Author name: Carlos

You have worked patiently in your cultivation, taking care of every detail so that your plants grow strong and healthy. Now, harvest time seems to be approaching, but the big question arises: when is the best time to cut cannabis? How to do it the right way to preserve all the quality and effort you have invested? Proper cutting optimizes drying, improves curing, and prolongs the shelf life of cannabis, allowing it to retain its essential properties and characteristics of the plant you have grown, particularly when it comes to CBD flowers or any other special variety of cannabis. In this practical guide, we explain step by step how to cut your cannabis plant correctly, what the best tools are to do it and what mistakes you should avoid. We will also talk about advanced techniques to facilitate harvesting, such as pre-trimming and the technique of natural hooks on the branches. When is the ideal time to cut cannabis? Determining the exact time to cut cannabis is a key decision in cultivation. It is not enough to count the days since germination, as the growth of each plant is influenced by a number of factors, such as the type of seed, environmental conditions, and the type of light received. Patience at this point is essential, as cutting too early or too late can affect the cannabinoid profile and the final experience. Key visual indicators One of the most important factors in determining harvest time is the plant’s visual indicators. Here are the main ones: Trichomes: These tiny, crystal-shaped glands are responsible for the production of resin, which in turn contains the active compounds in cannabis, such as cannabinoids and terpenes. To check its maturity, use a magnifying glass or microscope. When the trichomes go from clear to a milky color with a percentage of between 10-20% amber, it is the right time for cutting. If the trichomes are still clear, it means that the plant has not yet reached its full potency. On the other hand, if most are amber, the effects could be more sedative and less stimulating. Stigmata: These are the white filaments that protrude from the buds and change colour as the flower matures. When approximately 80% of the stigmas turn brown or orange, the plant is ready to be harvested. However, this indicator alone is not enough; It is always best to combine it with the observation of the trichomes to make a more accurate decision. Environmental factors that influence harvesting The environment in which the plant grows can also affect the timing of cutting. Weather conditions can bring forward or delay plant maturity, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on these factors: Temperature and humidity: A humid environment can encourage fungal growth in the final stage of cultivation, which can ruin an entire harvest. It is advisable to harvest on dry days to reduce this risk and maintain the relative humidity between 45-55% in the drying room. Light: The number of hours of light influences the maturity of the plant. In indoor crops, you can adjust the photoperiod to induce flowering and, therefore, harvest at the ideal time. Outdoors, the time of cutting will depend on the natural cycle of sunlight, so it is important to keep track of the season and latitude of the crop. Essential tools for precise cutting Efficient cutting is not only about deciding the right time, but also about having the right tools. Using the right tools helps prevent bud damage and make the process easier. Pruning shears: It is recommended to use sharp and small scissors for precise cuts. The fine ones are ideal for trimming the buds, while those with a long handle and greater resistance can be used to cut thick branches. Latex or nitrile gloves: They prevent contact with the sticky resin, making work easier and preventing the hands from being covered in resin. Collection trays: They make it easier to organize the cut parts and prevent the loss of valuable material. Isopropyl alcohol: To clean tools between cuts and prevent the spread of fungi or bacteria, ensuring a sanitized harvest. Cannabis Cutting Methods The way you cut your plant can influence drying and the quality of the final product. There are different techniques that you can apply according to your needs and the drying space you have. Understanding each of them will allow you to optimize the harvest and obtain a better result in terms of conservation and quality of the buds. Wet vs. dry cutting There are two main techniques for cutting the cannabis plant, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Wet cutting: It is done just after harvest, removing large leaves before drying. It is ideal in humid environments to reduce the possibility of mold and speed up the drying process. By removing excess leaves immediately, moisture trapped in them is prevented from prolonging the drying time and affecting the quality of the curing. Dry cutting: It consists of drying the entire plant before removing the leaves. It is preferred in dry climates, as it slows moisture loss and