It is possible to increase resin and THC production in your cannabis plants, but only while they are still alive. Attempting to boost these levels after the plants have dried would require a different process, which we’ll cover in another article. Unlike other plants that may produce cannabinoids like CBD or CBG, no plant besides cannabis produces THC. This cannabinoid is found in the resin of cannabis flowers and helps protect them from harmful UV-B rays.
How altitude and UV Rays affect THC levels
Altitude significantly impacts THC levels in cannabis plants due to increased exposure to UV-B rays at higher elevations. As a result, cannabis plants grown in mountainous regions tend to produce more resin, which contains THC, as a natural defense mechanism to protect flowers against the stronger ultraviolet radiation. For example, sativa strains from the high-altitude regions of Ecuador or India often have higher THC concentrations compared to those cultivated at lower elevations. However, while UV-B rays can boost THC levels, they may also degrade resin quality if not managed properly.
The role of trichomes in resin production
Every cannabis plant has a primary mission: reproduction. When female cannabis flowers are pollinated, they begin producing seeds to ensure the continuation of their genetic line. In order to protect these seeds and their delicate flowers, cannabis plants have evolved to produce trichomes—tiny, hair-like structures that are covered in sticky resin. These trichomes play a crucial role in defending the plant from various environmental threats, such as insects, fungi, and harmful UV light. Not only do trichomes serve as a physical barrier, but they also contain the resin that holds the cannabinoids and terpenes cannabis is known for, including THC, CBD, and aromatic compounds. Therefore, trichomes are essential not only for the plant’s survival but also for delivering the psychoactive and therapeutic effects that cannabis enthusiasts seek. Consequently, the quality and quantity of trichomes directly influence the potency and flavor profile of the final product.
Understanding cannabinoid development
Cannabinoid development in cannabis plants starts with CBG (cannabigerol), often referred to as the “mother” of all cannabinoids. As the plant matures, CBG transforms into various other cannabinoids, most notably THCa (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), which is the acidic precursor to THC. THCa itself is not psychoactive, but once it undergoes decarboxylation—a process triggered by heat or light—it converts into THC, the compound responsible for cannabis’s psychoactive effects. Over time, as THC continues to mature, it begins to degrade into CBN (cannabinol), a cannabinoid that produces more sedative and narcotic-like effects. The longer the plant is left to mature, the more THC will degrade into CBN, which can lead to a stronger sedative experience, often sought after for its relaxing qualities.
Factors that affect resin and THC production
Strain and growing conditions
The amount of resin and the rate of THC degradation depend on both the cannabis strain and the growing conditions. You could have a high-quality strain, but poor growing conditions will result in suboptimal THC levels. On the other hand, a lesser-known strain grown in perfect conditions can yield impressive resin production.
Environmental factors
Several key factors play a crucial role in determining resin production in cannabis plants, including temperature, light exposure, humidity, and water quality. For optimal resin production, the ideal temperature range is between 62°F and 82°F (17°C to 28°C). Some growers believe that lowering temperatures can boost resin production; however, this can also stunt bud growth, limiting overall yield. Conversely, if temperatures exceed 82°F (28°C), essential oils and terpenes within the resin may evaporate. This causes trichomes to grow taller in an attempt to protect the plant from the heat, but these trichomes become weaker and more prone to falling off, ultimately reducing resin quality and quantity. Maintaining the right environmental balance is essential for maximizing resin production and preserving the potency of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Light and UV Rays
THC potency is directly influenced by UV rays. Specifically, UV-B rays contribute to higher THC production, although they can negatively affect resin quality. A 12-hour light cycle can result in more potent THC compared to a 10-hour flowering period. Indoors, replicating these UV rays requires specialized lighting, as standard HPS lights may not provide the right UV spectrum. If possible, combining one HM light with two HPS lights can boost THC content, although it may slightly reduce yield.
Humidity levels
Low humidity environments force cannabis plants to produce more resin, as the plants need to protect their buds from dehydration. This leads to an increase in both THC concentration and terpene production. Moreover, dry climates are ideal for resin production, while humid environments generally produce less resin and lower THC levels. However, some strains, like those native to Thailand and Cambodia, have adapted to thrive in humid climates.
Stress and THC production
Stress can impact THC production in cannabis plants. According to William A. Emboden, intentional stressors, such as insect attacks, can prompt cannabis plants to increase their trichome and THC production as a defensive response. This stress response is thought to enhance the plant’s production of protective trichomes, which contain THC. Nevertheless, the idea of deliberately stressing plants to boost THC levels is often compared to the old myth of driving a nail into a plant’s stalk. While this method might theoretically increase trichome production, it is not recommended due to the high risk of causing infections or even killing the plant. Proper stress management can encourage the plant to produce more trichomes and THC without compromising its health.
Myths about how to increase resin and THC production
- Watering with LSD: This is not only ineffective but also dangerous, potentially leading to the sale of unsafe cannabis.
- Letting the plant die in its pot without water: Controlled water stress can be useful, but letting the plant suffer unnecessarily will reduce THC levels.
- Drying in the sun: Exposing buds to direct sunlight can oxidize THC, converting it into CBN.
- Watering with juice or soda before harvest: Plants will not have enough time to absorb these substances, and the excess sugar could cause harm.
- Burying buds in soil: In humid environments, this can lead to mold, while in dry conditions, it has no effect on THC levels.
- Boiling roots: THC is found in the resin of the buds, not the roots, making this practice pointless.
Trying to increase resin and THC production in your cannabis plants requires careful attention to strain selection and environmental conditions. By optimizing temperature, UV exposure, and humidity levels, you can significantly increase the resin yield and THC content. Avoid falling for common myths that could harm your plants and focus on proven techniques for improving potency.