The Truth About Flushing...

Summary

In this gardening-focused video, Chris, aka Mr. Growit, discusses the controversial practice of 'flushing' plants before harvest. He reviews a scientific study by RX Green Technologies that examined the effects of different flushing periods on cannabis yield, potency, terpenes, mineral content, and taste. The study found no significant differences in these aspects regardless of the flushing duration, suggesting that flushing may not be necessary for improving the final product's quality. Chris also shares his thoughts on the study's implications for both commercial and home growers, inviting viewers to share their opinions on flushing practices.

Takeaways

• 🌿 The video discusses the controversial topic of flushing plants with nutrients before harvest, a practice with various opinions among growers.
• 🧪 A study by RX Green Technologies investigated the effects of different flush periods on cannabis yield, potency, terpenes, mineral content, and taste characteristics.
• 📈 The study compared four flush periods: 14-day, 10-day, 7-day, and 0-day (no flush), with 12 plants for each period.
• 🍃 Plants flushed for 10 or 14 days had more yellow, necrotic, and dry leaves, indicating a greater breakdown of chlorophyll.
• 🔍 No significant differences were found in flower weight, THC, or terpene content among the different flush treatments.
• 🌱 The study showed no significant change in the mineral content of the flower due to different flush treatments.
• 🌼 Higher extraction yields were observed in plants flushed for 14 or 10 days, but the clarity of the wax was preferred in the 0-day flush.
• 👃 A blind taste test by industry experts found no impact of flush duration on flavor, smoothness of smoke, or ash color.
• 📊 The study concluded that flushing does not improve taste or consumer experience, but a trend towards better flavor was noted with the 0-day flush.
• 💭 The video creator, Mr. Growit, suggests that while the study is valuable, personal reasons for flushing, such as potential for faster cures and reduced nutrient costs, may still apply.
• 🔄 The video ends with an invitation for viewers to share their thoughts on flushing and any relevant studies for potential future discussion.

Q & A

What is the main topic of discussion in the video by Mr. Growit?

The main topic of discussion in the video is the process of flushing plants at the end of the grow cycle and its potential benefits.

What is the difference between flushing mid-grow and flushing at the end of the grow cycle?

Flushing mid-grow is done to address issues like overfeeding, salt buildup, or pH imbalances, whereas flushing at the end of the grow cycle is done to potentially improve the taste, smell, and smoke characteristics of the final product.

What are some of the reasons people flush their plants at the end of the grow cycle?

People flush their plants to reduce the amount of nutrients in the soil and plant, hoping to achieve a better taste, smell, and whiter ash when smoking. Some also believe it reduces harshness and increases terpene and THC content.

What was the duration of the study conducted by RX Green Technologies?

The study by RX Green Technologies evaluated four different flush periods: 14-day, 10-day, 7-day, and a zero-day flush.

How many plants were used in each flush period in the study?

Each flush period in the study used 12 plants, resulting in a total of 48 plants.

What were the key findings of the study regarding the impact of flushing on yield, THC, and terpene content?

The study found no significant differences in flower weight, THC, or terpene content between the different flush periods.

What was the conclusion of the study regarding the benefits of flushing for improved taste or consumer experience?

The study concluded that there is no benefit to flushing for improved taste or consumer experience.

What are some factors that might affect the harshness of the smoke when smoking the final product?

Factors that might affect the harshness of the smoke include the moisture content of the buds, the curing process, and the breakdown of chlorophyll in the plant.

What was the study's observation on the visual differences in fan leaves between different flush periods?

The study observed that plants flushed for 10 or 14 days had more yellow, necrotic, and dry leaves compared to those flushed for 0 or 7 days, indicating a greater breakdown of chlorophyll.

What was the outcome of the extraction yield and appearance of the wax from the plants?

Plants flushed for 14 or 10 days had the highest extraction yield, but the appearance of the wax from the zero-day flush was preferred for its clarity.

What was the result of the blind taste test conducted by industry experts?

The blind taste test showed that the duration of the flushing period had no impact on flavor, smoothness of smoke, or color of ash, with a trend towards improved flavor and smoke quality with the zero-day flush.