Is there any way i can tell if a plant is ready to harvest OTHER than the magnifying glass method... or is this the best way just wondering
No. Magnification is the best way. It's all opinion on when but for a beginner it's best to start flushing when the trichomes begin to cloud up or turn amber. Then 1-2 weeks of water only, sometime in there the trichs will get half or 3/4 full of milky white or amber and that is when you cut. But it's better to give it another week rather than harvest too early. Best due some research on your specific strain. Peace
I think its a combo of all things. Look in the harvest section...good example of that. Under the scope, how the plant looks etc.