The best way to harvest cannabis plants will depend on a few factors, including the size of the plants, the specific strain, and the desired end product. Here are a few general steps to follow when harvesting cannabis:
- Determine the maturity of the plants: The best time to harvest a cannabis plant will depend on the specific strain and the desired effects. You can monitor the maturity of the trichomes (small, hair-like structures on the plant) using a magnifying tool such as a jeweler's loupe or a handheld microscope. When the trichomes are clear or milky white, the plant is not yet ready to be harvested. When the trichomes turn amber or brown, the plant is approaching peak maturity and may be ready to be harvested.
- Cut down the plants: Use sharp scissors or pruning shears to cut down the plants at the base of the stem. Be careful not to damage the buds or leaves.
- Remove the larger fan leaves: Use your fingers or scissors to remove the larger fan leaves from the plant. These leaves do not contain many trichomes and can be discarded.
Dry the plants: Hang the plants upside down in a well-ventilated area with low light and a temperature between 60-70°F (15-21°C). A humidity level of 45-55% is ideal. It can take several days to a week for the plants to dry properly.
- Trim the buds: Once the plants are dry, use sharp scissors to trim the buds from the stem. Be sure to remove any remaining fan leaves or stems.
- Cure the buds: After trimming, the buds should be cured to allow the flavors and aromas to fully develop. To cure the buds, place them in an airtight container and store them in a cool, dark place for at least a few weeks. Check the buds daily and open the container briefly to allow for air exchange.
It is important to handle the plants gently during the harvesting and curing process to avoid damaging the trichomes and other delicate structures on the plant.
Flushing is the process of giving cannabis plants a final clean water rinse just before harvest. The purpose of flushing is to remove any excess nutrients that may have built up in the soil or growing medium. This can help improve the final product's taste and smell, as excess nutrients can cause the cannabis to have a harsh or chemical-like flavor.
To flush a cannabis plant, follow these steps:
- Stop fertilizing: About two weeks before you plan to harvest, stop fertilizing the plants. This will allow the plants to use up any remaining nutrients in the soil.
- Water with clean water: Starting about a week before harvest, water the plants with clean water (preferably pH-balanced) instead of nutrient-rich water. This will help to flush out any remaining nutrients in the soil.
- Increase watering: As the harvest date approaches, increase the amount of water you give the plants. This will help to rinse out any remaining nutrients in the soil.
- Test the runoff: To ensure that the plants are thoroughly flushed, you can test the runoff from the soil. The runoff should have a pH of about 6.5-7.0. If the pH is higher than this, it may indicate that there are still nutrients in the soil that need to be flushed out.
It is essential to carefully monitor the plants during the flushing process to avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot. It is also a good idea to flush smaller plants for a shorter period, as they are more susceptible to over-watering.