Post Harvest Biochemistry

Post-harvest biochemistry refers to the chemical changes that occur in cannabis plant material after cutting, drying, and curing—processes that can significantly alter terpene profiles and cannabinoid composition. During these stages, enzymes continue to function, oxidation occurs, and temperature/humidity conditions drive conversion of THCA to THC and decarboxylation of other cannabinoids. Terpenes are particularly volatile during post-harvest handling; some are lost to evaporation while others may be chemically modified through oxidation or polymerization. Understanding these biochemical shifts is central to breeding and production strategy, as harvest timing, drying speed, and cure duration all influence final aromatic and chemical profiles. Breeders and cultivators who track post-harvest changes can select for strains with stable or desirable terpene retention and cannabinoid stabili

Breeders working in preservation and stability often select parent plants based on how their terpene profiles respond to post-harvest conditions. Cultivators optimizing post-harvest techniques rely on understanding which terpene-rich chemotypes remain stable during standard drying and curing, informing strain selection and production protocols.