Terpenes are volatile organic compounds that give cannabis plants and their products a wide range of flavors, scents, and medicinal properties. These are compounds that occur in nature and are found in the essential oils of many plants, including the marijuana plant, and are fundamental to the way the plant impacts our senses and physiology. Apart from their pleasant smell and taste, terpenes are known to operate through the entourage effect, in which they have an additive effect with cannabinoids such as THC, CBD, and other active compounds found in cannabis. This article looks at how cannabis growers can improve the terpene content in their plants, including selection for superior genes, growing conditions, and harvesting and processing methods.
Understanding Terpenes and Their Role in Cannabis
Terpenes are organic substances found in plants that attract pollinators and protect them from predators and environmental stress. In cannabis, terpenes are synthesized in the same glandular trichomes that produce cannabinoids and are the compounds that impart the unique scents and tastes of different varieties. For instance, limonene’s citrus smell or myrcene’s soil-like smell can heavily impact a user.
It is, therefore, very clear that these terpenes have more uses in cannabis than just providing fragrance, flavor, and color; they are also important in the therapeutic value of cannabis. Terpenes are chemical compounds that can either augment or change the high and medicinal value of cannabis via the entourage effect. For example, linalool is known to possess anxiolytic properties. On the other hand, pinene may act as a stimulant. That is why terpene profiles are an essential factor in cannabis growth – knowing these subtleties.
Genetic Factors Influencing Terpene Production
Terpenes in a cannabis plant are determined by its genetic composition. Taking the time to analyze and select the right strains is paramount for growers who wish to cultivate cannabis with optimal terpene content. Certain strains have higher levels of specific terpenes than others and, thus, are more popular because of the smell and sensation they provide.
Breeding programs have built on this by artificially mating two strains with the desired terpene characteristics. Since terpenes are the main components with scent and medicinal properties, it is possible to select varieties from plants that contain high amounts of terpenes, so the new varieties contain even stronger fragrant and healing effects. This includes improving the desirable characteristics and fixing these characteristics in successive generations of the plant.
Environmental Factors and Cultivation Techniques
Many researchers have noted that terpene content depends on the environment and cultivation methods. First, there is the issue of light exposure, which is arguably the most critical factor. Lighting also affects terpene synthesis; for instance, UV-B light enhances the synthesis of specific terpenes. The brightness also plays an important role, though too much light will cause stress on the plants and could reduce the levels of terpenes. Light exposure is essential but should be done in moderation to ensure the terpene content is at its highest.
Temperature and humidity are other relevant factors that should be taken into consideration. Terpenes are also flammable, so they can evaporate if exposed to heat and high temperatures in the environment. Balancing the temperature during the growth period and when the plant is flowering can help retain and increase the production of terpenes. Relative humidity should also be managed well since mold formation leads to terpenes’ degradation, as well as excessive shedding of terpenes due to low humidity.
Another exciting aspect of terpene enhancement is nutrient management. Terpene production in cannabis plants can only be enhanced once the plants receive balanced nutrients. Excessive fertilizer application may cause nutrient burn, which may affect the plant and its production of terpenes. However, creating a proper feeding schedule incorporating the right macronutrients and micronutrients allows the plants to grow healthy and mature, allowing for optimal terpene production. Specifically, organic fertilizers effectively enhance terpenes’ total content by favoring the more organic growth of plants.
Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling for Maximum Terpene Retention
Harvest timing is fundamental to preserving the concentration of these terpenes. The highest level of terpenes should be obtained when harvesting cannabis, and this should be done when trichomes, the tiny hair glands on the flowers, are fully developed. At this stage, these trichomes will look somewhat white or slightly yellowish, like the color of honey, meaning that the plant is ripe for harvesting. The longer the extraction process is delayed, the worse the quality of cannabinoids and terpenes will be, thus weakening the product.
In drying and curing, another critical stage in the marijuana growing process comes into play in retaining terpenes. The drying process should be slow and controlled, usually taking about 7-10 days at 20-25 C in a dark and well-ventilated area. This method ensures that the concentration of terpenes is retained because they are known to degrade when exposed to high temperatures or humidity. Doctors believe that curing cannabis in sealed containers continues to evaporate the moisture trapped in the buds in an even manner and improves the taste and smell of the buds over time.
The last aspect to consider regarding the preservation of terpene potency is storage. Cannabis should be kept in a dry, airtight container at room temperature to avoid exposure to light, heat, and oxygen, which destroy terpenes. Fresh cannabis can be held for months if stored properly—the terpenes that cause the strain to be flavorful and aromatic when consumed will remain intact.
Organic Practices and Terpene Enhancement
It is widely believed that organic farming results in an increased concentration of terpenes in cannabis. Compost teas and natural fertilizers can increase the population of beneficial microbes in the soil, increasing the synthesis of terpenes. These organic inputs facilitate natural growth conditions that enable the plant to develop a good set of terpenes.
Companion planting is another organic technique that can be advantageous in terpene production. Some of the plants that can be grown alongside cannabis include basil, lavender, or marigold since they help improve the growth conditions of the cannabis plant. These associated crops can act as protectants against pests, positively affect soil, and even impact the composition of terpenes in nearby marijuana plants through root interactions and the swapping of VOCs. Organic soil amendments like compost teas and natural fertilizers can enrich the soil with beneficial microbes, enhancing terpene production. These organic inputs help create a more natural growing environment that supports the plant’s ability to produce a rich and complex terpene profile.
FAQs
What are the most terpene-rich cannabis strains?
The strains of cannabis that contain the highest concentration of terpenes are Sour Diesel, OG Kush, and Blue Dream, and each has a characteristic smell.
How does stress affect terpene production in cannabis plants?
Some stress is beneficial to terpene synthesis, but high stress from light exposure or temperature fluctuations will decrease terpene production.
Can I enhance terpene profiles using specific fertilizers or supplements?
Yes, organic fertilizers and supplements are high in essential nutrients that can enhance terpene synthesis, particularly those that encourage good soil health.
What are the signs that my cannabis is losing its terpene potency during storage?
If your cannabis has become less fragrant or has taken on a different hue or texture that is no longer soft and moist, it may be that your terpenes are starting to degrade.