Marijuana is not exactly cheap. You may buy in bulk to get a discount. But if you’re a light to moderate user, you won’t consume it right away. This begs the question, what are the best ways to store marijuana? This article will tell you all you need to know.
Temperature and Humidity are Critical Factors
Temperature and humidity are crucial factors in the best ways to store marijuana. Heat will make the terpenes in cannabis evaporate. The plant won’t be as aromatic and flavorful. If the cannabis gets too cold, its trichomes, which protect the plant’s terpenes and flavonoids, will break off.
Humidity is another factor to consider. If the plant is exposed to humidity, it will grow mold and mildew. Keep cannabis out of the refrigerator as it is a humid environment.
For best results, store your plant at temperatures between 60- and 68 degrees Fahrenheit and a humidity level between 55% and 65%.
Best Ways to Store Marijuana By Product
Best Ways to Store Marijuana Flower
Store the flower in an airtight container such as a mason jar. Airtight is best as it eliminates oxidation that changes a plant’s chemical profile. Note, a plastic baggie is not airtight.
The jar you choose should not be too big or too small. If the jar is too big, it will circulate excess air and the plant will degrade. Too little space can be a problem as well.
Fill the jar 2/3 for optimal airflow.
The flower should be kept away from sunlight. Like heat, UV rays degrade cannabis. Like many other products, cannabis is best stored in a cool, dry place.
Best Ways to Store Marijuana Concentrates
Cannabis concentrates don’t contain moisture, so they are less susceptible to mold and mildew than flower. However, they are still sensitive to heat and oxygen. Storage solutions include:
- Airtight, opaque containers: An airtight, opaque container will keep the concentrate safe from light and oxygen. The containers are non-stick, easy to clean, and won’t absorb outside smells.
- Parchment paper: Wrap your concentrate in parchment paper and place it in an airtight container. The paper is non-stick. It will protect the product from heat and exterior odors.
- Inside the Refrigerator or Freezer: Concentrates aren’t as susceptible to mold and mildew growth as compared to other cannabis products. Store them in the fridge or freezer in an airtight container to preserve their terpenes and protect them from degradation.
Note: Do not store your concentrates in a plastic container. Plastic is porous so it can absorb smells and allow chemicals to permeate the product.
Best Ways to Store Marijuana Vapes
Vape pens and cartridges contain liquid and have metal components that are susceptible to heat and humidity. Heat can damage the battery and cause the liquid to degrade. Humidity can damage the metal parts.
One of the best ways to store marijuana vapes is in a cool, dry environment. The atmosphere will produce optimal potency.
Turn the vape off when you are not using it. Doing so will preserve the battery and prevent accidental leakage.
Clean the vape regularly to prevent the buildup of liquids and oils.
Best Ways to Store Marijuana Edibles
Edibles are susceptible to mold and mildew, but you can keep products in the freezer or refrigerator for a limited time. Here are some of the best edible storage solutions.
- Silicone Containers: Silicone containers are ideal for short-term storage. Choose a container that’s appropriately sized to prevent excess airflow.
- Airtight Containers: Airtight containers will keep your edibles safe from oxygen. Wrap the products in parchment paper, seal them in a sandwich bag, and place them in the container.
- Glass Jars: Mason jars and other types of glass jars are typically airtight. If your edibles are sticky, wrap them in parchment paper before storing them.
- Freezer: Many edibles can be kept in the freezer for several months before losing their flavor and potency. Defrost them before eating them to ensure they taste their best.
How Long Can You Store Cannabis?
If you follow the guidelines for the best ways to store marijuana, your product can last 6 months to 1 year. After that, it will begin losing its potency as follows:
- 26% THC loss after 2 years
- 34% potency loss after 3 years
- 41% potency loss after 4 years
How Can You Tell if Your Weed is Still Good?
The smell is the biggest indicator of the weed’s freshness. If it’s past its prime, it will smell different or it may lose its aroma entirely. Some old weeds will smell and taste harsh.
The weed’s appearance will also indicate its freshness. Old weed may feel crumbly or spongey.
Old weed has been known to give some people a headache, and it won’t get you as high. But it shouldn’t produce serious adverse health effects unless it has grown mold.
How Can I Check if My Weed is Moldy?
Mold on weed is difficult to spot. If you look closely, you may see small, white powdery, fuzzy spots. The weed may also have a musty smell and an odd taste.
Even relatively new weed may have mold. A study conducted by researchers at the University of California, Davis found bacteria and mold on 20 cannabis samples purchased through dispensaries and growers in Northern California.
Moldy weed won’t produce serious health effects in most people. It may lead to nausea, vomiting, and coughing. But individuals with weakened immune systems can become seriously ill or may even die if they smoke weed with fungi or bacteria.
These best ways to store marijuana ensure you will get the most out of your weed products. What storage methods do you use to keep your weed fresh?
