Pre-Harvest Rituals
The last week before harvest was all about preparation and creating optimal conditions for the final push. The plants were left dry, without any watering, to encourage the final stages of ripening. Additionally, the light schedule was adjusted to 10 hours on and 14 hours off. While this change is debated in the growing community, it’s part of the mystique and experimentation that surrounds the pre-harvest phase. Every grower seems to have their own approach, and this grow was no different.
The Harvest Process
The plants were carefully cut down after a week of dryness and are now hanging in a drying net inside the grow box. The lights have been turned off, and the exhaust fan is running to maintain air circulation and prevent any issues during drying. The environment is kept stable at approximately 17°C (63°F) with a humidity level of 45–50%. These conditions aim to ensure a slow and steady drying process, which is critical for preserving terpenes and overall bud quality.
Drying and Curing Plan
The drying process is closely monitored by regularly weighing individual branches to track moisture loss. Once the branches have lost around 70% of their initial weight, the buds will be trimmed and left in the grow box for an additional 1–2 days to stabilize. Following this, they’ll be transferred into jars for curing, each with a Boveda humidity pack to maintain the ideal environment for long-term storage.
Reflections
The harvest marks the end of a fascinating journey filled with learning, experimentation, and anticipation. Each step, from training to defoliation to the final adjustments before harvest, has contributed to this moment. The smell in the box is rich and aromatic, a clear sign of the hard work paying off.
Looking Forward
While the grow is complete, the process of curing and enjoying the final product is just beginning. The next few weeks will be crucial in developing the flavors, potency, and overall quality of the buds. This grow has been an incredible experience, and I’m already looking forward to the next cycle and the chance to apply everything I’ve learned.
For now, it’s time to let the buds dry, cure, and shine. 🌱✨
Starting next Week with Psy Op from Ethos!
When should I start using a net during the flowering phase—before or after the stretch? Also, how do I manage netting with defoliation, especially with limited access to rear plants? Finally, should I defoliate now or wait until after the stretch in about 3 weeks? Tips welcome!
I love that I came by your page, I really like what I see!. If you have time to spare, please come over I have 5 diaries going on at once. Would be fun to have you over! Good luck with everything and I’m sending my best wishes for you and your future grows! /LST 😃🌱
@Legendaryseedthumb, Thank you so much for stopping by and for the kind words! I really appreciate the support. I’ll definitely check out your diaries, sounds like you’ve got a lot going on! Best of luck with all of your grows, and I look forward to following your progress as well. Cheers! 🌱
I hope there will be enough space for flowering :D it looks terrible in week 6 haha... but this is the way...
Good job and keep up the good work growmie...💪