{"id":13200,"date":"2025-03-20T14:42:39","date_gmt":"2025-03-20T14:42:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/when-to-cut-the-buds-the-key-to-a-harvest-at-its-best\/"},"modified":"2025-03-20T14:42:39","modified_gmt":"2025-03-20T14:42:39","slug":"when-to-cut-the-buds-the-key-to-a-harvest-at-its-best","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/when-to-cut-the-buds-the-key-to-a-harvest-at-its-best\/","title":{"rendered":"When to cut the buds: The key to a harvest at its best"},"content":{"rendered":"

The time of harvest is key to determine the final quality of the buds. It is not just a matter of following an estimated flowering time, but identifying the signals that indicate optimal ripening. when to cut the buds? A premature cutting can affect potency and the development of the aromatic profile, while a late harvest can cause the effects to be altered due to the degradation of cannabinoids. How to find the optimal point? In this article, you’ll learn how to recognize key visual indicators, environmental factors that influence maturation, and the best methods for harvesting without compromising the quality of your crop. <\/span><\/p>\n

How do I know if the buds are ready to cut?<\/span><\/h2>\n

There are several key indicators that can help determine the exact time for harvesting. Some of these methods require specific tools, such as a magnifying glass or microscope, while others can be assessed with the naked eye. Detailed observation is critical to making the best decision. <\/span><\/p>\n

Observing the trichomes: The best indicator<\/b><\/h3>\n

Trichomes are microscopic gland-like structures that line the buds and nearby leaves. These small glands produce and store most of the plant’s cannabinoids and terpenes. Their color changes as the plant matures, making them one of the most reliable indicators of harvest time. <\/span><\/p>\n

If you look at the trichomes with a magnifying glass or microscope, you will see that at the beginning they are completely transparent, which indicates that there is still time to harvest. As the weeks progress, the trichomes begin to turn a milky white color, which means that they have reached their peak THC production. In this state, the effects are usually more potent and stimulating. If you wait a little longer, the trichomes will start to turn amber, a sign that the THC is degrading into CBN, which generates a more relaxing and sedative effect. <\/span><\/p>\n

For those looking for a balance between uplifting and relaxing effects, a good harvest point is when approximately 70-80% of the trichomes are milky white and 20-30% have turned amber. If you are looking for a more energizing effect, growers usually harvest a little earlier, when most of the trichomes are whitish. On the other hand, if you are looking for a calmer and more bodily effect, it is recommended to let a higher percentage of amber trichomes develop before cutting. <\/span><\/p>\n

Changes in the pistils: What the “hairs” of the flower are telling us<\/b><\/h3>\n

The pistils are the thin filaments that emerge from the buds and that, at the beginning of flowering, have a whitish color. As the plant matures, these pistils begin to change to darker shades, such as orange, brown or reddish. <\/span><\/p>\n

If the pistils are still mostly white, it is a sign that the plant has not yet finished its cycle. A good indicator that harvest is near is when 70-80% of the pistils have changed color and have retracted into the bud. However, it is important not to rely on this factor alone, as pistil color can vary due to environmental conditions, genetics or even external manipulations. <\/span><\/p>\n

The overall appearance of the plant also counts<\/b><\/h3>\n

Besides trichomes and pistils, there are other factors that can help you identify if the plant is ready for harvest. One of them is the condition of the leaves. In the final stage of flowering, it is normal for the larger leaves to begin to yellow and dry out, as the plant directs all its resources to the formation of buds. <\/span><\/p>\n

Another clear indication is the density of the buds. When they are at their peak, the buds should feel compact and firm to the touch. In addition, the aroma tends to intensify significantly, as terpene production is at its peak at the maturity stage. <\/span><\/p>\n

Factors that can bring forward or delay harvesting<\/span><\/h2>\n

The genetics: Indicas, Sativas and Autoflowering<\/b><\/h3>\n

Whether they are cbd flowers<\/a><\/strong> or cannabis, each plant has a different flowering time. Indica-dominant plants usually mature in 8-9 weeks, while sativas can take 10-12 weeks or even longer. Autoflowering plants, on the other hand, have an accelerated life cycle and can be ready in as little as 8-10 weeks from germination. <\/span><\/p>\n

It is important to know the variety you are growing, as this will allow you to better track the estimated harvest time. However, although seed banks usually provide a flowering range, it is always advisable to be guided by direct observation of the plant. <\/span><\/p>\n

Climate and growing conditions<\/b><\/h3>\n

If the crop is grown outdoors, the weather can play a key role in deciding when to cut. If a week of heavy rains is approaching, it may be convenient to bring forward the harvest to avoid the appearance of mold and fungus in the buds. On the other hand, extreme heat can cause the plant to mature faster, accelerating the color change in the trichomes and pistils. <\/span><\/p>\n

