The final weeks of the flowering stage are when cannabis plants reach their peak, producing dense, resinous buds packed with potency. What to expect when flowering cannabis plants in weeks 7 and 8 depends on strain genetics, environmental conditions, and nutrient management. However, growers will notice certain changes that signal harvest readiness.
Home growers can maximize yield, enhance cannabinoid and terpene production, and avoid last-minute issues by understanding these late-stage developments. Whether it's monitoring trichomes, making final nutrient adjustments, or preparing for harvest, these weeks determine the quality of the final product.
Overview of the Flowering Stage
The flowering stage is the most critical phase of cannabis cultivation, transforming plants from leafy vegetation into bud-heavy powerhouses. Over several weeks, plants shift their focus from structural growth to resin production, swelling buds, and final maturation.
By weeks 7 and 8, cannabis plants approach their peak potency. Buds tighten, trichomes reach full development, and aroma intensifies. These final weeks require precise environmental control and careful observation to optimize resin production and ensure a successful harvest.
Growers should expect:
- Increased resin production as trichomes reach full potency
- Final bud swelling, leading to dense, sticky colas
- Changes in trichome color, signaling harvest readiness
- Reduced water and nutrient needs as plants prepare to finish their cycle
What to Expect When Flowering Cannabis Plants in Week 7
By week 7, cannabis plants reach the final stretch of their flowering cycle. Buds continue to swell, trichomes become more prominent, and aroma intensifies. Pay close attention to environmental conditions, nutrient needs, and potential issues to ensure the plants finish strong.
Physical Changes in the Plants
Week 7 marks the period of peak bud development. Expect to see:
- Densely packed flowers: Buds have reached near-final size, stacking tightly along branches.
- Thickening trichomes: The resin glands become more visible, covering the buds in a frosty layer.
- Pistil color change: White pistils turn amber or orange, signaling maturity.
- Increased terpene production: The plant’s aroma becomes more pungent as resin production peaks.
At this stage, growers should observe trichome color changes using a jeweler’s loupe or microscope, as cloudy or amber hues indicate ripening.
Environmental and Nutritional Needs
Cannabis plants need stable conditions to prevent stress from impacting final bud quality.
- Temperature: Keep daytime temps between 68-80°F and nighttime temps slightly lower.
- Humidity: Reduce to 30-40% to lower the risk of mold or rot.
- Lighting: Maintain a 12/12 light cycle with strong, even coverage to maximize final bud development.
Nutritionally, plants need:
- Lower nitrogen intake: Too much nitrogen can delay bud ripening.
- Sufficient phosphorus and potassium: These elements support bud density and trichome production.
- Flushing: Some growers start flushing excess nutrients from the soil in late week 7 to improve flavor and smoothness.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Nutrient deficiencies, pests, and mold can affect the final harvest during week 7.
- Yellowing fan leaves: This is natural as the plant directs energy to the buds, but excessive yellowing could indicate a nutrient imbalance.
- Bud rot risk: Dense buds and high humidity create a breeding ground for mold. Improve airflow and reduce humidity to prevent rotting.
- Pest control: Check for signs of spider mites or aphids and take action before they damage the flowers.
Preventative care is crucial. Close monitoring helps growers make quick adjustments, protecting plant health as harvest approaches.
What to Expect When Flowering Cannabis Plants in Week 8
By week 8, cannabis plants enter the final stage of their flowering cycle. During this period, growers must monitor trichomes, prepare for harvest, and make final adjustments to ensure maximum potency, aroma, and yield. Proper care significantly affects the final quality of the buds.
Final Stages of Bud Development
During week 8, buds are at their densest and most resinous. Key developments include:
- Trichome ripening: Most trichomes shift from clear to cloudy, with some turning amber. This indicates peak cannabinoid production.
- Pistil darkening: Most pistils (hairs) darken and curl inward, signaling maturity.
- Maximum resin production: The plant releases a stronger aroma as terpene levels peak.
Closely monitoring trichome color helps determine the best time for harvest—a mix of mostly cloudy trichomes with some amber signals peak potency for balanced effects. More amber trichomes indicate a sedative, body-heavy high, while mostly cloudy trichomes preserve a more uplifting experience.
Preparing for Harvest
Preparing properly can ensure smoother smoke, better flavor, and higher potency. Week 8 is the time to:
- Flush nutrients (if applicable): If using synthetic nutrients, a final flush with pure water helps remove excess salts that can affect taste.
- Inspect for mold and pests: Any signs of bud rot or pest infestations should be addressed before harvest to prevent contamination.
- Avoid overhandling buds: Excessive touching can reduce trichome retention and terpene content.
Some growers harvest top colas first if they ripen faster than lower buds, allowing the rest of the plant to mature fully before the final cut.
Final Nutritional and Environmental Adjustments
A stable environment protects bud quality in the final days before harvest.
- Temperature: Keep temps between 65-75°F in the final days to preserve terpene profiles.
- Humidity: Lower to 30-40% to reduce the risk of mold.
- Dark period (optional): Some growers turn off lights 24-48 hours before harvest, which may enhance resin production.
Minor adjustments help lock in flavor, potency, and smoothness, setting up the plant for a high-quality cure.
Harvesting Tips and Best Practices
Harvesting at the right time and using the proper techniques helps preserve potency, flavor, and overall bud quality. Rushing or delaying the process can impact the final product.
Timing the Harvest
- Use a jeweler’s loupe or digital microscope to check trichomes. A mostly cloudy environment with some amber is ideal for a well-balanced high.
- Harvest early in the light cycle when terpene levels are at their peak.
If you’re growing multiple strains, harvest them individually based on ripeness rather than cutting everything at once.
Cutting and Handling
- Use sharp, sterilized scissors to trim branches carefully.
- Hang branches upside down in a cool, dark room with 50% humidity for slow drying.
- Avoid stacking buds or handling them too much, as trichomes are delicate.
Proper drying and curing techniques lock in flavors, improve smoothness, and enhance effects.
Bringing Your Grow to the Finish Line
Home growers who fine-tune their approach these last weeks will see the rewards in their final product. By applying these insights, cultivators can ensure their cannabis plants reach their full potential in both size and cannabinoid content.
For those looking to refine their growing skills or start their next crop with the best genetics, Kind Seed Co. offers high-quality cannabis seeds backed by expert knowledge.
