Cannabis Trichomes: What Are They, Best Strains To Grow, And How To Increase Trichome Production

Growing buds dripped in heavy sugary crystals is fantastic. Even if you’re just a user and not a grower, you tend to look at the trichomes to judge whether the bud can get you high, isn’t it?

These small shining structures on the surface of cannabis buds hold the secret to unlocking the magic of this plant. Think of trichomes as the dazzling jewelry on cannabis — crystals that not only sparkle but also deliver an impact.

So, what exactly are trichomes? They are factories for producing cannabinoids and terpenes — the dynamic duo that gives each strain its unique character. We don’t realize it but these guys work tirelessly to create the compounds and potent cannabinoids that we cherish.

But, a shiny bud isn’t all you need. It’s all about the potency, whether you’re a recreational or a medical user. What good is a bud that produces little to no effects? Low-strength strains? No, thanks. Then again, trichomes shine here. They hold the key to a strain’s strength. In short, these little powerhouses are our superheroes that blow our minds with their intensity. 

Trichomes aren’t all about making a statement. Growers strive hard to produce buds with more trichomes because it opens a world of possibilities. From hash to kief to edibles, you can make anything without having to spend too much. Most brands charge outrageous sums of money for concentrates (and rightly so, thanks to the quality) but you can make many of them at home if you have plants laden with heavy-duty trichomes. 

So, let’s explore more about trichomes, and ways to boost them while growing cannabis and learn about the best cannabis strains that produce the most trichomes. Of course, you can grow any strain with oodles of resin if you’re an expert grower, but the genetics still matter. Let’s get to it. 

Understanding Trichomes in Cannabis

Trichomes are tiny hairs that develop on the cannabis plant, especially the buds. They are present even on the leaves. While the bigger fan leaves may not have them, the sugar leaves or the tiny leaves attached to the buds are completely laden with trichomes. These frosty structures are the ones that make a difference between a dud and a bud that produces a great high. 

Many people disagree that the frostier the buds, the better the potency. However, research suggests that plants with the highest trichome production tend to be more aromatic and more potent too. 

Trichomes aren’t found only in cannabis, though. Even plants like tomatoes have them, but we’re interested in cannabis because they produce the effects we seek. They generate sticky resin containing cannabinoids like CBD, THC, CBG, etc. The resin also contains other compounds such as flavonoids and terpenes. In fact, out of more than 500 compounds the cannabis plant creates, trichomes are responsible for many of them. 

Different Types of Trichomes in Cannabis

1. Capitate Stalked Trichomes

These are the largest trichomes found on flowering buds and their surrounding areas. Cannabis produces lots of these trichomes. Capitate stalked trichomes consist of a stalk and a glandular head. They serve as sites for producing cannabinoids and terpenes.

2. Capitate Sessile Trichomes

Capitate sessile trichomes are smaller in size compared to capitate stalked trichomes. They are the second most abundant trichomes cannabis plants produce. Capitate sessile trichomes don't have a stalk; instead, they have a head that attaches to the plant's surface. These trichomes are found on many parts of the plant and also contribute to the overall production of cannabinoids and terpenes.

3. Bulbous Trichomes

Bulbous trichomes are the ones you can barely notice. These tiny structures are present all over the plant but in dense concentrations on the stems and leaves. They help to synthesize terpenes and cannabinoids. In addition, they are the first ones to change color, indicating to the grower that the plant is maturing. 

Role of Trichomes in the Cannabis Plants' Life Cycle

Protection

Trichomes serve as a defense mechanism by deterring herbivores and insects. The sticky resin they produce contains compounds that repel or at least hinder threats, acting as a barrier against pests.

Temperature Regulation

Trichomes also play a role in regulating temperature. By reflecting light and reducing heat absorption, they assist in maintaining appropriate temperature levels, which is a great help to the plant, especially in hot environments.

Preventing Water Loss

Trichomes minimize water loss from plants by creating a layer of trapped air around leaf surfaces. If you grow cannabis in dry or arid climates, this is especially important for the plant. 

Harvest Indicator

As a grower, you already know that timing the harvest is incredibly important. Trichomes play a key role here as growers need to observe their transition from clear to cloudy and amber to determine when to harvest the plants. This is a crucial step if you want to achieve the desired cannabinoid and terpene profiles. Harvesting early or too late can impact the effects negatively. 

Why Should You Choose Cannabis Strains With Abundant Trichomes?

