10 Ways to Enhance Terpene Production in Cannabis Plants: A Guide

Enhancing Terpene Levels in Cannabis: A Beginner’s Guide

Following cannabinoids, terpenes are the most recognized compounds present in cannabis. Not only do they impart distinctive aromas and flavors to cannabis, but they also potentially offer several medicinal benefits. But the burning question is, how can cultivators enhance the terpene content from the germination phase to the drying and curing stages?

For individuals embarking on the journey of cannabis cultivation or simply getting acquainted with cannabis, here’s an introductory guide to terpenes. Essentially, terpenes are the chemical architects that bless cannabis with its signature scent and flavor profile, crafted from a blend of carbon and hydrogen, and structured based on the requisite number of isoprene units.

But their role isn’t confined to just adding flavors and aromas to your cannabis blossoms; they’re believed to hold a plethora of medicinal attributes, shaping the unique highs experienced by users. They blend in a harmonious manner with cannabinoids and flavonoids, resulting in a synergistic occurrence referred to as the entourage effect.

To give you a bit of a statistical backdrop, terpenes constitute about 10-30% of the cannabis resin, with their presence varying considerably. While some terpenes are commonly found, others make a rare appearance in cannabis plants. The proportions and the respective ratios of specific terpenes are significantly influenced by both the strain of the plant and the surrounding environmental factors.

It’s fascinating to note that plants synthesize terpenes as a mechanism to allure pollinators and beneficial insects while fending off potential threats like pests and herbivorous animals. Interestingly, the cannabis plants primarily generate terpenes as a defensive strategy against herbivores and pests, given their wind-pollinated nature.

Delving deeper, we find that the birthplace of terpenes in cannabis plants is within the resin glands, known as trichomes. Hence, amplifying the production of trichomes is key to boosting terpene levels. Keep an eye out for our upcoming segment where we reveal the most efficient and commonly used techniques to help boost terpene production in your cannabis plants.

1. Genetics

The journey begins with superior genetics. No amount of expert cultivation or tricks of the trade outlined in this piece can transform low-grade weed into premium, aficionado-quality buds. Historically, due to the strict prohibition surrounding cannabis, breeders were principally driven to enhance the levels of THC to the maximum.

During those periods, such an approach was perfectly justified. Research on cannabis was in its nascent stage, leaving a vast expanse of its compound spectrum unexplored. Ironically, the potent fragrance of cannabis, now cherished, was once a dreaded trait. It was akin to a beacon for trouble, magnetizing unnecessary scrutiny and escalating the chances of legal complications.

However, the resurgence of legal cannabis ushered in a seismic shift in consumer preferences. The market blossomed with demands that transcended beyond just a potent high; a rich aroma and flavor palette took center stage. As investigations into the plant deepened, we unearthed the multifaceted roles of terpenes, encompassing both therapeutic attributes and influencing sensory experiences.

Adapting to the evolving market dynamics, cultivators initiated the development of strains enriched with a higher concentration of terpenes. Now, if you seek medicinal relief, you are inclined to opt for strains teeming with the specific terpenes that alleviate your symptoms. Conversely, leisure smokers gravitate towards strains that tantalize their senses with preferred scents and flavors. Notably, cannabis dispensaries frequently facilitate terpene profiling, either in tandem with cannabinoid analysis or by highlighting the prominent terpenes present in various strains.

In the vibrant European market, seed banks are offering aficionados a golden ticket to acquire an extensive selection of strains, empowering them to nurture their collection of globally acclaimed genetics, boasting remarkable terpene compositions. Without further ado, we present a curated list of five cultivars that promise a symphony of exquisite flavors for your palate!

