What are Trichomes in Cannabis, and What do They do?

When looking for the best cannabis strain or the most effective, there are a lot of things to consider. A cannabis plant has many components, and they all have a part to play in its effects. If you have observed the cannabis plant closely, at some point in your life, you may have thought about those tiny little crystals that always seem to be all over the leaves and buds of your favourite strain. They are shiny, sticky and always have a beautiful aroma. If you look closely, you will notice these blankets of frost appear to be large, and these are what are called trichomes.

The actual explanation of trichomes is a kind of fine outgrowths attached to plants and other certain protists. It is originated from the Greek work Trichoma that means growth of hair. These tiny microscopic mushrooms look like something that came out of a science fiction novel. They are responsible for making our cannabis strain potent, unique and effective.

Functions of Trichomes

The production of trichomes can be observed in many species of plants throughout the wild nature. They take various physical forms and are well known for serving many different purposes. For instance, these trichomes are found on many carnivorous plants, which help them catch prey. In cannabis, the presence of trichomes is somewhat worked as a defence mechanism. When female plants start to produce flowers, they sometimes become vulnerable out in the open to insects and many other animals and non-living environmental variables such as the UV rays.

These trichomes serve as a deterrent for animals because of the bitter taste and strong smell. These strong aromas render cannabis flowers uneatable. At the same time, these trichomes are perfect for helping plants survive strong winds and dusty weather. They even prevent the fungus build-up.

Different Types of Trichomes

Trichomes exist in many shapes and sizes, but the three most common types that appear on the cannabis plant are:

1. Bulbous trichomes are also known as the smallest trichomes of the bunch. They appear on the entire surface of the plant. Bulbous trichomes are smaller and can be measured in tiny micrometres to be comprised in hand.
2. Capitate sessile trichomes are somewhat larger and contain heads and stalks. They are quite bigger than Bulbous trichomes, but they cannot hold a candle to the bountifulness and size of the third trichomes.
3. Capitate-stalked trichomes range from 50 to 100 micrometres in size. That means they are much larger than the previously mentioned trichomes. They are visible to the naked eye and have large heads that consist of epidermal and hypodermic cells. These gland heads are held together with the help of a waxy substance by layer.

If you want to know more about cannabis and trichomes, feel free to contact us, and we would be happy to assist you.