Table of Contents
How to harvest marijuana
Harvesting is the final step in a longer cannabis cultivation journey, and understanding how this stage fits into the overall grow cycle can make a noticeable difference in quality and consistency.
1. Determine Harvest Time
- Trichome color: Use a jeweler’s loupe or microscope.
- Clear: Not ready.
- Milky: Peak THC (more euphoric).
- Amber: More CBN (more sedative).
- Pistils: 70–90% darkened and curled in = harvest window.
2. Flush the Plant (1–2 Weeks Before Harvest)
- Use plain, pH-balanced water.
- Purpose: Removes residual nutrients for smoother smoke and better flavor.
3. Choose Harvest Time
- Harvest early in the day or at the start of the dark cycle (highest terpene content).
- Avoid watering on the day of harvest (reduces moisture).
4. Cut the Plant
- Use sterile shears.
- Cut branches or whole plants at the base.
- Remove large fan leaves immediately.
5. Trimming Options
- Wet Trim (right after harvest): Easier, controls humidity.
- Dry Trim (after drying): Preserves terpenes better, less sticky.
6. Drying
- Environment: 60–70°F (15–21°C), 50–60% humidity.
- Hang branches upside down in a dark, ventilated space.
- Drying time: 7–14 days.
- Buds are ready when small stems snap, not bend.
7. Final Trim
- After drying, trim off remaining sugar leaves for smoother smoke and better appearance.
8. Curing
- Place buds in glass jars (¾ full).
- Store in a cool, dark place.
- Burp daily (open jars for 10–15 minutes) for 1–2 weeks.
- Cure for at least 3–4 weeks for full flavor and potency.
Proper harvesting maximizes cannabinoid content, aroma, and smoothness.