improves curing, allowing for better terpene preservation. This method also makes trimming easier, as dry leaves are easier to remove without damaging the buds. Cutting the whole plant vs. cutting branch by branch While both techniques can work well, the choice depends on the space and drying strategy: Cut the whole plant: It is recommended if you have enough space to hang the entire plant. This allows for more even drying and better preservation of aromas. In addition, by keeping the plant intact, the handling of the buds is minimized, which helps to preserve their integrity and resin. Cut branch by branch: It’s useful when space is tight or if you want more detailed control over every part of the drying process. Separating the branches facilitates air circulation and allows each part of the plant to dry out at a more consistent rate. Natural hooks technique on branches If you decide to

Have you ever wondered what role male plants play in cannabis cultivation? For many growers, correctly identifying the sex of their plants is a crucial step in ensuring a quality harvest. Although often perceived as a problem, male cannabis plants play an important role in cannabis reproduction and, if handled properly, may even offer benefits. Knowing how to differentiate between male and female plants in time is key to avoiding unwanted pollination and optimizing the yield of your crop. In this article, we will explore in depth how to identify them, their impact on the photoperiod, and the best strategies for managing them. It doesn’t matter if you are an experienced grower or if you are just starting out: here you will find all the information you need, explained in a clear and friendly way. Differences Between Male and Female Cannabis Plants Cannabis is a dioecious plant, which means that there are both male and female specimens. This differentiation is crucial because only females produce the cannabinoid-rich buds that are sought after in many crops. Correctly identifying the sex of your plants in time can make the difference between a bountiful harvest and unwanted pollination. Physical Characteristics of Male Plants Flowers: While females develop buds with white stigmas, male plants generate small sacs filled with pollen. These sacs usually cluster in clusters and, over time, open to release pollen into the environment. Structure: Male plants tend to be taller and less leafy. Their branches are thinner and with fewer leaves, which allows them to focus their energy on pollen production. Color and Texture: In many varieties, male plants have a lighter shade of green than females. In addition, their stems are usually thicker and more woody. Differences in the Flowering Cycle Male plants flower earlier than females. Between about the fourth and sixth week of growth, the first signs of their sex begin to be visible. This anticipation gives them an advantage in the wild, ensuring that their pollen is ready to fertilize females when they reach their reproductive maturity point. On the other hand, females take longer to develop their flowers and do so progressively. Its white stigmas appear on the nodes of the plant, hoping to capture male pollen for seed production. Early Identification of Male Plants Detecting the sex of marijuana plants in time is key to avoiding unwanted pollination. Fortunately, there are several techniques to do this efficiently. 1. Visual Inspection One of the most commonly used ways by growers is visual inspection. From the fourth week of growth, it is advisable to check the nodes of the plant (the point where the leaves meet the stem). Male plants will develop small ball-like structures, while females will show white filaments. 2. Use of Controlled Photoperiod If you’re growing indoors, you can alter the photoperiod to 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness for a few days to force the plant to reveal its sex before returning to the normal growth cycle. 3. Genetic Analysis If you are looking for absolute precision, there are genetic tests that allow you to determine the sex of the plant in its first days of life. Although it can be an expensive method, it is especially useful for large-scale crops. Impact of Male Plants on Cultivation Male plants can significantly alter the final outcome of a crop. Some of the main consequences include: Pollination of females, reducing the production of seedless buds. Decrease in cannabinoid concentration, as the plant redirects its energy to seed creation. Appearance of hermaphroditism if the environmental conditions are not suitable. How to Manage Male Plants in Cultivation 1. Early Elimination If your goal is to harvest seedless flowers, it’s best to remove the male plants as soon as you identify them. To prevent pollen from spreading, carefully remove them and discard them away from the growing area. Some growers prefer to do this in the first few weeks of flowering, ensuring that there is no chance of pollination. For effective removal, it is recommended to use clean gloves and tools to avoid cross-contamination. In addition, if you grow indoors, you can seal the area where you prune so that pollen does not disperse into the environment. 