Drying cannabis is a critical step before curing to preserve flavor, potency, and overall quality. Here’s a guide to properly dry cannabis:
1. Harvesting
• Trim away large fan leaves but leave sugar leaves intact, as they help protect the buds during drying.
• Cut branches into manageable sizes or harvest individual buds, depending on your drying space.
2. Prepare the Drying Space
• Temperature: Keep the space at 60-70°F (15-21°C).
• Humidity: Aim for 55-65% relative humidity.
• Airflow: Ensure good air circulation but avoid direct airflow on the buds to prevent uneven drying.
• Darkness: Keep the room dark, as light degrades cannabinoids and terpenes.
• Odor Control: Use carbon filters or air purifiers if needed.
3. Hanging or Racking
• Hanging: Use strings or hangers to suspend branches upside down. This method is ideal for preserving bud structure.
• Racking: Place smaller buds on drying racks lined with mesh for even airflow. Avoid overcrowding.
4. Drying Process
• Duration: Typically 7-10 days, depending on the environment and bud density.
• Check Progress: Test dryness by bending small stems. They should snap rather than bend when the buds are ready.
• Avoid Overdrying: Ensure buds are not brittle, as this can degrade quality.
5. Monitoring
• Use a hygrometer to measure humidity levels.
• Inspect for mold or mildew daily, especially in dense buds.
6. Ready for Curing
Once dried, the buds should feel dry to the touch but retain slight elasticity. At this stage, transfer them to jars or containers for the curing process.
Check out our other tips on curing!
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