My friend " VerdantWhisperer" has made some rather fascinating observations supporting a correlation between terpene profiles and maturation period. I suggested that this community might be a good place to present/test/refine these theories. Has anyone seen any scholarly work describing terpene-maturation speed correlations?
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Iām curious.
What are the parameters?
What is @VerdantWhisperer testing?
What was observed?
What is happening, when is it happening and how is it being measured?
Are they suggesting there is a peak terpene production point?
Is the peak occuring when the plant itself fully maturedā¦ or is maturingā¦ or is immature?
Considering the fact terpene blends can replace the highest quality petroleum blends for aviation fuelsā¦ youāll be hard pressed to source public information on the subject in relation to scholarly documentation.
picturing a clean burning 1000hp 2 cylinder 2 stroke combustion engine
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this paper might be of interest to you
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Hi there DrGoo , this may be of interest comparing indoor to outdoor terps etc found more cannabinoid degradation amongst indoor samples an difference in terp profile, but I think thats been the general consensus for years amongst growers outdoor can be more āterpyā but indoor strongerā¦
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Thank you āDr.Gooā Observations below:
Hypothesis**: Correlation between Anti-Inflammatory Terpenes and Extended Flowering Times in Cannabis**ā
- Beta-Caryophyllene (BCP):
- Description: BCP stands out due to its unique interaction with CB2 receptors, contributing to potent anti-inflammatory properties.
- Effect: Acts as a cannabinoid interacting with CB2 receptors, contributing to potent anti-inflammatory properties. Considered a depressant for plants, potentially inhibiting certain growth-promoting processes. Inhibiting inflammation may potentially slow down cell expansion, leading to extended flowering times.
- Nerolidol:
- Description: Nerolidol may have strong potential for inhibiting the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules, which could make it highly effective.
- Effect: May have the ability to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules. Considered a depressant, potentially influencing growth patterns and contributing to extended flowering times. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Borneol:
- Description: Borneol shows promise in inhibiting the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules, potentially making it a potent anti-inflammatory agent.
- Effect: May have the ability to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules like cytokines and prostaglandins, helping to regulate the inflammatory response. Inhibiting inflammation may potentially slow down cell expansion, leading to extended flowering times.
- Humulene:
- Description: Humuleneās potential to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules may give it significant anti-inflammatory capabilities.
- Effect: May interact with immune cells and signaling pathways involved in inflammation, potentially leading to a reduction in inflammation. Considered a depressant, may potentially reduce inflammation and inhibit specific metabolic pathways, potentially extending flowering times. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Limonene:
- Description: Limoneneās ability to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules could make it a valuable anti-inflammatory terpene.
- Effect: May interact with immune cells and signaling pathways involved in inflammation, potentially leading to a reduction in inflammation. In moderate levels, can increase plant vigor by enhancing photosynthesis. In higher concentrations, exhibits allelopathic and inhibitory effects, potentially leading to extended flowering times. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Alpha Pinene:
- Description: Alpha pineneās potential to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules suggests it could be a strong anti-inflammatory agent.
- Effect: May interact with immune cells and signaling pathways involved in inflammation, potentially leading to a reduction in inflammation. In higher concentrations, exhibits allelopathic and inhibitory responses, potentially extending flowering times. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Beta Pinene:
- Description: Similar to alpha pinene, beta pineneās ability to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules indicates it may be a potent anti-inflammatory terpene.
- Effect: Linked with cannabis strains from drier regions, potentially aiding plants in conserving and efficiently using water in arid climates. In higher concentrations, may have inhibitory effects, potentially leading to longer flowering times. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Terpinolene:
- Description: Terpinoleneās potential to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules suggests it could have significant anti-inflammatory effects.
- Effect: May interact with immune cells and signaling pathways involved in inflammation, potentially leading to a reduction in inflammation. In higher quantities, has cytotoxic applications on cells, slowing plant growth/flowering times. In marginal quantities, may speed up flowering times. Encourages metabolic processes within the plant, potentially leading to increased growth and development. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Linalool:
- Description: Linaloolās ability to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules may make it a valuable anti-inflammatory terpene.
