Optimal time of day for harvesting cannabis
Find out how the choice of time of day affects the quality of your cannabis harvest and which times are ideal.
Introduction
The quality of cannabis is significantly influenced by the time of harvest. In addition to the general ripeness of the plant, the time of day also plays a decisive role. This guide explains how the choice of harvest time within the day can optimize the potency and aroma of your buds.
Plant processes during the course of the day
Cannabis plants go through different physiological processes every day:
- photosynthesis: During the day, plants use light energy to produce sugars that serve as a source of energy.
- Respiration: At night, plants process the stored sugars to support growth and other functions.
- Terpene and cannabinoid production**: These phytochemicals are produced continuously, although their concentration can fluctuate throughout the day.
Influence of the time of day on terpenes and cannabinoids
Terpenes are volatile compounds that are responsible for the characteristic aroma of cannabis. Their concentration can be influenced by light and temperature:
- In the morning: In the early morning hours, before sunrise, temperatures are lower and terpene concentrations tend to be higher. This is because terpenes evaporate more easily at higher temperatures.
- Midday**: During the hottest part of the day, increased temperatures can cause terpenes to evaporate, which can lead to a loss of flavor.
- Evening**: After sunset, temperatures drop again, but terpene concentrations may already be reduced.
Recommended harvest times
Based on the above factors, it is recommended to harvest cannabis in the early morning hours:
- Benefits of morning harvest:
- Optimal cannabinoid profiles: The plant has stored energy overnight, resulting in stable cannabinoid production.
- Lower humidity: Relative humidity is often lower in the morning, reducing the risk of mold growth during drying.
Practical implementation of the harvest
To take advantage of morning harvesting, follow these steps:
- Prepare:
- Prepare drying room: Make sure the room is dark, well ventilated and kept at a temperature of 18-22°C with a humidity of 45-55%.
2 Harvesting process:
- Choose time: Harvest the plants just before or during sunrise.
- Careful pruning: Avoid excessive touching of flowers to minimize loss of trichomes.
- Quick transportation: Move harvested plants quickly to the prepared drying room to prevent loss of terpenes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right time of day to harvest cannabis can significantly improve the quality of your buds. By harvesting in the early morning hours, you maximize terpene and cannabinoid concentrations and get a more aromatic and potent end product.
Sources
- [Zamnesia: What is the best time of day to harvest cannabis?](https://www.zamnesia.de/cannabis-anbauen/503-wann-erntet-man-cannabispflanzen)
- [Weed.de: When is the best time to harvest cannabis?](https://www.weed.de/wissen/anbau/wann-cannabis-ernten)
Pro Tips
- Harvest in cool weather to minimize terpene losses.
- Avoid direct sunlight during the harvest.
- Use clean tools to prevent contamination.
- Work quickly to preserve the freshness of the flowers.
- Store the harvested flowers immediately in the drying room.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time of day to harvest cannabis?
The best time of day to harvest cannabis is early in the morning, shortly after sunrise, when the plants are still damp and the terpenes and cannabinoids are at their most concentrated.
Does the time of day affect the potency of cannabis?
Yes, the time of day can affect potency, as cannabinoid and terpene profiles vary at different times of the day, with morning harvests often yielding the best results.
Should I water the plants before harvesting?
It is advisable not to water the plants for 24 to 48 hours before harvest in order to reduce their water content and increase the concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes.