In today’s cannabis market, flavor and aroma are just as important as potency. With connoisseur consumers placing increasing value on terpene profiles, growers are seeking new ways to elevate the scent and taste of their harvests. But while genetics set the foundation, nutrition plays a critical role in unlocking a plant’s full terpene potential.
In this article, we explore how feeding strategies can influence terpene development and how GreenPlanet Nutrients’ specialized products can help you produce more aromatic, flavour-rich cannabis.
What Are Terpenes and Why Do They Matter?
Terpenes are volatile aromatic compounds found in the essential oils of plants, including cannabis. They are responsible for the distinctive aromas of different strains, from citrus and pine to fuel and spice. More than just fragrance, terpenes also play a role in the entourage effect, interacting with cannabinoids like THC and CBD to shape the overall experience.
In competitive craft markets and among homegrowers seeking premium results, terpene-rich cannabis stands out.
The Key Factors That Influence Terpene Production
While genetics determine a plant’s terpene blueprint, environmental factors and grower inputs directly impact expression. These include:
- Light intensity
- Temperature and humidity levels
- Stress (controlled, not extreme)
- Nutrient availability and balance
When it comes to nutrition, certain compounds and feeding methods can encourage more robust terpene development. Let’s take a look at how nutrients influence this process.
The Role of Nutrients in Terpene Production
Terpenes are synthesised in glandular trichomes, which require energy and raw materials. Nutrient availability during flowering is crucial for trichome density and terpene output.
Carbohydrates
Plants use sugars as building blocks for secondary metabolites like terpenes. Feeding with carbohydrates in the late flowering stage helps fuel resin and oil production.
Recommended Product: Liquid Weight
Liquid Weight is a complex carbohydrate blend that provides the sugars and microbial stimulants your plants need to boost essential oil production.
Potassium and Phosphorus
These two macronutrients support flowering and energy transfer. Proper ratios during bloom promote trichome growth and terpene development.
Recommended Powder Product: Bud Booster
Bud Booster delivers a bloom-specific dose of phosphorus and potassium to help produce dense, aromatic buds.
Recommended Liquid Product: PK Spike
PK Spike is a premium flowering supplement formulated from multiple highly soluble sources of phosphorus and potassium. It’s designed to stimulate bud development, support bulking, and enhance the ripening phase for optimal flowering performance
Magnesium and Sulfur
Micronutrients like magnesium and sulfur are vital for terpene synthesis and chlorophyll production. A deficiency can dull your final aroma.
Recommended Product: GP3 Micro
Part of the three-part GP3 base system, GP3 Micro ensures plants receive trace elements essential for terpene biosynthesis. Learn more here.
Beneficial Microbes and Root Zone Health
Healthy roots mean better nutrient uptake, which directly influences terpene production. Beneficial microbes also play a role by breaking down organic matter and unlocking bound nutrients.
Recommended Product: Root Builder
Root Builder introduces beneficial bacteria that improve nutrient availability and root health, forming a strong foundation for flavour expression.
How Rezin Enhances Terpene Output
One of the standout products in the GreenPlanet lineup is Rezin, a proprietary formulation designed specifically to improve flavour, aroma, and essential oil content.
Rezin increases the concentration of secondary metabolites without altering the plant’s natural genetic profile. Unlike traditional bloom boosters, Rezin works by improving metabolic processes and enhancing aromatic compounds.
Growers using Rezin report:
- Noticeably richer flavour and smell
- Improved resin production
- Brighter terpene profiles, even in average genetics
Feeding Schedule Tips for Maximum Flavour
To achieve the best flavour and aroma from your grow, tailor your feeding strategy across the plant’s life cycle:
- Veg Phase: Focus on strong roots and vegetative growth with GP3, Root Builder, and Calcium/Magnesium support.
- Early Flower: Introduce Bud Booster and continue full GP3 or Dual Fuel feeding.
- Mid Flower: Start using Liquid Weight and Rezin for terpene development.
- Late Flower: Reduce nitrogen, maintain potassium, and keep Rezin in the mix. Consider light stress to trigger additional resin production.
Strain Selection Still Matters
Even the best feeding strategy can’t override weak genetics. If terpene production is your priority, choose strains known for high essential oil output. Look for varieties rich in:
- Limonene (citrus)
- Myrcene (earthy)
- Caryophyllene (peppery)
- Pinene (pine)
Then use nutrition to enhance what the plant is already designed to produce.
Post-Harvest Considerations
Don’t lose all your hard work during harvest and cure. Terpenes are volatile and degrade quickly in poor conditions. Ensure:
- Proper drying (60% RH, 18-21°C)
- Slow cure in airtight jars
- No heat or light exposure
Conclusion
Producing terpene-rich cannabis is about more than genetics. With the right feeding strategy and product support, you can enhance your crop’s aroma, flavour, and overall value.
GreenPlanet Nutrients offers a suite of solutions specifically formulated to bring out the best in your plants. From Liquid Weight and Bud Booster to Rezin and Root Builder, every input has been engineered to support superior terpene expression.
Explore the full range at greenplanetnutrients.ca and give your next grow a flavour boost your customers will remember.