whats the hint they are ready??

[xlabarba]

ive been in 12/12 for approaching 5 weeks. i am noticing that the bud hairs on some of the plants are browning-(very few) more everyday but at a slight level.
are they getting ripe? whats the window if IN FACT the browning is natural?? it seems early at 5 weeks but i dont know how long it takes to harvest from first signs-anyone??
ps-soil

 

[Biffdoggie]

The best indicator would be the trichomes, you need to get a pocket microscope, jewlers loupe or something similar. You can go by the color of the buds as a general indicator but the trichs will allow you to obtain the buzz that you want. Here's a good chart.

http://www.marijuanapassion.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=1636

 

[AceT9]

you can pick up a microscope at Radio Shack for about $10

 

[Mutt]

and another chart