- Effect: May interact with immune cells and signaling pathways involved in inflammation, potentially leading to a reduction in inflammation. Considered a depressant, potentially influencing growth patterns and contributing to extended flowering times. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Camphene:
- Description: Campheneās potential to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules indicates it could be a potent anti-inflammatory agent.
- Effect: May interact with immune cells and signaling pathways involved in inflammation, potentially leading to a reduction in inflammation. In higher concentrations, may have inhibitory effects, potentially contributing to extended flowering times. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Ocimene:
- Description: Ocimeneās ability to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory molecules, along with its interaction with specific cellular signaling pathways involved in inflammation, may give it notable anti-inflammatory capabilities.
- Effect: Like many terpenes, ocimene may interact with immune cells and signaling pathways involved in inflammation, potentially leading to a reduction in inflammation. In higher concentrations, may have inhibitory effects, potentially contributing to extended flowering times. Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
- Isopulegol:
- Description: Isopulegol may have its unique anti-inflammatory effects, which could contribute to its potency in this context.
- Effect: [Add relevant effects of Isopulegol once available] Inhibiting inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth.
Correlation: Terpenes with significant anti-inflammatory properties, such as Beta-Caryophyllene, Nerolidol, Borneol, Humulene, Limonene, Alpha Pinene, Beta Pinene, Terpinolene, Linalool, Camphene, Ocimene, and Isopulegol, are also associated with potential growth inhibitory effects in higher concentrations. This suggests a correlation between anti-inflammatory terpenes and extended flowering times in cannabis. Inhibition of inflammation may theoretically lead to slower cell expansion and growth, which could contribute to extended flowering times.
Effects on Flowering Times - Quantity Dependent:
- Pinene:
- Effect: In high levels, exhibits allelopathic and inhibitory responses. In small levels, considered a stimulant. May increase airflow around the plant, aiding in the absorption of carbon dioxide, crucial for photosynthesis.
- Terpinolene:
- Effect: In high quantities, has cytotoxic applications on cells, slowing plant growth/flowering times. In marginal quantities, may speed up flowering times. Encourages metabolic processes within the plant, potentially leading to increased growth and development.
- Limonene:
- Effect: In moderate levels, can increase plant vigor by enhancing photosynthesis. This can lead to improved growth and development. In higher levels, exhibits allelopathic and inhibitory effects on the plant itself.
Associated with Decreased Flowering Times:
- Myrcene:
- Description: Myrcene is a terpene with an earthy, musky scent.
- Effect: Known for promoting cell expansion and growth. May contribute to hastening the transition to the flowering stage.
- According to this theory, myrcene may help the plant sense the changes in day length and trigger flowering when the days get shorter."
- CBD (Cannabidiol):
- Description: CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis.
- Effect: Research indicates that CBD may modulate gene expression related to flowering.
- Gibberellins:
- Description: Gibberellins are plant hormones that regulate various developmental processes, including flowering.
- Effect: Higher levels of gibberellins can influence the growth patterns of the plant, potentially leading to faster development and flowering.
- Auxins:
- Description: Auxins are a class of plant hormones that play a crucial role in various aspects of plant growth and development, including flowering.
- Effect: While auxins primarily influence root development and stem elongation, they can indirectly affect flowering by promoting overall plant health and vigor.
- THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol):
- Description: THC is the psychoactive cannabinoid found in cannabis.
- Effect: Like CBD, THC primarily interacts with the endocannabinoid system in humans and animals, but it can also have effects on plant physiology, potentially influencing growth patterns.
Alpha Pinene, Beta Pinene, and Limonene: Environmental Adaptations
- Alpha Pinene: Navigating Wet Landraces
- The correlation between Alpha Pinene and landrace strains thriving in wet regions suggests its pivotal role in adapting cannabis to environments with higher moisture levels. This terpene, intriguingly, is less water-soluble than its Beta counterpart, indicating a unique mechanism for moisture regulation.
- Beta Pinene: Thriving in Arid Landscapes
- Beta Pinene is notably linked with cannabis strains originating from drier regions. Its presence may aid plants in conserving and efficiently utilizing water in arid climates, a crucial adaptation for survival in environments with limited water resources.
- Limonene: UV Protection and Environmental Signaling
- Limonene, a terpene with a citrusy aroma, offers a protective mechanism against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It tends to be present in higher levels in regions associated with elevated UV exposure. This suggests that Limonene not only provides a defense against UV-induced damage to the plant but also serves as an environmental signal, allowing the plant to respond adaptively to its surroundings.
