Weeks 11 and 12 in cannabis cultivation mark the final phase before harvest. In these crucial weeks, you determine the quality and potency of your flowers. Careful preparation for the harvest ensures a first-class result. In this article, you will learn how to optimally prepare your plants for harvest, including tips on flushing, trichomes and storage.
How do you recognize the right time to harvest?
The right time for harvesting depends on the following factors:
- Observe trichomes: You can check the trichomes with a microscope or magnifying glass. Milky white trichomes indicate maximum potency, while amber-colored trichomes indicate a more relaxing effect.
- Flower hairs: As soon as 70-90% of the flower hairs have changed color from white to orange or brown, the flowers are ready.
Why is timing so important?
Harvesting too early leads to less potency, while harvesting too late can have a negative impact on the aroma and effect.
Why is rinsing crucial in the last few weeks?
Rinsing your plants in the last 1-2 weeks before harvest is essential to remove excess nutrients.
- What does rinsing mean?
When rinsing, the plant is only watered with pure water to remove residues from the flowers. - Advantages:
- Improved aroma and taste
- Smoother smoking experience
- No chemical residues
How do you rinse properly?
- Use pH-balanced water (pH 6.0-6.5).
- Water the plants thoroughly until the run-off water is clear.
How are you preparing for the harvest?
Provide tools
- Sharp scissors
- Gloves
- Drying net or hanging device
Setting up the drying room
An ideal room is needed for drying:
- Temperature: 18-22 °C
- Humidity: 45-55 %
- Ventilation: Good air circulation prevents mold growth.
Harvest planning
- Cut the plant into sections to make the flowers easy to handle.
- Remove large leaves before drying to make the process easier.
How do you prepare your flowers for storage after harvesting?
After drying, correct storage is crucial:
- Curing: Store the flowers in airtight jars for 2-3 weeks. Open the jars daily for 15-20 minutes to remove excess moisture.
- Storage conditions:
- Cool and dark
- Relative humidity of 55-62 %
Conclusion
Weeks 11 and 12 are crucial for realizing the full potential of your plants. With the right preparation and care, you can be sure of a high-quality result that impresses with its taste, potency and quality.
1 Why is rinsing before harvesting important?
Rinsing removes excess nutrients and improves the taste and aroma of the flowers.
2. how do I recognize that my plants are ready for harvest?
Check the trichomes with a magnifying glass – milky trichomes mean maximum potency.
3. how do I store my cannabis flowers correctly?
After drying, store in airtight jars at a humidity of 55-62% to preserve freshness and aroma.
Keywords: cannabis harvest preparation, trichome monitoring, cannabis rinsing before harvest, humidity cannabis cultivation, recognising cannabis flower ripeness