5 Strains High in Terpenes

1. Sour Diesel

Sour Diesel has a rich terpene profile that greatly contributes to its unique aroma and potential therapeutic properties. Here’s a deeper look into its dominant terpenes:

1. Limonene: This terpene is primarily responsible for the citrus notes in Sour Diesel’s aroma. Limonene is known for its potential anti-anxiety and anti-depressant effects, offering a sense of upliftment and relaxation.
2. Myrcene: Often present in Sour Diesel, this terpene has an earthy and musky scent. Myrcene is reputed for its potential relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an excellent ally for those looking to unwind or find relief from minor aches and pains.
3. Caryophyllene: This terpene introduces a spicy note to the Sour Diesel strain. Beyond its flavor contribution, caryophyllene is unique as it can also interact with CB2 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, possibly offering anti-inflammatory and pain relief benefits.
4. Pinene: Sometimes present in the mix, pinene adds a fresh, pine-like aroma to the strain. It’s known for potential properties such as bronchodilation, and anti-inflammatory effects, and it might also aid in counteracting some of the adverse effects of THC.
5. Humulene: This terpene, which contributes a woody and earthy aroma, is also believed to possess anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant properties.

Together, these terpenes work in synergy with the cannabinoids present in Sour Diesel to create what is known as the “entourage effect,” enhancing the potential therapeutic benefits and the overall experience of the strain. Whether you are a medicinal user looking for relief or a recreational user seeking a unique and vibrant flavor profile, Sour Diesel, with its intricate terpene blend, stands as a promising choice.

2. Dutch Treat

Dutch Treat, also often referred to as “Dutch Crunch,” is a renowned strain known for its soothing yet euphoric effects. As a strain that leans more toward the Indica side, it is particularly popular for its potential relaxation and stress-relieving properties. Its aromatic profile is a delightful mix of sweet, earthy, and pine notes, which can be attributed to its rich terpene profile. Let’s delve into the terpenes that characterize Dutch Treat:

1. Terpinolene: This is the dominant terpene found in Dutch Treat, contributing to the strain’s sweet and floral aroma. Recognized for its potential as an antioxidant and its ability to induce a calming effect, it holds promise for promoting relaxation and potentially assisting with sleep.
2. Myrcene: Often found in high concentrations in indica strains like Dutch Treat, this terpene brings in a musky and earthy aroma. It’s believed to have potential relaxing and sedative properties, promoting relaxation and aiding in sleep.
3. Pinene: This terpene, found in varying concentrations in Dutch Treat, adds a fresh and piney undertone to the strain’s aroma. Besides its aromatic contribution, pinene is thought to have potential anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties.
4. Caryophyllene: Caryophyllene imparts a spicy and peppery note to Dutch Treat. Beyond its flavor contributions, it can interact with CB2 receptors in the body’s endocannabinoid system, potentially offering benefits like pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
5. Limonene: Though found in smaller concentrations in Dutch Treat, limonene contributes a citrusy hint to the strain’s aroma profile. It’s renowned for its potential mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety properties.

Together, these terpenes synergize to form the remarkable and distinctive aroma and flavor profile of the Dutch Treat strain. They not only enrich the user experience through the provision of a multifaceted and aromatic profile but also have the potential to collaborate in augmenting the therapeutic advantages of the strain, courtesy of the entourage effect.

3. Bruce Banner

Bruce Banner, named after the comic book hero’s alter ego, is a powerful strain revered for its swift, dynamic effects that seem to metamorphose a user’s mood from stressed to happy and relaxed. This strain is well-known for its potency and its intricate terpene profile which contributes to its characteristic fragrance and flavor. Let’s explore the primary terpenes that characterize Bruce Banner:

1. Myrcene: This terpene is predominant in the Bruce Banner strain, contributing to its earthy and musky undertones. It is known for its potential calming and anti-inflammatory effects, promoting relaxation and a sense of tranquillity.
2. Caryophyllene: This spicy and peppery terpene is another significant component in the Bruce Banner strain. Its potential benefits are quite wide-ranging, encompassing anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain relief properties. Fascinatingly, it can also engage with the body’s CB2 receptors, which constitute an integral component of the endocannabinoid system.
3. Limonene: Adding a citrusy aroma and taste to the Bruce Banner strain, limonene is reputed for its potential mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety properties. It might also have anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, offering a protective effect.
4. Pinene: This terpene, which imparts a fresh and piney note to the strain, is known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to potentially aid with bronchial issues. It may also have cognitive-enhancing properties, helping to promote focus and memory retention.
5. Humulene: Often present in smaller concentrations, humulene contributes a subtle woody and earthy aroma to the Bruce Banner strain. It might have potential anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant effects.

