Cannabis is a natural product that can degrade when exposed to certain conditions, such as light and heat. But if you store it in the right way–avoiding those destructive elements–it can last for years.
Find out how to keep your cannabis fresh and potent as we go over the dos and don’ts of cannabis storage. We’ll talk about what to avoid, then give specific recommendations for storing different types of cannabis.
Cannabis can stay fresh and potent for years, but you need to store it in the right environment to ensure longevity.
There are four elements that can cause marijuana to degrade:
Let’s talk about how each can affect cannabis.
The ideal temperature for cannabis flower is around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. When stored at higher or lower temperatures, cannabis can start to degrade and experience quality issues.
Exposure to heat and cold causes cannabinoids like THC and CBD to degrade, reducing the potency of marijuana. Long-term exposure to heat can also promote the growth of bacteria and mold.
Cannabis-infused products, like tinctures and edibles, should still be kept away from heat. But note that, unlike flower, infusions can often be refrigerated or frozen.
Cannabis should be stored in a dark environment in order to avoid ultraviolet light. Whether it comes from sunshine or a blacklight, UV light can quickly break down cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, making it less potent. It doesn’t take much time for light to degrade marijuana, to the point that UV light exposure is often the main reason cannabis has reduced effects.
The ideal humidity level for cannabis flower is between 59 and 63 percent. Higher humidity can promote the growth of mold and bacteria, while lower humidity can cause marijuana to dry out. To make sure you have fresh weed, rather than moldy weed or stale weed, you want to keep your cannabis in that humidity sweet spot.
Depending on the climate you live in and the environment in your home, you may need to use tools to get the right humidity level. If you need to go the extra mile for optimum humidity, consider investing in humidity packs or a cannabis humidor box.
Avoid exposing cannabis to oxygen, another element that can promote the degradation of cannabinoids. Exposure to oxygen can dramatically affect potency over time, so cannabis should always be stored in an air-tight container. Exposure to air within a container can also degrade weed, so don’t store it in an excessively large container.
The best storage container for marijuana flower is an air-tight glass container that you keep away from light and heat. An opaque container is ideal, but clear containers like mason jars can work if kept tucked away from light.
For longer term storage, it’s crucial to use an airtight glass container–not a plastic container. Plastic leeches an odor and causes cannabis flower sweat moisture, creating flavor and humidity issues. Plastic baggies also produce static cling, which breaks down flower. Plastic is fine for very short-term storage, but reach for an airtight glass container for long-term storage.
To ensure you keep your flower away from heat, remember not to leave your container sitting out on a counter or tabletop for long. A glass jar can get hot and humid quickly when hit by the sun. Avoid that by storing your container in a cool dark place, like a cabinet.
Cannabis tinctures typically come in an opaque, airtight glass container, which is perfect for avoiding oxygen, light, and humidity. Keep tinctures in their original container and store in a cool, dark place.
Unlike flower, cannabis infusions like tinctures can withstand cold temperatures. If desired, a tincture can be stored in a fridge or freezer.
In most cases, the food aspect of a cannabis edible is more sensitive than the cannabis aspect. Generally speaking, you want to store weed edibles in the best way to preserve the food itself. Often, that’s in an airtight container away from heat, but be sure to check the best way to store your specific edible.
The best storage container for a concentrate depends on its consistency. Glass jars work well for less sticky concentrates, like budder and sauce. Silicone containers tend to be better for ultra-sticky concentrates like shatter.
Whichever material you choose for your container, try to use the smallest container you can to avoid oxygen exposure. Store your container in a cool, dark, and dry place to avoid exposure to heat, light, and humidity.
Q: Can weed go bad?
A: When stored properly, marijuana flower and other marijuana products can last for a very long time. However, when cannabis products are exposed to elements like extreme temperatures, humidity, light, and oxygen, they can go bad.
Q: What happens when weed goes bad?
A: There’s more than one way for marijuana to “go bad.” In some cases, going bad involves losing potency. In other cases, going bad means becoming stale and flavorless, or musty and moldy.
Q: What’s the best storage container for weed?
A: The best container for marijuana is an opaque, airtight glass jar that is a good size for what you’re storing. A good runner up option for keeping weed fresh is a mason jar that you tuck away into a cabinet.
Q: What’s the best smell-proof storage container for marijuana?
A: Any airtight container should keep the smell of marijuana locked away. Airtight glass jars are a good, easily accessible smell-proof container option.
Q: Can you store marijuana in a plastic container?
A: Plastic containers are not a good long-term storage solution for marijuana. Containers like plastic jars and plastic baggies can produce static electricity that breaks off trichomes. They can also cause flower to sweat, creating humidity issues, and are rarely airtight, creating air exposure issues.
Q: Can you put cannabis in the fridge or freezer to help it last longer?
A: We don’t recommend refrigerating or freezing marijuana flower, as that will destroy the plant’s precious trichomes. However, cannabis extracts and concentrates can typically be refrigerated or frozen. Certain edibles, like weed brownies and muffins, also freeze well.
