Grow Diary God’s Gift

God’s Gift – Week #8 of Flower (Ripening Phase)

Week eight of flower placed God’s Gift squarely into the ripening phase, with both plants now fully focused on resin maturation rather than additional structural growth. Bud development has largely stabilized, and visual changes this week were driven primarily by trichome progression, aroma intensification, and advancing senescence.

Environmental conditions during week eight mirrored those maintained for Granddaddy Purple, as both strains share the same flowering space. Daytime temperatures were generally held in the low-to-mid 70s°F, with relative humidity maintained in the low-to-mid 40% range through active management. Nighttime temperatures were allowed to fall modestly while keeping humidity in check, prioritizing resin preservation and minimizing any risk of moisture accumulation during this critical stage. Strong, consistent airflow across the canopy remained a constant throughout the week.

Nutrient strategy transitioned decisively into ripening. At the beginning of the week, God’s Gift continued receiving late-flower nutrients at approximately 640 ppm. After completing this phase, ripening nutrients were introduced at medium strength for two consecutive feedings, delivering roughly 440 ppm. As the week progressed, feed strength was further reduced to a light ripening input of approximately 400 ppm. This step-down reflects the plant’s reduced nutritional demand as senescence advances, while still supporting active resin and terpene production. Ripening nutrients will be continued until trichome maturity indicates a stronger shift toward amber.

Light intensity was adjusted downward to better match the ripening stage. Canopy PPFD was maintained between approximately 870 and 875, resulting in a DLI near 38. These levels were selected to support continued trichome development while avoiding excess light stress late in flower. UVA exposure remained conservative to protect resin quality during this sensitive phase.

Mid-week trichome analysis shows clear progress toward maturity. Across a blended sampling of upper, mid, and lower bud sites, trichome distribution currently sits at approximately 25–32% clear, 61–68% cloudy, and 7% amber. This confirms that God’s Gift is firmly in ripening but not yet approaching final harvest readiness. The targeted finish for this cultivar is a heavier body-focused effect, which will require a significantly higher proportion of amber trichomes. Ripening strategies will remain in place until that shift becomes more pronounced.

Resin production continues to intensify across both phenotypes, with dense, sticky trichome coverage extending well beyond the calyxes and coating surrounding sugar leaves. Aromatic expression has deepened noticeably this week. While the sharp skunk backbone remains dominant, intense coffee-like notes have emerged, particularly during nighttime hours, creating a rich and layered aromatic profile that becomes immediately apparent upon entering the grow space. This evolving terpene interaction suggests active late-stage expression and complexity developing as ripening progresses.

Overall, God’s Gift remains healthy, stable, and on track for a controlled finish. Senescence is advancing at an appropriate pace, nutrient inputs are being carefully tapered, and environmental conditions continue to support resin maturation and terpene preservation. The coming weeks will be focused on monitoring trichome progression closely and guiding the plants toward a deliberate, potency-driven harvest window.