Terpene Concentration and Light Spectrum:
- The concentration of terpenes in cannabis plants is intricately linked to the spectrum of light they receive. For instance, myrcene, a terpene known for its earthy scent, has been observed to have a higher presence in plants exposed to blue light. This phenomenon underscores how the specific wavelengths of light influence the metabolic pathways responsible for terpene production. Different terpenes may respond uniquely to varying light spectrums, leading to a diverse array of aromatic and potentially therapeutic profiles. Understanding this relationship sheds light on how growers can fine-tune cultivation practices to encourage the development of specific terpene profiles tailored to their desired outcomes.
Plants Emphasizing Oil Production:
- Characteristics: Evolved in unfavorable growing conditions, adapted for oil production over mass. Traits include shorter flowering times and smaller growth structures.
- THCās Role: In long-flowering varieties, THC may play a role in prolonging the flowering phase. THC-A transforms into THC, potentially impeding natural growth processes.
- Cell Growth Regulating/Inhibitory Terpenes & Cannabinoids:
- Terpenes: Alpha-Pinene, Beta-Pinene, Ocimene, Terpinolene
- Cannabinoids: CBD, THC
- Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Terpenes:
- Terpenes: Alpha-Humulene, Alpha-Pinene, Beta Caryophyllene, Limonene, Sabinene, Camphene, Terpinolene
- Cannabinoids: CBD, THC
- Allelopathic Cannabinoids & Terpenes:
- Terpenes: Limonene, Pinene, Eucalyptol (Cineole)
- Cannabinoids: CBD, THC
- Water Soluble Cannabinoids & Terpenes:
- Cannabinoids: None
- Terpenes: Nerolidol, Humulene
- Non-Water Soluble Cannabinoids & Terpenes:
- Cannabinoids: CBD, THC
- Terpenes: Beta-Caryophyllene (BCP), Borneol, Terpinolene, Camphene, Ocimene, Isopulegol
- Anti-Fungal Terpenes:
- Terpenes: Pinene, Terpinolene, Eucalyptol (1,8-Cineole), Camphene, Borneol, Linalool, Geraniol
- Anti-Bacterial Terpenes:
- Terpenes: Terpinolene, Eucalyptol (1,8-Cineole), Camphene, Borneol, Linalool, Geraniol
- Anti-Herbivore Terpenes:
- Terpenes: Limonene, Pinene
- Anti Bug/Insect Terpenes:
- Terpenes: Limonene, Pinene, Terpinolene, Eucalyptol (1,8-Cineole), Camphene, Borneol, Linalool, Geraniol
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Thankyou, based on anotherās theory that myrcene ārole in regulating the plantās circadian rhythm and photoperiodism, which are the processes that control the plantās response to light and dark cycles.ā I would guess pure sativas from equatorial climates that have been adapted to indoor growing many generations will test higher in myrcene than their counterparts outside near the equator. I am checking out the article now, Iām not surprised at all. Also based on most indoor growers flowering in a/c with controlled humidity, in a dryer climate. Based on theory, they should be higher in beta pinene than alpha pinene which is theorized to be associated with strains from wet regions, where beta is more associated with dry climates.
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Reserved.
So how do you suggest we take up this task in a scietific experimetal design?
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I think its more of a coincidence. haze smells like haze afghan indicas smell like they do. its probably not the terps cauing the difference in flowering time. Its been selected by nature to live almost everywhere on the planet.
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My money is all terp profiles will get to under 65 days , above 2 a light, with bag appeal. Probably already have and werent saved in the history of the world tbh.
I like the theory but reading againā¦ most of the cannabis terps have growth inhibiting properties.
if you would enoturage thatā¦ than no flower would grow.
My suggestion isā¦
grow your plant in hidro with Light EC and a N dominant fertilizer thorugh your scheduleā¦
and analyse the terpenes if they are a wee bit different than those in a ācontrolāā¦
plants have a way with dealing with their secondary metabolites so it would be insane for a plant to produce a chemical in a volume that would hurt their developmentā¦ since they are there to serve them and the purpose or rejuvenation and reproduction of the populationā¦
we need more studies
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scientist version of growth is plant matter or height. we want the buds.
maybe different regions have different insect and the terps could attract good guys or offend bad guys in different regions. i stil dont think the terp is the causation of flowering times.
