A study published in Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids explored optimal trimming conditions that affect the cannabinoid and terpene content of a medicinal cannabis hybrid strain known as Gen12. Bar-Lev Farm in Israel provided Gen 12 cannabis flower, and the Agricultural Research Organization of Israel’s Department of Food Science analyzed the samples.
Every cannabis strain has a unique cannabinoid and terpene profile that can be influenced by growing and processing factors. Post-harvest procedures for cannabis flower include trimming, drying, curing, and storage. The timing of the post-harvest trimming stage (pre- or post-drying) and the extent of trimming can significantly impact the cannabinoid and terpene content.
The research team examined the effects of pre-drying versus post-drying trimming and compared the impact of mild versus more extensive trimming practices on cannabinoid and terpene profiles. The researchers approached the study with the hypothesis that differing stress responses from mechanical injury (trimming before drying) resulted in variations in cannabinoid and terpene content. These stress responses affect the plant’s defensive system, impacting cannabinoid or terpene synthesis.
The results indicated that less aggressive pre-drying trimming increases total cannabinoid content more significantly than other trimming strategies. The researchers believe that partially retaining the cannabis bud’s sugar leaves may facilitate cannabinoid synthesis and trigger stress signals that boost cannabinoid production.
Another finding showed that post-drying trimming raised terpene levels for most mono-terpenes and sesqui-terpenes. The implications of the study’s findings suggest cannabis cultivators should carefully consider trimming approaches that prioritize either enhanced cannabinoid content or increased terpene concentrations as part of their cultivation plans.
The researchers emphasized that optimal trimming and post-harvest practices might differ across the wide range of cannabis strains and emphasized that each cultivar may require a customized approach to the trimming process.
Source: Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids