Plant Physiology & Development
Trichome Secretion & Secondary Metabolism
Glandular trichomes are specialized structures associated with the production and storage of many secondary metabolites in cannabis. Their abundance, development, and chemistry reflect genotype, tissue type, developmental stage, and environment rather than one simple cultivation variable.
Key concepts
- Secretory cells in glandular trichomes contribute to cannabinoid and terpene biosynthesis
- Trichome density and metabolite concentration are related but not interchangeable measurements
- Different tissues and trichome types can have different chemical profiles
- Developmental stage changes trichome structure and chemistry
- Environmental responses can influence secondary metabolism but should not be reduced to universal stress recipes
What to measure or observe
- Standardize tissue type and sampling position
- Use consistent magnification for structural comparisons
- Separate trichome density observations from chemical potency testing
- Track developmental stage when comparing samples
- Use laboratory analysis when cannabinoid or terpene concentration matters
Common mistakes
- Equating visible frost with a precise potency value
- Comparing sugar leaves directly with flower bracts without noting tissue type
- Assuming amber trichomes provide a complete chemical profile
- Using stress as a blanket recommendation to increase secondary metabolites
- Treating microscope appearance as a substitute for analytical chemistry
Visuals this lesson still needs
- Glandular trichome biosynthesis cutaway
- Trichome density versus chemistry comparison
- Tissue-specific sampling map
- Developmental trichome sequence