Hi guys i found out main reason was combination true sesquiterpenes not sesqiuterpene oxideās and high levels of cytotoxic terpenes what contributed most to longer flowering times based on terpenes as well as higher levels of (IAA) which correspond with less plant stress and after a more active pathway for production of sesquiterpenes, this theory applies without regarding stress as a factor . heres a detailed explaination of what i found out about terpenes and there effects from my investigation thankyou for your interest. P.S. sorry i didnāt get back there wasnāt much interest for a bit and forgot about this post here, goodluck guys and thankyou below is info:
THE MULTIFACETED WORLD OF PLANT HORMONES: INSIGHTS INTO AUXINS, TERPENES, GIBBERELLINS, AND CYTOKININS
Role of Monoterpenes and Cytokinins in Flowering
- Certain Monoterpenes and Cytokinins share properties.
- They both use the mevalonate pathway and have cytotoxic effects.
- This suggests that specific Monoterpenes associated with Cytokinins play a role in prolonging flowering.
- Cytokinins enhance plant vitality and productivity by delaying aging.
- These shared terpenes are linked to plant stress responses, slowing growth and prioritizing defense mechanisms over biomass.
Comparison with Auxins and Sesquiterpenes
- Some Monoterpenes function similarly to Cytokinins, akin to how Sesquiterpenes work with Auxins.
- As the plant transitions to flowering, cytotoxic Monoterpenes assume the role of Cytokinins.
- In flowering cannabis plants, Cytokinin levels decrease while Monoterpene levels rise, following the same pathway.
- This mirrors the dynamic between Auxins and Sesquiterpenes, where Auxins decrease and Sesquiterpenes increase during flowering.
Considerations for Strains with Long Flowering Times
- When evaluating a strain with extended flowering, consider both Monoterpenes and their role in replacing Cytokinins, as well as Sesquiterpenes and their role in replacing Auxins.
- Additionally, take into account their direct anti-inflammatory effects on receptors producing Auxins, which lead to slower growth.
- Strains with extended flowering times should have high levels of cytotoxic terpenes and elevated sesquiterpenes.
Auxins: Tryptophan (Auxin Precursor)
Tryptophan, an essential amino acid, serves as the primary precursor for auxin biosynthesis, undergoing enzymatic steps to form various auxin precursors. Although not a terpene itself, tryptophan intersects with terpene biosynthesis through shared metabolic pathways, particularly in the creation of specific aromatic compounds. Tryptophan acts as a precursor to indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), the most abundant and biologically active auxin in most plants. IAA plays a crucial role in influencing plant growth patterns, promoting apical dominance by inhibiting lateral bud development in favor of top bud growth. As the plant transitions to the flowering phase, a shift in hormonal balance occurs, characterized by a decrease in IAA levels and an increase in other hormones.
Tryptophan and Sesquiterpenes
Additionally, it is noteworthy that as IAA levels decrease during the flowering phase, there is often a concurrent increase in sesquiterpenes. This suggests an intriguing interplay between auxins and sesquiterpenes, highlighting the complex regulatory mechanisms that govern plant growth and development.
Terpenes Related to Tryptophan
- Humulene: A sesquiterpene found in plants alongside BCP, known for its earthy, woody scent.
- Guaiol: Another sesquiterpene with a distinctive, slightly sweet piney aroma.
- Selina-3,7(11)-diene: A sesquiterpene hydrocarbon structurally similar to BCP and humulene.
- Trans-Ī²-Farnesene: Another sesquiterpene, commonly found in fruits with a slightly fruity aroma.
- Ī±-Humulene: An isomer of Ī²-caryophyllene, found in similar plants with similar biological properties.
- Ī²-Caryophyllene (BCP): A sesquiterpene found in many plants, known for its spicy, peppery aroma and its unique ability to interact with CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system.
- Ī±-Bisabolol: While not a sesquiterpene, itās a monocyclic terpene alcohol found in some of the same plants as BCP, known for its sweet, floral aroma.
Association with Growth Cycles
Increased levels of tryptophan are associated with longer growth cycles, potentially leading to higher levels of terpenes like BCP. Higher concentrations of sesquiterpenes may result in longer growth cycles.
Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms of Sesquiterpenes
- CB2 Receptor Activation (Ī²-caryophyllene, BCP): Some sesquiterpenes, like Ī²-caryophyllene, work by activating cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2), primarily found in immune cells. This activation can lead to a reduction in inflammation and modulation of the immune response.
- Inhibition of Pro-Inflammatory Mediators: Certain sesquiterpenes have been shown to inhibit the production or activity of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as cytokines and prostaglandins. This can help suppress the inflammatory response.
- Reduction of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS): Some sesquiterpenes have antioxidant properties and can help reduce the levels of reactive oxygen species, which are molecules involved in inflammation and tissue damage.
Anti-Inflammatory Mechanisms of Monoterpenes
- Enzyme Inhibition: Monoterpenes can inhibit enzymes involved in the inflammatory process. For example, some monoterpenes may inhibit the activity of enzymes like cyclooxygenase (COX), which is involved in the production of inflammatory prostaglandins.
- Reduction of Cytokine Levels: Certain monoterpenes have been shown to decrease the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, helping to dampen the inflammatory response.
- Antioxidant Activity: Like sesquiterpenes, some monoterpenes also possess antioxidant properties, which can help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
- Modulation of Immune Response: Monoterpenes may influence the immune systemās response to inflammation, potentially suppressing excessive immune reactions.
Gibberellins
ent-Kaurenoic acid: This diterpenoid compound serves as a precursor for gibberellin biosynthesis. Plants with higher gibberellin content exhibit more elongation and larger bud size, often at the expense of oil production.
Shared Pathway
Both gibberellins and (Mono)terpenes are derived from the same biochemical pathway, the mevalonate pathway. This pathway provides the basic building blocks (such as IPP and DMAPP) for the biosynthesis of various compounds, including terpenes and gibberellins.
Resource Allocation
Decreased levels of gibberellins may lead to a shift in resource allocation within the plant. As the same precursors are used for both gibberellins and terpenes, a decrease in gibberellin production could potentially free up resources for increased terpene biosynthesis.
Regulatory Mechanisms
Plants possess regulatory mechanisms that prioritize the production of certain compounds based on physiological needs. As the plant transitions to the flowering stage, there may be signaling pathways that promote terpene biosynthesis.
Examples of Gibberellins
- GA1 (Gibberellic Acid 1): Regulates stem elongation and cell division.
- GA3 (Gibberellic Acid 3): Commonly used in horticulture to promote seed germination and stimulate plant growth.
- GA4 (Gibberellic Acid 4): Plays a role in promoting stem elongation and flowering.
- GA7 (Gibberellic Acid 7): Involved in various aspects of plant growth and development, including cell elongation.
- GA9 (Gibberellic Acid 9): Known for its role in promoting stem elongation.
- GA19 (Gibberellic Acid 19): Involved in regulating flowering and other developmental processes.
Factors Influencing Gibberellin Levels
- Age of Plant Tissues: Older tissues and organs tend to have lower gibberellin levels compared to younger, actively growing tissues.
- Endogenous Regulation: Other plant hormones, such as auxins and abscisic acid (ABA), can interact with gibberellin signaling pathways and influence their levels.
Regulation of Gibberellin Levels
It is worth noting that gibberellin production can be influenced by various factors, including other plant hormones. For instance, Abscisic Acid (ABA), a plant hormone involved in stress responses and dormancy, has been shown to inhibit gibberellin biosynthesis. This highlights the intricate regulatory network that governs plant growth and development, with multiple hormones working in concert to achieve balanced physiological responses.
Effects of Lower Gibberellin Levels
- Smaller and Compact Buds: Lower gibberellin levels may lead to buds that are more compact and densely packed due to the role of gibberellins in cell elongation and expansion.
- Shorter Internodal Spacing: Varieties with lower gibberellin levels may have shorter distances between nodes, resulting in a bushier and more compact plant structure.
- Potentially Reduced Height: While gibberellins primarily influence vertical growth, varieties with lower levels might be somewhat shorter overall. Other factors also contribute to plant height.
- Possibly More Resin Production: Lower gibberellin levels may lead to greater allocation of resources towards resin production, resulting in buds with a higher concentration of cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Differences in Trichome Density: Varieties with lower gibberellin levels might exhibit differences in trichome density, which are crucial for the production of cannabinoids and terpenes.
