what is it and how is it done properly

After explaining the different methods to dry cannabis buds, with this article, GB The Green Brands wants to continue on about curing weed. We are going to address different ways of curing weed buds; as well as the proper lighting, heat and humidity parameters of the storage space in order to obtain buds with the desired flavors, scents and effects.

Index

What is Curing Weed ?

Some growers believe that once the marijuana is dry, buds are ready for consumption. The truth is that if you wish to boost cannabis’ organoleptic properties, it’s best to cure the flowers. The process of drying buds is more centered in removing water and humidity and in increasing the resistance against fungi and other pathogens. However, smoke will still be a bit harsh. Therefore, curing marijuana is very convenient to degrade chlorophyll in order for the weed to produce a soft and pleasant smoke.

The drying process generates different compounds that leave a nasty after taste. By curing the flowers, such nastiness gets degraded and flavors turn delicious without interfering with terpenes. It also promotes cannabinoid concentration, producing stronger and more intense effects. However, if the curing process lasts longer than just a few months; THC will turn into CBN and sensations will become less psychoactive but more bearable.

Other factors to take into account when it comes to curing marijuana is that this process increases mold resistance even more. Knowing the exact moment to start the curing process can be a bit tricky. Mainly pay attention to the branches; when they can break easily without making a cracking noise, it’s time to separate the buds from the branches.

How to Cure Weed

Hereunder, we are going to detail some advice regarding curing marijuana. It’s important to follow certain guidance and meet environmental parameters in order for the buds to concentrate as much cannabinoids, terpenes and resin as possible; and thus, improve their flavors, aromas and effects.

How long does it take to cure cannabis

There isn’t a concrete length of time that indicates how long should marijuana buds be cured for. Having said this, curing cannabis is like wine, a slow process that requires patience and tranquility. If under-cured, the cannabinoid content will decrease and the smoke will be harsh. Our recommendation is to cure dry buds for anything between 4-8 weeks, in order to find the perfect balance between flavors, fragrances and psychoactive effects.

Humidity and perfect temperature to cure marijuana

Maintaining proper humidity and temperature levels during the entire curing process is key to obtaining great quality buds. It’s important for relative humidity levels to range between 60-65% in the curing room. This increase, in comparison to the drying process, allows for the flowers to hydrate while minimizing the risk of fungi infestations (botrytis and oidium). Store these recipients in a dark, fresh and dry room with an environmental temperature of 20 ºC.

Airtight containers, a great solution for curing weed buds

Once the buds are satisfyingly dry, it’s time to separate them from the stems and introduce them in glass airtight containers, such as an Airtight Dank Glass Jar With Hygrometer. These recipients are, without a doubt, the most common method for curing marijuana buds. They offers great results and are quite affordable, economically speaking. Apart from glass, the recipients can be made of plastic, metal and ceramic, but either way, it is best if they are opaque to preserve them from light.

On the other hand, there are more alternatives for curing marijuana. All of them capable of retaining humidity until chlorophyll rots and starts evaporating. Some brands sell specific containers for this purpose, such as TighVac or Vacuum Set and you can also buy special wooden boxes and humidity regulator sachets, like Boveda 62% Humidity Regulator For Curing.

Advice on curing weed buds

When using airtight containers, it’s convenient to fill them up only to 75% of their capacity, leaving the top part minimally aired. Check the contents daily to detect mold or ammonia scents, which would mean that the buds aren’t drying properly. Open the containers daily for 5 or 10 minutes in a place without much moisture. Repeat this process every day for the first 10-15 days, afterwards, opening them every 2 or 3 days will be enough.

As previously mentioned, the curing process could take between 4-8 weeks, depending on the variety and the curing area. It could even take a few months but if it gets past 6 months, the quality of the product could be seriously compromised, especially regarding its effects.

Another tip to sort out buds that got excessively dry during the curing process (which could lead to the loss of organoleptic properties) is to mix them with buds that aren’t cured. As they’ll be humid, the hygrometer values will even out with the rest of the flowers. To control humidity and temperature levels more precisely, you can opt for thermohygrometers. They will be a great help to know exactly when to open or close the lids during this process.

Drying and curing are both transcendental moments when it comes to giving a marijuana grow the final touch. Once we manage to properly feed and care for our marijuana plants; it is time to obtain a great quality dry material that offers the best flavors, effects and aroma of each variety. Follow our tips and find out by yourself how buds’ quality increases with every crop.