What Are Trichomes and What Do They Do?

Trichomes, are a term that might not be in your everyday vocabulary, yet their enchanting presence has likely intrigued you if you find yourself here. These tiny, hairlike crystalline growths cover the flowers and sugar leaves of the cannabis plant, housing a large amount of goodness within. But what are trichomes, what secrets do they safeguard, and how can you ensure the maximum amount of trichomes on your crop? Join us as we look into the captivating universe of trichomes and uncover the mysteries they hold.

What are Trichomes, and What do They do?

So what are trichomes? An excellent question, and a fitting starting point for our exploration. Let’s first look at the scientific aspect:

“Trichomes are epidermal outgrowths of various types that occur in all vegetative organs of plants, including leaves, stems, flowers, fruits, and seeds. They vary greatly in morphology (shape and size), chemical composition, and function.”

In simpler terms, these are tiny growths emerging from the plant’s surface, scattered abundantly throughout – with a widespread presence on the flowers (buds) and the sugar leaves surrounding the flowering sites.

Trichomes exhibit diverse functions, mirroring their varied forms. They contribute to the plant’s defense against pests and pathogens, aid in thermoregulation, maintain proper hydration, and play a role in the production and storage of secondary metabolites (more on these later).

In the context of cannabis, trichomes serve two purposes. Firstly, they act as a protective shield, forming a strong layer of resin that deters attacks from insects and harsh weather conditions. This resin, a gift from the trichomes, serves as a formidable barrier against many threats.

The second, and most important function of trichomes in cannabis plants is the production and storage of cannabinoids. Cannabinoids, including THC, CBD, and CBN, are the active compounds in cannabis that engage with our body’s endocannabinoid system, unleashing the spectrum of effects we encounter during weed consumption. The main share of cannabinoids takes form inside the trichomes, making them central to the overall potency of a specific strain or plant.

What Percentage of THC is in Trichomes?

The THC percentage within trichomes varies, depending on the strain. Some strains boast elevated THC percentages similar to our Godfather OG Cannabis Seeds, while others, despite being non-psychoactive, offer medicinal benefits.

Concerning the overall THC produced by a plant, estimates suggest that upwards of 90% is stored within the trichomes.

Where is THC found on the Cannabis Plant?

We’ve looked into the cannabinoid production within trichomes, but where exactly do these trichomes live? Predominantly, they inhabit the flowers (buds) and the sugar leaves encircling the flowering sites. While a very small percentage may exist on the stem and other areas of the plant, these are often negligible and go unnoticed by most growers.

What do Trichomes Look Like When They are Ready to Harvest?

Trichomes exhibit a range of different sizes, shapes, and colors depending on the plant’s growth stage. Let’s explore the three primary types of trichomes found on cannabis plants:

• Bulbous:
  • The smallest of trichomes, scattered everywhere across the plant.
  • Typically clear and relatively low in cannabinoid content.
• Capitate Sessile:
  • Slightly larger than bulbous trichomes, with a clear or translucent appearance.
  • Denser on sugar leaves and flowers, containing a moderate amount of cannabinoids.
• Capitate-Stalked:
  • The largest type of trichome, boasting a potential width of up to 0.5mm.
  • Predominantly found on flowers and sugar leaves, containing the highest concentration of cannabinoids.

As the plant matures, these trichomes undergo a gradual transformation. In the early stage of final flowering, most crystals exhibit a clear aspect. Progressing through the flowering cycle, they shift from clear to cloudy, ultimately settling at an amber color. Growers use this evolution as a gauge for deciding when to harvest their crop. The general idea for most growers is that a plant is harvest-ready when trichomes have a balance between 2/3 cloudy, 1/3 amber, and an equal mix of cloudy and amber.

The timing of the harvest imparts distinct characteristics to the final product. An early harvest, with mainly clear trichomes, produces a more Sativa-like effect – cerebral and uplifting. As the plant matures and trichomes take on an amber color, the effect tends to be more Indica-like, inducing heavier sedative qualities.

What Color Trichomes Have The Most THC?

Amber-colored trichomes boast the highest levels of THC. This phenomenon contributes to the belief that plants with a higher proportion of amber trichomes deliver a more potent psychotropic effect. Further maturation may even cause trichomes to assume a darker, almost brown, color, indicating the conversion of some THC into CBD. For enthusiasts seeking the highest THC potency, this coloration is a crucial factor to bear in mind.

