In reality, curing is just about opening and closing the jars at the right time. By placing your dried cannabis in airtight glass jars, you'll create an optimal controlled environment. These sealed containers allow the moisture within the buds to rehydrate the outside, without the buds becoming too moist. The ultimate goal is a smoke that is as smooth as silk and of superior flavor quality.
STEP 1
To start the process, you'll need to prepare your buds the right way. If you're drying your buds individually, then you're good to go. If you choose to dry them on their branches, then you'll need to trim them. Separate each bud and remove the fan leaves.
STEP 2
Next, you'll need to place your stash in airtight containers. Glass jars with lids are a great option that allows growers to keep an eye on their weed throughout the process.
Gently place the buds in the container and fill it to 75% of its capacity. It's important to leave room for air. Now it's time to test if your stash is dry enough to move on to curing. Gently shake the jar; if your buds move freely inside, then move on to the next step. If they start to stick together, then that's a sign that the outside is still too moist and additional drying is needed.
STEP 3
Put the lid back on your jars and place them in a dark, cool spot to protect them from the aforementioned threats. Ideally, place them in a closet or other storage room with a temperature below 21 °C and a relative humidity inside the jars of 60 to 65%. The only way to measure this accurately is to have a small hygrometer (humidity measuring device) in each jar.
STEP 4
During the first few days, you'll need to check your buds twice a day. Inspect them through the glass and keep an eye out for any signs of mold. You'll also want to keep the lid open for a few minutes each time you check to allow for air exchange. Keep an eye on your hygrometers. If the values are between 60 and 65%, continue as usual. If the jars become too humid, leave the lid open for 3 hours to let the excess moisture escape. If the humidity is too low, keep the lid on for a longer period without letting them breathe. If you still don't notice an increase in humidity, place a small humidifying packet inside the jar in question.
STEP 5
Continue to open the jars once a day for the next two weeks while taking the appropriate humidity measures. After 3 weeks, your buds will be cured and ready to smoke. However, the most patient smokers will be even more rewarded. The quality of your buds will continue to improve for up to 6 months of curing.