Cannabis trichomes are tiny, hair-like structures found on the surface of the cannabis plant. They play a crucial role in the production and storage of the main chemical compounds of cannabis. These compounds include cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) which are responsible for the psychoactive and therapeutic properties of the plant. In addition, trichomes produce terpenes and flavonoids that determine the characteristic aroma and flavour of cannabis. Trichomes also serve as a protective mechanism for the plant by protecting it from UV radiation, pests and other threats. Without trichomes, cannabis would not be able to develop its unique effects as they are the main source of the active ingredients.

Where to find them: Structure and distribution

Trichomes are found on all above-ground parts of the cannabis plant, including the Flowers, leaves and stems. However, the highest concentration of trichomes is found on the Flowers of female plants, as these contain the most cannabinoids and terpenes. Under the microscope, trichomes appear like tiny mushrooms with a stalk and a spherical tip containing the gland. These glands are the production sites for the valuable chemical compounds. The density and distribution of trichomes can vary depending on the cannabis strain and growing conditions, with some strains being particularly rich in trichomes. A high trichome content on the Flowers can be an indication of a high potency and quality of the plant.

Types of cannabis trichomes

Bulbous trichomes

Bulbous trichomes are the smallest trichomes on the cannabis plant and have a diameter of around 10-15 micrometres. These tiny structures are so small that they are often only visible under a microscope. Bulbous trichomes consist mainly of a spherical gland with no visible stalk. Despite their small size, they play an important role in protecting the plant as they form a physical barrier against microscopic attackers and harmful UV rays. They are also involved in the production of resins that protect the plant from dehydration and extreme temperatures. These trichomes are found on the entire surface of the plant, including the leaves and stems, but contribute less to the plant's potency than the larger trichomes.

Headless trichomes

Headless trichomes, also known as capitate-sessile trichomes, are slightly larger than bulbous trichomes and have a recognisable structure. They consist of a short stalk and a larger, spherical tip that is often visible under a simple handheld microscope. These trichomes are responsible for the production of cannabinoids and terpenes, the compounds responsible for the psychoactive and aromatic properties of cannabis. Headless trichomes are mainly found on the leaves and Flowers of the plant and contribute significantly to the chemical composition of the plant. They play an important role in defence against pests by providing a sticky and unpleasant surface that deters potential attackers. Their higher concentration on the Flowers makes them particularly important for the quality and yield of the harvested cannabis products.

Glandular trichomes

Glandular trichomes are the largest and most conspicuous trichomes on the cannabis plant. They are visible to the naked eye and consist of a long stalk and a large, spherical gland. These trichomes are the main production sites for THC, CBD and other valuable cannabinoids and terpenes which are responsible for the therapeutic and psychoactive effects of cannabis. There are two main types of glandular trichomes: capitate-sessile and capitate-stalked trichomes. Capitate-sessile trichomes have a short stalk, while capitate-stalked trichomes have a longer, clearly visible stalk. These trichomes are mainly found on the Flowers and the small leaves near the Flowers, where they form a dense, sticky layer. This layer serves as protection against insects and other herbivores as well as a barrier against extreme environmental conditions. The presence and density of the glandular trichomes are often indicators of the potency and quality of the cannabis flowers as they contain the highest concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes. Their great importance for the chemical composition makes them a central focus for growers and consumers looking for high-quality cannabis products.

Why cannabis trichomes are important

UV protection and defence against herbivores

Cannabis trichomes play a crucial role in protecting the plant from harmful environmental influences. One of the trichomes' most important functions is to protect against UV radiation. The resins produced in the trichomes reflect the UV light and thus prevent the sensitive cells of the plant from being damaged by the radiation. In addition, trichomes serve as a physical barrier against herbivores and insects. The sticky texture and chemical compounds contained in the trichomes have a repellent effect on many pests and can even trap and immobilise them. Some of the terpenes produced by the trichomes also have insecticidal properties that help to protect the plant from infestation.