Both growers and cannabis users have tons of reasons to choose strains with loads of trichomes. For growers, the genetics really do matter. If you’re a beginner or want to know why you should go with strains with that extra trichome production, here are a few reasons:

1. Cannabinoid Content

As mentioned earlier, trichomes serve as the primary sites for cannabinoid production, including THC and CBD. It certainly helps to grow buds with a higher density of trichomes. As soon as the trichomes form on the plant, they work by transporting the plastids and vacuoles present in their stalks to the tips. Then, they start metabolizing them and also work on synthesizing the resin that houses the cannabinoids. 

Although the plant houses cannabinoids in many other parts as well, trichomes by far have the largest concentration. Suffice it to say that the trichomes have exactly what we want. If you're looking for a great experience, go ahead and select strains with heavy trichome production. However, this doesn’t mean that a plant with lots of trichomes will have higher THC levels or be more potent. This is because the potency depends on many other factors including the environment, genetics, and how you grow it. 

2. Enhanced Terpene Profiles

Trichomes are also responsible for housing terpenes that make every strain unique. Terpenes are compounds that produce the distinct flavors and aromas found in different cannabis strains. You’ll see that strains with a higher concentration of trichomes are often very aromatic and produce a sensory experience that is richer and more nuanced. Needless to say, since the terpenes are at work here, you’ll also find that such strains are tastier. 

3. Aesthetic Appeal

Who doesn’t love a bud drenched in trichomes? Growers are proud to grow plants that glisten with trichomes and show them off to their friends too. Most often, it means that the grower took good care of the plant and serves as an indicator of high-quality cannabis. Growers often use trichomes as visual cues to understand how their plants are performing. Of course, this doesn’t necessarily mean that the bud is high in THC because it could be a CBD strain too. 

4. DIY concentrates

If you're interested in making your own extracts rather than purchasing them from a dispensary or a coffee shop, cannabis strains with high amounts of trichomes are great for you. Extracts made from such strains will be mind-blowingingly aromatic and bursting with flavors. Also, if you’re bored of using just the buds, you can use the trichomes (kief) to vape or dab them. We will cover this in the sections below. 

What Can You Do with Cannabis Trichomes?

As you already know by now, trichomes are teeming with many compounds including terpenes and cannabinoids that contribute to the plant's unique effects. However, even if you grow a plant loaded with trichomes, what can you do with them after harvesting the plant? Here are a few ways to use these little powerhouses:

1. Kief

Once you grind the buds, the grinder collects kief, which is nothing but dry trichomes. Many growers also make dry sift by grinding the buds and sieving them through screens to correct the trichomes. This is also known as kief. Kief is rich in cannabinoids like THC and CBD, making it a concentrated form of the plant’s compounds.

Whether you sprinkle it on top of flowers or use it as is to get a quick boost of effects, kief can be used in various ways. You could also include them in edibles. 

2. Hash

Hashish or hash is made by applying pressure to compressed kief. The final product is a compressed resinous concentrate. You can make hash with a pollen press which is easily available online or in local stores. If you like a hands-on approach, you can even hand-roll the trichomes into a ball of hash. Ultimately, you get a more intense experience than consuming just the buds. 

3. Other Concentrates or Extracts

You can also make concentrates with other extraction methods like CO2 extraction, solvent-based methods, or ice water extraction to create products such as wax, shatter, and oil that are known for their potency and quick effects. Trichomes can be used to make them more potent. 

To consume these extracts, you can either smoke, dab, or infuse them into edibles. You have a range of choices with trichomes to intensify the effects and have a gala time. 

4. Edibles

If you’re into edibles, using trichomes is a great option. Many people use buds, but trichomes make them all the more potent. You can incorporate the trichomes into fats or oils during the infusion process. However, don't forget to decarboxylate them to activate the cannabinoids. Whether you make gummies, cookies, or brownies, edibles are much more enjoyable if you have extra trichomes that can be used. Remember to customize them just the way you like them. 

5. Tinctures

If you have a lot of trichomes, you can make tinctures by dissolving them in alcohol or glycerin and consuming them sublingually. There are various guides on how to use trichomes to make tinctures, and you can follow any of them and customize them. 

The beauty of tinctures is that you can also add them to beverages if you’re averse to vaping or smoking. This way, you have an inconspicuous way of consuming cannabis without drawing attention. The same goes for edibles. However, make sure you tell how it works if you intend to share them with others. 

6. Vaping and Dabbing

You can vape, smoke, or dab trichomes. Just remember that it offers a lot more potent experience compared to just smoking buds as you’re consuming concentrated cannabinoids. Vaping offers a great way to enjoy trichomes without burning them. This way, you get to taste the flavors, resulting in a better experience. To dab the trichomes, just use them like you’d use any concentrate and you’ll be well on your way to attaining nirvana. 

