Post-harvest impact on cannabis terpenes & trichomes

How post-harvest methods affect cannabis quality

As the cannabis industry grows, there’s increasing attention on how to maintain the quality of cannabis from the moment it is harvested.

Research shows that how the plant is dried after harvest has a significant impact on preserving terpenes and trichomes, two critical elements responsible for the plant’s aroma, flavor, and overall effect.

Proper handling of cannabis post-harvest is vital, and recent studies suggest that specific methods can better maintain these essential components.

New research highlights the importance of controlled environments

Two recently published studies by the Cannabis Research Coalition, conducted in collaboration with the cannabis technology firm Cannatrol, explored how different post-harvest environments affect cannabis quality.

The studies concluded that drying cannabis in environments with stable vapor pressure leads to better retention of terpenes and trichomes compared to traditional drying methods. This is critical because ruptured trichomes and volatile terpenes can reduce the product’s overall quality.

According to the research, Cannatrol’s drying and curing system, known as the Cool Cure, provided a more controlled environment, resulting in 16% higher terpene retention and improved trichome integrity compared to standard drying techniques involving air conditioners and dehumidifiers.

What are terpenes and trichomes, and why do they matter?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in many plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the unique flavors and scents of various cannabis strains and may contribute to the entourage effect, working together with cannabinoids to enhance the overall cannabis experience.

Trichomes, on the other hand, are tiny structures on the plant’s surface that produce terpenes, cannabinoids, and other essential compounds.

The research showed that drying cannabis in more stable conditions resulted in fewer trichomes rupturing, preserving both their chemical integrity and the terpenes they produce. This is crucial for maintaining the cannabis flower’s quality, especially when it comes to consumer preference for flavor, aroma, and effect.

How stable environments benefit the drying process

One of the key findings of the studies was that more stable vapor pressure, temperature, and humidity levels during the drying process helped preserve terpenes and maintain the color of trichomes.

The Cool Cure system minimized environmental fluctuations, which are known to cause terpene degradation and cannabinoid loss. According to Allison Justice, founder and CEO of the Cannabis Research Coalition, this technology offers an advanced way to dry cannabis while preserving its quality.

Why this matters for consumers and growers

• Higher terpene retention means better flavors and aromas for cannabis consumers, making for a more enjoyable experience.
• For growers, preserving trichomes and terpenes could mean a superior product that stands out in an increasingly competitive market.
• Properly dried cannabis maintains its appearance and effects longer, increasing its shelf life and overall value.

Personal perspective

This research shows the need to improve cannabis growing and processing. As the industry grows, consumers want better products. Keeping terpenes and trichomes after harvest is key to meeting this demand.

The study gives growers valuable tips for improving their products. It's exciting to see science and technology help an industry that used to rely on old methods.

While new systems like Cannatrol's Cool Cure cost more, the quality benefits are clear. As more research comes out, these findings will shape the future of cannabis growing and processing.