Cannabis curing is a special process of the last stage of drying cannabis. In this situation, unnecessary moisture, sugar and other substances are removed from the cones. This stage should not be confused with fermentation. Curing improves the taste of hemp and prevents rotting processes. It is worth noting that curing can be carried out in different ways.
Please note that this article was created for informational purposes. We do not encourage the cultivation, storage and use of marijuana, as this is a crime under the law of Ukraine.
What types of cannabis curing exist
There are 3 different options for the duration and complexity of the treatment:
Classic curing
In this situation, you should prepare airtight containers in which the dried marijuana buds will be stored. An opaque plastic or porcelain container is best suited for this task. The easiest way is to paint a glass jar with dark paint. Curing should be carried out in a dark place at a temperature no higher than 21 degrees C. It is best to dry marijuana in a cellar or refrigerator.
For drying, you should perform the following steps:
1. Place the cones in a container and during the 1st week of curing, open the container 2 times a day for 20-30 minutes to evaporate the condensation. In addition, this will prevent the appearance of mold. 2. From the 2nd week of curing, open the container for 20-30 minutes only once a day.The process should be completed when the chlorophile disintegrates in the cones - they will be brown. This takes from 3 weeks to 2 months - it all depends on the specific variety.
Accelerated drying
If you need to prepare the buds as soon as possible, then accelerated curing is provided for this. In this situation, it is worth placing the marijuana in a dark place with minimal oxygen flow. For example, it could be a closet. The temperature regime should be the same as in the previous version - no higher than 21 degrees C.
The cones should be laid out on paper and left for at least 7 days. At the same time, it’s worth looking into the closet once a day and turning over the cannabis. This will ensure even drying. When the cones are crispy, the curing is complete.
Using this method, you can prepare marijuana in just 7 days. Please note that finished buds can be stored for no longer than 2 months.
Water curing
The presented curing method can be used immediately after harvesting. No drying required. The cannabis is simply placed in a jar and filled to the very top with distilled water. This container must be placed in a dark place at a temperature of no more than 21 degrees C. The water in the jar with cones must be changed daily to remove mineral salts from their surface.
To test the water, you can use TDS meter. It is he who will show when the curing can be completed - the device will show the salt concentration of almost 0. On average, this will have to spend no more than 14 days.
With the help of water curing it will be possible to maximize the taste and aroma of marijuana. The only drawback of the method is that you need to use a special device. After the water curing is completed, you need to dry the buds.
What should be the correct way to cure marijuana: tricks from experienced growers
If you are going to dry marijuana, then check its aroma daily - the appearance of a characteristic odor is the main sign of proper curing. If an ammonia aroma emanates from the container, this indicates mold. You will need to spread out the cones for additional drying or open the container every day for a longer period.
If the buds are very dry, then throw a lettuce leaf into the container. This will add moisture and increase the shelf life of the marijuana.
Conclusions: which curing method is better
Choosing a method for curing marijuana depends on how much time the grower has and whether special equipment is available. If you have a TDS meter, it is worth using the water curing method to ensure that the buds get the brightest flavor. The classic version is perfect for beginners. Accelerated curing is suitable for those people who want to prepare their marijuana buds in just 7 days.
