Everything You Need to Know About Harvesting Marijuana
Marijuana, weed, herb, cannabis, whatever you call it, is a popular drug that can be smoked, eaten or vaporized. While the laws around marijuana vary from state to state, many people are interested in growing their own supply of this drug. In order to do so effectively and efficiently, it's important to understand the basics of harvesting marijuana. This article will discuss the most important aspects of this process so that you can get the most out of your crop!
The first step in harvesting marijuana is to properly dry the buds. This can be done by hanging them upside down in a dark, dry place with good airflow. Depending on the humidity and temperature of your area, it can takes anywhere from 3-14 days for the buds to fully dry. Once they are dry, you will need to trim off any excess leaves and stem. Be sure to handle the buds carefully during this process as they are very fragile.
Next, you will need to cure the buds. This is done by placing them in airtight containers (such as jars) and storing them in a cool, dark place for 4-8 weeks. This allows the buds to develop their full flavor and potency. After the curing process is complete, your marijuana is now ready to be smoked, eaten or vaporized!
How To Know When To Harvesting Cannabis
The time to harvest your cannabis crop will depend on the strain you are growing. indica strains typically mature faster than sativa strains. However, there are a few general guidelines you can follow to know when it is time to harvest your plants.
The first thing you will want to do is take a look at the trichomes on the leaves of your plant. The trichomes are the tiny, crystal-like structures that cover the surface of the leaves and buds. They contain high concentrations of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids.
To get a close look at the trichomes, you will need a magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe. Once you have a close look, you will notice that they change color as the plant matures. Early on, they will be clear or milky white. As the plant matures, they will turn amber or brown.
The general rule of thumb is to harvest when the majority of the trichomes are still milky white. This is when the THC content is at its highest. If you wait too long and most of the trichomes have turned amber or brown, the THC will start to degrade and convert into CBN (cannabinol). CBN is a cannabinoid that has sedative effects.
Conclusion
Harvesting marijuana can seem like a daunting task, but it's actually quite simple if you know what you're doing. By following these steps, you can ensure that your crop is of the highest quality possible. Start growing your own supply today and enjoy the many benefits that this wonderful plant has to offer!