When to harvest CBD?

The ideal time to harvest CBD depends on several factors, including the type of cannabis strain you are growing and local weather conditions. So, when to harvest CBD? The grower must absolutely understand the main stages of hemp plant growth and have knowledge of the anatomy of hemp plants in order to accurately determine the best time to harvest CBD.

The stages of CBD cultivation

The cannabidiol producer must absolutely know the different stages of cannabis growth. This allows them to determine precisely the best time to carry out their CBD harvest. Here are the main phases of hemp cultivation:

Germination                     

The germination of CBD seeds relies on various criteria, particularly environmental conditions: humidity level, temperature, oxygen level, light, etc. Furthermore, the characteristics of the seeds also play an essential role in the growth of the cannabis plant. Specialists notably recommend selecting dark, firm seeds.

As soon as the seed begins to germinate, it is essential to put it in soil with average humidity.

Stretching

Stretching refers to the stage during which the young hemp plant prepares for flowering. This period spans 7 to 15 days during which the plant grows rapidly before your very eyes. It is during this phase of rapid growth that hemp builds up its CBD and THC concentration while incorporating all its qualities.

Senescence and abscission

Senescence is characterized by the yellowing of the hemp's nutrient leaves. Contrary to what one might think, this phenomenon does not reflect the death of the plant. Quite the opposite: the yellowing leaves herald the flowering stage. Then, the yellow leaves fall off. This is referred to as the abscission phase.

Flowering

The flowering moment is eagerly awaited by CBD growers. Indeed, this stage of the hemp plant's growth signals its maturity. CBD harvesting should generally be carried out between 8 to 10 weeks after flowering, depending on the hemp varieties cultivated.

Maturation

Hemp maturation corresponds to the CBD harvest period. At this stage:

• the hemp flowers spread out and swell;
• the pistils oxidize to take on a red or rather brownish hue;
• the trichomes (resin glands visible on the surface of cannabis flowers, leaves, and stems) become milky or amber in color.

The grower can then pick the buds and cut down the cannabis plants.

Once the plants are harvested, the flowers must notably be dried in an enclosed, well-ventilated, cool, and dark place. Drying is generally done over 1 to 2 weeks. A long drying period develops the best fruity and sweet aromas of CBD.

Why wait for the right moment to harvest CBD?

Harvesting cannabis at the right time ensures the highest possible CBD level and superior quality.

Indeed, a hemp plant that does not reach maturity can have a relatively low CBD level. At the time of flowering, the cannabis plant displays an optimal cannabidiol content.

Furthermore, if you wait too long to harvest the cannabis plants, the cannabidiol levels can gradually decrease. In addition, the THC levels (the main psychoactive compound in cannabis) can gradually increase.

In which season should CBD be harvested?

CBD harvesting should be carried out a few weeks after the flowering of the hemp plant. Indeed, at this stage of cannabis growth, the cannabidiol content is optimal.

When to harvest Outdoor CBD?

As an indication, the beginning of spring (around March 20) is the best time to germinate cannabis seeds intended for outdoor CBD cultivation. Thus, depending on the hemp growth cycle, the flowering of outdoor-grown CBD takes place in the fall, in September. CBD harvesting therefore takes place in January or February. The Outdoor CBD cultivation method allows for an annual harvest of very good quality.

At what period is Indoor CBD harvested?

Indoor CBD cultivation offers the possibility of carrying out several harvests per year. Indeed, the CBD hemp plants are kept perfectly sheltered from all outdoor hazards. Growers who choose this cultivation method therefore have the possibility of germinating CBD seeds in all seasons, without fear of temperature variations or other outdoor climatic hazards. In addition, the hemp plants have the best conditions for rapid and ideal growth. Indeed, the producer can adjust the hemp growth conditions thanks to specific equipment.

When is Greenhouse CBD harvested?

Greenhouse cultivation combines Indoor and Outdoor cultivation techniques. Thus, growers who opt for this method can also benefit from several harvests per year. This cultivation method allows hemp plants to benefit from sunlight, temperatures, and other natural inputs. Growers must master the settings of the various equipment that help optimize water, light, and nutrient inputs, as well as temperature, in order to create an ideal growing environment to allow hemp plants to reach maturity quickly.

In summary, it is advisable to closely monitor the growth of hemp plants in order to determine the right time to harvest CBD.