Terpenes 101 (Part 2): How to Enhance Terpene Production Naturally

How to Enhance Terpene Production Naturally

Cannabis isn’t just about cannabinoids like THC or CBD—terpenes play a critical role in defining the aroma, flavor, and overall experience of your favorite strains. These aromatic compounds are responsible for the citrusy zest of limonene, the earthy musk of myrcene, or the piney freshness of pinene. Beyond their sensory appeal, terpenes contribute to the entourage effect, enhancing the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

At Collective Elevation, we focus on sustainable, environmentally friendly growing practices that boost terpenes levels naturally. Read on to learn more about how we optimize terpenes throughout the cultivation process in our Montana grow! 

Start with the Right Genetics

Terpene production begins with genetics. Different cannabis strains naturally produce varying levels and types of terpenes. For example:

• Limonene-rich strains like Super Sherb are known for their bright, citrusy aroma. 
• Myrcene-dominant strains such as Sweet & Sour have earthy, musky undertones. 
• Pinene-forward strains like Green Crack offer crisp, piney notes. 

At Collective Elevation, we select strains with specific terpene profiles as the foundation of our terpene-rich cannabis cultivation.  

Optimizing Natural Sunlight and Lighting for Terpene Production

Light plays a significant role in terpene biosynthesis, especially during the flowering stage:

• Sun Assisted Growing: Our grow uses natural sunlight to increase terpene production. 
• Full-Spectrum Lighting: We provide plants with a full spectrum of light, including UV-B rays, which also encourages terpene production. UV-B light mimics natural sunlight and triggers plants’ natural defense mechanisms, leading to higher terpene levels.
• Intensity Matters: High light intensity during flowering promotes trichome production, where terpenes are stored. However, avoid excessive heat as it can degrade these delicate compounds.

Use Of Controlled Stress Techniques

Introducing mild stress can encourage cannabis plants to produce more terpenes as a defense mechanism. Here are some effective techniques that we use:

• Low-Stress Training (LST): Gently bending branches and tying them down improves light distribution and airflow, allowing more parts of the plant to develop terpenes.
• Defoliation: Removing fan leaves selectively during the flowering phase helps light penetrate deeper into the canopy, stimulating terpene production.
• Drought Stress: Toward the end of the flowering cycle, applying controlled drought stress (by reducing water intake slightly) can enhance terpene levels. 

Maintaining Ideal Temperature and Humidity

Terpenes are highly volatile compounds that can evaporate at high temperatures, so environmental control is critical:

• Temperature: During the flowering stage, we carefully monitor daytime temperatures in order to preserve terpene integrity. Lowering nighttime temperatures helps enhance flavor by mimicking natural outdoor conditions.
• Humidity: We also maintain relative humidity around 50% during flowering to prevent mold while optimizing terpene retention.

Proper temperature and humidity controls will ensure our plants stay healthy and terpene-rich throughout their lifecycle.

Feeding the Soil, Not Just the Plant

Nutrient management plays a crucial role in terpene development:

• Living Soil: We use living soil and organic growing mediums rich in beneficial microbes to promote natural terpene production. Compost teas, earthworm castings, and mycorrhizal fungi also boost soil health and enhance terpene profiles.
• Avoiding Overfeeding: Too much fertilizer can dilute terpene content. We follow a balanced feeding schedule and adjust nitrogen levels during key times in the growing process to focus on bud and terpene development.
• Sulfur Supplementation: Sulfur is a key element in terpene biosynthesis. Adding sulfur-rich organic amendments, like gypsum or fish meal helps intensify terpene production.

Harvesting at the Perfect Time

Harvest timing is critical for capturing peak terpene levels:

• Checking Trichomes: We use a magnifier to observe the trichomes, and harvest when most are milky with a few amber ones. This stage represents peak resin and terpene production.
• Avoiding Overripe Buds: Delaying a harvest too long can result in terpene degradation, leading to muted flavors and aromas. We carefully time our harvests to maximize terpene levels. 

Drying and Curing: Protecting Terpenes

Post-harvest handling can make or break our terpene-rich crop:

• Drying: We dry our cannabis slowly in a controlled environment to prevent terpene loss and avoid excessive airflow, which can carry terpenes away.
• Curing: Proper curing allows terpenes to stabilize and intensify. Our curing process is specifically designed to improve flavor, aroma, and potency.

Avoiding Synthetic Chemicals

Synthetic pesticides and fertilizers can inhibit terpene production and leave unwanted residues. We opt for natural pest management methods, such as:

• Beneficial Insects: We introduce predatory mites and other beneficial insects to keep harmful pests at bay without chemicals.

Ensuring Proper Airflow

Healthy airflow reduces the risk of mold and mildew, which can destroy trichomes and degrade terpenes. Our ventilation systems keep the air moving evenly throughout our greenhouses. 

The Payoff of Terpene-Rich Cannabis

Cultivating cannabis with elevated terpene levels isn’t just about enhancing flavor and aroma—it’s about creating a product that offers increased health benefits and a superior experience for consumers. 

At Collective Elevation, we’re proud to grow organic, living-soil cannabis that’s rich in terpenes. Stop by one of our dispensaries to experience terpene-rich strains that deliver unmatched aroma, flavor, and therapeutic benefits.