The last weeks before the harvest

The final weeks of the cannabis flowering phase are crucial for the quality and potency of your harvest. During this time, the plant focuses on developing and maturing the buds. Here are some important aspects and tips to ensure your plants thrive during the final weeks:

1. Monitoring the trichomes

  • Trichome color: Observe the trichomes (resin-producing glands) with a microscope or magnifying glass. They should change from clear to milky and finally to amber.
  • Harvest time: Most growers harvest when approximately 70-90% of the trichomes are milky and 10-30% are amber. This provides a good balance between THC content and effect.

2. Nutrient management

  • Flushing: In the last two weeks before harvest, you should begin flushing. This means adding only pH-adjusted water without added nutrients. This helps remove excess nutrients from the medium and improves the flavor of the buds.
  • Reducing nutrients: Gradually reduce the amount of nutrients, especially nitrogen, as it is no longer needed as much in the final weeks.

3. Irrigation

  • Water requirements: Make sure the plants are not overwatered. Too much water can increase the risk of mold growth.
  • Drying period: Some growers slightly reduce watering in the last few days before harvest to facilitate the drying process.

4. Lighting management

  • Light cycle: Keep the light cycle at 12 hours light/12 hours dark.
  • Dark period: Some growers give their plants an extended dark period of 24-48 hours immediately before harvest to increase resin production.

5. Environmental conditions

  • Temperature: Keep the temperature between 22°C and 26°C during the day and between 16°C and 20°C at night.
  • Humidity: Reduce the relative humidity to about 40%-50% to prevent mold growth on the buds.
  • Air circulation: Ensure good air circulation in the grow room to avoid mold and other problems.

6. Supporting the plants

  • Support: The flowers can become very heavy in the final weeks. Use supports or netting to support the branches and prevent them from breaking.

7. Pest control

  • Regular inspection: Check your plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases.
  • Be careful with sprays: Avoid using pesticides or fungicides in the last few weeks, as residues may remain on the flowers.

Step-by-step instructions for the last few weeks

  1. Observe trichomes:
    • Use a microscope or magnifying glass to check the color of the trichomes regularly.
  2. Start rinsing:
    • Start flushing your plants about two weeks before your planned harvest.
  3. Reduce nutrients:
    • Gradually reduce the amount of nutrients, especially nitrogen.
    • Water only with water for the last 7-14 days
  4. Adjust irrigation:
    • Make sure your plants are not overwatered and, if necessary, reduce watering slightly in the last few days.
  5. Monitor environmental conditions:
    • Keep temperature and humidity within the optimal range.
    • Ensure good air circulation in the grow room.
  6. Support plants:
    • Use stakes or netting to support heavy branches.

7. Prepare for harvest:

  • Plan your harvest based on your observations of the trichomes and pistils, as well as the overall appearance of your plants.

Conclusion

The final weeks of the flowering phase are crucial for the quality of your cannabis harvest. By paying careful attention to trichomes, nutrients, watering, and environmental conditions, you can ensure your plants reach their full potential and produce high-quality buds.