- Possibly Altered Aroma and Flavor Profile: The balance of phytochemicals, including terpenes, contributing to aroma and flavor may be influenced by gibberellin levels, potentially resulting in a different aroma and flavor profile.
Cytokinins
Cytokinins are a class of plant hormones crucial for cell division and growth. They primarily utilize the adenine biosynthetic pathway and the isoprenoid pathway for their synthesis.
Adenine Biosynthetic Pathway
Cytokinins are derived from adenine, one of the five nucleobases in DNA and RNA. Adenine is synthesized through a series of enzymatic reactions within the cell.
Isoprenoid Pathway (Mevalonate Pathway)
This pathway is responsible for the biosynthesis of various compounds, including terpenes, gibberellins, and cytokinins. Specific enzymes and intermediates within this pathway are responsible for the production of cytokinins.
Types of Natural Cytokinins
Zeatin:
Zeatin is a well-known and extensively studied cytokinin. It is naturally found in plants, synthesized in roots, and transported to various plant parts. Zeatin promotes cell division, delays senescence, and regulates overall plant development.
Isopentenyladenine (iP):
iP is another significant natural cytokinin. Like zeatin, it promotes cell division and prevents leaf aging. It is commonly utilized in tissue culture techniques for plant propagation.
Triacontanol:
Though not a typical cytokinin, triacontanol is a fatty alcohol with cytokinin-like effects. It promotes cell division, enhances photosynthesis, and stimulates plant growth.
Uses of Cytokinins in Plants
Promoting Cell Division:
Cytokinins are essential for stimulating cell division, especially in regions of active growth like shoot and root tips.
Delaying Senescence:
Cytokinins help prolong the vitality and productivity of plant tissues by delaying aging and senescence.
Regulating Apical Dominance:
Cytokinins, in conjunction with auxins, regulate apical dominance, influencing resource allocation to main and lateral buds.
Affecting Leaf Expansion:
Cytokinins play a role in regulating leaf expansion, influencing overall leaf size and shape.
Stimulating Adventitious Shoot Formation:
In tissue culture, cytokinins like BA induce the formation of shoots from explants.
Enhancing Root Growth:
Cytokinins can stimulate the development of lateral roots and improve overall root system architecture.
Cytokinins and Leaf Characteristics
Smaller leaf size is associated with lower cytokinin levels, whereas larger leaf size indicates higher cytokinin levels. Longer maturing varieties in warm climates with abundant water and nutrients theoretically contain more cytokininās than those in cold, dry climates.
Terpenes in Cannabis: Properties and Functions
Terpenes are organic compounds found in various plants, including cannabis. They play a crucial role in the plantās growth, development, and defense mechanisms. One significant group of terpenes, sesquiterpenes, shares a common precursor with auxins, affecting the plantās flowering duration.
Sesquiterpenes and Flowering Duration
Sesquiterpenes, derived from the precursor tryptophan, influence flowering in cannabis. Higher concentrations of sesquiterpenes are linked to longer-flowering varieties. This is attributed to their competition with auxins for tryptophan, which delays plant growth, ultimately resulting in an extended flowering period.
Allelopathic Cannabinoids & Terpenes
In cannabis, terpenes work in conjunction with cannabinoids to produce various effects. Notable terpenes include Limonene, Pinene, Terpinolene, Eucalyptol (Cineole), Beta-Pinene, and Linalool, while key cannabinoids are CBD and THC.
Terpenes as Defense Mechanisms
Terpenes in cannabis serve as natural defenses against fungi, bacteria, herbivores, and insects. Limonene, Pinene, Terpinolene, and Linalool exhibit allelopathic properties, inhibiting the growth of competing plants. Additionally, Pinene, Terpinolene, Eucalyptol (1,8-Cineole), Camphene, Borneol, and Geraniol display anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Limonene and Pinene are effective against herbivores, while a combination of terpenes, including Limonene, Terpinolene, Geraniol, and Linalool, act as insect repellents.
Limonene: UV Protection and Signaling
Limonene, a citrusy-scented terpene, provides protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Its higher presence in regions with elevated UV exposure indicates its role in shielding the plant from UV-induced damage. Additionally, Limonene serves as an environmental signal, enabling the plant to adaptively respond to its surroundings.