When these terpenes work synergistically, they create a full-bodied, complex aroma and flavour profile for the Bruce Banner strain, ranging from sweet floral notes to deeper earthy undertones with a hint of citrus zest. Moreover, these terpenes may enhance the therapeutic benefits of the strain, offering users a balanced and enriched experience through the entourage effect.

4. Wedding Cake

Wedding Cake strain, sometimes referred to as Pink Cookies, has gained a reputation for its delightful taste characteristics and strong effects. This Indica-dominant hybrid is a mixture of Girl Scout Cookies and Cherry Pie, combining the best attributes of both. Its terpene profile is largely responsible for its complex aroma and flavors, blending sweet, earthy tones with a hint of fruitiness. Let’s dive into the primary terpenes found in this strain:

1. Limonene: This terpene often dominates the profile of Wedding Cake strain, contributing to its sweet and citrus-like aroma. Aside from adding a delightful fragrance, limonene is also associated with uplifting and stress-relieving properties, possibly aiding in alleviating anxiety and depression.
2. Caryophyllene: Present in notable amounts, this terpene imparts a spicy and peppery undertone to the strain. Caryophyllene is unique as it can also interact with the body’s CB2 receptors, potentially offering anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving benefits.
3. Myrcene: Also found in the Wedding Cake strain, myrcene offers a subtle earthy and musky scent, adding depth to the strain’s overall aroma profile. It is often associated with relaxing and calming effects, potentially aiding in sleep and relaxation.
4. Linalool: This terpene, although present in smaller concentrations, contributes a floral and lavender note to the bouquet. Linalool is reputed for its potential sedative and relaxing properties, possibly helping in calming anxiety and promoting restful sleep.
5. Humulene: This terpene, which adds a subtle earthy and woody aroma, may have potential anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant effects, rounding off the complex profile of the Wedding Cake strain with a grounding base note.

Together, these terpenes create a bouquet that is a perfect blend of sweet and earthy tones, lending the Wedding Cake strain its signature delightful and complex aroma and flavor profile. The entourage effect suggests that these terpenes, when working synergistically with cannabinoids, can potentially enhance the strain’s therapeutic properties, offering users a rich and balanced cannabis experience.

5. Blue Dream

Blue Dream strain, a beloved favorite in the cannabis community, boasts a complex terpene profile that results in its highly appealing scent and flavor characteristics. This sativa-dominant hybrid seamlessly blends the tranquil serenity of Blueberry Indica with the invigorating euphoria of Haze, offering a balanced, smooth, and vibrant experience. Here’s a detailed peek into the terpene profile of Blue Dream and how each contributes to its alluring properties:

1. Myrcene: Often found as the dominant terpene in the Blue Dream strain, myrcene imparts a musky and earthy aroma to the plant. It is recognized for its possible ability to induce relaxation and a calming sensation, potentially contributing to stress alleviation and overall relaxation.
2. Pinene: This terpene adds a refreshing pine note to the Blue Dream’s aromatic bouquet. Apart from adding a fresh forest-like aroma, pinene is also associated with potential anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects, which might assist in respiratory health.
3. Limonene: Limonene contributes a citrusy, lemon-like note to the strain’s profile, adding a sweet and tangy edge to the scent and flavor. It has been researched for its potential mood-enhancing and anti-anxiety properties, making it a valuable addition to this uplifting strain.
4. Caryophyllene: Imparting a spicy, pepper-like undertone, caryophyllene adds depth to the flavor profile of Blue Dream. It’s a special terpene that can interact with CB2 receptors in the body, potentially offering anti-inflammatory and pain relief benefits.
5. Linalool: Although in lesser quantities, linalool is still an integral part of the Blue Dream’s terpene profile, providing a floral and lavender hint to its aroma. Known for its potential calming and anti-anxiety effects, it might help in soothing the mind and promoting relaxation.
6. Humulene: This terpene gives a subtle earthy and woody note to the strain, possibly offering anti-inflammatory and appetite-suppressant properties. It complements the other terpenes well, rounding off the aroma with a grounded touch.

These terpenes work together to create Blue Dream’s complex flavor and aroma, potentially enhancing its therapeutic benefits through the entourage effect.

