How to Keep Your Cannabis Flower Fresh
Buying quality flower is one thing, but keeping it fresh is even more essential. Cannabis is a plant, which means the moment after it is harvested, it does begin to degrade. Of course, cannabis’ drying process means flower can stay fresh for quite some time, but you’ll want to take all storage precautions possible in order to preserve its potency and taste.
Store at a Good Temperature
Cannabis is a plant, and like any other plant, temperature can make a huge difference in its longevity. Light and temperature control tend to go hand in hand, but we’ll address just temperature first. Generally speaking, the best temperature for extending shelf life is storing your weed below 70 degrees Fahrenheit and above 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
The Problem With Storing Cannabis Too Hot
High temperatures can lead to mold and mildew, especially when humidity is a factor. High temperatures can also change the effects and taste of flower because the temperature creates an arid environment that dries out flower and evaporates the terpenes that make your strain special.
The Problem With Storing Cannabis Too Cool
Lower temperatures aren’t quite as problematic, but they should still be avoided. Before being smoked, flower is filled with a molecule called tetrahydrocannabinolic acid, or THCA. When heated, this molecule is decarboxylated into tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. When stored at lower temperatures, it’s a little harder for THCA to be converted into THC via the addition of heat, which may lower its potency. Additionally, especially cold flower can force brittle trichomes to break off the plant once in a less-chilly environment.
Avoid Air Exposure and Light
While sunlight doesn’t give flower sunburns quite the same way it would a person’s skin, those same powerful UV rays are known for degrading cannabis flower. Keep in mind that light affects flower no matter the container used, and even an air-tight container can be problematic if the jar is left in the light. Also, avoid excessive air exposure. Exposure to oxygen causes cannabinoids to break down.
Avoid Humidity
Humidity can introduce water and moisture back into flower, accelerating the degradation of the material. Professionals suggest keeping your flower between 59% to 63% humidity, though measuring such a factor would take a special tool. In general, avoid taking your flower out in high-humidity environments. It can cause mold to grow in your flower if excessive. With that said, a too-dry environment can be bad too, creating brittle and fragile flower.
Choose a Proper Container
The best way to ensure your flower lasts as long as possible is by choosing a proper container. The best option to consider is a mason jar or something similar. Be sure to avoid plastic, as the ionic charge of the material can remove terpenes from your flower and reduce its potency. Glass is usually your best bet, if only because it’s the most airtight. Keep in mind that glass doesn’t stop light damage though!
Shop The Kind Center’s Cannabis Flower
Visit The Kind Center today for premium cannabis flower of every variety! We only sell products that we’d buy ourselves, and our experienced budtenders can help you find the ideal product for you. Shop our selection of cannabis online now!