How to Keep Your Cannabis Fresh
Tips for Long-lasting Storage
Proper cannabis storage is important for preserving the quality of your cannabis over time. Without proper storage, cannabis can become dry, brittle, and lose its flavour and potency. Furthermore, improper storage can lead to the growth of mold or mildew, which can be harmful to those consuming cannabis. Proper storage will also help keep your cannabis away from children and pets.
Let’s take a look at the ideal conditions for storing cannabis, and how to keep your flower fresh.
1. Store in an airtight container
Using airtight containers helps keep out light, air and moisture, which are all detrimental to the shelf life of cannabis. Storing containers should be made of a non-porous material that will not react with the cannabis. Glass mason jars are the best and most popular option, as they provide an airtight seal and do not react with the cannabis.
Plastic bags and containers can also be used, but they are not as effective as glass at keeping out oxygen and moisture. If you plan to store your cannabis for an extended period, consider using a vacuum-sealed container to help preserve its freshness.
2. Keep in a cool, dry place
Once you have the ideal container, it is time to store it in a cool, dry place. The ideal temperature range for storing cannabis ranges between 10-20 degrees Celsius and 50-68 degrees Fahrenheit. It is important to store the containers in a cool, dry place, as exposure to heat and moisture can cause the THC and other cannabinoids to degrade.
3. Use humidity packs
Humidity packs are a great way to maintain the proper humidity levels of dried cannabis. They are small packets containing a moisture-absorbing material, such as silica gel or clay. These packs can be placed inside a container with the cannabis, to keep the humidity at the desired levels. By controlling the humidity, you can help maintain the terpenes and cannabinoids in the cannabis, which will help preserve the flavour and effects.
If you plan to store your cannabis for more than six months, consider investing in a humidity-controlled storage system. This will ensure your cannabis remains at the optimal humidity level.
Many licensed cannabis producers will include humidity packs in their dried flower products. Thumbs Up recently released its half-ounce (14g) dried flower bag of Pink Cookies x Kush Mints. This strain is high in THC and terpene content, so the added humidity packs ensure consumers receive the product in the original quality it was intended.
4. Keep away from direct sunlight
It is essential to keep dried cannabis away from direct sunlight, to ensure it does not degrade or lose its potency. Sunlight can cause the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds in cannabis to degrade and break down, reducing the quality of the product.
Additionally, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause the cannabis to become dry, brittle, and more susceptible to mold and mildew. Store it in a dark place, such as a cupboard or drawer.
Final Tips
In addition to these best-storing practices, keep the container of cannabis away from other odorous substances, such as spices, coffee, or even other cannabis strains. This will help prevent your cannabis from absorbing these aromas.
When stored under ideal conditions, you can expect dried cannabis can last up to one year without degrading. Follow these tips and have fresh, long-lasting cannabis at your disposal.