First off thank you to this sub and sites like growweedeasy. This is my first grow in 20 plus years and I couldnt be more proud. Lots of therapy hours have gone into these baby girls and I'm super excited. Now on to why I'm here.

Yesterday I noticed a couple buds on one plant have started to rot/dry out. I'm on the verge of panic but before I do I'm seeking advice from the elders. Let me give you a quick breakdown.

1. Central California.

2. Transplanted outdoors May 1.

3. King Louis XIII

4. Been budding about 5-6 weeks.

5. Last week I started cutting back some fan leaves to allow proper airflow. Looking back now that was probably not wise.

6. Same day I cut Fan leaves I did a proper feeding of Mission

7. Saturday & Sunday Temps jumped to a stupid fucking 106 degrees. Plants are in full sun.

8. Plants were watered friday then medium watering on Sunday.

9. Monday started noticing the rot/drying of buds on the King Louis.

Personally I dont want to believe its rot but fuck what else can it be? Heat Stress? Ready For Harvest?

Anyways please see pics. I look forward to any help this community can provide and it is greatly appreciated.

http://imgur.com/a/LIl1t

EDIT: Noticed caterpillar droppings on leaves and thought it was dirt Initially. Also have some holes in leaves. Im 75% sure its Caterpillars but wont know for ceratin until I inspect closely.

If Catepillars what should I do?

What is worse catepillars or bud rot?