Have you ever looked at flower and noticed a layer of white over the bud? While it may be alarming, do not worry! This white layer is an essential part of the plant’s anatomy. These are small appendages called trichomes.
Many experienced users will attest these white bulbs are a sign that the flower is high quality. There are several types of trichomes which aid in the plant’s survival.
What are Trichomes?
Trichomes are the white crystalline glands that cover cannabis and hemp plants. These sticky glands are commonly associated with high-quality flowers. When looked at up close, these trichomes resemble clear mushrooms.
Trichomes, while found on cannabis and hemp plants, grow on many other plants, such as tomatoes. They are thought of as plant powerhouses. This name stems from their ability to produce cannabinoids and terpenes.
Not only do they produce cannabinoids and terpenes, but they act as a defense system against insects, pathogens, and even animals.
Types of Trichomes
Bulbous Trichomes
Bulbous Trichomes are small, clear glands that evenly cover the surface of the plant. They give flowers a crystal-like shine and stickiness. These types of trichomes are only visible with a microscope.
Capitate Sessile Trichomes
Capitate Sessile Trichomes are invisible to the human eye but grow more abundantly than bulbous trichomes. Their bulbs are larger, giving them a more classic mushroom shape.
Mainly found on the underside of the fan leaves, these bulbs contain the cells that produce cannabinoids and terpenes.
Capitate-Stalked Trichomes
Capitate-stalked trichomes are the largest and most abundant of the three. These are the only bulbs visible to the human eye and are found on the flower’s surface.
These bulbs contain cells that transfer nutrients from the head of the flower to the stalk.
Importance of Trichomes
While trichomes create the profile cannabis is traditionally known for, they are also vital for the protection of the plants. As mentioned earlier, these mushroom-like appendages act as the defense system for the plants.
Not only do they deter insects and animals due to their bitter taste, but the THC they produce protects the plant from UV (ultraviolet) rays. Plants that are exposed to higher levels of UV light tend to have higher THC levels.
Other cannabinoids, such as THCA and CBGA, provide anti-microbial protection for the plant.
Functions
Trichomes have several vital functions in the plant’s health. They produce cannabinoids and terpenes, which create the effect of cannabis and hemp. They act as a line of defense to protect the plant. These bulbs can also help cultivators determine when they harvest their flower.
When plants mature, so do the trichomes. When these glands mature, they change in color and appearance. They change from clear to a milky white, then to an amber. Due to their small size, these differences are hard to identify without a magnifying glass.
When trichomes reach the amber stage, the concentration of cannabinoids may begin to decline. Many cultivators believe milky white trichomes contain peak THC levels, as they have not started to degrade.
In conclusion, trichomes are essential glands on cannabis and hemp plants that produce cannabinoids and terpenes, act as a defense system, and help determine the optimal time for harvest. The different types of trichomes include bulbous, capitate sessile, and capitate-stalked. Each has its characteristics and functions.
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