Trichomes are the tiny, translucent glands that sparkle all over the cannabis plant and serve many important functions. Trichomes are the manufacturing facility for the cannabis plant, providing the beneficial cannabinoids including THC and CBD exclusive to cannabis. Handling your plants with care during all stages of development is critical to protect and preserve trichomes, which also protect the cannabis plant against harmful UV rays and serve as a deterrent against animals. Examining the color of trichomes as they move through the three stages of clear, to cloudy to amber is still the best and most common way that growers can tell the best time to harvest their plants.