Understanding the Science Behind the Smell of Cannabis Plants

Cannabis is a fascinating plant, with a distinct aroma that can range from sweet and floral to pungent and skunky. As cannabis plants grow, their aroma becomes more pronounced, but when exactly do cannabis plants start to smell? In this blog, we'll explore the factors that contribute to the smell of cannabis plants and when you can expect your plants to start emitting their signature scent.

  1. What Causes the Smell of Cannabis Plants?

The distinct smell of cannabis plants comes from compounds called terpenes. Terpenes are aromatic oils that are produced by the cannabis plant and are responsible for the plant's unique aroma and flavor. There are over 100 different terpenes found in cannabis, each with its own unique scent and potential health benefits.

In addition to terpenes, cannabis plants also produce compounds called cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, which can also contribute to the plant's aroma. However, terpenes are primarily responsible for the scent of cannabis plants.

  1. When Do Cannabis Plants Start to Smell?

Cannabis plants typically start to emit a noticeable scent during the flowering stage. This is because the plant is producing more terpenes and cannabinoids as it prepares to produce buds. The flowering stage usually occurs between 6-8 weeks after the plant has been switched to a 12-hour light/dark cycle.

However, the exact timing of when cannabis plants start to smell can vary depending on a variety of factors. These factors include the strain of the plant, the growing conditions, and the age of the plant.

  1. Factors That Affect the Smell of Cannabis Plants

There are several factors that can affect when cannabis plants start to smell. Some of the most important factors include:

  • Strain: Different strains of cannabis plants can produce different scents, and some strains may be more pungent than others.

  • Growing conditions: The environment in which the cannabis plants are grown can also affect their scent. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and air circulation can all impact the plant's aroma.

  • Age of the plant: Young cannabis plants may not emit much of a scent, even if they are in the flowering stage. As the plant matures, it will produce more terpenes and cannabinoids and emit a stronger scent.

  • Light exposure: Cannabis plants that are exposed to more light may produce more terpenes and cannabinoids, leading to a stronger scent.

  1. How to Control the Smell of Cannabis Plants

If you're growing cannabis plants and are concerned about the smell, there are several steps you can take to control it. Some of the most effective methods include:

  • Using a carbon filter: A carbon filter can help to remove the smell of cannabis from the air in your grow room. This is one of the most effective methods for controlling the scent of cannabis plants.

  • Proper ventilation: Good air circulation can help to reduce the smell of cannabis plants. Make sure that your grow room has proper ventilation to keep the air moving.

  • Choose low-odor strains: Some strains of cannabis plants are naturally lower in odor than others. If you're concerned about the smell, choose a strain that is known for its low odor.

  • Use odor-neutralizing products: There are many products on the market that are designed to neutralize the smell of cannabis plants. These products can be used to help control the scent in your grow room.

In conclusion, cannabis plants typically start to emit a noticeable scent during the flowering stage. However, the exact timing of when cannabis plants start to smell can vary depending on several factors, including the strain of the plant, the growing conditions, and the age of the plant. If you're growing cannabis plants and are concerned about the smell, there are several steps you can take to control it, including using a carbon filter, ensuring proper ventilation, choosing low-odor strains, and using odor-neutralizing products.