Terpene Concentration and Light Spectrum
The concentration of terpenes in cannabis plants is influenced by the light spectrum they receive. Myrcene, known for its earthy scent, is more prevalent in plants exposed to blue light. This underscores how specific light wavelengths affect the metabolic pathways responsible for terpene production. Understanding this relationship allows growers to fine-tune cultivation practices for specific terpene profiles tailored to their desired outcomes.
Myrcene:
Description: Myrcene is a terpene with an earthy, musky scent. Effect: Known for promoting cell expansion and growth. May contribute to hastening the transition to the flowering stage. Myrcene is also associated with the plantās circadian rhythm, aiding in sensing changes in daylight hours to induce flowering response and facilitating cell expansion.
All Indoor 18/6-12/12 Cannabis thatās been bred for indoor environments are high in myrcene because of this
Humidity and Terpenes
Humidity levels play a significant role in terpene production. Adequate humidity levels in the growing environment can enhance terpene expression. Beta-Pinene is more associated with dry conditions, being less water soluble, while Alpha-Pinene, being more water soluble, assists in humid conditions. This difference in solubility can potentially lead to higher terpene concentrations in the plant.
Cell Growth Regulation and Inhibition
Certain terpenes and cannabinoids, including Alpha-Pinene, Beta-Pinene, Ocimene, CBD, and THC, play roles in regulating cell growth and inhibition. These compounds influence the overall development and flowering of the cannabis plant.
Cytotoxic Terpenes and Effects
Certain terpenes exhibit cytotoxic properties, impacting cell growth and development in cannabis plants. These terpenes include Terpinolene, Alpha-Humulene, Alpha-Pinene, Beta Caryophyllene, Sabinene, Camphene. In high quantities, they may slow plant growth and flowering times. In marginal quantities, they can potentially speed up flowering times. Additionally, they encourage metabolic processes within the plant, potentially leading to increased growth and development.
Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Properties
Terpenes like Alpha-Humulene, Alpha-Pinene, Beta Caryophyllene, Limonene, Sabinene, and Camphene possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, contributing to the potential therapeutic benefits of cannabis.
In conclusion, terpenes are multifaceted compounds with diverse properties and functions within cannabis plants. Understanding their roles can provide valuable insights for cultivators and researchers aiming to optimize cannabis cultivation and harness its therapeutic potential. The intricate interplay between plant hormones, including auxins, terpenes, gibberellins, and cytokinins, along with terpenesā significant impact on cannabis growth, development, and defense mechanisms, offers a holistic perspective on the intricate world of plant biology. These insights not only enhance our understanding of natural processes but also open avenues for sustainable agricultural practices and therapeutic applications. As research continues to advance, the potential for revolutionizing agriculture, horticulture, and pharmaceutical industries is promising, promising a greener and healthier future for all.
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what is the point? I tend to prefer plants that take over 70 days to flower I wouldnt want terps that change that plant type.
I have been doing a lot of similar research, however my research revolves around light, impacting the effects of the plants metabolism/metabolites. One effect of the improved lighting spectrum is a Terpene production is now around a 2.8 - 3% base for almost all strain grown under the light condition. Without the Terpene base is about half, there is also a phenomenon where the plants tend to finish earlyā¦ very interesting thread. Thank you!
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the point is to figure out what is assocaited with flowering times in cannabis or breeders mostly trying to achive a certain flowering time that matches their outdoor region, or knowing how the different pineines effect humidity in the plant so you can choose the right strain based on terpenes for your enviroment, knowing the pest in your enviroment and terpenes that specifically associate with this also helps find the ideal strain outdoors.
Healthier Plants Will have access to more energy for finishing there cycles faster, while stress will slow down growth and enhances THC while decreasing terpenes levels. By having the optimal light spectrum for plant growth in theory should decrease stress leading to more production of terpenes, rather than the production of more cannabinoids such as THC, that explains why they finish faster. ALSO* not starving the plants of nitrogen giving ratios that plant requires for growth not in excess, will increase terpene production and overall health of the plant. starving the plant of nitrogen in flower will improve bud density and THC production at the cost of yield, terpenes, and overall plant vitality.
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The terpenes produced would be downstream of the process controlling flowering time.
could you please explain which process specially in the plant is responsible for this?