2. Use of Feminized Seeds Feminized seeds are an effective solution to minimize the presence of male plants. These seeds have been genetically treated to produce a high percentage of females, reducing the work of identifying and eliminating males. If you decide to use feminized seeds, it is advisable to purchase them from reputable seed banks, as the genetic quality can vary. Also, although the likelihood of males emerging is minimal, it is still advisable to check each plant in its early stages of growth. 3. Use of Male Plants While many growers remove males, they can also have interesting uses: Creation of new genetics through controlled crossings. This is ideal for those looking to develop unique strains with specific characteristics. Obtaining fibers for industrial products. The stems of the cannabis plant are rich in fibers that can be used for textiles, paper, and other eco-friendly materials. Essential Oil Extraction of stems and leaves. Although male plants do not produce high concentrations of cannabinoids, their oils can be used in cosmetic and therapeutic products. Final Tips for a Successful Crop Perform regular inspections to identify the sex of your plants in time. Observe the nodes of each plant from its first weeks and carefully check any suspicious structures. Keeping a visual record with photos and notes on the evolution of each specimen can facilitate identification and help detect patterns in future harvests. Monitor photoperiod and environmental conditions to reduce the risk of hermaphroditism. Factors such as extreme temperature fluctuations, excess humidity, or poor lighting can stress plants and cause them to develop characteristics of both sexes. Maintain a stable temperature between 20–26°C and make sure humidity stays between 40% and 60%, depending on the stage of the grow. Invest in quality seeds to avoid surprises and improve

If you’ve ever heard the term “420” and wondered what it means, welcome to the heart of one of the most iconic expressions of cannabis culture. What started as a code among friends, today is a worldwide phenomenon that represents not only the herb itself, but also a philosophy of life, community and celebration. Beyond a simple number, 420 has evolved to become a symbol of identity and resistance within cannabis culture. Let’s find out how the famous “420” was born! Where does the famous 420 come from? For many, the number 420 It is simply a reference to marijuana. But its origin goes far beyond that. Behind these three figures there is a curious story that dates back to the 70s in San Rafael, California. What started as a secret code among a group of students, has become a universal symbol of cannabis culture. The intrigue about its origin has led to the dissemination of multiple theories, some with real bases and others closer to urban myth. The story behind the number 420 The Waldos and the connection to San Rafael, California The most accepted story about the origin of the 420 leads us to a group of five high school students in San Rafael, known as Los Waldos. In 1971, these friends heard a rumor about an abandoned weed patch near their school and decided to look for it. To coordinate their “mission”, they met every day in the 4:20 p.m. next to a statue of Louis Pasteur. What started as a simple teenage adventure eventually became part of cannabis history. Although they never found the plantation, the code “420” It became his way of referring to grass without arousing suspicion. Its use spread first among his circle of friends and later through connections with the band Grateful Dead, to popular culture. Myths and Alternative Theories About 420 Like any good cultural phenomenon, the 420 gave rise to several urban theories. Some of the most popular include: Police Code: Many believe that 420 was the police code for reporting marijuana-related crimes. However, there is no evidence to support this idea. No official police record confirmed that the number was related to violations of cannabis possession or distribution. Bob Dylan and his connection to “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35”: If you multiply 12 x 35, you get 420. Dylan’s song includes the phrase “Everybody should be stoned,” which has led to speculation about a connection. However, Dylan himself has never confirmed this relationship. While these stories are interesting and have contributed to the mystique of the number, Waldos‘ version is still the most supported by historical evidence. The Popularization of 420 in Global Culture High Times and the spread of the term High Times Magazine , a reference in the world of cannabis, has played a key role in the expansion of the term. In the 1990s, the magazine began publishing stories about 420, validating its origin and ensuring that the story of Los Waldos became known throughout the cannabis community. Through reports, interviews and events, the publication