What are those sticky little crystals covering my nug? And why is my frosty bud so dank and potent? 

The answer to both questions is trichomes. 

Trichomes play a crucial role in the life cycle of the cannabis plant. When the plant enters its flowering stage, the trichomes protect it from predators with their powerful taste and aroma. Because of the trichomes’ horrible flavor and smell, insects and animals can’t bear to consume the plant – protecting the plant as it matures and enters the next growth cycles. 

Later on in the cannabis plant’s life cycle, its trichomes house the production site for cannabinoids and terpenes, the most important chemical compounds in the plant. Cannabinoids interact with the nervous system to produce effects related to homeostasis.

Terpenes are mainly known for producing the pungent skunky aroma of weed, but they contain some therapeutic properties as well. Here in the trichomes, enzymes break down Cannabigerol (CBG), known as the “Mother of All Cannabinoids,” to make other cannabinoids. 

Terpenes and flavonoids are created in the trichomes too. Starting with a bitter smell to detract predators, their aromatics mature into a sweeter, more floral smell towards the end of the flowering cycle. 

Sticky bud is an indicator of resinous trichomes. Trichomes contain resin, which holds in the terpenes, cannabinoids, and flavonoids. If your bud is sticky, it is probably pretty potent. Keep your weed fresh and sticky by controlling the humidity of your stash jar. Use raw clay stones of Boveda terpene shields for best results. 

Hatch Dispensary, located in Addison and Wheeling, Illinois, is committed to providing an unmatched experience for our customers. Patient care is our main focus, which is why our highly-trained staff members are the most knowledgeable in all of Illinois.