As summer turns to fall and the days grow shorter, cannabis growers eagerly await the moment to harvest outdoor plants. The harvest is a crucial stage in the cultivation process, impacting the potency, flavor, and overall quality of the final product. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various steps involved in harvesting outdoor cannabis, ensuring you get the most out of your plants.

Timing the Harvest

The first and perhaps most critical step in the harvesting process is timing. Harvesting too early or too late can significantly affect the quality of your cannabis. Here are a few indicators to consider:

Trichome Color:

  • Using a magnifying glass or jeweler’s loupe, examine the trichomes (the tiny, crystal-like structures on the buds). Ideal harvest time is when most trichomes are milky white with a few amber ones. This indicates maximum THC levels.

Pistil Color:

  • Check the pistils (the hair-like structures on the buds). They should be mostly dark and curled inwards. A majority of white pistils can indicate that the buds are not yet ready.

Overall Plant Health:

  • If your plants are showing signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves, it might be time to harvest, as delaying further could lead to loss of quality.

Gathering Tools and Supplies

Before you start the harvesting process, make sure you have all the necessary tools:

  • Sharp Scissors or Pruning Shears: For clean cuts and minimizing damage to the plant.
  • Gloves To protect your hands and prevent the transfer of oils or scents.
  • Containers: Buckets or bins to collect the cut buds.
  • Drying Space: Ensure you have a clean, dark, and ventilated area to hang your cannabis for drying.

Cutting the Plants

Once you’ve determined it’s time to harvest, it’s time to cut. Follow these steps:

  • Choose the Right Time of Day: Early morning is often the best time to harvest, as the plants are dewy and cool, which helps preserve trichomes.
  • Cut the Branches: Start by cutting off entire branches instead of individual buds. This method minimizes handling and reduces damage.
  • Handle Gently: Be careful while cutting to avoid crushing the buds. Place them gently in your containers.

Drying the Cannabis

Drying is a critical phase that affects the final product’s flavor and potency. Follow these steps:

  • Hang the Buds: Use string or wire to hang the branches upside down in your drying space. Ensure good air circulation around the buds.
  • Control the Environment: Aim for a temperature between 60-70°F (15-21°C) and a humidity level around 50-60%. Too much humidity can lead to mold, while too little can cause the buds to dry too quickly.
  • Check Regularly: Monitor the drying process closely, as it can take anywhere from 7 to 14 days. Buds should feel dry to the touch but still slightly sticky.
  • ## 5. **Curing the Buds**

Once your cannabis is dried, curing is the final step to enhance flavor and potency:

  1. Jar the Buds: Place the dried buds in airtight jars, filling them to about 70-80% capacity.
  2. Burp the Jars: Open the jars once a day for the first couple of weeks to let out excess moisture and allow fresh air in.
  3. Curing Duration: Continue this process for 2 to 4 weeks, or longer for optimal flavor development. The longer you cure, the smoother and more potent the cannabis will be.

Trimming the Buds

After cutting the branches, it’s time to trim the buds. This step can be done wet (before drying) or dry (after curing). Here’s how to approach it:

  • Wet Trimming: Remove excess leaves while the buds are still fresh. This method helps avoid moisture retention that can lead to mold during the drying process.
  • Dry Trimming: Allow the buds to dry and cure first, then trim the leaves. This can enhance the flavor but may result in a longer drying time.

Storing the Harvest

Once cured, proper storage is essential to maintain quality. Store your cannabis in a cool, dark place in airtight containers to preserve potency and flavor. Glass jars work best, but vacuum-sealed bags can also be effective for long-term storage.

Conclusion

Harvesting outdoor cannabis is a labor of love that requires attention to detail and patience. By following these steps, you can ensure a successful harvest that maximizes the quality of your buds. Enjoy the fruits of your labor, and may your harvest be plentiful and potent! Happy growing!

Next Steps

If you’d like to see the Harvest Process in person, join us for a Happy Travelers Tour in September and you can help with the Harvest!