Maintaining High Terepene Quality in Cannabis

Terepene quality is difficult to maintain in cannabis. This is due to the highly volatile chemical structure. Evaporation occurs with exposure to air and warming in temperature. The most volatile terpenes are the Monoterepenes that make the fragrance of the cannabis flower. Sesquiterpenes are a more stable structure allowing for taste to be maintained longer than smell. The change is taste from dried flowers can be attributed to the degradation of chlorophyll.

Different factors when cultivating the cannabis plant can effect terepene levels. The weather, climate, soil and fertilizers used will effect the type and amount of terepenes the plant produces.

• Experienced growers can stress the cannabis plant to encourage terepene production in the plant.

• Restricting nitrogen fertilizer during the flowering can help produce larger buds.

• Reducing temperature and humidity slows down the evaporation process of the terepenes.

• Hydroponic grown plants tend to give a higher yield but composted soil grown give a larger terpene profile to the flowers.

• Sunlight and LED lights which contain the full color spectrum tend to have higher terpene counts.

• Not handling the buds will allow for the terepenes to not brush off of the buds.

Harvesting early in the morning is crucial to maintain the highest content of terepenes in the flower. Trichomes excrete terpenes which tend to evaporate during the warmer temperatures later in the day. It is important to seal the flower from exposure to air and light after harvest to maintain the terpenes. Fresh flowers maintain a minty, citrus and fruity aroma. Dried flowers will dull these smells from the loss of terepenes.

Source:

http://terpenes.weebly.com/

http://www.fundacion-canna.es/en/terpenes-other-active-substances-of-cannabis

http://www.growweedeasy.com/better-taste-better-smell