Could you provide pics? Also what are the conditions you are attempting to grow in?That way you can get some good advice. Will wait for your reply.
Peace
There is no form for a collective unless you are running a dispensary. A group of individuals can act as a collective and grow at one site. They had a ruling july1st 2009 against sheriffs of Butte County CA.
As some one stated earlier go and buy some ph up and ph down. Next buy yourself a ph meter at that point you will be able to manage it accurately and keep it consistent.
Are the pistils start to recede back into to the bud? Once the pistils are receding back and in the bud you will be done.You can also read FDD article on harvesting I'm pretty sure he waits until thye are receded back into the bud.