consolidated the edition as a cultural emblem. Grateful Dead and the 420 Connection The legendary band Grateful Dead, known for its psychedelic style and its close relationship with the counterculture, also played an important role in the spread of the term. The connection with the Waldos began to gain notoriety in December 1998, when journalist Steve Hager, from the magazine High times, investigated its origin. Hager attributed the term’s initial expansion to followers of Grateful Dead, particularly after “Waldo” Reddix, one of the original members of the group of friends, became a roadie for the band’s bassist, Phil Lesh. This connection allowed the term 420 to naturally integrate into the band’s community and spread to their concerts and festivals. The 420 in pop culture and activism Movies, TV shows, and music that referenced 420 It’s no surprise that pop culture has embraced the 420 with enthusiasm. Series like The Simpsons and South Park referred to this number, consolidating it in the collective memory. In film and television, clocks often tick the 4:20, as a wink to those who recognize the meaning behind the number. In music, artists such as Snoop Dogg, Bob Marley and Cypress Hill They mentioned 420 in their songs, reinforcing their status within cannabis culture. The normalization of the number in the entertainment industry has been fundamental for its permanence in the collective imagination. Social Media and Digital Impact With the advent of the internet and social media, 420 has experienced a new wave of expansion. Platforms such as Twitter, Instagram and TikTok They allowed thousands of users to share cannabis-related content every April 20. The use of the hashtag #420 allowed the cannabis community to connect, normalizing the conversation around the plant and its regulation. April 20: A Day of Celebration and Awareness Over the years, 420 is no longer just a code between friends and has become a date of celebration. Or April 20 (20/04 in Anglo-Saxon format) has become International Cannabis Day, where people from all over the world come together to celebrate and raise awareness for the regulation and decriminalization of the plant. Celebrations range from small gatherings with friends to large festivals in cities like Denver, San Francisco, and Barcelona. During this day, events are organized with live music, lectures on the medicinal benefits of cannabis and demonstrations in favor of its legalization. It is also a date when many brands and companies in the sector launch promotions and educational campaigns on responsible consumption and regulation of cannabis. The Role of 420 in the Conversation About Cannabis Legalization In addition to being a date of celebration, 420 has also been a meeting place for activists advocating for cannabis regulation. At events on April 20, it is common to see demonstrations and lectures that seek to raise awareness about the benefits of cannabis and the need for reforms in the laws of many countries. In places where cannabis has been legalized, the

Imagine being able to read your plant’s history just by looking at its leaves. Not only are they vital to your health, but they also tell us details about how it’s developing, its nutritional status, and even the potential of the harvest. Through color, shape, texture, and other characteristics, we can identify problems and adjust the crop for better results. In this article, you’ll discover everything cannabis leaves can tell you, from their biological function to the visual cues that will help you maintain a healthy and productive crop. Functions and Benefits of Marijuana Leaves The leaves are not only decorative; they play fundamental roles in the growth and well-being of the plant. In addition to photosynthesis, they help regulate water, store nutrients, and act as a natural alert system for potential inconveniences. Photosynthesis: The Source of Energy Thanks to photosynthesis, the leaves convert sunlight into vital energy for the plant. Chlorophyll, that pigment that gives it its green color, is key to absorbing light. When this process works well, the plant grows strong and produces more cannabinoids, which is essential for those who want to improve the quality of their buds. Water Balance Regulation Through perspiration, the leaves release water vapor, which helps maintain the ideal temperature and facilitates the absorption of nutrients. Good management of this process prevents problems such as wilting or dehydration, ensuring that the plant remains in optimal condition. Nutrient Storage and Mobilization The leaves act as reservoirs of important nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. During critical times of growth, these nutrients are redistributed to support the development of new leaves, flowers, and roots, especially when the soil or substrate is deficient. Types of Marijuana Leaves: Genetics and Morphology The shape and appearance of the leaves vary depending on the genetics of the plant. The three main subspecies of cannabis. Sativa, Indica