
- Wet Trim: Right after cutting, fan leaves and sugar leaves are trimmed away. This method allows for faster drying and is often easier because the leaves are still straight.
- Dry Trim: The plant is left to dry first, and the leaves are trimmed afterward. This can sometimes result in a slower drying process, preserving terpenes and cannabinoids.
4. Drying
- After trimming, the cannabis should be hung upside down in a dark, well-ventilated room with a temperature of around 60-70°F (15-21°C) and humidity around 45-55%.
- The drying process usually takes 7-10 days. The buds are ready when the small branches snap instead of bend.
5. Curing
- After drying, the buds are placed in airtight glass jars and stored in a cool, dark place.
- It's important to "burp" the jars daily (open them briefly) during the first week to release moisture and allow air exchange. This curing process can last from 2 to 4 weeks and enhances the flavor and smoothness of the final product.
6. Storage
- Once cured, cannabis should be stored in a cool, dark place in airtight containers to preserve potency, flavor, and freshness.
These steps ensure that the cannabis flowers maintain their potency, flavor, and aroma for a longer period.