2. Soil

While you can augment terpene production through any cultivation method, soil emerges as the premier and most authentic substrate for fostering an abundance of terpenes. Superior quality soil facilitates optimal pH and alkalinity conditions, optimizes the absorption of nutrients, and maintains photosynthesis at peak levels. Utilizing native soil to cultivate cannabis accentuates the distinctive characteristics of the region’s terroir.

Terroir denotes the particular conditions and surroundings where plants thrive, significantly influencing their distinct flavors and scents. Similar to how wines originating from distinct areas have varied tastes despite being made from an identical grape variety, the analogous principle applies to cannabis plants.

The art of soil cultivation is an intricate science. In the realm of terpene augmentation, the objective is to elevate the plant’s sugar production levels. Given that plants cannot absorb external sugars, it becomes essential to devise a nutrient strategy that motivates plants to synthesize sugars autonomously. We will delve into the methodologies to achieve this in the forthcoming section.

3. Nutrients

Sugars, also known as carbohydrates, play a pivotal role during the blossoming stage for the cultivation of substantial, compact buds endowed with elevated levels of resin and terpene. Throughout their growth cycle, your cannabis plants will necessitate different quantities of carbohydrates, with the most pronounced effect observed during the bud maturation phase.

A majority of the nutrients and supplements that amplify flavor are founded on carbohydrates. This implies that they introduce sugars into the root area to foster microbial communities, which consequently grants the plants a richer supply of sugars or nutrients.

Additionally, there are nutrient enhancements that are more tailored towards boosting terpene production compared to those based on carbohydrates. These supplements leverage naturally prevalent plant substances termed bio-osmotic potentiators, which propel the plants to escalate their synthesis of terpenes and vital oils.

Bacteria

Bacteria frequently find themselves at the receiving end of negative press. Nonetheless, with our deepening understanding of the microbiome and probiotics, we are starting to recognize their advantageous aspects. Introducing Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) to your soil can be a game-changer; this remarkable microorganism has the knack for transforming sugars into short-chain fatty acids. These elements become the building blocks for your plant to fabricate an abundance of trichomes, cannabinoids, and terpenes.

Molasses

Utilizing black grape molasses, either incorporated in the soil or mixed with your watering solution, fosters a vibrant microbial ecosystem within the root zone. Incorporating molasses acts as a catalyst, empowering the microbes to optimize the speed and efficacy of nutrient absorption by the plants.

This streamlined nutrient utilization paves the way for a surge in trichome production, amplified yields, and generally more robust plants. To employ molasses in your watering regime, amalgamate two tablespoons with five liters of tepid water.

Amino acids

Introducing amino acids like fulvic acid and humic acid fosters the development of chlorophyll and amplifies nutrient assimilation. Consequently, this augments the plant’s capacity to generate a higher quantity of sugars within its metabolic processes facilitates more efficient nutrient absorption, and amplifies the terpene levels in your plants.

Seaweed extracts

Numerous cultivators have achieved remarkable success in boosting the terpene concentration through the utilization of seaweed extracts. These extracts, derived from marine algae, enhance the accessibility of micro-nutrients and are rich in natural growth hormones that foster cellular division in plants. When infused in the plant’s root zone, these seaweed extracts catalyze the growth of robust and expansive root systems. In turn, these denser, wider roots facilitate heightened water and nutrient absorption, escalate carbohydrate synthesis, and augment terpene levels in the plants.

It is vital to recognize that a plant’s nutritional requirements shift throughout its growth phases. In the concluding two weeks of growth, it’s advisable to abstain from nitrogen supplementation, as surplus nitrates can deplete carbohydrates and squander vital energy, leading to sluggish growth and diminished terpene output. Conversely, elevating the potassium intake during the flowering phase is beneficial, as it fosters a surge in the plant’s sugar content.

4. Stress

Cannabis plants generate trichomes as a mechanism to shield themselves from various threats and environmental pressures. These glands primarily serve as a protective barrier for the plant and its nascent seeds, safeguarding them from harsh factors such as ultraviolet radiation, freezing temperatures, insect infestations, and diseases.

Cultivators can leverage this biological feature to enhance the plant’s yield. By inducing mild stress during the blooming stage, they can stimulate the plants to yield a greater quantity of trichomes, thereby increasing the production of cannabinoids and terpenes. Nonetheless, imposing excessive stress can be detrimental, potentially arresting the process of photosynthesis. Consequently, employing such methods may not be effective with autoflowering variants, given their short growth duration of around 12 to 13 weeks. Inflicting additional stress during this period might compromise the quality of the harvest.

