The last few weeks of the flowering stage are crucial times for terpene production . As stated above , a cannabis plant creates terpenes to protect itself and increase its chance of successful reproduction . Hence , it ’ s during the later stages of flowering that the plant expends the most energy on producing terpenes . Regardless of whether a flushing product is being used or not , a cannabis grower should reduce or alter his or her feeding regiment during the last stages of flowering . Most of a cannabis plant ’ s terpenes are found in the flowers or buds . Certain elements , such as nitrogen , are known to slow down flower formation , which , in turn , would reduce the production of terpenes . So , a balanced feeding regimen with a reduced amount of nitrogen should be used during the flowering stage . It is also important to eliminate nitrogen from the feeding regimen during the final two weeks of flowering .
Growing Techniques for Increasing Terpene Production
In addition to providing them with a carbohydrate formula , a terpene-specific enhancer , and / or a flushing product , the most effective way to increase terpenes is to lightly stress the plants during the flowering stage . Slightly inducing stress in cannabis plants can be done a few different ways . Just keep in mind that deliberately initiating stress is a fine line to walk and , although the benefits can be great , it should always be done cautiously so as not to over-stress the plants . The goal is to stress them just enough to boost terpene production but not enough to cause any serious harm .
Branch Pinching
One simple way to lightly stress a cannabis plant is to pinch some of the branches . By simply taking the stem between the index finger and thumb , then pinch firmly . Branches can also be bent or manipulated to change the direction of growth . This technique serves two purposes : first , the stress will increase the production of terpenes and , second , a grower can reposition branches to allow light to reach areas that were once shaded .
Undercutting
Undercutting is another great way to fulfill two needs with one deed . Undercutting involves removing leaves from the lower section of a plant where they are shaded and do not receive much light . By removing these leaves during the flowering stage , a grower can redirect much of the plant ’ s energy into producing flowers at the top of the plant . Undercutting also creates enough stress in the plant to increase its natural terpene production . Novice growers should experiment with their particular strains before excessive undercutting as removing too many leaves can over-stress the plant and reduce the yield significantly . Never remove more than one-third of a cannabis plant ’ s vegetation at one time .
Temperature for Maximizing Terpene Production
The high temperatures from artificial light sources can damage terpenes and essential oils . This is one reason why it is recommended to lower the operating temperature of a flowering room during the last couple weeks of flowering ( peak terpene production ). Generally , the optimal operating temperature for growing cannabis is 75-80˚F . During the last couple of weeks of flowering , some growers drop the temperature range by 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit . This reduction in temperature slightly stresses the plants and increases terpene production while protecting the terpenes from being damaged by excessive heat . Just be sure the temperature doesn ’ t drop too low or there is not a differential of more than 10 degrees Fahrenheit from the light and dark periods . Operating temperatures below 60˚F can be counterproductive and reduce yields . Also , a large temperature differential between the light and dark periods could cause condensation and / or humidity related issues .
“ AS A cannabis plant reaches the end of its flowering stage , the terpenes are at their maximum content .”
26 Maximum Yield