top of page
More Coming Soon!
New Update Every Friday By 5pm CST
Bud Rot or Mold
Have Photos?
Photos Coming Soon
Cannabis bud rot, also known as "Big Bud Disease" or "The Curse of the Successful Grower," is a fungal infection that targets mature, large buds nearing harvest time. This affliction can be devastating, as it attacks and kills the most substantial and dense buds. The initial indication of bud rot often manifests as a sudden yellowing of the surrounding leaves, occurring within 1-2 days. The rot usually originates from the base of these discolored leaves, where the bud begins to decay. Bud rot, or Botrytis cinerea, affects certain areas of the colas, primarily targeting bigger and denser buds. Outdoors, it can spread across the entire plant, particularly after periods of rainfall.
Cause of Issue
◉ High humidity and wet conditions provide an ideal environment for bud rot.
◉ Insufficient air circulation and lack of breeze around the buds contribute to its development.
◉ Large, dense buds create a moist and enclosed environment that fosters fungal growth.
◉ Temperature fluctuations, especially in cool or cold conditions, can trigger bud rot.
Symptoms
◉ Yellowing leaves around the affected buds.
◉ Darkening, discoloration, and drying of certain areas on the buds, pistils, and leaves.
◉ White mold visible on the outside of infected buds.
◉ The affected buds easily separate, revealing dark gray or brown rot on the inside.
◉ Presence of dusty spores, which are the fungus spores, in the rotting buds.
Corrective Actions
◉ Avoid wet buds and high humidity: Maintain humidity levels between 40-50% during the flowering stage and prevent buds from sitting in damp or excessively humid conditions. Indoor growers can utilize dehumidifiers, while outdoor growers can protect plants during rain and shake off excess moisture.
◉ Ensure great air circulation: Promote airflow over buds and leaves, both above and within the plant. Indoor growers can use fans and exhaust fans to circulate air and remove hot, humid air. Outdoor growers can position potted plants in breezier locations.
◉ Defoliate extremely bushy plants: Remove leaves that are not receiving adequate light and contribute to excessive humidity. This helps reduce humidity levels and enhance air circulation, especially in limited growing spaces.
◉ Watch long, dense buds for discoloration: Pay close attention to the largest colas, as they are more susceptible to bud rot. Monitor them for signs of discoloration, which may indicate the presence of rot.
◉ Remove all affected buds immediately: If bud rot is identified, promptly remove and discard all infected buds, including nearby ones. Prevent any contact between healthy and rotted parts to avoid spreading mold spores.
◉ Consider harvesting early: If the environmental conditions that caused bud rot cannot be rectified, it is advisable to harvest plants prematurely to prevent further losses.
◉ Please note that these solutions are intended for informational purposes only and may not guarantee the complete prevention or elimination of bud rot. It is always recommended to consult with experienced growers and professionals for personalized advice.
bottom of page