and Ruderalis show clear differences in shape, size and color, which influences how they should be managed and cared for in the crop. Characteristics of Sativa Leaves Shape: Long and thin. Color: Light green, associated with less chlorophyll. Leaflets: Between 9 and 13, with larger spaces. Use: Ideal for outdoor crops in warm climates, where you want to make the most of sunlight. Characteristics of Indica Leaves Shape: Wide and compact. Color: Dark green, indicating a higher concentration of chlorophyll. Leaflets: From 5 to 9, with a more robust appearance. Use: Perfect for indoor crops or in colder climates, where light is more limited. Characteristics of Ruderalis Leaves Shape: Smaller and less defined. Color: Medium green. Leaflets: Between 3 and 5, with a compact structure. Use: Mainly used in hybridizations to create autoflowering varieties. Leaf Color According to Genetics The color of the leaves can vary markedly depending on genetics and gives us clues about the health and conditions of the plant: Intense Green: Common in Indica varieties, it suggests good health and a high concentration of chlorophyll. Light Green: Typical of Sativas, ideal for sunny and warm climates. Purple or Violet: Characteristic in strains with high levels of anthocyanins, such as Purple Haze or Granddaddy Purple, and intensifies with low temperatures. Red, Orange or Pink: It is seen in exotic hybrids such as Pink Kush or Black Cherry Soda, where carotenes influence pigmentation. Blue or Cyan: Typical of varieties such as Blue Dream or Blueberry, the result of a reaction of anthocyanins with an alkaline pH. Differences in Leaves by Sex of the Plant The sex of the plant also marks notable differences in its leaves: Male Plants: Characteristics: Less dense leaves and more vertical growth, with visible pollen sacs. Use: They are mainly used for seed production and genetic crosses. Female Plants: Characteristics: More robust and leafy leaves, essential for the production of cannabinoid-rich buds. Use: Preferred in commercial and medicinal crops due to their high flower production. Leaf Color Interpretation: Health Signs Observing the color of the leaves is like reading a thermometer of the plant’s condition. Experienced growers use these signals to quickly adjust crop conditions and correct problems. Here’s what each color means: Intense Green: Good general condition and nutritional balance. Yellow: Indicates possible deficiencies of nitrogen, iron or magnesium. Brown or Burnt: It can be due to excess nutrients or heat stress. Purple or Violet: Usually linked to genetics or exposure to low temperatures. Red or Orange: It usually indicates problems with phosphorus absorption, especially during flowering. Impact of the Cannabinoid on Leaves The leaves can also give us clues about the concentration of cannabinoids such as THC and CBD: Relationship Between Leaves and THC Levels Characteristics: Thicker leaves, dark green in color and with serrated edges. Indicator: A higher concentration of THC is usually associated with a well-nourished and healthy plant. Use: Ideal for crops where a stronger psychoactive effect is sought. Relationship Between Leaves and CBD Levels Characteristics: More delicate leaves, lighter green and less dense. Indicator: Plants high in CBD often exhibit these characteristics. Use: Recommended for medicinal crops, as CBD does not produce psychoactive effects. Conclusion Marijuana leaves are much more than an ornament on the plant; They are true messengers who tell you how your cultivation is developing. Observing and analyzing them allows you to maximize performance, detect problems in time and take advantage of their commercial and medicinal properties. Whether you’re growing indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse, knowing and properly handling the information your leaves give you can make a big difference in the success of your harvest. Don’t forget to visit maionais CBD and discover more.

The world of cannabis is full of concentrates, and two of the most popular are hashish and pollen. Although both come from the same factory, their production methods and characteristics make them very different. In this guide you will find out in detail what each one is, how they are made, what their main differences are and which may be the ideal option for you according to your preferences. What is Hashish? Hashish is a cannabis concentrate obtained from the resin collected from the trichomes of the plant. It is made using ancient techniques that are part of traditions and rituals in various cultures. Origin and Tradition With deep roots in countries such as Morocco, India, and Nepal, hashish has been perfected using extraction and compression methods. These techniques, in addition to their recreational use, are used in social and religious ceremonies and practices, making this concentrate something very special. Extraction Process and Production The process takes place in three essential stages: Resin harvesting: Trichomes are extracted from cannabis flowers