Should cannabis be kept in darkness while drying?

Hey there! I'm Maxwell Stone, and I'm here to shed some light on the topic of drying cannabis. One question that often comes up is whether cannabis should be kept in darkness during the drying process. Let's dive in and explore this topic together!

When it comes to drying cannabis, there are a few key factors to consider: temperature, humidity, and light. While temperature and humidity are crucial for achieving the perfect drying conditions, the role of light is a bit more nuanced.

During the initial stages of drying, it's generally recommended to keep your cannabis in a dark environment. This is because exposure to light can degrade the delicate cannabinoids and terpenes that give cannabis its unique aroma, flavor, and effects. By keeping your drying buds in darkness, you can help preserve these valuable compounds.

However, it's important to note that complete darkness isn't necessary throughout the entire drying process. Once your buds have dried to a certain point, typically when the smaller stems snap instead of bending, you can introduce a small amount of light without causing significant harm. This is because the majority of the drying process has already taken place, and the risk of degrading cannabinoids and terpenes is reduced.

That being said, it's crucial to strike a balance. Too much light exposure, especially during the early stages of drying, can lead to the breakdown of THC into less desirable compounds, ultimately diminishing the potency and quality of your cannabis.

So, what's the best approach? Here's a simple guideline to follow:

1. Start the drying process in a dark environment: Find a cool, well-ventilated space where you can hang your trimmed cannabis buds to dry. Make sure this area is shielded from direct light, as well as any potential sources of heat or humidity.

2. Monitor the drying progress: Check your buds regularly to assess their moisture content. You can do this by gently squeezing a bud between your fingers. If it feels spongy or moist, it's not quite ready. If it feels dry and crispy, it's time to move on to the next step.

3. Introduce a small amount of light: Once your buds have reached the desired level of dryness, you can transfer them to a curing jar. At this point, a small amount of light exposure won't cause significant harm. Just be sure to avoid direct sunlight or bright artificial light, as these can still degrade the cannabinoids and terpenes.

4. Store your dried cannabis properly: After the drying process is complete, it's important to store your cannabis in a cool, dark, and dry place. This will help maintain its potency and preserve the flavors and aromas for an extended period. Consider using airtight containers, such as glass jars, to protect your precious buds from light, air, and moisture.

Remember, the drying process is a crucial step in achieving top-quality cannabis. By providing the right conditions, including the appropriate amount of darkness, you can ensure that your buds retain their potency, flavor, and overall quality.

I hope this clears up any confusion you may have had about whether cannabis should be kept in darkness while drying. If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out. Happy drying, and enjoy your cannabis connoisseur journey!

Dean Feeney

Maxwell enjoys traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with his family. He is also an avid sports fan and loves to watch basketball and football.

Dean Feeney, a seasoned expert in the cannabis industry, brings to the table over 15 years of diverse experience. His extensive involvement spans various segments of the industry, encompassing cultivation, distribution, and sales. Dean is driven by his desire to impart his expertise and assist others in successfully navigating the intricate landscape of cannabis.