Trimming removes leaf material for a smoother smoke and better-looking buds. Wear gloves, use sharp spring-loaded scissors, and keep isopropyl alcohol around to clean sticky blades.
1Wet trim (right after chop)
Easier — leaves stand out and aren't curled in.
Buds dry faster; good for humid climates where mold is a concern.
Downside: messier, sticky, can dry too quickly in dry rooms.
2Dry trim (after drying)
Slower dry = better terpenes and flavour. Most connoisseurs prefer it.
Leaves protect trichomes while drying.
Downside: crispy leaves are fiddlier to remove.
3Step by step
1. Remove all large fan leaves first (can do this before chop).
2. Cut buds from the branch, leaving a small stem for handling.
3. Snip sugar leaves sticking out of the bud's silhouette. Leave leaves covered in frost if you like the trim for edibles.
4. Trim the stem flush at the base of the bud.
5. Don't over-shape — you'll lose trichomes.
4Save the trim
Frosty sugar leaves make great edibles, hash, rosin or tinctures.