using manual or mechanical methods. Drying and sieving: Impurities are removed to obtain a pure resin. Compression: Heat and pressure are applied to transform the resin into homogeneous blocks or wafers. Every detail of the process influences the type and quality of the hash obtained. Characteristics of hashish Appearance and texture: Blocks can vary in color, from dark browns to golden or near-black tones. As for the texture, it can be very compact or a little more fragile, depending on the method used. What is cannabis pollen? Pollen refers to the trichomes that are released from the female flowers of cannabis, collected in an artisanal way. This process preserves the natural essence of cannabis without subjecting it to intense compression processes. Origin and method of acquisition Used for centuries in Europe and Asia, pollen is obtained by: Rub or sift high-quality buttons. Collect the trichomes in the form of a fine powder. This artisanal method allows you to maintain all the properties and purity of the product. Artisanal Extraction Process The procedure is simple: Harvesting buds: High-quality cannabis flowers are chosen. Rub: The buds are rubbed so that the trichomes come out. Sifting: The pollen is separated from other plant remains, thus obtaining a fine and pure powder. Characteristics of pollen Appearance and texture: It comes as a fine powder, with colors ranging from yellow to gold, reflecting its freshness and purity. Main Differences Between Hash and Pollen Although both products come from cannabis trichomes, their differences are evident in several aspects: Definition and Elaboration Process Pollen: It is obtained directly from the trichomes released without being pressed, by dry sieving, resulting in a loose powder. Hashish: It is produced by pressing and compacting pollen (or kief), using heat and pressure to form blocks or tablets. Texture and appearance Pollen: Its texture is loose and powdery, and its color can vary from light yellow to brown or greenish tones. Hashish: It has a dense and compact texture, coming in the form of blocks or tablets and with colors ranging from dark brown to black. Cannabinoid concentration Pollen: Because it is less processed, its THC concentration usually varies between 20% and 30%. Hashish: Thanks to the compression process, the hash can have THC concentrations above 50%, resulting in a much more potent product. Strains with high CBD content: Both pollen and hashish can also be made from strains with high levels of CBD and low levels of THC. This gives rise to products such as Hash CBD, with a non-psychoactive profile, focused on the potential benefits of CBD without the “high” associated with high THC concentrations. Varieties and Types Hashish: There are different variants, such as traditional hashish (rich in THC) and CBD hashish (focused on the therapeutic properties of CBD without psychoactive effects). Pollen: Depending on the extraction technique, a distinction can be made between static pollen (modern methods for maintaining purity) and dry pollen (obtained using traditional techniques, with nuances in aroma). Terpene Profile and Additional Considerations Terpenes are aromatic compounds that provide aroma and also interact with cannabinoids (entourage effect) to modulate their effects. Here are some key differences: Terpene profile in pollen Freshness and Aromaticity: Obtained by dry sifting, without the application of heat, the pollen keeps its volatile terpenes intact. This results in a fresh and vibrant aromatic profile. Terpene Profile in Hashish Chemical Transformations: The application of heat and pressure can induce transformations in terpenes, such as the formation of hashishene from myrcene, which provides a distinct aroma. Loss of Volatile Terpenes: The compression process can cause the evaporation or degradation of some terpenes, making the aromatic profile less complex in certain aspects, although depth and nuances can be obtained. Customization: Modern production allows you to adjust or add terpene profiles to highlight specific characteristics. Cultural Influence, History and Trends Both concentrates have a rich history and have played important roles in various cultures: Hashish: With origins in Central Asia and the Middle East, hashish has been considered a luxury product, present in festivities and rituals, and has left a mark on the world’s cannabis culture. Pollen: Its popularity has grown especially in Europe, where the artisanal technique has been perfected to offer a natural and pure alternative. In addition, the legalization of cannabis in many countries has spurred innovation in extraction methods and renewed interest in both products. Conclusion Although hashish and pollen come from the same source, the differences in their manufacturing process, texture, and concentration of cannabinoids make them unique. Knowing these differences will allow you to appreciate the diversity and tradition behind these cannabis concentrates. Don’t forget to visit CBD mayons and find out more.  