Temperature

The onset of cold weather, a notable stressor for the plant, instigates metabolic alterations within it. This phenomenon, particularly during the ultimate phase of flowering, amplifies resin production, albeit with a negligible reduction in yield.

To exploit this, it’s advisable to decrease the temperatures gradually by approximately 5 °C in the final fortnight of the flowering stage. This mimics the impending arrival of autumn, signaling to the plant the approach of frost and winter. Consequently, the plant channels its residual energy into augmenting resin production to safeguard its offspring.

By this juncture, the buds have attained full growth and merely require further maturation. This process culminates in substantially improved resin coating and enhanced terpene content. Additionally, implementing a temperature reduction in the latter segments of the flowering cycle can potentially expedite the period, facilitating a swifter harvest.

Humidity

For flowering cannabis plants to thrive and reach their full potential, maintaining a humidity level within the range of 50-60% is considered ideal. However, creating a deliberate reduction in the humidity levels to about 30% can induce a slight amount of stress on the plants, which, in turn, promotes an escalation in the production of terpenes, compounds that contribute to the plant’s aroma and flavor.

To achieve this lowered humidity environment, cultivators might consider incorporating additional ventilation solutions such as installing more fans or introducing a dehumidifier within the growing area. These modifications can effectively control the moisture levels in the atmosphere surrounding the plants.

Furthermore, maintaining a lower humidity setting not only stimulates the plants to produce more terpenes but also serves as a preventive measure against the development and proliferation of mold and mildew, which are common issues that can plague cannabis plants, potentially ruining the harvest. By taking this approach, growers can potentially enhance the quality of their crop while simultaneously minimizing the risks associated with fungal infestations, thus safeguarding their investment and ensuring a fruitful harvest.

Less Watering

As you gradually decrease the frequency of watering, it imitates a drought scenario. Just like reacting to any kind of stress, the plant initiates a defense mechanism to safeguard itself and its seeds. This involves the production of an increased quantity of resin to cover the flowers and seeds, helping to retain moisture and shield them from water scarcity.

Allowing the soil to dry out a bit not only enhances the levels of cannabinoids and terpenes but also augments the supply of oxygen to the roots, promoting more efficient photosynthesis.

Defoliation

Defoliation stands as the predominant and favored technique to augment sugar synthesis while naturally amplifying the terpene and cannabinoid concentration. Snipping off the leaves enhances terpene quantities by channeling energy towards the buds.

Gently remove the emerging young leaves as they develop. Exercise caution to avoid excessive removal, since eliminating a large number of leaves can inhibit your plants’ growth and decelerate the photosynthesis process. Overzealous defoliation can consequently lead to diminished yields and inferior bud quality.

Bear in mind that leaves play a crucial role in sugar formation, with the uppermost leaves absorbing the most sunlight. Hence, only excise them if they obstruct a significant portion of the budding flowers.

Growers exhibit varying perspectives on the practice of defoliation. Nonetheless, when executed judiciously, it has the potential to enhance the yield, terpenes, and cannabinoid levels in your plants.

Lollipopping

“Lollipopping” is essentially an extensive form of defoliation, targeting to clear away approximately the lower quarter to one-third of the plant. These bottom branches receive insufficient light, resulting in buds that are invariably smaller and inferior in quality compared to the upper colas.

Initiating this removal process at the onset of the flowering phase guarantees that the plant’s generated energy is directed toward nurturing the surviving portions of the plant. Consequently, this not only amplifies your yield but also enhances the collective quality of the buds.

Super cropping

“Super cropping” denotes a high-intensity horticulture technique, which entails the deliberate pinching and bending of stems and branches. This action, which damages the internal fibers while leaving the external sheath unharmed, facilitates a robust growth spurt and bud evolution, alongside heightened synthesis of cannabinoids and terpenes.

Once the plants rebound, an “ankle” emerges at the impacted site. An enlarged surface area of this ankle aids the plant in absorbing additional nutrients, which are then conveyed to the emerging buds.