Production of cannabinoids and terpenes

Trichomes are the production sites for the most valuable chemical compounds in cannabis. They are responsible for the synthesis of cannabinoids such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) . These cannabinoids have a variety of medicinal and psychoactive effects that make cannabis a popular plant for both recreational and therapeutic use. In addition to cannabinoids, trichomes also produce terpenes, which give the plant its characteristic aroma and flavour. Terpenes also have therapeutic properties and can enhance the effects of cannabinoids through the so-called entourage effect. Without trichomes, cannabis would not be able to develop its unique effects as they are the main source of the active ingredients.

Attracting pollinators

Another important aspect of trichomes is their role in attracting pollinators. The terpenes produced in the trichomes provide the characteristic odour of cannabis, which attracts many pollinators. These fragrant compounds can attract insects such as bees, which help pollinate the plant. Pollination allows plants to reproduce and maintain their genetic diversity. Terpenes also play a role in repelling unwanted herbivores by producing strong odours that can deter potential predators. In this way, trichomes not only contribute to the protection and chemical diversity of the plant, but also support its reproduction and survival in nature.

Cannabis trichomes for consumers and growers

What's inside: potency and flavour

Cannabis trichomes are of great importance to consumers as they are the main source of the plant's psychoactive and therapeutic compounds. The cannabinoids contained in the trichomes, such as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol) determine the potency and the type of effects of the cannabis. A high trichome content on the Flowers often indicates a higher potency, which means that the cannabis has a stronger effect. The trichomes also contain terpenes, which are responsible for the characteristic aroma and flavour. These aromatic compounds not only influence the sensory experience, but also have their own therapeutic properties. Consumers often look for cannabis strains with a dense trichome population, as these strains usually offer a more intense flavour and a stronger effects.

The perfect moment: determining the time of harvest

For growers, trichomes are an indispensable tool for determining the optimum harvest time. The colour and condition of the trichomes provide information about the maturity of the plant and the quality of the end product. Clear trichomes indicate that the plant is not yet ripe and has not yet reached its full potential. When the trichomes take on a milky or cloudy colour, the plant is at the peak of its potency. This is the ideal time to harvest to get the maximum amount of THC and other cannabinoids. When the trichomes begin to take on an amber colour, the breakdown of THC to CBN (cannabinol) begins, producing a more sedative effects. Some growers prefer to harvest the plants at this stage to obtain a more relaxing product. Observing the trichomes with a magnifying glass or microscope is therefore an essential step in the cultivation process to ensure that harvesting is done at the optimum time and the best quality is achieved.

Cannabis trichomes and the right time to harvest

With magnifying glass and microscope

To determine the perfect harvest time for cannabis, experienced growers rely on close observation of the trichomes with a magnifying glass or microscope. These tools make it possible to view the small hair-like structures and their colour changes in detail. A magnification of 30 to 60x is ideal for clearly recognising the trichomes and assessing their maturity. During these inspections, growers pay attention to the colour and condition of the trichomes, as these give an indication of the potency and quality of the plant. Precise observation of the trichomes is crucial to select the harvest time so that the plants reach their maximum concentration of active ingredient.

Signs of the times: When is the perfect time to harvest?

The colour of the trichomes is a reliable indicator of the maturity of the cannabis plant. There are three main stages that growers keep an eye on:

Clear trichomes At this early stage, the trichomes are not yet fully developed. The plant has not yet reached its maximum potency as cannabinoid production is still in progress. It is still too early to harvest as the THC level is lower and the effects will not be optimal.
Milky or cloudy trichomes When most of the trichomes have taken on a milky or cloudy colour, the plant has reached its peak. This is the ideal time for harvesting to obtain the maximum THC level. At this stage, the cannabinoids provide the strongest psychoactive effects.
Amber-coloured trichomes When the trichomes begin to take on an amber colour, this indicates that the THC is being broken down into CBN (cannabinol). CBN has a less psychoactive but more sedative effects. Some growers prefer to harvest their plants at this stage to obtain a product with a more relaxing effects.

By observing these stages, growers can determine the optimal time for harvesting to achieve the desired effects and the best quality. A high proportion of milky trichomes combined with some amber-coloured ones often provides a good balance between potency and soothing effects.

Recognising cannabis trichomes with a magnifying glass

Clear, milky or amber-coloured?

