Everyone talks about terpenes – but what about trichomes?
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Everyone talks about terpenes – but what about trichomes?
Trichomes are the tiny resin glands on cannabis flowers – the true producers of terpenes & cannabinoids. Learn what they are, the different types, harvest timing and how to use them.
What are trichomes?
Trichomes are microscopic glands covering flowers and leaves like tiny crystals. They protect the plant from UV radiation, pests and dehydration – and they contain the highest concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Types of trichomes
- Bulbous: the smallest, barely visible.
- Capitate-sessile: larger heads, sitting directly on the surface.
- Capitate-stalked: large, with stalk and head – the main resin producers, key for potency & aroma.
Why are trichomes so important?
- Cannabinoids: THC, CBD, CBN & more are produced exclusively in trichomes.
- Terpenes: Aromas also originate here.
- Maturity indicator: Clear = unripe; Milky = peak potency; Amber = more CBN, sedating.
- Quality: More trichomes usually mean better aroma & stronger effects.
Practice: observing & using trichomes
Growers use magnifiers or digital microscopes. For a clear high, harvest when milky. For sedating effects, wait until many are amber. Extracts like kief, hash and rosin are basically trichomes in concentrated form.
Conclusion
Terpenes are exciting – but trichomes are the real stars. Without them, no terpenes, no cannabinoids, no effects.
“If terpenes are the music, then trichomes are the instruments they are played on.” 🎶