In indoor cultivation, control of temperature, humidity and photoperiod allows for more predictable ripening. In these environments, the plant can be allowed to reach its full cycle without worrying about external climatic factors. <\/span><\/p>\n

How to cut the buds correctly when they are ready<\/span><\/h2>\n

Advance preparation<\/b><\/h3>\n

Before proceeding with the cutting, it is important to make sure that the plant is in optimal conditions to minimize the impact and obtain the best results. During the previous days, it is advisable to maintain adequate hydration to prevent the buds from drying out too quickly after harvesting. It is also essential to prepare the work area, choosing a clean, ventilated place with enough space to maneuver comfortably. <\/span><\/p>\n

Tools are key in this process. It is recommended to have sharp pruning shears, which will allow clean cuts without damaging the structure of the buds. The use of gloves is advisable to avoid direct contact with the resin, which can stick to the hands and make handling difficult. In addition, a tray or surface on which to place the buds will help to maintain order and facilitate the subsequent manicuring process. <\/span><\/p>\n

The cutting process itself<\/b><\/h3>\n
    \n
  1. Choosing the right time of day<\/b>. It is recommended to harvest early in the morning or, in indoor crops, before the lights are turned on. This helps to better preserve the volatile compounds and prevents the plant from being too dehydrated.<\/span><\/li>\n
  2. Cut the main branches carefully<\/b>. A clean cut should be made at the base of each branch to avoid unnecessary stress on the plant. It is preferable to cut branch by branch rather than pulling out the whole plant at once, as this allows better handling and distribution of the buds for drying.<\/span><\/li>\n
  3. Remove large leaves that have no resin.<\/b>. These leaves do not contribute to the quality of the final product and can slow down the drying process if not removed in time. A light initial manicuring will help optimize drying and reduce the risk of moisture accumulation.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

     <\/p>\n

    After cutting: Drying and curing to maintain quality<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Drying: How to do it correctly to avoid mildew and loss of aroma<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Drying is one of the most critical stages after harvest. If it is done in a hurry or in inadequate conditions, the buds can lose aroma, potency and even develop mold. <\/span><\/p>\n

    The estimated drying time varies between 7 and 14 days, depending on factors such as temperature and humidity. The best way to dry the buds is to hang them upside down in a dark space, with a relative humidity between 50% and 60% and a temperature of approximately 18-22\u00b0C (64-86\u00b0F). It is essential to avoid direct light and maintain adequate ventilation to prevent accumulations of moisture that can lead to fungus. <\/span><\/p>\n

    To check if drying is complete, a simple test can be performed: bend a thin branch. If it breaks easily instead of bending, the buds are ready for curing. <\/span><\/p>\n

    Curing: The key to improve the quality of the crop<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Curing is a process that allows the buds to develop a better terpene profile and soften their aroma. After curing, the buds should be stored in airtight jars, preferably glass, which should be opened once a day for the first week to release accumulated moisture. This prevents mold from forming inside the container and allows the moisture to distribute evenly. <\/span><\/p>\n

    Curing should last at least two weeks, although a longer period (up to a month or more) can significantly improve the final quality. With patience and proper care, a product with a better aroma and optimized effect is obtained. <\/span><\/p>\n

    Conclusion: Patience and observation make the difference.<\/span><\/h2>\n

    Harvesting buds at their optimum requires patience and attention to detail. The key is to observe the trichomes, pistils and overall bud structure to make an informed decision. <\/span><\/p>\n

    Climate control and proper drying and curing enhance the aromas and potency of the buds, ensuring that all the effort of cultivation translates into an optimal final product. Practice and constant observation will help you hone your skills to ensure the best possible quality every time. <\/span><\/p>\n

    References<\/strong>:<\/span><\/p>\n

    Linder, E. R., Young, S., Li, X., Henriquez Inoa, S., & Suchoff, D. H. (2022). The Effect of Harvest Date on Temporal Cannabinoid and Biomass Production in the Floral Hemp (<\/span>Cannabis sativa<\/span><\/i> L.) Cultivars BaOx and Cherry Wine. <\/span>Horticulturae<\/span><\/i>, <\/span>8<\/span><\/i>(10), 959. https:\/\/www.mdpi.com\/2311-7524\/8\/10\/959<\/span><\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    The time of harvest is key to determine the final quality of the buds. It is not just a matter of following an estimated flowering time, but identifying the signals that indicate optimal ripening. when to cut the buds? A premature cutting can affect potency and the development of the aromatic profile, while a late […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1419,1456],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13200","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-cbd-flowers","category-cultivation"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13200","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=13200"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13200\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=13200"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=13200"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ndev.gorillagrillz.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=13200"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}