Proper cannabis storage should become second-nature for any cannabis consumer and the practice will also keep your cannabis fresher, and more potent, for longer. Cannabis flower will degrade over time, due to a variety of factors, if it is not stored properly. Learn how to store cannabis correctly with our helpful tips below.
What Type of Container is Best to Store Cannabis in?
Firstly, cannabis is best stored in a container that is airtight.
Oxygen will damage and degrade the cannabis flower over time if it is able to. Using an airtight container is considered best-practice when storing cannabis.
Cannabis that has been dried out from oxygen is often harsh to smoke. Dried-out cannabis will contain more of the CBN cannabinoid (a heavy sedative). If you are consuming cannabis through smoking, it is advised to not let your cannabis buds become exposed to too much oxygen. If you find that your cannabis buds have dried out from exposure to air, it is not useless, this cannabis can still be used for edibles and infusions.
The best type of container to store cannabis in is a glass, airtight container with a silicone seal. If you do not store your cannabis in an airtight container, you may be losing potency, flavour, and terpenes. Learn more about choosing an appropriate cannabis storage container below.
How to Store Cannabis Correctly: Temperature
The temperature in which cannabis is stored will also have an effect on the quality and potency of your desired flower.
Cannabis should be stored between 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit (21-26 degrees Celsius)
Any hotter or cooler than this may have an adverse effect on the potency and flavour of the cannabis being stored.
Store Different Strains Separately
Cannabis strains all have different levels of cannabinoids and terpenes, many of which are used for medical purposes.
If cannabis strains are separated and stored properly, they will retain their unique characteristics and qualities with regard to terpenes and cannabinoids. If you are a cannabis consumer who uses different strains for different purposes, then this practice is a no-brainer.
Cannabis may have been cured, stored, or dried improperly before arriving in the consumer’s hands. Storing different strains together with different handling methods, drying, and curing, is not recommended; cannabis can always be mixed up in a grinder if need be.
Store Cannabis Away From Direct Light Sources
Cannabis should be stored out of any direct light, including household lighting and the sunlight. Cannabis, like any other dried flower, will degrade significantly if it is left in any direct light for an extended period of time.
Valuable cannabinoids and terpenes may be lost through this light degradation and begin to fade from the cannabis. Storing cannabis properly will help to stop this process from taking place.
A dresser drawer, out-of-reach cupboard, or bookshelf (out of any direct light) are all suitable storage spots for cannabis.
How to Store Cannabis Correctly: Humidity
Cannabis plants, while they are growing, are incredibly sensitive to changes in humidity. Dried and cured cannabis buds are also prone to degradation if exposed to a humidity level that is not ideal.
Humidity levels for cannabis storage should be kept between 59 and 63 relative humidity.
How to Choose a Suitable Cannabis Storage Container
Glass Cannabis Containers – Glass has no odour which allows for the natural smell of cannabis to become the focal point. Plastic and other materials can leave cannabis smelling like whatever it has been stored in. The full flavour of cannabis will be preserved in a glass container and there is a noticeable difference between glass and plastic. If possible, amber, or dark, glass is preferred by many cannabis consumers.
Airtight Cannabis Containers – Look for cannabis storage containers that have silicone seals to ensure airtightness.
The Size of a Cannabis Storage Container – Storing cannabis in a container that is too large can expose your buds to unnecessary oxygen, which can degrade them. Transferring cannabis to smaller containers when needed is a good practice for cannabis consumers to follow. The less oxygen in the container, the better.
Cannabis Storage: Tips & Hints
Remove Cannabis From Any Plastic Packaging (Baggies, Containers Etc) and Use an Appropriate Container
Never Store Fresh Cannabis in the Fridge or Freezer
Do Not Use a Cigar Humidor for Cannabis
Cannabis Should Be Kept Away From Appliances, or Anything That Gives Off Heat
Cannabis Storage: The Curing Process
If you are a cannabis grower, you will know about the curing process. This process involves storing dried (but not cured) cannabis buds in an airtight container for 10 to 14 days in a cool, dark place. Curing is essential for better-tasting and more potent, homegrown cannabis.
The curing process also involves “burping” the cannabis buds, which is when the container is opened for 15-30 minutes per day over the entire curing process. This process also allows for a daily mould check as well as allowing a small amount of fresh oxygen to cure the cannabis buds.
To learn more about cannabis curing, see Curing Buds for Best Taste on our partner site, Percys Grow Room.
Learning how to store cannabis correctly should be considered a foundational piece of knowledge in any cannabis consumer’s arsenal. Cannabis, like other plant material, is sensitive to many different factors that may negatively impact its quality and potency.
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