Have you ever wondered why your CBD buds or cannabis doesn’t reach that size and density you want so much? In the search for larger buds, there is a lot of talk about the importance of defoliation or leaf removal. But, we get it: it sounds like a process that could affect the health of the plants you’ve grown so carefully. Here at maionais you will discover how to use this technique safely and efficiently, fatten up marijuana plants naturally, and at the same time improve your buds to achieve more solid results. Why do we remove leaves to fatten buds? Defoliation is a method that consists of removing leaves to fatten the buds, so that the plant allocates more resources towards the flowers. Not only does it allow the plant to focus its nutrients and energy on the part that matters most, but removing leaves opens the way to adequate light and ventilation, significantly improving the health of your crop. How does removing cannabis leaves help?   Increased light exposure: By removing shade-generating leaves, you help the lower buds receive more light, resulting in fatter buds and denser buds. Better air circulation: When you remove large or damaged leaves, air circulates freely between the branches, reducing humidity and preventing problems such as fungus. Nutrient concentration: By removing leaves to fatten plants, the plant better directs its nutrients and growth hormones towards the buds. This way, you can increase bud size without complications.   When is the best time to start? Vegetative Phase During the vegetative phase, the plant develops its basic structure: stems, branches, and foliage that will then support the weight of the flowers. Although it is possible to fatten buds with early pruning, you must be moderate. Too much defoliation at this stage could stunt growth and stress the plant. Light pruning: If you notice leaves that are too large that prevent light from reaching the lower part of the plant, you can carefully remove them. Notice the answer: Each cannabis strain reacts differently to defoliation. If you see that your plant loses vigor or that new leaves are slow to appear, stop pruning and provide a few days of recovery. Flowering Phase Once buds begin to form, your priority is to increase the size of your buds with techniques that strengthen flowering. Here’s where to prune Ris most helpful: After the initial growth spurt: During the first 2 to 3 weeks of flowering, the plant “stretches” its branches to accommodate the flowers. After that period, you can remove leaves that block direct light. Monitor yellowing: As the plant approaches maturity, it is normal for some leaves to turn yellow. Removing those leaves doesn’t just help It is not only a form of bud that does not improve buds, but also prevents the appearance of mould and facilitates air circulation. How to Remove Leaves to Fatten Buds Effectively Tools Preparation Clean and sharp pruning shears: Good shears minimize uneven cuts and reduce stress on the plant. Nitrile gloves: They protect your hands and prevent the transfer of bacteria or fungi. Disinfectant: Both for the scissors and to clean your gloves in case you touch leaves with signs of illness. Before you begin, make sure your grow space is a tent or outdoor area, tidy, and has good ventilation. If you work in an indoor cabinet, the Using light and controlled ventilation will allow you to fatten buds naturally and even safer. Key Steps in Defoliation Identify the leaves that hinder light: Those large leaves located at the top usually block the lighting of the lower branches, affecting the growth of flowers in those areas. Remove badly damaged or yellow leaves: If the leaf shows signs of pests or diseases, it is best to remove it immediately to avoid contagion. Don’t overdo it: Remember that leaves are essential for photosynthesis. If you remove too many, you could decrease the plant’s ability to produce energy. With a few sheets strategically removed, you’ll see how your Heavier buds begin to take shape. Additional Nutrients and Pruning Fattening Buds with Nutrients Pruning is not the only option. To fatten buds naturally, you can supplement defoliation with a fertilizer that is balanced in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Other pruning techniques for larger buds There are other techniques that combine very well with defoliation and that will help you fatten marijuana plants: Topping: It consists of cutting off the main tip so that the plant focuses its energy on several branches instead of just one. LST (Low Stress Training): A low-stress practice that involves tying and guiding branches so that they receive more light. SCROG (Screen of Green): Place a mesh to evenly distribute the branches and allow for more orderly growth of the buds. Combining defoliation with these techniques enhances their effectiveness, giving you the opportunity to fatten buds with pruning in a methodical and controlled way. Risks and Precautions Are you worried about harming your plants by removing their leaves? The most important thing is moderation: Avoiding excessive stress: Every cut you make is a small wound. Therefore, respect the right times and do not carry out drastic pruning in critical phases of flowering. Keep an eye on humidity: After defoliation, some plants can retain more or less moisture. Adjust your watering if you notice that the soil remains too wet or too dry. Step by step: If you’re a beginner, remove a few leaves and wait a few days to observe the plant’s reaction. This will help you learn how it responds to defoliation and avoid unnecessary risks. Final Tips and Next Steps On this journey of removing leaves for bigger buds, constant observation will be key. Each cannabis strain is different, so keep an eye out for the cues your plant gives you. Do you see signs of healthy growth and denser buds after pruning? Keep it up! Do you notice wilted leaves or buds that don’t make you fat? Review your watering, nutrients, and ventilation techniques. If