To determine the degree of maturity of cannabis, it is essential to observe the trichomes under a magnifying glass or microscope. These tiny structures go through different colour stages as they mature, each of which provides different information about the potency and effects of the cannabis.

Clear trichomes In the early phase, the trichomes are transparent or clear. This indicates that the plant is still in the growth phase and the cannabinoids are not yet fully developed. Cannabis harvested at this stage has a lower potency and does not provide optimal effects.
Milky or cloudy trichomes When the trichomes become milky or cloudy, this means that the plant has reached its peak. The cannabinoids, especially THC are now at their highest concentration. This is the perfect time to harvest to achieve the strongest psychoactive effects.
Amber-coloured trichomes : Trichomes that take on an amber colour indicate that the THC begins to CBN (cannabinol) to break down. CBN has a less psychoactive but more sedative effects. Cannabis harvested at this stage produces a more relaxing and sedating experience.

How to recognise ripe trichomes

Recognising the maturity of trichomes requires a certain amount of practice and the right equipment. Here are the steps you should follow to closely examine the trichomes:

Ausrüstung Get a good magnifying glass or microscope with at least 30 to 60x magnification. An LED light on the magnifying glass can also be helpful to see the trichomes clearly.
Probenentnahme Choose a Flower from the plant, preferably one that has been exposed to direct light, as this usually has the highest trichome density.
Beobachtung : Hold the magnifying glass or microscope so that you can clearly see the surface of the Flower. Look for the tiny, mushroom-like structures on the Flowers and leaves near the Flowers.
Farbbeurteilung : Pay close attention to the colour of the trichomes. A mixture of mostly milky trichomes with some amber coloured ones is often ideal to achieve a good balance between potency and soothing effects.
Ernteentscheidung Based on the colour observation, you can determine the optimal harvest time. If the trichomes are predominantly milky in colour, this is a good indication that the plant is ready for harvest. A few amber-coloured trichomes may indicate that the effects will be a little more balanced and calming.

By closely observing the trichomes with a magnifying glass or microscope, you can determine the perfect time to harvest your cannabis to achieve the best effects and the highest quality.

Conclusion

Cannabis trichomes are tiny but extremely important structures on the cannabis plant that fulfil a variety of functions. They are the main production sites for cannabinoids such as THC and CBD as well as terpenes, which determine the aroma and flavour of cannabis. These compounds are crucial for the psychoactive and therapeutic properties of the plant.

The different types of trichomes - bulbous, capitate-sessile and capitate-stalked trichomes - all contribute to the plant as a whole in their own way. While bulbous trichomes mainly provide protection, capitate-sessile and capitate-stalked trichomes are directly involved in the production of valuable cannabinoids and terpenes.

Trichomes are crucial for consumers, as they determine the potency and flavour of the cannabis. A plant with a dense trichome population usually has a higher potency and a more intense flavour. Growers use trichome observation to determine the optimal harvest time to ensure the best possible quality and effects.

Close observation of the trichomes using a magnifying glass or microscope is an essential step in the cultivation process. Clear, milky and amber-coloured trichomes provide information about the maturity of the plant and help determine the perfect time to harvest. Mild, milky trichomes indicate maximum potency, while amber-coloured trichomes indicate a more soothing effects.

Overall, cannabis trichomes are of central importance for the quality and effects of cannabis. Through a deep understanding of its structure, function and maturity stages, both consumers and growers can get the best out of the cannabis plant . Proper care and observation of the trichomes lead to a harvest that is convincing in both potency and flavour, which enriches the entire cultivation and consumption process.

Back to News

Fachautor und Biochemier Niklas Bergmann

Niklas Bergmann, Fachautor

Freut euch auf die Insights von unserem Biochemiker Niklas Bergmann! Mit seinem tiefen Verständnis für alles, was mit Hanf zu tun hat, liefert er euch die neuesten und coolsten Infos direkt in euer Feed. Schnörkellos und klar verpackt er das komplexe Thema Cannabinoide und macht es für euch easy zugänglich. Mit Niklas an der Spitze unseres Wissens-Teams seid ihr immer top informiert.