sprucezeus how can you make sure you are in the window of max THC?
i dont want to cut it before its ready but i dont see how she could go much longer with the few leaves still intact looking the way they are..makes me think shes close to ripe
Disclaimer: I'm just some dude on the internet who has taken in as much information as possible, interpreted it to make it more understandable to myself and had success in the short time i've been growing marijuana, I'm not a professor of botany, or even really that smart a dude, just some guy on the internet who grows dope and likes to think hes always right.
Remember, this is the case for 99% of the people giving you information on this site. Keep a saltshaker with you at all times.
I think your plant is close if not there, and the rule of thumb i've always used is 60% amber on the plant = 100% once dried and cured. Its my understanding that marijuana is at its peak potency when the trics are amber. Levels peak off when the trics are fully amber and they will only start to degrade after it is a WELL past finished. I'm of the school of thought that any head high you get from early harvested grass is most likely just a buzz from smoking all that underripe plant matter. If you want a head high get yourself a nice sativa.
Bottom line, Everyone grows to the beat of their own drum. You will probably have many more grows after this one, so do what you feel is right and if you're not satisfied, try again until you find a system you're comfortable with.
As for giving your plants darkness (i've heard everywhere from 24 hours to a 2 weeks) I've tried a few times with absoloutly no visible results, i feel in most cases this time would be better spent finishing the plants under the light. If anyone can come up with some conclusive evidence about this i'd love to see it.
anyhow i've got bowls to smoke, good luck with whatever choices you make, and i wish large frosty nugs upon you!!!!