Optimal time of day for harvesting cannabis

## 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**:

- **Higher terpene concentration**: Cool temperatures minimize the loss of volatile terpenes.

- **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:

1. **Prepare**:

- **Prepare tools**: Prepare sharp shears, gloves and clean containers.

- **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.