Should I keep feeding p+k at low doses, or just start giving plain water? It seems the buds are still growing white hairs in the buds. I will check trichomes tomorrow.
How long does ripening usually take?
Senescence - is this the beginning of a dying plant and to look out for the trichomes turning from milky to brown/tan?
I just looked it up, doesn't really answer my questions but I'll post it below for other growers who are not familiar.
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Senescence plays a crucial role in the life cycle of cannabis plants, influencing their growth, development, & ultimately, the quality of the harvest. In this post, we will delve into the concept of senescence in cannabis horticulture, exploring its phases, triggers, & the impact on plant health.
Senescence in Plants:
Senescence, the natural aging process of plant cells, is a highly regulated & genetically controlled phenomenon. In cannabis, this process involves the sequential deterioration of cellular structures & functions, leading to the ultimate death of individual cells, leaves, and eventually the entire plant.
Phases of Senescence in Cannabis:
Initiation Phase
Triggered by factors such as nutrient depletion, hormonal changes, or environmental stress. Genetic programs activate to start the breakdown of cellular components.
Senescence Execution Phase
Chlorophyll degradation & nutrient translocation occur. Proteins, nucleic acids, and membranes break down, recycling valuable resources.
Final Phase
Cell death & shedding of senescent tissues. Nutrient reabsorption & storage for future growth.
Environmental Factors Influencing Senescence:
Light & Photoperiod
Changes in light cycles can trigger senescence. Proper light management during flowering is crucial to optimize plant health.
Nutrient Availability
Nutrient deficiencies or excesses can accelerate senescence. Balanced nutrient profiles are essential throughout the plant’s life cycle.
Temperature & Humidity
Extreme conditions can stress plants, initiating premature senescence. Maintaining optimal environmental conditions is vital for minimizing stress.
Hormonal Regulation:
Ethylene
Acts as a key regulator of senescence.
Stress-induced ethylene production influences the timing & progression of senescence.
Abscisic Acid (ABA):
ABA levels increase during senescence, contributing to nutrient translocation & stress response.
Impact on Cannabinoid Production:
Terpene & Cannabinoid Changes
Senescence affects the profile & concentration of cannabinoids & terpenes. Harvest timing optimization is essential for maximizing desired compound levels.
Harvesting Strategies
Understanding senescence aids in choosing the optimal harvest window for desired effects. Early harvesting may preserve certain terpenes, while late harvesting may boost cannabinoid content.
In cannabis horticulture, a nuanced understanding of senescence is pivotal for cultivators seeking to optimize yield, potency, & overall plant health. As a result, recognizing the triggers, phases, & environmental factors influencing senescence, growers can implement strategic measures to enhance the quality & quantity of their cannabis harvests.
Today is day 66.
