Increasing resin and THC production

THC, like other cannabinoids and terpenes, is found in the trichomes, which are mostly located on the plant’s flowers. Trichomes are small, frosty, bright white spots that make marijuana glisten during its growth. When the creation of cannabis resin is boosted, the creation of THC is favored.

The cannabis plant produces resin as a defense system against potential threats, in order to protect itself and preserve its seeds. THC levels will depend on exposure to UV rays, and the resin acts as a shield against UV-B rays.

THC, along with the rest of the cannabinoids and terpenes located in the trichomes, are what cause the effects and flavors of each cannabis variety. For this reason, resin production in marijuana is one of the most valued characteristics by cannabis enthusiasts.

The levels of THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids, as well as terpenes in each marijuana variety, are determined, among other aspects, by the genetics of the seeds themselves. Therefore, by knowing the varieties and their genetics, you can purchase seeds with the cannabinoid levels that best suit your needs. However, beyond genetics, there are a series of factors and tricks that can be used to improve the yield of cannabis resin. 

Tricks to increase cannabis resin production

Although genetics determine the number of trichomes that will be produced, their creation can be increased thanks to several factors that can be controlled when growing. Among them are the following:

Plant lighting

One of the factors that most influences the creation of cannabis resin and THC is light. To achieve a higher yield, you need light that hits the flowers beneficially during the plant’s flowering phase. Exposure to UV-B rays is perceived by the plant as a danger. Consequently, to protect itself, the plant generates more trichomes.

For this reason, the most potent varieties are those grown in the highest areas of the Equator and the Himalayas. Thus, if you equip your grow with a UV-B lamp and use it in conjunction with flowering lights, THC levels will increase considerably.

Because of all this, choosing the necessary lighting for your grow can contribute positively to increasing trichomes. There are multiple types of lighting for this, although the most commonly used have traditionally been sodium or HPS lamps.

However, there are currently different CMH/LEC lighting kits that offer better performance than the previous ones. The same applies to the latest generation of LED panels, which increase bud production per watt with higher quality.

Temperature and humidity

The temperature and humidity of the grow room are two determining factors for boosting trichome formation. Normally, the temperature should be between 17 °C and 28 °C. If temperatures are too low, they do not allow for proper plant development, while if they exceed the temperature limit, volatile substances in the resin, essential oils, or some terpenes will be lost. When exceeding that temperature, the trichome will grow larger, but it will be weaker and more volatile, losing part of the marijuana resin.

On the other hand, ambient humidity directly influences its yield. Humidity levels that are too low harm the plant, while levels that are too high encourage the appearance of fungi. To generate more marijuana resin, you can reduce ambient humidity. Arider environments help its production, as the plant generates it to protect the seed from dehydration. 

In the last 2–3 weeks, you can lower the grow room humidity to encourage terpene production. An effect that can be achieved with the help of certain instruments such as dehumidifiers or air conditioners.

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Lack of watering

One of the most used techniques is increasing water stress, which is achieved by stopping watering in the final days. This practice manages to report improvements in the quantity of trichomes, also increasing the weight of the buds, according to the latest research. The number of days you should leave it without watering before harvesting will depend on the size of the pot and the substrate, as well as the temperature and humidity conditions of the grow environment. It is not recommended to perform this practice until you have minimum experience in cannabis cultivation, as if it is not done correctly, it can be counterproductive.

In short, if the plant is subjected to controlled and punctual stress, you can stimulate the production of trichomes and, therefore, of cannabinoids, including THC or CBD. It is necessary to know the technique to be performed very well and do it with the utmost care, as otherwise, it can have negative consequences such as hermaphroditism or loss of harvest production.

Plant nutrition to increase cannabis resin

For the proper development of the plants and, therefore, the trichomes, a supply of nutrients will be needed to allow them to reach their full potential. Good nutrition in each phase of the life cycle will mark the creation of resin. In general, there are different types of essential nutrients such as macronutrients, which include phosphorus or potassium, as well as various micronutrients, vitamins, and amino acids.

However, if you want to achieve proper nutrition, you can use all kinds of fertilizers and nutrients necessary for each cultivation phase. Phosphorus is one of the macronutrients necessary for a correct balance of nutrients. The same applies to potassium or nitrogen. An excess of these substances can affect THC. One of the elements that improves resistance to temperatures is silicon, iron, or magnesium, three components that directly affect THC levels.

To increase the production of cannabis resin and THC, all these factors must be controlled, among others, which influence it directly. However, the type of variety chosen will also have an influence. Therefore, you must choose well which genetics to plant and how to grow them to obtain unbeatable results.