Optimal periods for implementing super cropping are during the latter part of the vegetative phase and the initial fortnight of the flowering stage. Commencing super cropping a week prior to the flowering phase grants the plants sufficient recuperation time. Undertaking this process near the second week of flowering assists in managing the “stretch”, ensuring a uniform distribution of branches. Moreover, it facilitates optimal positioning of the branches and buds, granting them greater exposure to light.

Flush With Ice

Flushing refers to the process of irrigating the plant with nutrient-free, pure water, with some cultivators preferring to execute the final flush using ice during the concluding weeks of harvest.

This procedure not only eliminates accumulated nutrients but also induces stress in the plant. In response to this added strain, the plant amplifies the production of trichomes and resin during the final stages of the flowering period.

Split the Stem

Even though a few growers opt for this approach in the final days of the flowering stage, it’s not advisable, particularly for inexperienced cultivators. In theory, the act of splitting the stem triggers a significant hormonal shift in your plants due to extreme stress. While this might halt bud production, it does promote heightened resin production as well as increased levels of cannabinoids and terpenes.

However, we strongly discourage the use of this method because it carries the risk of introducing infections that can manifest as various diseases, potentially leading to the loss of the entire plant. If not handled with care, there’s also the possibility of accidentally severing the plant entirely, resulting in a premature harvest.

5. Plant Companionship

Companion planting is a widespread practice in various agricultural crops and integrated pest management systems. It’s a technique whereby farmers employ different plant species to enhance the well-being of their primary crops. By strategically planting specific crops in proximity to each other, they collaborate to enhance production and the overall quality of their harvest.

This approach is typically employed to achieve multiple objectives such as attracting pollinators and beneficial insects, deterring pests, enriching the soil with nutrients, or facilitating the uptake of minerals from the earth. Some plants have demonstrated their ability to elevate the levels of essential oils and sugars in neighboring plants.

Certain plants, such as nettle, yarrow, basil, chives, and tarragon, are recognized for their capacity to boost essential oil production and enhance the flavor of nearby plants.

6. Lighting

Lighting assumes a pivotal role throughout the entire cultivation process, ensuring the proper development of your plants, augmenting yields, and enhancing the overall quality of your cannabis buds. Distinct lighting types and light spectrums can bring about (slightly) different terpenes or even alter terpene profiles. This means that the same cannabis strain cultivated outdoors under natural sunlight will possess a somewhat divergent chemical profile compared to one grown indoors under either HPS or LED lights.

Regarding terpenes, two specific light spectrums hold particular significance. The first involves the exclusion of the red spectrum during the final 72 hours of the growth cycle. This strategy prompts the continued synthesis of terpenes within the plant, yet these compounds remain trapped within the maturing buds, leading to their accumulation.

The second crucial light spectrum is UV-B. As previously mentioned, cannabis plants generate trichomes partly as a defense mechanism against harmful UV rays. However, this defense mechanism can be harnessed to your advantage. By introducing a UV-B light source into your cultivation environment, you can stimulate increased trichome production, resulting in a higher terpene content. Incorporating 10-20W of UV-B light per square meter during the last 2-3 weeks of growth can elevate the terpene levels in your cannabis buds.

It’s worth noting that HPS (High-Pressure Sodium) bulbs inherently emit a substantial infrared peak between 800 nm and 900 nm, negating the need for an additional UV-B source. For outdoor cultivation, ensure appropriate spacing of your buds to guarantee they all receive adequate light exposure.

7. Reduce the CO₂ Levels

In the course of photosynthesis, plants absorb water and carbon dioxide (CO2) and transform them into oxygen and glucose (sugar). Many cultivators introduce additional CO2 into their cultivation environment to expedite and enhance this process.

The most opportune period for this practice falls within the initial two to three weeks of the flowering stage. Towards the conclusion of the flowering phase, the plants have already developed their buds, and the remaining task is to allow these buds to reach full maturation.

A reduction in atmospheric CO2 levels prompts plants to generate higher quantities of ethylene. Ethylene serves as a pivotal hormone in the ripening process. Increasing ethylene production stimulates trichomes to allocate more energy to resin secretion, ultimately elevating terpene levels.

