After the buds are dry it takes a minimum of 2-3 weeks to cure. It can take longer depending in the buds structure. I like my cure to be 3 months. After drying, there is still quite a bit of residual moisture, as well as sugars and minerals that need to be broken down. A well-cured bud should bounce back like memory foam. When you smoke a joint the ash is light grey/white and fluffy. You will also have a smooth gentle smoke.