How to store your cannabis properly
Proper storage of your cannabis buds is important for several reasons, including the following
- Improving the shelf life of your plant material.
- Maintaining the integrity of trichomes (cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids and
- Enhancing the flavour as the cannabis cures over time.
Where to Store Cannabis
Keep your weed in a cool, dark, dry area out of direct sunlight, as ultraviolet (UV) rays can degrade the cannabinoids and terpenes.
Mildew and moulds thrive in high temperatures between 77°F and 86°F. The likelihood of mould or mildew growing on cannabis rises if the area is damp or has high ambient moisture levels. Avoid keeping your cannabis near heat sources or electrical appliances.
Also, keep your weed away from water sources, including household pipes or taps. Ultimately, avoid extreme temperatures, whether high or low, when storing cannabis and aim for a relative humidity range of between 55%-62%
Storage Containers
The best storage containers are glass jars or ceramic containers with an airtight seal. Only fill your container three-quarters of the way up. This allows oxygen to help cure the cannabis and prevent mould.
Have a few jars of several sizes to hand. This allows you to transfer your flower to smaller containers as it is used up. This stops your bud from drying out and keeps the trichomes and flavour intact.
Mason Jars
Glass mason jars are ideal cannabis storage jars. They have wide top openings and rubber seals that clasp shut tight, creating an airtight vacuum seal, preventing oxidation and reducing the smell of cannabis substantially .A ceramic container with an airtight lid is equally suitable for a glass mason jar.
Vacuum-Sealed Plastic
Plastic bags are not great for storing cannabis. This is because the trichomes can stick to the plastic. Vacuum-sealing prevents air from getting to it and can protect its potency for 12-18 months. Vacuum sealing also reduces the smell of cannabis, so it is ideal for long-term storage. You should keep vacuum-sealed cannabis out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place. Once opened, transfer your weed to a mason jar or equivalent.
Freezing Cannabis
Suppose you vacuum seal a bag of cannabis and store it in a freezer. In that case, you will massively slow down the natural process of decarboxylation. This will help the cannabis retain its potency for one to two years. The cannabis must be vacuum sealed before freezing; otherwise, air can enter the bag, resulting in freeze burn.
The disadvantage of freezing cannabis is that it may become very brittle, causing trichome loss. The bag must be adequately sealed as moisture may enter the pack, leading to mould. Keeping water out also helps when thawing your weed.
Proper storage will enhance your cannabis experience and reduce any waste. Store it properly, and it may taste even better 12 months later!
Multiple factors suggest that cannabis “peaks” between 3-12 months of curing. Potency and quality are considered to fall after 18 months. By storing your weed in optimum conditions, you will get the best experience for the longest time.
More on this topic from Soft Secrets:
Top tips on Harvesting, Drying and Curing
The importance of drying and curing
L
Liz Filmer
