How to store cannabis properly and what is its quality?
Proper storage of medicinal cannabis is key to maintaining its medicinal properties. Temperature, humidity, light and air can affect the stability and potency of cannabis. Storage in a cool, dry and dark environment, minimal handling, proper packaging and regular condition checks are important factors.
What is the shelf life of cannabis?
The shelf life of cannabis depends on a variety of factors such as how it is grown, stored and processed. Naturally, cannabis can degrade and lose its medicinal properties over time.
Once the plant is harvested and no longer receives nutrients from its root system, the cannabinoid biosynthetic pathways are disrupted and the degradation process begins. During this process, the cannabinoids and terpenes are broken down into other substances and subsequently change their psychoactive properties. For example, higher temperatures have the ability to decarboxylate THCA into the psychoactive THC and, over time, temperature and light can degrade THC into CBN.
This is not an exact science, and the conditions in which your flowers have been stored will determine the state of their cannabinoid content. If it has been wet for a year, for example, it's probably not worth even trying. However, if the cannabis has been in a cool, dry place, there may still be a significant amount of THC in the trichomes.
It is generally reported that under optimal storage conditions such as low temperature, dark environment and sealed containers, THC loss is around 1-2% per year. However, under unfavourable conditions, such as exposure to high temperature and light, THC loss can increase.
Ideal conditions for storage
Proper storage of cannabis is very important as it affects the quality, potency and shelf life of the medicinal substances contained in the plant. Inadequate storage can lead to oxidation, degradation and loss of active substances, which reduces the medicinal potential of cannabis. Maintaining optimal storage conditions, such as proper temperature, humidity, light and air, helps to keep the medicinal properties of cannabis intact. This includes storing in a dark and dry area, maintaining a stable temperature, minimising air access and protecting against excessive humidity.
Maintain the right temperature
The correct temperature for storing cannabis is between 15-25 °C. It is important to keep the temperature stable and minimise fluctuations.
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Choose a storage area that is protected from extreme temperatures. Avoid areas that are exposed to direct sunlight, heat sources or humidity.
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Use refrigeration: If possible, place cannabis in a refrigerator or freezer. However, before doing so, wrap it well in an airtight container to prevent condensation.
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Moisture control devices: Use a hygrometer or moisture bags to help maintain a stable humidity in the storage area. Maintain proper humidity to preserve cannabis potency.
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Insulating packaging: Choose appropriate packaging that insulates the cannabis from the ambient temperature. Vacuum bags or glass containers with a tight seal are a good solution for maintaining a stable temperature.
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Limit opening: try to minimize frequent opening of the storage space, which can cause temperature fluctuations. Allow the space to stabilize for a few minutes before handling stored cannabis.
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Temperature control: Regularly monitor the temperature of the storage area with a thermometer. If there are significant fluctuations in temperature, you can take action, such as moving the cannabis to a different location.
Keep an eye on the humidity
The optimum humidity for growing cannabis is generally between 40-60% for the growing phase and 40-50% for the flowering phase. Maintaining the right humidity is crucial for healthy plant growth and development.
- Moisture meter. This will allow you to react and take action early if the humidity increases or decreases too much.
- Water sources: you should have a properly functioning water source that allows you to accurately regulate the water supply to your grow space. Appropriate irrigation technology includes, for example, drip irrigation systems.
- Humidity controllers: humidity controllers such as dehumidifiers or humidifiers can be a suitable solution for maintaining optimum humidity. These devices help to maintain a stable humidity level in your growing space.
- Ventilation: A well thought-out ventilation system is essential to ventilate moist air and ensure fresh air circulation in the grow room. This helps to prevent excessive humidity and prevents mold and disease.
- Proper drainage: When growing cannabis, it is important to have proper drainage systems to prevent excess water from accumulating in the substrate. Excess water can lead to excessive moisture and cause problems with plant growth.
- Environmental control: Regularly monitor the temperature and humidity in the growing space and adjust conditions if necessary. Maintaining stable conditions helps minimize humidity fluctuations.
Limit the light supply to the cannabis plants
It is important to provide the right light conditions for proper cannabis storage. Cannabis should be stored in a place where it is not exposed to direct sunlight or strong artificial lighting. Light can cause degradation of medicinal substances, especially THC, and thus reduce the potency of cannabis products. It is recommended to store cannabis in dark, impermeable packaging, such as sealed glass or plastic containers. This will help protect the cannabis from the adverse effects of light and maintain its quality and potency for as long as possible.
Air
Proper air care is important to maintain the quality of the cannabis stored.
- Ventilation: Ensuring good airflow is key to reducing humidity and preventing mold. Ventilate the storage area regularly to ensure that air is not trapped and, more importantly, that it is fresh.
- Filtration: use a suitable installation of an air handling device or air filter that has induced unwanted odours from the space. This will help keep the cannabis fresh and preserve its quality.
- Protection from dirt: Keep dust, pollen, insects and other debris out of the storage area. Use resealable containers or packaging to minimize the ingress of these contaminants.
- Odor Control: If you are concerned about the smell that cannabis storage may emit, you may consider using air fresheners or absorbent materials that neutralize odors.
- Avoid storing cannabis near sources of strong odours or chemicals that could affect its quality. Keep it in a separate area if possible.
How to tell if cannabis is no longer good
There are several ways to tell if cannabis is no longer fit for use.
- Colour: Healthy cannabis is usually a deep green colour. If the colour of the cannabis turns brown, yellow or grey, it may indicate degradation.
- Smell: Fresh cannabis has a distinctive smell, often described as herbal, citrus or spicy. If the cannabis loses its pleasant smell or starts to smell unusual, it may be a sign of deterioration.
- Texture: Cannabis should be dry and soft to the touch. If the hemp is damp, crumbling or mouldy, it is unsuitable for use.
- Effects: If the cannabis no longer offers the expected effects, this may indicate a loss of potency. This may be due to the breakdown of THC or other active ingredients.
What is the best place to store cannabis?
There are several types of materials that are suitable for storing cannabis, as well as materials that you should avoid.
Great for cannabis storage:
- Glass containers: Glass containers are ideal for storing cannabis because they are opaque and impervious to light. Glass is also chemically inert, minimizing interaction with cannabis.
- Plastic containers: choose a dark plastic container that blocks out light. Avoid clear plastic containers as light can penetrate and degrade the cannabis.
- Vacuum bags: Vacuum bags are a great choice for removing air and minimizing cannabis oxidation.
Do not store cannabis in:
- Clear plastic bags: Clear plastic bags do not provide enough protection against light, which can lead to cannabis degradation.
- Paper packaging: Paper packaging does not protect the cannabis from light or moisture and can also allow air to pass through, which can affect the shelf life and quality of the cannabis.
- Metal cans with transparent lids: Cans with transparent lids can allow light to penetrate, which can cause degradation of the cannabis.
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The articles in the Cannabis Cultivation category are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to encourage the cultivation or distribution of cannabis as a drug, but to create awareness of medical cannabis.