With record high temperatures across not only the country, but around the globe, people are looking for ways to beat the heat as the world gets hotter. Some turn to air conditioning, others take a dip in the pool. But what about those who like to grow hemp t outdoors? The hemp plant is known for its ability to withstand extreme heat, but how extreme? Well, that’s a different story.
What Could Too Much Heat Do to the Hemp Plant?
Below are just some ways in which extreme heat can affect how the hemp plant is being grown. So, by learning about these potential problems, you can make sure that you're prepared for them if they occur.
Result #1: Destroys the Trichomes
Trichomes are the tiny, hairlike structures on the plant's surface that contain cannabinoids. When exposed to extreme heat, these trichomes can begin to break down, resulting in a decrease in the potency of the plant. In addition, the trichomes are also responsible for giving hemp its signature aroma and flavor.
Result #2: Makes the Buds Less Potent
When hemp is grown in extremely hot conditions, the tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) levels in the buds can be reduced. How? Because the heat causes the THC to evaporate. As a result, your buds will be less potent than they would be if they were grown in cooler conditions. Several studies have shown that the THC content in cannabis can be reduced by up to 50% when it’s grown in hot conditions.
Result #3: Makes Hemp More Difficult to Harvest
When the temperature gets too high, the plants can begin to wilt and die. This makes them much harder to harvest, leading to a decrease in yield. In addition, high temperatures can also cause the buds to dry out prematurely, which can make them difficult to cure. Many growers prefer to cure their own buds, so this is something to keep in mind if you're planning on growing your hemp.
Result 4. Can Affect the Taste of Those Buds
Extreme heat can also affect the taste of the buds. When cannabis is grown in hot conditions, it can often take on a harsher, more bitter taste. This is because the high temperatures cause the plants to produce more terpenes, which are responsible for the plant's flavor and aroma. Some users enjoy this bitter taste, but others find it off-putting. If you're not a fan of the taste of hemp grown in hot conditions, you may wanna stick to smoking buds grown in cooler climates.
Result #5: Makes the Plants More Susceptible to Pests and Diseases
Yes, when cannabis plants are grown in hot, dry conditions, they become more susceptible to pests and diseases. It’s all due to the high temperatures that can stress the plants out, making them more vulnerable to attack. In addition, the lack of moisture in the air can also cause problems for the plants, as it can lead to dehydration. Examples of common pests and diseases that can affect cannabis plants grown in hot conditions include powdery mildew, spider mites, and root rot. Taking proper precautions can minimize the risk of your plants being affected by these problems.
Result #6. Causes the Leaves to Turn Yellow or Brown
When the temperature gets too hot, the leaves of the hemp plant will begin to turn yellow or brown. This is because the plant is under stress and cannot photosynthesize properly. As a result, the leaves will lose their green color and start to look sickly. If you see this happening to your hemp plants, giving them extra water and shade is important to help them recover.