how early can i sample bud

Hey there! Though I'm not an expert, from what I've heard, it really depends on what plant we're talking about. Marking the maturity of a bud can vary greatly across species.

Oh I see. In case of cannabis, it is usually recommended to start sampling about two weeks before the expected harvest date. However, the exact timing can depend on the strain and personal preference.

Generally, most growers judge the readiness based on the color of the small hair-like structures on the bud or the trichomes. When half of these are dark or cloudy, that's a common sign the buds might be ready. But again, I'm no expert. You should always seek advice from an experienced grower or a reliable source.