Perfect cannabis harvest: tips and tricks for maximum yields

When is the right time to harvest cannabis?

The right time to harvest is important to get the best quality and potency out of your plants. Let's take a look at how you can tell when it's time.

Trichomes as an indicator of harvest time

Trichomes are those tiny, resinous glands on the flowers and leaves. You can take a close look at them with a microscope or a strong magnifying glass.

• Clear trichomes: Are the trichomes still clear and transparent? Then it's still too early. Your plant is still working on producing cannabinoids.
• Milky trichomes: If most of the trichomes are milky white, this is the perfect time to harvest. This is when cannabinoid production is at its peak.
• Amber trichomes: If some trichomes turn amber, it means that the plant has exceeded its maturity. However, a few amber-colored trichomes are not a bad thing - they make for a more intense, relaxed high.

A microscope is really handy so as not to miss this important moment.

Significance of pistils for the harvest time

Pistils also give you valuable clues as to when the time is ripe. These hair-like structures change color as the plant matures.

• White pistils: At the beginning, they are white and upright. This shows that your plant is still growing.
• Discolored pistils: When about 70-90% of the pistils have turned brownish or reddish and retracted, the plant is ready for harvest.

This change is easy to observe, even without special equipment.

How long does cannabis take from seed to harvest?

Wondering how long it takes to harvest your cannabis plants? Here you can find all the information about the different growth phases and what you need to bear in mind.

Stages of cannabis growth

Cannabis goes through several growth phases from seed to harvest. Each phase is important and influences the overall time.

1. Germination: Germination takes around 1-2 weeks. During this time, the seed develops into a small seedling.
2. Vegetative phase: This phase can last 4-8 weeks, depending on the variety and growing conditions.
3. Flowering phase: The flowering phase usually lasts 6-10 weeks. The flowers that you harvest later develop here.

Vegetative phase and its importance

The vegetative phase is crucial for the growth of your plants. Here are a few points to bear in mind:

• Light: Your plants need plenty of light - at least 18 hours a day.
• Nutrients: At this stage, they mainly need nitrogen to grow vigorously.
• Water: Regular watering is important, but be careful not to overwater.

In this phase, the plants grow in height and width, developing strong stems and leaves that will later bear the flowers.

Flowering phase: duration and factors

The flowering phase is the most exciting time, as this is when the fruits of your labor are revealed.

• Indica strains: These strains usually flower within 8-10 weeks.
• Sativa strains: They often take 10-12 weeks to fully flower.
• Hybrids: The flowering time can vary depending on the mix of genetics.

In the flowering phase, the light cycle changes to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness. Make sure that your plants now receive less nitrogen and more phosphorus and potassium in order to develop strong flowers.

How do I harvest cannabis properly?

Harvest time is finally here! Now it's all about doing everything right to get the best out of your plants. Here you can find out how to harvest cannabis properly.

Tools and preparation

Before you get started, make sure you have the right tools and a clean working environment.

• Tools: You will need sharp pruning shears, gloves and possibly a magnifying glass for precision work. Make sure that all tools are clean and sterile.
• Prepare theworkplace: Create a clean, well-lit work area. A large table surface is ideal so that you have enough space to work on your plants.

Rough trimming: First steps of the harvest

Now it's time to get down to business. Rough trimming involves removing the large leaves and preparing the plant for the next phase.

• Cut theplant: Cut the plant just above the ground. Some prefer to cut off individual branches to make processing easier.
• Remove large leaves: Remove the large, fan-like leaves that have no trichomes. This facilitates the subsequent fine trimming and drying process.

Finer harvesting techniques for optimal results

After the coarse trimming comes the fine work. The aim here is to optimally prepare the flowers.

• Fine trimming: Use smaller scissors to remove the small leaves protruding from the flowers. Take care to damage the trichomes as little as possible.
• Structure the flowers: Carefully shape the flowers to make them look appealing and facilitate drying.

This precision work will pay off by improving the quality and appearance of your harvest.

Cannabis harvest per plant: what you can expect

Wondering how much yield you can expect from each of your plants? Here are the answers. The amount of cannabis harvested per plant depends on various factors. Let's take a closer look.

Harvest yield for indoor cultivation

When growing indoors, you have control over the environmental conditions, which can affect the yield.

• Average yield: On average, you can expect around 300-600 grams per square meter.
• Influencing factors: Light, nutrients, temperature and humidity are crucial. Optimal conditions can significantly increase the yield.
• Training techniques: Methods such as LST (low-stress training) or SCROG (screen of green) can increase yields by distributing light evenly and improving plant structure.

Yield with outdoor cultivation

Outdoor cultivation often offers higher yields as the plants have more space and natural sunlight.

• Average yield: Outdoor plants can yield between 500 grams and 1 kilogram or more per plant.
• Influencing factors: Climate conditions, soil quality and sunlight play a major role. A sunny, well-ventilated location is ideal.
• Choice of variety: Some varieties are particularly productive outdoors. Find out about the best outdoor varieties for your climate.

Factors influencing the yield

There are many factors that can influence the yield of your plants. Here are the most important ones:

• Genetics: The genetics of the plant determine its potential. Choose varieties that are known for high yields.
• Nutrients: A balanced nutrient supply is crucial. Pay attention to the needs of your plants in the different growth phases.
• Care and maintenance: Regular pruning and removal of dead leaves promotes growth and prevents diseases.
• Environmental conditions: Keep temperature, humidity and ventilation in the optimum range.

Conclusion

Harvesting cannabis is the highlight of every growing season and requires attention and care to get the best out of your plants. Here is an overview of the most important points:

• When is the right time to harvest? Pay attention to the trichomes and pistils of your plants. Trichomes should be milky white to light amber in color, and most pistils should be discolored.
• Growth stages: From seed to harvest, cannabis goes through several stages of growth. The vegetative phase lasts 4-8 weeks and the flowering phase 6-10 weeks, depending on the strain.
• Harvesting process: Prepare your tools and workspace well. Rough trimming involves removing the large leaves, and fine trimming is all about the details to maximize quality.
• Harvest per plant: The yield varies depending on whether you grow indoors or outdoors and depends on factors such as genetics, nutrients and care. Indoors you can expect 300-600 grams per square meter, outdoors even up to 1 kilogram per plant.

Harvest time is an exciting phase where all your hard work and care will be rewarded. With the right techniques and attention to the various factors, you can ensure that your harvest is not only plentiful, but also of the highest quality.