Drying your cannabis properly is crucial to preserving its full flavor, aroma, and effects. Terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give your plant its characteristic scent and also shape the consumption experience, are especially important. Here's how to dry cannabis gently to preserve as many of these valuable terpenes as possible.
Why drying is important
If you don't dry freshly harvested cannabis properly, you risk mold growth, loss of flavor, and reduced potency. Drying ensures that excess moisture is removed without damaging the terpenes or cannabinoids. It's a delicate process that requires some patience, but it pays off in the end.
The best conditions for drying
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Temperature: Keep the temperature in the drying room at around 18-21°C. Higher temperatures cause the terpenes to evaporate, resulting in a loss of aroma. A stable, cool temperature protects the delicate compounds and maintains quality.
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Humidity: The relative humidity in the room should be between 55 and 60%. If the humidity is too low, the flowers will dry out too quickly, which can result in a harsh taste. If the humidity is too high, you risk mold growth. With a hygrometer, you can constantly monitor the room's humidity levels.
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Air circulation: Gentle air circulation is important for even drying. Make sure air isn't blowing directly onto the flowers, as this could accelerate drying. Use a small fan to gently circulate the air in the room without directly hitting the flowers.
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Darkness: Light, especially UV rays, degrade terpenes and cannabinoids. Therefore, be sure to dry your plants in a dark room to preserve their quality.
The correct drying time
Drying time depends on the size and density of the flowers, but typically takes between 7 and 14 days. You can test whether the flowers are completely dry by bending a branch. If it cracks slightly, the moisture content is ideally reduced. If the branch is still flexible, the flowers need more time.
The next step: Fermentation for optimal aroma development
After drying, the flowers are fermented, where they continue to mature in airtight jars. This step helps further refine the aroma and effects of the cannabis. Initially, open the jars for a few minutes daily to allow excess moisture to escape. After about 2-4 weeks of storage, the flowers are at their best—the flavor and terpenes are fully developed.
Conclusion
Properly drying and fermenting your cannabis requires patience and care, but it's key to a high-quality, flavorful end product. By closely monitoring the temperature and humidity in the drying room, as well as ensuring darkness and gentle air circulation, you'll preserve your plant's valuable terpenes. This ensures your cannabis not only smells pleasant but also tastes great.
