How to Store Cannabis and Keep It Fresh
It is essential to know how to keep cannabis fresh for extended periods if you plan on storing it beyond a few weeks. Then,
How do you store weed for long-term?
How long can cannabis be stored without losing its quality?
Will extended storage impact its potency?
This guide will cover everything about keeping cannabis long term; this consists of best containers and ways of maintaining its freshness.
Table of Contents
Why Proper Storage Matters?
The cannabis plant is a delicate one. This implies that unfavorable environmental conditions like light, heat, air, or humidity can interfere with its quality. It also means cannabinoids and terpenes become exposed to the plant’s effects and flavors thus degrading. Consequently, this leads to reduced potency of the product as well as taste reduction which has an impact on your overall experience.
For example, when cannabis is exposed to air, it may oxidize resulting in the breakdown of THC into CBN, a less psychoactive compound. Similarly, excessive moisture causes mold growth making it unsafe for consumption. As such it is necessary to understand how these factors is crucial for effective storage.
The Best Long-Term Cannabis Storage Solutions
Here are the following storage solutions that can keep your cannabis fresh for long-time.
Choose the Right Storage Containers
The type of container you choose will greatly affect how fresh your cannabis remains. Glass jars are highly recommended for keeping cannabis fresh. They should have airtight seals to protect against air and moisture
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Benefits of Using Glass Jars
Airtight Seal: Glass jars prevent air from entering, reducing the risk of oxidation.
Odor Control: These jars prevent the strong smell of cannabis, making storage more discreet.
Preservation of Trichomes: Glass jars do not produce static, which can strip away the trichomes, the tiny hairs on the cannabis that contain most of its cannabinoids.
Avoid using plastic containers because they let air pass through and create static, which may damage your cannabis quality.
Temperature Control for Cannabis Storage
Temperature, however, is another important factor in proper preservation of cannabis. High temperatures are known to lead to degradation of cannabinoids like THC. Consequently, your weed will become less effective and its potency will diminish as a result. The recommended temperature range for storing marijuana is between 15 C-21 C (60-70 F).
Tips for Maintaining the Right Temperature
Avoid Heat Sources: Place your cannabis away from direct sunlight, ovens, heaters or other sources of heat.
Select a Cool Storage Area: A dark and cool closet or drawer works great.
Use a Thermometer: Consider placing a thermometer in your storage area to monitor the temperature, ensuring it remains within the ideal range.
Cool environments can significantly extend the shelf life of your cannabis.
Humidity Levels: Keeping Cannabis Fresh
Humidity is crucial for preventing your cannabis from drying out or growing mold. An ideal relative humidity (RH) level for cannabis storage ranges from 55% - 65%. Your herb can dry if the air moisture content decreases making it have a harsh smoke with reduced flavor. Contrarily, excessive humid conditions can stimulate development of mold rendering the product unsuitable for use.
Use Humidity Control Packs
Inside containers, there are various humidity control packs that allow optimum moisturization. These packs are provided in different RH rates and their purpose is to maintain most suitable humidity levels on your herbs. Just place a pack inside your glass jar to keep your cannabis fresh over time.
Protect Cannabis from Light Exposure
Light exposure, especially ultraviolet light (UV), can degrade cannabis. It leads to a decrease in potency and taste. UV light breaks down the cannabinoids and terpenes, which reduces the effectiveness of your cannabis. So, you must keep your cannabis in a dark place, away from any light sources.
Best Practices for Light Protection
Use Non-transparent Containers: Dark or non-transparent glass jars are the most suitable for light prevention.
Keep in a Dark Place: This could be a cupboard, drawer, or any other dark area that is inaccessible to light.
Avoid Direct Sunlight: Never leave cannabis in direct sunlight, even briefly, as it can cause rapid degradation.
Long-Term Storage: The Benefits of Vacuum Sealing
Vacuum sealing is an excellent solution if you need to buy cannabis on a large scale from a reliable cannabis store in DC or store it for long periods. A vacuum-sealed bag is going to remove air from the equation which slows down this process significantly. Although this method is not necessary for everyday use, it works well for long-term storage.
How to Vacuum Seal Cannabis
Get Quality Sealer: A proper vacuum sealer should ensure a tight seal, keeping air and moisture out.
Store Properly: Even after vacuum sealing, store cannabis in a cool, dark place to maintain its quality
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By using vacuum sealing, you can preserve the flavor of your marijuana months or even years after purchase.
Shop From a Trusted Washington DC Cannabis Store!
Proper storage ensures the freshness and potency of your cannabis products. These simple yet effective storage tips will ensure that your cannabis remains enjoyable and effective, no matter how long you need to store it.
Buying Cannabis from a legal store is the only way to ensure your safety. That's what Teez DC is here for! We are located in Washington, DC that offers you a variety of cannabis products at competitive prices. Every time you buy from us will be a memorable experience! Contact us today!