Trichome

Trichomes are tiny microscopic structures found on the surface of flowers, leaves and certain other parts of hemp and cannabis. In varieties intended for flower production, they appear as small translucent glands that give the plant its characteristic resinous appearance. Trichomes play an essential role in producing and storing many of hemp’s natural compounds.

It is mainly in the trichomes that cannabinoids, terpenes, certain flavonoids and other molecules naturally produced by the plant are synthesised. Their abundance and quality directly influence the chemical composition of flowers and many hemp-derived products.

The resin glands of hemp

Glandular trichomes are small specialised structures capable of producing a resin rich in plant compounds. This resin is one of the main sources of cannabinoids and terpenes found in hemp flowers.

Cannabinoids are first synthesised there in their acidic form, such as CBDA or THCA, before they can naturally change over time or under the effect of heat.

A true biological factory

Trichomes synthesise a large proportion of the molecules that characterise hemp. They produce cannabinoids such as CBD, THC, CBG, CBC and THCV, as well as many terpenes responsible for the aromatic profile of different varieties.

The combination of these compounds contributes to the chemical diversity observed between the hemp genetics cultivated today.

The different types of trichomes

Hemp produces several categories of trichomes. Some are very small and barely visible, while stalked glandular trichomes have a stem and a well-developed resin head. These are the ones that concentrate most of the cannabinoids and terpenes.

The density, size and distribution of trichomes vary according to genetics, growing conditions, light intensity, plant nutrition and its stage of development.

An indicator of maturity

Growers frequently observe trichomes to track the development of flowers before harvest. Their appearance gradually changes as they mature, generally shifting from a translucent appearance to more milky shades and sometimes becoming more amber.

Observation with a magnifying glass or microscope makes it possible to assess flower development and is common practice in hemp cultivation.

At the heart of hemp concentrates

Trichomes are the raw material for many concentrates. Products such as Kief, Pollen, Dry Sift, Hash, Bubble Hash and certain resins are obtained by separating and then concentrating them.

Because of their central role in the production of cannabinoids and terpenes, trichomes occupy an essential place in the cultivation, analysis, processing and scientific study of hemp.