Best Cannabis Strains With Heavy Trichomes

As mentioned earlier, it becomes easy to grow buds with lots of trichomes if you choose the right strain. There are way too many strains that pack heavy resin, but we’ll be sharing just a few of them here. 

1. G13

If you're in the mood for a strain that has an air of mystery and urban legends surrounding it, G13 might just catch your interest. This strain, known for its powerful indica dominance, has been a sweetheart for many cannabis enthusiasts for years. 

G13 has a solid reputation. With its origins shrouded in mystery, there are rumors that it’s associated with a secretive government program in the United States. But, what do we care? All we need to know is whether it produces tons of trichomes or not. Thankfully, G13 doesn’t disappoint. It does more than you expect. 

G13 puts up a mesmerizing show with a generous coating of trichomes. Each bud glistens like a precious jewel and even the sugar leaves covered in trichomes create a frosted look. Imagine compact buds displaying hints of green and purple. With her, it’s not just about getting high as she makes a visual impression with her amazing appearance.

Coming to its effects, you'll find that this strain is highly regarded for its calming qualities. In terms of flavor, think piney notes that create a rich experience tailored for those seeking deep relaxation and tranquility.

On average, G13 can produce up to 21% THC. So, you can expect a deeply relaxing body high accompanied by a superb cerebral experience. However, note that she’s not for the faint-hearted. Enjoy the strain during evenings or nights when you can fully embrace its qualities without having to worry about driving or working. If you're looking for calmness and relief, G13 has you covered. If you loved everything described, she might just be the perfect indica dominant charm you've been searching for.

2. Auto Trichome & Cream

Are you always looking for a fuss-free strain that just grows without much assistance? And a touch of creamy sweetness to boot? Meet Auto Trichome & Cream — a sweet autoflower that excels at simplicity and bold flavors. 

So what's the deal with Auto Trichome & Cream? For starters, it's an autoflowering strain, which means it grows without worrying about light cycles. Even if you’re not a green thumb, this strain is incredibly easy to cultivate. And, the best part is that it adds a delightful and smooth flavor to your cannabis experience. If you enjoy fruity and creamy flavors that make you cry tears of joy, this one might just be it for you. 

When you take a look at Auto Trichome & Cream you'll immediately notice its indica vibe. The buds are tightly packed and there’s a lot of green with plenty of orange pistils. Here's the cool part — just like the name suggests — the buds are covered in a blanket of trichomes, giving you subtle cues of her strength. If you love looking at trichs in a microscope, you’ll probably be stuck looking at her for hours! Aesthetically appealing and super potent — that’s how you can describe Auto Trichome & Cream.

With about 20% THC, the strain may not have record-breaking levels of THC, but it hits the right spot for sure. And, the effects? Gentle, balanced, and aims to reduce stress. Seriously, what’s not to love?! You'll experience a calm relaxation without worrying about being knocked out, making it a versatile strain that is perfect for socializing or unwinding after a long day.

It's like having that one friend you can always count on to lift your spirits. She can be your companion for any occasion, whether you’re with friends or just having a quiet time alone. Here's to enjoyable experiences!

3. Pineapple Chunk

Ever fantasized about going on a tropical adventure without even leaving your living room? Well, Pineapple Chunk might just be the choice for that experience. Let's have a chat about this indica hybrid.

Pineapple Chunk is like taking a vacation in the world of cannabis. It's a blend of Cheese Skunk #1 and Pineapple resulting in a scintillating flavor profile — you can almost feel the island breeze. And, oh boy, the taste! It's sweet and fruity, and as the name implies, it tastes like hints of cheese, pineapple and a little skunk here and there. 

Coming to those chunky buds, they are compact and dense and showcase a brilliant palette of colors including green and white with streaks of amber, thanks to the pistils. Of course, we cannot overlook the trichomes. They're abundant and cover every nook and corner of the buds. Imagine making hash with that! You’re going to rave about it for days! Even after you harvest the buds, the trichomes shine like little stars on a starry night. 

Talking about the effects, you need to know right off the bat that it packs about 22 to 23% THC with a few other cannabinoids like CBD. If you’re looking to turn this into hash, be careful if you’re a beginner. You just don’t want a bad trip on your very first experience. That’s why, do it when you’re surrounded by friends. However, if you’re okay with high THC strains, get ready to feel a potent body high coupled with a euphoric mental buzz. It's the kind of high that allows you to fully appreciate the moment whether you're unwinding or simply enjoying life.

