Cannabis Grow Tip: Pre-Harvest Flushing
If you’re new to growing cannabis, the term “ flushing ” may be unfamiliar to you. Very simply, it refers to the point where you stop feeding your plant nutrients and instead use pure water during watering.
Why Flush?
There are a few points in the life of a cannabis plant where it may be beneficial to flush it. Typically, you would flush your plant when changing nutrients during different growth cycles or to correct overfeeding/nutrient build-up. But, the most important time to flush your cannabis plants is prior to harvest.
Flushing Effects Flavor
Flushing your plant prior to harvest forces it to use up whatever nutrients it has stored. Leftover nutrients create a harsher smoke and less desirable flavor.
Timing is Everything
If you’re growing in soil, you should begin the flushing process approximately two weeks before harvesting. If you flush too early, you’ll deprive the plant of nutrients it can use; too late, and you’ll have a harsh smoke and flavor. To make sure you get the timing right, use a magnifying glass (10X, 20X ideally) to view the trichomes on the buds. When they begin to turn milky, it’s time to switch to pure water.
Simply stop using nutrients and instead opt for pure, high-quality water, ideally, with a pH of 6.0-7.0 for soil. Don’t water more than usual. Just maintain your normal watering schedule and with proper drying and curing, your harvest will be smooth and flavorful!