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Cannabis Trimming

By SQDC.ca | Published on July 10, 2026

Trimming is one of the cannabis processing steps that takes place after harvest. It involves removing the leaves surrounding the flowers and helps prepare them for subsequent stages of production. Different trimming methods exist, including wet trimming and dry trimming. Here's what you need to know.

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KEY TAKEAWAY

Cannabis trimming consists of removing the larger, less resinous leaves surrounding the flowers after harvest.
It helps remove leaves that contain fewer trichomes and cannabinoids.
Trimming improves the uniformity and appearance of cannabis flowers.
Two main methods are used: wet trimming (before drying) and dry trimming (after drying).
Trimming facilitates drying, curing and storage.

What is cannabis trimming?

Also known as trimming or trim, cannabis trimming is the process of removing the large fan leaves (the iconic cannabis leaf familiar to most people) and the smaller secondary leaves surrounding the cannabis flower. The goal is to retain primarily the buds and resin-covered leaves.

In some cases, producers begin with defoliation, which involves removing only the large fan leaves before proceeding to a more complete trim.

What Are Sugar Leaves?

Sugar leaves are found near the centre of the flowering tops. Their surface is covered with trichomes, which also contain cannabinoids. They helps provide structure and support to the flowering tops.

Depending on the production process, these leaves may be trimmed away to leave only the flower. Once removed, they may be retained for other uses, such as the production of hash or cannabis edibles.

Learn more about cannabis plant anatomy.

Why Trim Cannabis Flowers?

Trimming helps remove leaves that generally contain fewer cannabinoids and trichomes. These leaves may also contribute to a harsher smoking experience when cannabis is consumed through combustion.

Trimming can also help improve moisture control and facilitate subsequent production stages, such as drying and curing, depending on the producer's processes.

Close-up of cannabis sugar leaves covered in trichomes, rich in cannabinoids.

What Are the Different Types of Trimming?

Wet Trimming

Some producers prefer to trim cannabis immediately after harvest and before drying. This method is known as wet trimming. Wet trimming is commonly used alongside rack or tray drying methods, since individual colas occupy less space when the excess leaves have already been removed.

Dry Trimming

Dry trimming is more commonly associated with hang-drying.

After harvest, plants are roughly defoliated to remove the moisture-rich fan leaves. Once hung upside down, the remaining secondary leaves continue to cover the buds and help protect them from excessive heat, contributing to a more stable drying process.

A longer drying period at lower temperatures is generally recommended with this technique. Once the buds are properly dried, they are fully trimmed and prepared for the next production stage.

Hand trimming cannabis buds with scissors, artisanal flower processing.

Conclusion

Trimming is a complementary step to drying in the preparation of cannabis flowers. Methods may vary from one producer to another, but whether trimming occurs before or after drying, the objective is to help support better moisture management.

Have questions about cannabis products sold by the SQDC? Our advisors will be happy to help you in-store or via our chat service.

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What is the difference between defoliation and trimming?

Defoliation involves removing only the large fan leaves, whereas trimming refers to a more complete process that includes shaping and cleaning the flowers.
What is wet trimming?

Wet trimming involves trimming cannabis flowers immediately after harvest and before drying, often to save space and streamline processing.
Why are cannabis flowers trimmed?

Trimming removes leaves that generally contain fewer trichomes and cannabinoids and are therefore considered less relevant for consumption.
What is the difference between wet trimming and dry trimming?

Wet trimming is performed before drying, while dry trimming takes place after the plants and buds have dried.
Is cannabis trimming always done the same way?

No. Trimming methods vary depending on producer preferences and the drying techniques used.
What is cannabis trimming?

Cannabis trimming is the process of removing leaves surrounding the flowers after harvest, leaving primarily the buds and resin-covered leaves.
What is dry trimming?

Dry trimming involves trimming cannabis buds after they have dried. Since the buds remain covered by leaves during drying, the process may take longer.

Cannabis Trimming