How to properly store marijuana?

Proper storage of cannabis, both recreational and medical, is key to preserving its quality, freshness and medicinal properties. Improper conditions can lead to loss of potency, aroma and even mold growth, which is a health risk, especially for those with compromised immune systems.

In this article, we provide detailed tips on how to store marijuana to enjoy its full benefits for a long time. You will learn what factors affect the quality of the dried product, what containers to choose and how to avoid the most common mistakes.

Temperature: the key to preserving freshness

Temperature plays a key role in marijuana storage. Experts recommend keeping it between 15-25°C to prevent degradation of cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD, and terpenes, which are responsible for aroma and therapeutic effects.

Temperatures above 25°C can accelerate the decomposition of active ingredients and promote mold growth, especially in humid environments.

On the other hand, too low a temperature, such as in the refrigerator, can dry out the dried food and damage the delicate trichomes, which contain valuable chemical compounds.

Storage at a stable, moderate temperature, such as in a cool cabinet, is ideal. Avoid areas prone to temperature fluctuations, such as the kitchen or bathroom, to ensure optimal conditions for your cannabis.

Moisture: Balance for quality

Humidity is as important as temperature. The optimal humidity level for marijuana storage is 55-65%. Too low a humidity level makes the dryness dry and brittle, leading to a loss of terpenes and cannabinoids, thus weakening the aroma and effect.

On the other hand, too much humidity increases the risk of mold and bacteria growth, which can be harmful, especially for people who use marijuana for medical purposes. To monitor humidity, it's a good idea to get a hygrometer to precisely control conditions.

In humid climates, humidity regulators can be used to help maintain the proper moisture level in the container. Checking the humidity regularly will ensure that your cannabis stays fresh and safe.

Light: UV protection

Light, especially UV radiation, is one of marijuana's greatest enemies. Prolonged exposure to sunlight or artificial UV sources can lead to the degradation of cannabinoids and terpenes, significantly weakening the effects and aroma of the dried product.

For example, THC can convert into less active cannabinol (CBN), which reduces the therapeutic properties of marijuana.

To prevent this, store your marijuana in a dark place, such as a cabinet or drawer, and use opaque containers that keep out the light. If the original pharmacy packaging is transparent, it's a good idea to transfer the dried cannabis to a sealed dark glass jar or wrap the container with tape to block out light. Such protection will preserve the full properties of marijuana for a longer period of time.

Containers: Choosing the right packaging

Choosing the right container is of paramount importance for the quality of stored marijuana. The best choice is airtight glass jars with an airtight seal, which provide protection from oxygen, moisture and light.

Glass is chemically neutral, meaning it does not react with terpenes or cannabinoids, unlike plastic. Plastic bags, such as the popular zipper pouches, are inadvisable because they can cause moisture buildup, generate static and react chemically with the dried product, leading to contamination.

Genuine pharmacy packaging, made of polyethylene, polypropylene or polycarbonate, is also suitable, as it is designed to preserve the properties of medical marijuana. It's important that the container is properly sized for the amount of the dried product - too large a container can increase exposure to oxygen, which accelerates degradation.

Storage space: security and stability

Marijuana should be stored in a cool, dark place that provides stable conditions and is inaccessible to children and pets. The ideal place is a lockable cabinet or drawer in a room with constant temperature and humidity. Avoid places such as the bathroom, kitchen or windowsill where there are fluctuations in temperature, humidity or access to light.

If you use medical marijuana, treat it like any other medicine and store it in a place that is secured from unauthorized access. It's also a good idea to avoid storing near strong odors, such as spices or chemicals, as marijuana can absorb foreign aromas, affecting its taste and quality.

Additional tips for optimal storage

In addition to the basics of storage, there are a few additional tips to help you get the most out of your cannabis:

• Minimize touching of the dried food: Frequent touching of inflorescences can damage trichomes, which contain cannabinoids and terpenes, leading to loss of quality. Use clean tools, such as tweezers, to manipulate the drought.
• Store different varieties separately: Each marijuana variety has a unique terpene profile, so storing them in separate containers prevents aromas and flavors from mixing.
• Use anti-mold packages: In humid climates, it is a good idea to use moisture-absorbing packages to minimize the risk of mold.
• Label the containers: Label the jars with the date of purchase or harvest to keep track of the age of the dried food and use it in the correct order.
• Avoid the refrigerator and freezer: Low temperatures can cause crumbling of the dried product and condensation of moisture, which increases the risk of mold. The freezer further damages the trichomes, which reduces the quality of the marijuana.

Frequently asked questions

How long can I store marijuana?
When stored properly, in an airtight container, at 15-25°C and 55-65% humidity, marijuana can retain its properties for 2-3 years. However, its potency and aroma may diminish over time, so it is advisable to consume it within the first year for best results.

Can I store marijuana in the refrigerator?
It is not recommended to store marijuana in the refrigerator. Low temperatures can cause drying and crumbling of the dried product, and fluctuations in humidity when taking it out of the refrigerator increase the risk of condensation and mold. It is better to choose a cool, dark place at room temperature.

What are the signs that cannabis is poorly stored?
Signs of poor storage include dry and brittle dryness, loss of aroma, color change (e.g., to brown or gray), presence of mold or an unpleasant, musty odor. If you notice mold, the marijuana is unusable and should be discarded.

Can I use string bags to store marijuana?
Ziplock bags are not recommended because they can cause moisture buildup, generate static and react chemically with terpenes, leading to contamination of the dried product. Instead, use airtight glass jars with an airtight seal.

Do different varieties of marijuana require different storage conditions?
General storage rules (temperature, humidity, light) are the same for all varieties. However, different varieties may have different terpene profiles, so it is a good idea to store them in separate containers to avoid mixing aromas.

How to check if marijuana is still good for use?
Check the smell, texture and color of the dried product. Fresh drought should have an intense aroma, be slightly moist but not sticky, and retain a green color. If you notice mold, an unpleasant odor or brittleness, the drought may be spoiled.