How to cure Cannabis?

As a seasoned cultivator, I understand the importance of proper curing techniques in preserving the quality and potency of cannabis buds. The sole reason I have written this article on curing cannabis is to provide valuable information on the critical steps and techniques that cultivators need to know to ensure the best outcome for their crop. 

Through my years of experience working as a grower, budtender, and retailer, I have learned the ins and outs of this critical stage of the harvesting process and I am excited to share this knowledge with the wider community. Whether you are a seasoned cultivator or just starting out, I hope this article will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the curing process and its benefits. If you're specifically interested in unique cannabis products like Delta 8 flower, you'll find that the curing process is equally essential.

What is curing?

Curing cannabis buds is an important step in the harvesting process, which involves preserving the cannabinoids and terpenes found in the buds. This is done by placing the buds in airtight containers after they have been harvested and dried. The goal of curing is to maintain the potency and flavor of the buds by preventing oxidation and evaporation. It is a separate process from drying and is typically done after the buds have been dried to a certain level of moisture content. 

Why do we cure cannabis?

Improving Quality and Preservation

Curing cannabis is a critical step in the harvesting process that helps to improve the quality and preservation of the buds. This process involves removing byproducts such as sugars and chlorophyll, which can cause harsh and unpleasant tastes when smoked. Curing also helps to eliminate the risk of mold, mildew, and other bacteria, resulting in a smoother and cleaner smoking experience.

Enhancing Flavor and Aroma

Curing not only enhances the flavor of the buds but also preserves the delicate bouquet of terpenes, which are responsible for the unique aroma and taste of each cultivar. As these molecules are fragile, proper preservation through curing helps to maintain their potency and prevent them from degrading and evaporating.

Preserving Potency

In addition, curing helps to preserve the potency of the buds by reducing exposure to light, heat, and oxygen, which can cause active compounds like THC and CBD to degrade. Curing preserves these important compounds much more effectively than faster drying techniques.

Increasing Shelf Life

Finally, curing increases the shelf life of the buds, making them last for nearly two years when stored correctly. This not only protects the buds from the mold but also ensures that the flavor and potency remain unchanged over time.

How long does it take to cure cannabis?

The length of time it takes to cure cannabis can vary depending on several factors, such as the humidity, temperature, and the relative moisture content of the buds. On average, it takes between 7 to 14 days for a basic cure, although some cultivators will cure their buds for several weeks to achieve optimal results. Slow curing, which involves gradually reducing the humidity over a longer period of time, can produce a more desirable result compared to fast curing. Ultimately, the length of time required for curing will depend on the desired outcome and the specific curing method used.

What's the right humidity for curing cannabis?

The ideal drying environment for cannabis should have a stable temperature of 68°F (20°C) and a relative humidity level of around 50%. It's crucial to have a controlled and dry area for drying the buds to maintain optimal conditions. The aim is to dry the cannabis so that it reaches a humidity level that is as close as possible to the level at which you plan to cure or store the flower in the later stages of aging. This helps to preserve the potency, flavor, and aroma of the buds and ensures a smooth and satisfying smoking experience.\

Tools for Curing Cannabis

• Airtight containers: Glass jars with airtight lids are the most popular containers for curing cannabis. They provide an effective seal to keep the environment inside the container consistent and free from contaminants.

• Hygrometer: A hygrometer is a device used to measure relative humidity (RH). This tool is essential for monitoring the RH level inside the curing containers to ensure that it stays within the optimal range.

• Thermometer: A thermometer is used to measure the temperature inside the curing containers. This tool is essential for ensuring that the temperature remains consistent and within the optimal range for curing cannabis.

• Boveda Pack: Boveda Packs are two-way humidity control packs that are specifically designed to regulate the RH level inside curing containers. They are easy to use and maintain a consistent RH level, ensuring that the buds cure correctly.

• Humidor: A humidor is a specialized container designed for the preservation of cigars and cannabis. It's equipped with a humidification system that maintains a consistent RH level inside the container, making it an excellent option for curing cannabis.

Steps to Cure Cannabis

1.  Dry your buds: First, you need to dry your cannabis buds. This step removes the excess moisture from the buds, reducing the risk of mold and mildew. Place the buds in a well-ventilated area that is cool and dry with a temperature of 68°F (20°C) and a relative humidity level of around 50%. Leave the buds to dry for around 5-7 days.
   
   
2. Trim the buds: Once the buds have dried, remove any large fan leaves that are still attached to the buds. This will prevent the leaves from absorbing the terpenes and cannabinoids, leaving more for the buds themselves.
   
   
3. Store in airtight containers: Next, store the dried buds in airtight containers, such as glass jars with airtight lids. Ensure that the containers are not overfilled, as this will prevent proper air circulation and may lead to mold or mildew.
   
   
4. Monitor humidity and temperature: Use a hygrometer to monitor the relative humidity inside the containers and a thermometer to monitor the temperature. Keep the RH level around 55-62% and the temperature around 68°F (20°C).
   
   
5. Check daily: For the first week, check the containers daily to ensure that the RH level and temperature are staying consistent. You may need to add a Boveda Pack or adjust the environment to maintain optimal conditions.
   
   
6. Open the containers daily: For the first week, open the containers once a day for a few minutes to allow for air exchange. This helps to prevent mold and mildew and ensures that the terpenes and cannabinoids are properly preserved.
   
   
7. Wait for 2-3 weeks: After the first week, the frequency of opening the containers can be reduced, but it's essential to continue monitoring the RH level and temperature inside the containers. Wait for 2-3 weeks to allow the curing process to fully complete.
   
   
8. Store in a cool, dark place: Once the curing process is complete, store the jars in a cool, dark place. This will help to maintain the potency, flavor, and aroma of the buds for a longer time.

Conclusion

As someone who has been growing this wonder herb for over a decade, I can tell you that curing is a crucial part of the harvesting process. It helps to enhance the quality, flavor, and preservation of the buds. To ensure optimal results, it's important to maintain a temperature of 68°F (20°C) and a relative humidity level of around 50%.

In my experience, using airtight containers, hygrometer, thermometer, Boveda Pack, and humidor can make the curing process more effective. The steps involved include drying the buds, trimming them, storing them in airtight containers, monitoring humidity and temperature, checking the containers daily, and opening them daily for air exchange.

I hope this article has given you a comprehensive understanding of the curing process and the tools and steps involved. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to ask in the comment section.