Trim, in the context of cannabis cultivation, refers to the excess plant material that is removed from the harvested cannabis buds. It consists of the leaves, stems, and other non-flower parts of the cannabis plant.
When cannabis plants are harvested, the focus is primarily on collecting the flower buds, which contain the highest concentrations of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other desirable compounds. The remaining plant material, known as trim, is typically set aside and separated from the buds.
It can be further categorized into different types based on its location and quality:
- Sugar Leaves: These are the smaller leaves that surround the flower buds. They are called “sugar leaves” because they often have a dusting of trichomes, which can give them a sugary appearance. Sugar leaves can contain significant amounts of resin and are often used for making cannabis concentrates or edibles.
- Fan Leaves: Fan leaves are the larger leaves that grow along the stems of the cannabis plant. They have fewer trichomes and are generally lower in resin content compared to sugar leaves. Fan leaves are typically removed during trimming as they do not contribute significantly to the overall cannabinoid and terpene content.
- Stem Trim: This refers to the small stems that are attached to the harvested buds. While they may contain some resin, stem trim is usually discarded as it is not considered desirable for consumption or further processing.
It is often saved and repurposed for various uses, including:
- Cannabis concentrates: Trim can be used as a starting material for making cannabis concentrates such as hash, kief, or bubble hash. The trim is processed to extract the resinous trichomes, which are then concentrated to create potent extracts.
- Edibles and Infusions: Trim can be used to make homemade edibles or infusions. It can be decarboxylated and incorporated into recipes for baked goods, cooking oils, or infused beverages.
- Topical Products: Some cannabis enthusiasts use trim to create homemade topicals, such as creams, lotions, or balms, by infusing it into carrier oils or other base ingredients.
It’s important to note that the potency and quality of it can vary depending on the strain, cultivation methods, and the specific trim material being used. When utilizing trim for concentrates, edibles, or other purposes, it’s advisable to consider the desired end product and choose trim that is of good quality and free from contaminants.
