Harvest

Determine harvest time perfectly - Read trichomes

Determine harvest time by reading trichomes: milky/cloudy for maximum THC, 20–30% amber for relaxing effect — step-by-step analysis with a loupe.

TRICHOME STAGES

Clear/Transparent: Not yet ready, low THC levels

Milky/cloudy: PERFECT! Highest THC concentration

Amber/Amber: THC converts to CBN, relaxing effect

OPTIMAL HARVEST

80% milky + 20% amber-coloured trichomes

For energising effect: 90% milky + 10% amber

For relaxing effect: 70% milky + 30% amber

EQUIPMENT

Jeweller's loupe 60x: 10-20€

Digital microscope 200x: 30-50€

Mobile phone macro lens: 5-15€

WHERE TO LOOK

UPPER buds: Representative of the whole plant

Sugar leaves: Trichomes mature here first

NOT the fan leaves: Hardly any trichomes

OTHER SIGNS

Stigmas (pistils): 80% brown/orange

Leaves: Start to yellow

Odour: Intense, fruity

HARVEST TIMING

In the morning: Lowest humidity

After 48 hours of darkness: Increases resin production

Dry soil: Facilitates processing

PROFI-TIP: Different branches can ripen differently. Selective harvesting possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell when my cannabis plants are ready to harvest?

You can determine when to harvest by examining the trichomes. Look for milky trichomes for maximum potency and 20–30% amber-colored trichomes for a relaxing effect.

What kind of magnifying glass should I use to examine trichomes?

A magnifying glass with at least 30x magnification is ideal for clearly seeing the trichomes and assessing their color.

What happens if I harvest too early or too late?

Harvesting too early can result in lower potency, while harvesting too late can reduce the THC content and make the effects more sedative.