I don't understand that. I get leaves are part of photosynthesis but not sure I follow the terps aspect of the comment. You have literature you can add?
In addition to cannabinoids, glandular trichomes secrete and store secondary metabolites, namely
terpenes.
Did you realize that there a 6-different trichome structures in Cannabis?
FIGURE 3. Hemp trichome types. (A)Unicellular non-glandular trichome;
(B) cystolythic trichomes;
(C) capitate sessile trichome;
(D) capitate-stalked trichome;
(E) simple bulbous trichome;
(F) complex bulbous trichome. Images kindly provided by Dr. David J. Potter.
Capitate-sessile, capitate-stalked and bulbous trichomes are secretory structures, which have been confirmed in flowers, roots, and leaves of pistillate Cannabis plants.
Non-inflorescence leaves produce a lower density of glandular trichomes than the flowers - however, they still collectively c
ontribute to the secretion and storage of terpenes.
I'll look for my references when I get a chance.
Nonetheless.... it pains me to see how some folks rape their plants in an effort to get light to the lower canopy, ect.
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