4. White Widow

Cannabis strains come and go, but the classics stay forever. If you love classics and cannot resist a timeless hybrid that has made its mark in the cannabis community, White Widow could be your match.

Everyone who knows anything about cannabis has probably heard of White Widow — and, rightly so. She’s charming, and popular for her balanced effects and distinctive appearance. Interestingly, she’s an offspring of a crossing between a Brazilian sativa landrace with an Indica-dominant strain from Kerala, located in South India. 

Now, let’s talk about the trichs. You probably already know how she got her name, right? She’s named White Widow, thanks to the layer of trichomes enveloping the buds in such a way that the plant literally looks white! She’s truly outstanding with her enchanting frosty look.  These gleaming trichomes greatly enhance the appeal of this strain making White Widow both easily recognizable and highly coveted. You won’t be wrong to grow this strain just for her beauty. Thanks to the trichomes, she’s always been and will perhaps be one of the first choices when extractors choose strains to make resin. 

Talking about the effects, know that she packs about 15% THC, which is simply perfect even for beginners. The high starts slow and easy as you lay back and relax. You can feel your muscles and mind let go of all the stress, which is exactly what the strain intends to do. Without being overly sedating, White Widow offers a balanced experience, making it a popular choice even for beginners who love to try cannabis after hearing their friends talk about it. In short, she’s simple, she’s timeless, and a worldwide favorite. Period. 

5. THC Bomb Auto

Want a cannabis strain that combines explosiveness with efficiency? THC Bomb Auto might just be what you're looking for. 

THC Bomb, as the name implies, is your ticket to an explosive cannabis experience. It's the autoflowering variant of the popular THC Bomb strain designed to provide efficiency and potency in one package. The breeders crossed the original THC Bomb with a ruderalis variety, so you can expect it to retain the qualities of its mother, except that it flowers faster. 

Coming to its appearance, THC Bomb Auto’s buds are typically dense. They are absolutely drenched in trichomes. If you put in the effort to take good care of her, you simply don’t need anything else to make hash, kief, or any type of concentrate you want. And, depending on the growing conditions, the color can range from green to hints of purple. But, what truly makes it special is its shiny sticky resin, which is indicative of its potency. 

THC Bomb Auto has about 20% THC. The effects are quick, and you’ll feel a heavy body stone with some creative buzz as it’s a hybrid variety with both indica and sativa characteristics. As a medicinal cannabis user, don’t let its name put you off — it’s great even for medicinal marijuana users looking for robust effects.

6. Girl Scout Cookies (GSC)

Craving for a cannabis experience that combines sweetness with earthiness? Girl Scout Cookies is the perfect candidate. Think of GSC as the treat you’d enjoy by the campfire. You savor every bite and marvel at Nature’s beauty. GSC makes you feel the same. 

As a popular strain in the cannabis community, GSC is a hybrid strain that leans a little towards indica. It’s popular for its delicious earthy scent and jaw-dropping looks. As you’d expect from an indica heavyweight, GSC packs compact buds with a lavish sprinkle of trichomes that cover them from tip to toe. 

Most users love making edibles using GSC because of its sweet taste, but you shouldn’t ignore its potent punch either. With so much stick gooey resin covering the buds, you’re guaranteed to enjoy every bit of its 25-28% THC. 

Despite the high THC, the high is surprisingly pleasant. Not that high-THC strains are unpleasant, but not everyone can handle them. With GSC, you can expect a strong body high but it won’t make you too sleepy. Suffice it to say that you’ll enjoy a nice, balanced experience. You’ll probably chat too much, but that shouldn’t be a problem if you’re going to do it with your friends. After all, who’d say no to smoking GSC resin? In essence, whether you're seeking to unwind or elevate your mood, GSC is the right choice. 

7. OG Kush

All that talk about trichomes, and no mention of OG Kush? That’s not going to happen. Because OG Kush has earned her legendary status primarily for her resin, and of course, potency. She’s a celeb in the world of cannabis — the stuff you should smoke at least once in your lifetime. 

If you grow OG Kush, she’ll welcome you cheerfully with her piney, earthy notes that are enough to make anyone swoon. Her buds saturated in trichomes add to the allure. And, the kicker is that her sticky resin is the very reason she’s one of the most sought-after classics in the world of cannabis. It's not just a strain; it's a journey into the heart of cannabis culture.

Now, let's discuss what truly makes OG Kush legendary — its potency. Renowned for its effects, it offers a fantastic body high accompanied by euphoria. THC levels could range from 20 to 26%, but despite packing such an astonishing amount of THC, it doesn’t make you uncomfortable. Of course, if you’ve never had any experience with cannabis before, you’d be better off trying milder strains first. Or, you could just stick to using the buds of OG Kush rather than taking a hit of the trichomes. 

