A well-preserved flower can stay in good condition for months or go off in three weeks. The difference almost never lies in the initial quality, but rather in where and how it is stored.
The four enemies
It’s always the same factors: light, heat, oxygen and incorrect humidity levels. Each one plays its part. Ultraviolet light breaks down the cannabinoids. Heat evaporates the terpenes, which is the first thing you’ll notice because the aroma fades. Oxygen causes gradual oxidation. And humidity, if it goes to one extreme or the other, ruins the result in opposite ways.
Humidity is the key parameter
The range typically maintained is between 55 % and 62 % relative humidity inside the container.
- Below 50 % The flower dries out. It becomes brittle, crumbles to the touch, and the trichomes break just from handling it.
- Above 65 % You’re entering mouldy territory. This is a serious risk: a mouldy flower cannot be saved and must not be eaten.
Two-way humidity control sachets maintain that range without you having to do a thing. They’re inexpensive and tackle the problem at its root.
The container
A glass jar with an airtight lid. A standard preserving jar works perfectly.
Things to avoid:
- Plastic bags. They generate static electricity that pulls off the trichomes, and they don’t close properly either.
- Containers that are too large. Lots of air inside means lots of oxygen. Better a full jar than a half-full one.
- Metal and soft plastic, which can impart flavour.
Where to put it
In a dark, cool and stable place: a cupboard or a drawer will do. The important thing is that the temperature doesn’t keep rising and falling, so avoid the kitchen, the windowsill and anywhere near a radiator.
And no, the fridge isn’t a good idea. Every time you take the jar out, moisture condenses inside it, which is exactly what you don’t want. The freezer isn’t a good idea either: the extreme cold makes the trichomes brittle, and they fall off at the slightest touch.
It’s the little things that make a difference
- Only grind as much as you’re going to use. Once ground, the surface area exposed to the air increases significantly and the aroma fades quickly.
- Open the jar just enough. Every time you open it, the air inside is refreshed.
- Write the date on it. In three months’ time, you won’t remember it.
- Keep it out of the reach of children and pets, in a place that can be locked.
How to tell if things aren’t right any more
The smell is the first warning sign: if it smells of hay or has little smell at all, it has lost its terpenes. If you notice a musty or damp smell, or see greyish-white powder on the surface, do not consume it. Mould is not always visible to the naked eye, and if in doubt, it is best to discard it.
In Green Palace, in the 17 Carrer de la Sardana, Badalona, we have activities for members throughout the week.
You may also be interested in
- Cannabis terpenes: what they are and how they affect the aroma
- Cannabis glossary: 25 terms worth knowing
Would you like to get to know us? Find out our cannabis club in Badalona, look how to find us y Request your invitation. Access restricted to members aged 18 and over.