When Does Trichome Production Stop?

Given the important role of trichomes in the plant’s self-preservation, it’s no surprise that trichome production continues until harvest. However, a significant decline in cannabinoid production occurs in the last two weeks of flowering. To optimize trichome yield, ensuring the harvest happens at the right time becomes very important.

Can You Increase Trichome Production?

To offer a concise answer – yes, without a doubt, you can increase trichome production! Many products available in the market have demonstrated their ability not only to boost the quantity of trichomes but also to enhance their quality.

Now, let’s look into the more comprehensive response. We’ll explore the three primary ways through which you can increase trichome production and cultivate buds that are not just dank but “danker-than-dank.”

Ways to Boost Trichome Production:

• High-Quality Genetics:
  • This stands as the main approach to guarantee a plant with a high density of trichomes. When growing from seed, diligent research is important. Choose a strain with a known genetic lineage for producing large amounts of quality resin.
• Use the right nutrients:
  • Plants, like any living organism, demand the right nutrients to flourish. Ensuring your crop receives a well-balanced nutrient mix at the appropriate times is crucial. For trichome production, prioritize a nutrient mix rich in phosphorus and potassium. This optimal balance sets the stage for a bountiful resin harvest.
• Keep your plants healthy
  • The importance of maintaining good plant health cannot be overstated. Stress factors, including but not limited to heat stress, nutrient deficiencies, pests, mold, and diseases, play a pivotal role in ensuring your crop yields large amounts of high-quality trichomes. Treat your plant with care.
• Utilize High-Quality Additives:
  • The market offers a wide range of additives designed to increase trichome production. These products typically work by providing the plant with additional nutrients or by stimulating growth hormones. While results aren’t guaranteed, exploring these additives, especially from reputable companies, can offer your crop that extra push. The selection is vast, with certain growers swearing by specific products. As long as you opt for a trusted brand, you’re on the right track.

Additionally, various plant training techniques may contribute to boosting trichome production. Techniques such as topping, super cropping, and low-stress training (LST) can collectively enhance the stickiness and abundance of trichomes, elevating the overall potency of your harvest.

What is Made With Trichomes?

If you haven’t pieced it together by now, the oil and resin residing within cannabis trichomes play a crucial role beyond the plant’s biology. Enter the realm of weed concentrates – a testament to advancing technology and extraction processes that allow the isolation of trichomes to harness their potent powers. These extracts offer the purest tastes, aromas, and the highest levels of cannabinoids available today, appealing to both medical and recreational users seeking elevated experiences.

A Snapshot of Trichome-Based Products:

• Concentrates:
  • Through processes like BHO (butane hash oil) or CO2 extraction, cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids are extracted from plant material. Varying methods result in diverse consistencies such as shatter, wax, and budder.
• Kief:
  • The collection of crystal trichomes at the bottom of your grinder yields kief. This light and fluffy frosty coating fall through the mesh, leaving you with a potent powder that can be smoked or used in edibles.
• Hash:
  • Applying heat to trichomes or kief produces hash. This versatile product can be used for smoking, edibles, vaping, and dabbing.
• Tinctures:
  • Essential when manufacturing alcohol or oil-based tinctures, trichomes are soaked in the liquid, stripping them from the flower material.

For those inclined towards a more hands-on approach, there are numerous at-home methods to craft trichome-heavy concentrates, including tinctures, hash, and certain concentrates. The method of choice depends on your experience and tools. For example, crafting hash might require nothing more than a hair straightener and parchment paper, while BHO methods call for butane and high heat sources.

Final Thought

In conclusion, this journey into the world of trichomes extends beyond their textbook definition. It involves a profound appreciation for the diverse forms, functions, and colors they show during the plant’s flowering cycle. Armed with this knowledge, growers can elevate their cannabis cultivation endeavors, ensuring not just a quantity but a symphony of quality effects. As you navigate the labyrinth of trichomes, may your harvest be abundant, potent, and precisely tailored to your preferences.

So, there you have it – a comprehensive exploration of the wonders of trichomes. We trust that this piece has provided valuable insights, granting you a richer understanding of these extraordinary structures. Now, armed with newfound knowledge, it’s time to get your hands dirty and cultivate the finest weed imaginable!