Proper storage of cannabis is essential to preserving its potency, flavour, and overall quality. When cannabis is exposed to unfavourable conditions, such as excessive air, light, or fluctuating temperatures, it can quickly lose its moisture, leading to a harsh and less enjoyable experience. In this article, we’ll explore the top methods for storing cannabis to prevent it from drying out, ensuring that you can enjoy your cannabis at its best for as long as possible.
The Importance of Proper Cannabis Storage
Cannabis is a plant material that, like many other organic substances, is susceptible to environmental factors. These factors include humidity, temperature, light, and air exposure. When cannabis is not stored properly, it can dry out, which not only diminishes its flavour but also degrades its cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD. This degradation can lead to a less potent product, reducing its effectiveness.
Moreover, improper storage can also lead to the growth of mould and mildew, especially in environments with high humidity. These contaminants can be harmful to health if consumed, making it all the more important to store cannabis in a way that preserves both its quality and safety.
Understanding the Factors That Affect Cannabis Freshness
Humidity
Humidity is one of the most critical factors in cannabis storage. The ideal relative humidity (RH) for storing cannabis is between 55% and 65%. At this range, cannabis retains its moisture content, which helps preserve its trichomes, the tiny resinous glands that contain cannabinoids and terpenes.
If the humidity is too low, the cannabis will dry out, causing the trichomes to become brittle and break off, leading to a loss of potency and flavour. On the other hand, if the humidity is too high, it can create an environment conducive to mould and mildew growth.
Temperature
Temperature is another crucial factor. Cannabis should be stored in a cool, dark place, ideally at temperatures between 60°F and 70°F (15°C to 21°C). High temperatures can cause the cannabinoids and terpenes to degrade, leading to a loss of potency and flavor. Additionally, fluctuating temperatures can create condensation inside storage containers, which can encourage mold growth.
Light Exposure
Light, particularly ultraviolet (UV) light, can break down cannabinoids and terpenes, causing the cannabis to lose its potency over time. This is why cannabis should be stored in a dark place, away from direct sunlight or artificial light sources. Amber-coloured or opaque containers are often used to block out light and protect the contents inside.
Air Exposure
Air exposure can also lead to the degradation of cannabis. Oxygen can cause the cannabinoids to oxidize, leading to a reduction in potency. To prevent this, cannabis should be stored in airtight containers that minimize the amount of air that comes into contact with the plant material.
Top Methods for Storing Cannabis
1. Glass Jars with Airtight Seals
Glass jars are one of the most popular and effective methods for storing cannabis. These jars are non-reactive, meaning they won’t interact with the cannabis or affect its flavor. The airtight seals on these jars help to maintain the appropriate humidity levels inside, preventing the cannabis from drying out. Mason jars are a common choice for this purpose.
When using glass jars, it’s important to keep them in a cool, dark place to avoid exposure to light and heat. Amber-coloured glass jars are particularly useful because they block out UV light, providing an additional layer of protection.
2. Humidity Control Packs
Humidity control packs, such as those made by companies like Boveda or Integra, are small packets that can be placed inside your storage container to regulate the humidity levels. These packs are designed to maintain the ideal RH range for cannabis, ensuring that it stays fresh and doesn’t dry out.
These humidity packs are particularly useful in environments where the external humidity fluctuates, as they help to create a stable environment inside the storage container. They are available in different RH levels, so it’s important to choose one that matches the recommended humidity for cannabis storage.
3. Vacuum Sealing
Vacuum sealing is an excellent method for long-term cannabis storage. This process involves removing all the air from a storage bag before sealing it, which significantly reduces the amount of oxygen that can come into contact with the cannabis. By minimizing oxygen exposure, vacuum sealing helps to prevent the degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes.
However, it’s important to note that vacuum sealing can compress the cannabis buds, potentially damaging the trichomes. To avoid this, it’s best to use vacuum sealing for larger quantities of cannabis that you don’t plan to use immediately and to do so with care.
4. Cannabis-Specific Storage Containers
There are a variety of cannabis-specific storage containers available on the market that are designed to preserve the quality of cannabis. These containers are often made from materials that block out light and are equipped with airtight seals to prevent air exposure.
Some of these containers also come with built-in humidity control features, such as compartments for humidity packs or even integrated hygrometers that allow you to monitor the humidity levels inside the container.
5. Refrigeration and Freezing
While refrigeration and freezing are not typically recommended for short-term cannabis storage, they can be effective for long-term storage. Freezing cannabis can preserve its cannabinoids and terpenes for extended periods, but it also comes with risks. When cannabis is frozen, the trichomes can become brittle and may break off when the cannabis is handled.
If you choose to freeze cannabis, it’s essential to vacuum seal it first to prevent freezer burn and condensation when it is thawed. Thaw the cannabis slowly in a cool, dark place to minimize damage.
6. Silicone Containers for Concentrates
For cannabis concentrates, such as wax, shatter, or oil, silicone containers are a popular choice. Silicone is non-stick, making it easy to remove the concentrate without leaving any residue behind. These containers are also airtight, helping to preserve the potency and flavor of the concentrates.
However, like with flowers, it’s important to keep these containers in a cool, dark place to prevent degradation from light and heat.
7. Avoid Plastic Bags
While plastic bags are a common method for short-term cannabis storage, they are not ideal for long-term preservation. Plastic bags are not airtight, and they can allow the cannabis to dry out quickly. Additionally, plastic can generate a static charge that can attract the trichomes, leading to a loss of potency.
If you must use plastic bags, it’s best to only do so for very short-term storage and to transfer the cannabis to a more suitable container as soon as possible.
8. Dark, Cool Storage Spaces
Regardless of the container you use, where you store your cannabis is just as important. Always store cannabis in a dark, cool place, such as a cupboard, closet, or drawer. Avoid areas that are prone to temperature fluctuations or high humidity, such as kitchens and bathrooms.
9. Monitoring Humidity Levels
To ensure that your cannabis remains fresh, it’s a good idea to monitor the humidity levels in your storage containers. Hygrometers are inexpensive tools that can be placed inside your storage container to provide real-time readings of the humidity levels. By keeping an eye on these levels, you can make adjustments as needed to maintain the ideal environment for your cannabis.
In addition, exploring reputable sources like Herbies for tips on proper cannabis storage can further enhance your knowledge and help you avoid common mistakes.
Conclusion
Proper cannabis storage is essential for maintaining its quality, potency, and flavour. By understanding the factors that affect cannabis freshness, such as humidity, temperature, light exposure, and air exposure, you can take the necessary steps to prevent your cannabis from drying out. Whether you choose to use glass jars, humidity control packs, vacuum sealing, or specialized containers, the key is to create a stable environment that protects your cannabis from the elements. With the right storage methods, you can ensure that your cannabis remains fresh and enjoyable for as long as possible.
