Ordered by 15:00, shipped the same day! Free shipping starting CHF.- 80! 
Reseller login 
Harvesting cannabis – anyone who grows CBD-rich hemp or indoor cannabis for flower production knows that the harvest phase is crucial for quality, aroma and active ingredient content. But when is the perfect time to harvest the plants? And what do you need to pay attention to when drying?
In this blog article, we explain when and how to harvest your cannabis plants correctly, which signs indicate the degree of ripeness and why patience is so important when drying & fermenting – legally, factually and practically.
When is the right time to harvest cannabis?
The best time to harvest cannabis depends heavily on the strain, the growing style (indoor or outdoor) and the desired end product. In general:
- Outdoor harvest in Switzerland: end of September to mid-October
- Indoor harvest: approx. 8-10 weeks after initiation of the flowering phase
But much more important than the calendar are the trichomes – tiny resin crystals on the flowers. They give a clear indication of the optimum harvest time.
Harvesting cannabis – Observing trichomes – the key to optimal maturity
The color and consistency of the trichomes show you the best moment for harvesting:
| Trichome color | Meaning | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Clear | Plant is immature | Still waiting |
| Milky-cloudy | Peak active ingredient content | Optimal for the harvest |
| Amber colored | Beginning degradation of cannabinoids | Milder end product |
🔍 Tip: Use a 40x to 60x magnifying glass to assess the trichomes.
Signs of maturity in CBD hemp
In addition to the trichomes, the following visual characteristics will help you:
- Pistils (hair structures) change color from white to orange/brown
- Flowers feel more compact and harder
- Leaves turn yellow easily – the plant concentrates on flowering
- The smell becomes more intense and typical of the variety
How is cannabis harvested correctly?
Ideally, they should be harvested by hand to preserve the flower structure and trichomes:
- Cut off the main shoots (preferably with clean shears)
- Remove leaves – either immediately after cutting (wet trimming) or after drying (dry trimming)
- Hang up flowers or lay them out on drying nets
- Storage conditions: 18-21 °C room temperature, 50-60 % humidity, no direct sunlight
Drying & fermentation – the underestimated quality step
Drying:
- Duration: 5-10 days
- Goal: “Crack” flower stems while bending
- Important: good air circulation, no light, no high humidity to avoid mold.
Fermentation (curing):
- Fill the flowers into airtight jars (e.g. preserving jars)
- Open jars briefly every day (“burp”)
- Duration: ideally 2-6 weeks
📦 This step refines the aroma, breaks down chlorophyll and makes the flowers last longer.
Harvesting cannabis in Switzerland – What is allowed?
In Switzerland, the cultivation of hemp with less than 1 % THC is generally legal if:
- The variety is approved (e.g. in the EU variety catalog)
- Cultivation not for THC extraction
- Processing in accordance with legal requirements
- The end product is correctly declared (e.g. as a flavored product or cosmetic)
For fertilizer, soil and organic substrates, we recommend our selection under Buy fertilizer & soil
Harvesting cannabis – Conclusion: patience and precision pay off
The right timing when harvesting cannabis is crucial for aroma, effect and quality. Those who observe trichomes, work cleanly and do not skip fermentation will be rewarded with a high-quality end product – produced legally and sustainably.
Cannabis ernten FAQ❓
Wann ist die beste Tageszeit zum Ernten?
Early in the morning – this is when the terpenes are most concentrated and the plant is rested.
Muss ich meine Blüten fermentieren?
Yes – fermentation improves flavor, shelf life and reduces the scratchiness when consumed.
Wie erkenne ich Überreife bei Cannabispflanzen?
When trichomes are amber-colored, the aroma becomes flat and the effect weaker – better sooner than too late.
Was ist besser – nass oder trocken trimmen?
Wet trimming saves time, dry trimming preserves more aromas. Both methods are common.
Was tun bei Schimmel?
Remove immediately. Mold is hazardous to health and can spread.
Was passiert, wenn ich zu früh ernte?
The effect is weaker, the terpene profile underdeveloped – you are wasting potential.
Sources & studies – Harvesting cannabis
- Trichome colors as an indicator of ripeness
A scientific article clearly shows that trichomes typically develop from clear → milky → amber – indicating the best time to harvest.
phcogres.com - Drying & curing
According to Leafly, curing (fermentation) imparts flavour and quality to the flowers – optimally after just 2-4 weeks.
Leafly
A High Times source emphasizes that slow drying and curing is crucial for flavour and shelf life.
High Times - Harvest time influences effect & aroma
Studies and expert reports show that early harvests lead to a weaker effect, while later harvests strengthen the aroma – but also carry risks.
FloraFlexLeafly - Swiss legal situation for hemp cultivation below 1 % THC
According to the Swiss FOAG, industrial hemp with less than 1 % THC is not a narcotic and can be cultivated freely.
blw.admin.ch
According to Addiction Switzerland, products with less than 1 % THC are legal – as long as they are not declared as narcotics.
AddictionSwitzerland - Focus on aroma & stability through curing
Kindled Grow Lights describes curing as an essential process for optimum shelf life and aroma development.
Kind LED Grow Lights