When to Harvest Cannabis: Morning or Evening?

Why Is Harvest Time Important?

The time of day affects the concentration of cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes, the compounds responsible for cannabis's specific aromas and effects. Harvesting at the right time can maximize the potency, flavors, and therapeutic effects of the flowers.

Harvesting in the Morning: Advantages and Disadvantages

Harvesting early in the morning is often recommended for growers looking to preserve the quality of terpenes and cannabinoids.

Advantages of Morning Harvest

Higher Terpene Concentration : During the night, terpenes concentrate in the trichomes because they are not subjected to the heat of the sun or artificial lights. Morning harvest therefore better preserves the aromas and flavors of the flowers.

Reduced Terpene Evaporation : Terpenes are very volatile and can evaporate quickly under the effect of heat. By harvesting in the morning, you minimize losses, which improves the gustatory and olfactory experience of the flowers.

Enhanced Effects : As the terpene concentration is higher, the effects of the cannabis flower will be more pronounced, both in terms of potency and therapeutic benefits.

Disadvantages of Morning Harvest

Morning Humidity : Morning dew can increase the humidity of the flowers, which can complicate drying and increase the risk of mold if the flowers are not properly ventilated.

Working in Low Light : Lack of light can make harvesting more difficult, especially if you need to sort flowers or inspect trichomes.

Harvesting in the Evening: Advantages and Disadvantages

Harvesting at the end of the day is an alternative option, although less common among experienced growers. Here are its advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages of Evening Harvest

Ease of Work : Natural or artificial light is generally more abundant at the end of the day, which makes it easier for growers to inspect and harvest the flowers.

Humidity Stability : Plants are less likely to show signs of dew, allowing for quicker initial drying and reducing the risk of mold.

Less Stress for Plants : Plants tend to be more relaxed in the evening after absorbing enough light throughout the day. This can make cutting branches easier without overstressing the plants.

Disadvantages of Evening Harvest

Decreased Terpenes : Heat accumulated during the day can cause terpenes to evaporate, thus reducing the intensity of aromas and the potency of the flower's effects.

Fewer Cannabinoids : Cannabinoid levels may be slightly lower at the end of the day, as heat can also alter their stability and concentration.

Reduced Effects : Evening harvesting can result in flowers with less pronounced effects due to partial loss of terpenes and cannabinoids.

What Is the Ideal Option?

Harvesting cannabis in the morning is generally the best option for those seeking flowers with intense aromas, powerful effects, and optimal flavor. However, if you prefer to work in more comfortable conditions and humidity is not an issue, harvesting at the end of the day remains a valid possibility.

Tips for a Successful Harvest

Check Humidity : Whether you harvest in the morning or evening, ensure that the relative humidity is ideal (around 55-60%) to prevent mold during drying.

Use a Magnifying Glass or Microscope : To determine the ideal harvest time, observe the color of the trichomes. Look for milky trichomes for maximum potency, and amber trichomes for more relaxing effects.

Act Quickly : Once the flowers are cut, move quickly to drying to avoid the loss of terpenes and cannabinoids.

Avoid Direct Light : After harvesting, keep the flowers away from direct light to preserve terpenes and prevent cannabinoid degradation.

Conclusion

For high-quality cannabis flowers, morning harvesting is generally the best option. It helps preserve terpenes, maximize effects, and ensure a better flavor profile. However, evening harvesting can be a more practical alternative under certain conditions.