“What relative humidity should I cure my cannabis to?”
The post-harvest process is a critical step in maximizing the quality of your cannabis.
It involves drying the flowers slowly and evenly then stabilizing moisture with your cure, allowing the chlorophyll to break down and the buds to develop the unique flavors and aromas we associate with cannabis.
The ideal moisture content varies depending on your intended use.
And thankfully, Droidcure makes it incredibly easy to select your target relative humidity based on what you want to do:
How to Cure Cannabis for Rosin
For pressing cannabis buds to extract rosin, a slightly higher moisture content is beneficial. The moisture prevents the extracted oil from wicking back into the plant material, ensuring that the resin remains concentrated and is easier to extract. Set your Droidcure to around 64-66% humidity to aid in the extraction of THC and other cannabinoids.
Additional tips for pressing:
- Use a high-quality rosin press
- Apply even pressure to the buds
- Avoid over-squishing, as this can result in lower-quality rosin
- You can rehydrate your flower if it’s already below 64-66% RH
- If you’re in the MN Twin Cities metro area, consider renting a rosin press from Reefer Rentals for easy, hassle-free pressing. (We’ve rented their press before and can vouch for them!)
Curing for Everyday Use
If you’re planning to store your cured cannabis in a jar for everyday smoking or vaping, a slightly lower moisture content is ideal. This prevents the buds from becoming too sticky or getting moldy.
Aim for a target cure of around 60-63%. This will ensure that the cannabis is dry enough to smoke or vape smoothly, while still retaining their flavor and potency.
Additional tips for everyday use:
- Store cured cannabis in a cool, dark place for the best preservation
- Use an airtight jar to prevent moisture loss, like a stainless steel or glass jar
- Open your jar as little as possible, and for only short periods of time
- Consume within a reasonable timeframe to maintain optimal quality
Curing for Long-Term Storage
For long-term storage, it’s essential to keep the moisture content as low as possible, within reason. This helps to prevent the breakdown of cannabinoids and terpenes, preserving the quality of the cannabis over time. Set your Droidcure to 57-59% humidity.
A lower moisture content also helps prevent the breakdown of cell walls, ensuring that your cannabis remains safe and potent for years to come. Use oxygen absorbers in the storage container to minimize oxidation and keep your flower close to perfect for a very long time.
With Droidcure, you also have the option to rehydrate your flower back up to your ideal relative humidity later on.
Additional tips for long-term storage:
- Consider freezing cured cannabis for extended storage
- Periodically check for signs of degradation or mold
- Use vacuum-sealed bags or containers for optimal preservation
Closing Thoughts
Remember, these are general guidelines, and the optimal moisture content may vary depending on the specific strain, growing conditions, and your personal preferences. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you!
