Determining the sex of cannabis plants is a crucial step in cultivation. This process involves identifying the pre-flowers, the initial indicators of sexual maturity, that emerge at the nodes where branches meet the main stem. Male plants will exhibit small, sac-like structures that eventually release pollen, while female plants will display pistils, small, hair-like structures, emerging from bracts.
Accurate sex identification is essential for optimizing yields and preventing unwanted pollination. Female plants, when unpollinated, produce the resinous buds sought after for various applications. Male plants, if allowed to pollinate females, will cause the females to divert energy into seed production, significantly reducing the quality and quantity of bud. Historically, growers have meticulously monitored their plants for these pre-flowers to ensure a desired outcome.