OK! So we've successfully ended our growing season (whoo hoo)...Now is the even more difficult part. We have to be patient! Curing cannabis is one of the most important steps in growing, and often the most overlooked. When your plants finish growing, the production of cannabinoids doesn’t stop. Making sure that you dry and cure them properly will help THC content increase for the maximum potency.
When you cure your cannabis, smell, flavor, and quality are all enhanced, giving you a quality nug. It also breaks down sugars and any minerals that are left so you don’t get a harsh smoke. Properly curing your cannabis can ensure it’s persevered, keeping cannabinoid content high and avoiding any issues with mold.
Dried, trimmed buds should be packed loosely in the jar until it is approximately 2/3 full. Lids should be sealed tightly, and containers placed in a cool, dark space.
The first week of dry curing is vital for success. You will need to open jars at least three times each day for about 5-10 minutes. This lets your buds breathe and replaces any lost oxygen inside the jar. Opening your jars a few minutes each day during the first week also allows any moisture to escape, ensuring your buds don’t develop mold.
After the first week, jars should only be opened every few days. Let them breathe for 5-10 minutes and then tightly replace the lid and return jars to their cool, dark curing space.
Letting your cannabis jar cure for 2-3 weeks is usually enough time to make sure your harvest is top quality but curing them for 4-6 weeks or longer can make your finished product even better. When you take the time to properly jar cure cannabis, you’re ensuring you end up with a quality finished product you can be proud of.