8. Flushing

As your plants progress in their growth, they require nutrients to support the development of their leaves, stems, branches, and buds. These essential nutrients are absorbed from the growing medium via the roots and are subsequently stored in the leaves and buds. However, when your plants reach their final growth stage, it becomes imperative to discontinue nutrient supplementation.

Typically, growers adopt the practice of providing their plants with pure water during the last two weeks of growth. This regimen ensures the removal of any surplus nutrients that the plant either doesn’t require or cannot effectively utilize. Excessive nutrients left behind can impart an undesirable taste and aroma to the buds and may result in uneven burning. Thoroughly flushed buds, on the other hand, yield a pleasing, natural, and aromatic end product.

To maximize the effectiveness of the flushing process, cultivators can rinse the soil with a volume of pure water equivalent to 3-5 times the container’s soil capacity. For example, if your container holds 5 liters of soil, you would use 15-25 liters of water for flushing. Unlike simply watering your plants with pure water for the last two weeks, this thorough flush ensures that any residual nutrients are purged from the soil as well. After this process, allow the soil to dry adequately before resuming the practice of irrigating your plants with pure water.

9. Timing Your Harvest Correctly

It’s crucial to determine the right moment for harvesting, and the same principle applies to terpenes. As plants progress through their growth cycle, their fragrance intensifies, occasionally even undergoing alterations. Similar to cannabinoids, the optimal harvest period for your plants is when the trichomes begin to transition to an amber hue.

Harvesting prematurely will result in buds with fewer trichomes, consequently leading to diminished cannabinoid and terpene content. Conversely, delaying the harvest too long can lead to the breakdown of trichomes, resulting in the loss of both terpenes and cannabinoids.

Selecting the Appropriate Hour

Plants consistently produce terpenes, but these compounds tend to dissipate when exposed to (sun)light and rising temperatures. Terpene levels experience an increase during the night and reach their peak just prior to sunrise. In the daytime, terpenes evaporate into the air, releasing their distinctive scents as a warning to deter predators and pests. Consequently, plants possess more terpenes at the conclusion of the dark period than they do after a full day of exposure to light, with terpene content being at its lowest during dusk.

As a result, the most favorable time for harvesting your plants would be either just before sunrise when cultivating outdoors or just before the indoor light cycle commences. Some cultivators even opt to keep their plants in darkness for 24 to 48 hours prior to harvesting. This practice ensures that the terpene content is at its zenith.

10. Drying

The proper drying of your cannabis buds stands as a pivotal aspect of any successful cultivation, capable of distinguishing between an outstanding harvest and an inferior one. It’s common for growers to rush this stage in their eagerness to savor the fruits of their labor, potentially compromising the quality. To achieve the ideal drying process for your cannabis buds, you should aim for a dark environment with consistent humidity levels between 45-55% and a temperature ranging from 20-22°C.

A gradual and deliberate drying process is vital to preserving the terpenes and cannabinoids present in your buds. Slower drying is preferable for optimal results, typically taking approximately 2-3 weeks, depending on the chosen drying method.

Following the drying phase, the buds require a curing process. Curing essentially continues the drying process, extending anywhere from 4-5 weeks to several months. During this period, certain transformations, such as the conversion of THC to CBN, take place. However, when it comes to terpenes, an extended curing duration proves advantageous.

In the initial weeks of curing, there may be a decline in cannabinoid and terpene levels. However, as the weeks progress, these levels gradually increase. Typically, around the eighth week, terpene levels reach their lowest point during the curing process.

Subsequently, after the eighth week, terpene levels begin to rise once more, potentially surpassing the levels found in freshly harvested plants. The degree of this rise can fluctuate based on the storage conditions of the buds, be it air, vacuum, N2, argon, or CO2. In certain instances, terpene levels might even experience an increment of up to 20%. Rushing through the drying and curing phases can lead to buds with an aroma and taste reminiscent of hay or chlorophyll.

It’s important to note that both cannabinoids and terpenes are generated in the trichomes, which are the plant’s resin glands. Cannabis plants produce trichomes in response to various stressors and environmental conditions. By subjecting the plants to controlled levels of stress while maintaining optimal growth conditions, you can promote the production of more trichomes and terpenes. With careful drying and curing, your buds will retain their freshness, aroma, and delicious flavor.