Proper Storage of Cannabis Buds

Every cannabis grower and consumer has probably wondered at some point, “How long can freshly harvested buds be stored?” Whether you want to stash some away for the future or you’re producing a large amount of medical cannabis that needs to be stored until it’s needed, cannabis doesn’t have a fixed expiration date. Like wine, buds can actually improve with age if stored in a dark, cool place, away from sunlight and isolated from fresh air. Of course, this isn’t the only factor that affects long-term cannabis preservation.

Ideal Temperature for Storing Cannabis

Various types of mold can quickly develop on organic material when kept in climates between 77–86°F (25–30°C). That’s why buds are best stored in a tightly sealed, cool cabinet. Excessive heat can rapidly degrade terpenes and many cannabinoids in the plant. Additionally, overly dry air can cause the essential oils in buds to evaporate, resulting in a loss of flavor and a harsh, unpleasant smoke.

Low temperatures significantly slow the decarboxylation process of cannabinoids. During natural drying, THCA acids in the plant convert to THC, which then gradually transforms into the non-psychoactive compound CBN. Also, remember that warm air holds more moisture than cold air, which brings us to the next important storage factor.

Managing Humidity During Storage

To protect your product from mold, you need to control not only the temperature but also the humidity in your storage area. Regulating relative humidity (RH) can be tricky, but ideally, you want it to be neither too low nor too high. Cultivation experts have determined that the optimal RH for storing buds is between 59% and 63%. This range prevents mold and other pathogens, while the moisture in the air helps preserve the buds’ essential oils, enhancing their flavor over time.

Generally, the risk of mold is very low when RH is below 65%, so try not to exceed this level. On the other hand, avoid storing your product in an extremely dry environment, as a lack of moisture can dry out trichomes and essential oils.

Optimal Lighting Conditions

Direct ultraviolet (UV) rays are the most damaging to cannabinoids and terpenes. Just like paint fades in sunlight, cannabis loses most of its active compounds when exposed to direct light. A study by University of London researchers in the 1970s formally established that sunlight is the main factor in cannabinoid breakdown and evaporation.

The same research found that, under proper storage conditions, cannabis buds can be stored for just over two years. Technically, they can last even longer, but they will gradually lose cannabinoids. So, always keep your harvest away from direct sunlight.

Air Exposure and Cannabis Storage

While cannabis plants need oxygen during cultivation and curing, buds don’t require much oxygen during storage. In fact, you should reduce the oxygen content in your storage area, but not remove it completely. A small amount of air can help lower humidity, which is useful if your buds weren’t fully dried before storage.

Too much air accelerates the breakdown of both cannabinoids and plant material, just like with other organic substances. The best solution is to use a special storage chamber with a pump to precisely control the air level inside.

Tips for Storing Cannabis

What Not to Do

• Don’t store cannabis in the refrigerator. Fluctuations in humidity and temperature can encourage mold growth on buds.
• Don’t use plastic containers or bags for storage. Plastic can create static electricity, causing trichomes to stick to the sides. Only use plastic for very small amounts.
• Don’t store cannabis near electronics or heat sources. Instead, keep your container in a cabinet, on a high shelf, or in a cellar.
• Don’t use tobacco humidifiers. These are often made from cedar wood, which releases terpenes that can alter the flavor of your cannabis. They may also contain propylene glycol, which can create excessive humidity.
• Don’t store cannabis with pipes, bongs, or other consumption devices. Odors from these items can seep into your container and affect the flavor of your buds.

What You Should Do

• Store your product in a dark place, away from direct sunlight.
• Use containers made from materials with a neutral electric charge, like glass.
• Place a hygrometer in your storage area to monitor humidity levels.
• Use vacuum-sealed lids on jars to better control the air inside.
• Keep each strain in a separate container to avoid mixing aromas.
• Try new or innovative storage methods for cannabis.

Other Important Factors for Storing Cannabis

Storage conditions vary for different cannabis products, from fresh buds to edibles with extracts. In any case, both extracts and cannabis-infused foods shouldn’t be stored for more than a few months. For edibles, follow the same guidelines as you would for regular food.

Alcohol-based extracts are the most resistant to spoilage, but they should still be stored according to the recommendations above.