That said, OG Kush is revered for its ability to induce feelings of calmness and overall well-being. So, it’s no wonder that she’s loved by one and all. 

8. Gorilla Glue #4

A strain so sticky, it feels like glue! Meet Gorilla Glue #4, the strain that leaves you wanting for more. Now, as the name suggests already, you know that the strain is sticky. So much so that she earned the name Glue. She leaves a lasting impression on anyone who dares to try her buds. If you don’t mind sticky icky resin that keeps the high going for a long, long time, GG#4 will fulfill all your dreams. 

But, what makes this strain truly stand apart is her THC levels which range from 18% to as high as 32%! She’s a beast, alright, so handle her with care. We suspect she’s named Gorilla because of her power, and you’ll agree once you get your hands on her juicy buds that stick to everything. 

Due to such high THC levels, GG#4 provides a long-lasting euphoric experience. But, seriously, do not try the trichomes if you can't handle the high. Anyway, she’s a beauty, so you should certainly try growing the strain at least once if you love resin as much as we do. 

How to Increase the Production of Trichomes in Cannabis Plants?

Getting those buds covered in shimmering trichomes is pretty easy if you have the strains with the right genes. With genetics on your side, all you need to do is take care of the plants by providing a suitable environment including the humidity and temperature, and proper lighting. If you do all this, nothing can stand between you and those delicious trichomes. 

But what if you want to enhance production in any strain? There are various ways, but we will focus only on the lighting here. Here are a few tips:

Light holds supreme significance in the growth and development of cannabis plants, especially during the flowering stage when trichome production reaches its peak. For example, the plants enjoy intense light during the flowering stage. In return, you get the best buds that are not only potent but dripping with resin too. 

During the flowering stage, you should identify what the plants want and adjust the lights accordingly. For instance, they need more red light during this stage. So, if you're using MH lights, now's the time to shift to HPS lights to get resinous buds. 

The light should also be consistent for the best results. You should ensure that all parts of the plant, including the lower parts, get uniform light. This is easier said than done, though, since the leaves at the top make it a little difficult and obstruct the light. This is also why you get popcorn buds as the buds on the lower branches get little to no light at all. To get the best out of this situation, you can either defoliate the bigger fan leaves to let the light through to all parts of the plant or employ other training techniques that more or less do the same thing. Or, you can just trim off the popcorn buds and focus only on the main colas. 

Coming to the types of lights you should use, cannabis growers often prefer high-intensity discharge (HID) lights like High Pressure Sodium (HPS) because they emit light that is ideal for flowering plants. HPS lights emit light in the orange spectrum, which is beneficial for promoting flower growth and the development of trichomes. However, they emit a lot of heat and draw too much power. If you're after the best yields with lots of resin and don't mind paying more money when your electricity bills come in every month, go ahead with HPS lights. 

On the other hand, you can use LEDs too. They have become very popular among cannabis growers simply because they produce the right kind of intense light, don't draw too much power, and don't heat up a lot either. What's more, you can use the same light for the entire life cycle of the plant. Some lights provide an option where you can switch from blue to red spectrum during the flowering stage. However, one disadvantage is that high-quality LEDs can be expensive. Depending on the number of plants you want to grow and the space you have, you could still get slightly cheaper LEDs but you should avoid very cheap ones that don't do much at all.

Alternatively, many growers use UVB lights as well. UVB light is considered a stressor for plants, which prompts them to activate defense mechanisms. In response to UVB exposure, cannabis plants may increase the production of compounds such as cannabinoids and terpenes as they are believed to shield the plant from UV radiation.

Using UVB light, especially during the flowering stage is believed to enhance the potency of flowers. However, you should consider the timing of UVB exposure. Typically, introducing UVB light during the flowering stage two to three weeks before harvest is a common practice; however, many growers tend to use it throughout the plant’s life cycle. Remember, whether it’s UVB or training, try not to stress the plants too much. Everything should be balanced. Stressing the plants overtly will be more harmful than you’d expect. 

Summary: Cannabis Trichomes: What Are They, Best Strains To Grow, And How To Increase Trichome Production

Growing cannabis isn’t as complex as you think. As long as you understand the science behind the potency it produces along with the importance of trichomes, you’ll be able to grow fantastic buds packed in shiny resin. 

There are many ways to increase trichome production, but it all starts with the right genetics. Pick any of the strains mentioned here, take good care of the plant by providing good light, soil, humidity, and temperature and you’ll be well on your way to making superb concentrates that are potent and flavorful.