There’s nothing worse than wasting your cannabis stock through poor storage. It’s probably already happened to you: your weed has been in its jar for a few days, you’re sitting down in the evening on your way home… and just as you’re about to draw your first latte, a strange, damp smell hits your nostrils. Then, as you inhale the smoke, you notice that your weed no longer has any taste, and the effects are greatly diminished.
This probably means that your herb has been poorly preserved. But there are many factors that can affect the freshness of your weed. Whether it’s air quality, light, humidity or room temperature. It’s important to control all these factors so that your cannabis lasts. Remember, well-preserved cannabis buds can be kept in your home for over 12 months!
What are the Ideal Storage Conditions for cannabis?
Ideal temperature
The first and simplest step is to store cannabis at the right temperature. The optimal range to prevent mold and degradation of your weed is between 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C). Keeping cannabis within this temperature range helps maintain its potency, flavor, and overall quality.
Controlled humidity
The second step is to maintain a reasonable level of humidity. An ideal RH (Relative Humidity) is around 55-62% to maintain moisture balance. Do not keep it next to a refrigerator, freezer or sink, since kitchens are a great source of humidity. You can also add active control packs in your jar (like boveda packs).
Avoid light
UV rays strongly degrade the THC contained in cannabis. Terpenes, which are responsible for the aroma and flavor of cannabis, are volatile and sensitive to light. UV exposure can cause these compounds to break down or evaporate, leading to a loss of the plant’s scent and taste.
Air Exposure
Oxygen exposure dries out the cannabis, making it brittle and less enjoyable to consume. Using airtight containers helps preserve the quality and freshness of the cannabis for a longer period.
How to store my Cannabis?
The good old Glass Jar
To preserve your cannabis, we recommend the use of airtight jars. As we’ve already seen, these jars prevent oxygen and moisture from circulating with the weed, guaranteeing better preservation. If you want to keep your cannabis even longer, then opt for opaque jars, which will filter out light.
Vacuum sealed bags
Some smokers use vacuum-packed sachets to preserve their cannabis. These are even more effective than jars, but they have three disadvantages. The first is that these bags are for single use only. Once opened, they lose all their power to protect the weed. Secondly, pressure can damage cannabis over the long term. And thirdly, some plastic bags can leave cannabis with an unpleasant taste in some cases.
Can I keep my cannabis in the fridge?
No. We strongly advise against storing cannabis in a fridge or freezer. Many People might think it’s good to store cannabis in the fridge because cooler temperatures can slow down the degradation process of cannabinoids and terpenes. But fluctuations in temperature and humidity will damage the cannabis cells, making it unfit for consumption.
How long can I store Cannabis?
In short, keep your cannabis at a constant temperature and humidity. In a dry, dark place.
If you’re careful to track the date you bought your cannabis, check its condition regularly and use humidity controllers, your cannabis can be kept for up to two years. All without losing too much of its potency.
Over time, cannabinoids like THC will start to degrade into CBN, which can alter the effects of the plant, making it less potent and more sedative. So even with the best conservation possible, you won’t be able to preserve your weed for more than 2 years.
