Swollen Calyx Or Hermie: How To Tell The Difference In Cannabis Plants

As cannabis enthusiasts, we invest our time and efforts into nurturing our plants, hoping for a bountiful harvest of lush buds. 

However, along the cultivation journey, we may encounter the puzzling occurrence of the swollen calyx or hermie. 

A calyx is a large swollen bulb shape that is either nearing the end of the harvest or contains a lot of seeds. A hermie holds both genders of female and male pollen sacs near the nodes. These appear to have the shape of bananas. Hermies aren’t what you need if you’re not trying to breed your cannabis plants and should be harvested immediately. 

In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of identifying these, understand the differences between the two, explore the consequences of encountering them, and most importantly, learn how to avoid hermie on your beloved cannabis plants.

How To Tell If Cannabis Plants Have A Swollen Calyx Or Hermie?

Distinguishing between a swollen calyx and a hermie is crucial for effective plant management. Swollen calyxes are a natural and positive occurrence during the flowering phase, where the calyx, a part of the flower, becomes engorged, and can potentially encapsulate the developing seeds. 

Hermie refers to hermaphroditism, where female cannabis plants develop male reproductive parts, leading to the potential of self-pollination. 

To identify the presence of swollen calyxes, observe the plump, hair-like structures on the buds. For hermies, watch for the emergence of pollen sacs alongside the female flowers. Regular monitoring and quick action can help mitigate the effects of hermie and preserve your crop.

What Happens If Your Cannabis Plant Has A Swollen Calyx Or Hermie?

If your cannabis plant develops swollen calyxes, it is a natural and encouraging sign of a healthy plant progressing. This occurrence contributes to seed development and or it’s nearing the end of the flowering stage. 

If your cannabis plant exhibits hermaphroditism, it poses a significant concern. Hermies can self-pollinate, leading to seeds in the buds and adversely affecting the overall potency and quality of the harvest. 

Hermies can jeopardize neighboring plants, leading to a compromised yield.

How To Avoid Hermie On Your Cannabis Plants?

Preventing hermies requires a proactive and vigilant approach. Start by selecting quality, feminized seeds from reputable sources to minimize the risk of hermaphroditism in your plants. 

Pay careful attention to light schedules during the flowering phase, ensuring a consistent light and dark cycle. 

Any light interruptions during the dark period can stress the plants, potentially leading to hermaphroditism. Maintain a stable and controlled environment, avoiding extreme temperature fluctuations and stressful conditions.

Causes Of Hermie

Understanding the underlying causes of hermaphroditism in cannabis plants is crucial for successful cultivation. 

Stress is a leading factor contributing to hermies, and this stress can arise from various sources, including light interruptions, nutrient deficiencies, temperature extremes, and physical damage. 

Genetics can also play a role, so always choose stable and reliable strains from reputable breeders to minimize the chances of encountering hermies.

Being able to discern between swollen calyxes and hermies is a critical skill for any cannabis cultivator. 

By closely monitoring your plants and taking preventive measures to avoid stress and unfavorable conditions, you can protect your crop from hermies and ensure a fruitful harvest of high-quality buds.

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