Still have questions about the best way to store your marijuana? Get in touch with a DC Collective team member for personalized guidance.
If you're new to the world of cannabis, you may be wondering what exactly edibles are. Simply put, edibles are cannabis-infused food products, typically in the form of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound that produces the "high" associated with cannabis use.
For first-time consumers or those who don't enjoy smoking cannabis, edibles can be a great way to experience the benefits of cannabis without the potentially adverse effects of smoking. Edibles come in a variety of forms, including cannabis-infused butter, cannabis oils, and cannabis concentrates.
One of the key benefits of cannabis-infused edibles is that they offer consumers a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis without the need for smoking or vaping, which can be unpleasant or impractical for some people. Edibles are also typically more potent than other forms of cannabis, with effects that can last for several hours or more, making them a popular choice for both medical and recreational users.
However, it's important to note that edible cannabis products can be more difficult to dose accurately than other forms of cannabis, which can lead to overconsumption and uncomfortable or even dangerous side effects. For this reason, it's essential to start with a low dose of edibles and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more, and to always choose high-quality products from reputable sources to ensure safety and consistency.
When you consume cannabis edibles, the THC and other cannabinoids are absorbed through your digestive system, which can lead to a slower onset of effects compared to smoking or vaping and makes it easier to feel psychoactive effects in their totality. This is because the THC must first pass through your liver, where it is metabolized into a different compound, 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent and longer-lasting than the original THC.
The time it takes for edibles to take effect can vary widely depending on several factors, including the individual's metabolism, the potency of the edibles, and whether they are consumed on an empty or full stomach. In general, you can expect to feel the effects of edibles within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consumption, with peak effects occurring between 2 and 4 hours after consumption. It's important to be patient when consuming edibles, as it can be tempting to consume more if you don't feel the effects right away, which can lead to overconsumption and negative side effects.
Another important thing to consider when consuming edibles is the dosage. Edibles are typically more potent than other forms of cannabis, and it can be easy to accidentally consume too much if you're not careful. It's important to start with a low dose, typically around 5-10mg of THC, and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. This will help you avoid overconsumption and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
In addition to the slow onset and potent effects of edibles, it's also worth noting that the effects can last much longer than other forms of cannabis, often up to 6-8 hours or more. This can make edibles a popular choice for people who are looking for longer-lasting relief from pain, anxiety, or other conditions, but it also means that it's important to plan ahead and be prepared for the effects to last for an extended period of time.
When it comes to choosing the right edible and edible form, it's important to consider the cannabinoid ratio, which is the ratio of THC to other cannabinoids like CBD. Experienced consumers may prefer a higher THC ratio for a more intense cannabis experience, while those with medical conditions may benefit from a 1-to-1 ratio or higher CBD ratio. Here are some things to keep in mind:
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the right edibles for your individual needs and preferences, and enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience.
It's also important to be aware of the effective dose of edibles, as consuming too much THC can lead to negative side effects. The edible dosage calculator can help you determine the appropriate dosage for your needs based on your tolerance and desired effects. Here are some tips for dosing edibles safely:
Be patient: As we mentioned earlier, edibles can take a while to take effect, and it can be tempting to consume more if you don't feel the effects right away. However, this can lead to overconsumption and negative side effects. Be patient and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more.
Don't mix with alcohol: Mixing edibles with alcohol can increase the risk of negative side effects, as both substances can have sedative effects and impair your ability to function. It's best to avoid consuming edibles and alcohol at the same time.
Know your limits: Everyone's tolerance to cannabis is different, and it's important to be aware of your own limits when it comes to edibles. If you're new to edibles, start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. If you have a low tolerance or are sensitive to the effects of cannabis, it's especially important to start with a low dose and be cautious when consuming edibles.
Keep track of your dosage: When consuming edibles, it can be easy to lose track of how much you've consumed, especially if you're snacking on multiple servings throughout the day. Keep track of your dosage by writing it down or using a dosing calculator to ensure you don't accidentally overconsume.
By following these tips, you can dose edibles safely and avoid overconsumption and negative side effects, while still enjoying the many benefits of cannabis-infused treats.
One of the most important things to understand about edibles is that they can take a while to take effect, often much longer than other forms of cannabis. This can be confusing and even frustrating for new consumers, but it's essential to be patient and understand the timeline for edibles. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to the onset time for edibles:
The effects of THC can vary depending on the consumption method, and the edible experience is no different. When you consume an edible, the effects may take longer to kick in, but they can also last longer than smoking cannabis. It's important to start with a low dose and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more to avoid overconsumption and potential cannabis overdose.
Edibles have become a popular way to consume cannabis, especially for those who are looking for a smoke-free alternative. But how do cannabis-infused edibles affect your health?
The good news is that edibles can provide many of the same benefits as other forms of cannabis, such as pain relief, anxiety reduction, and improved sleep. They can also be a good option for people who don't want to smoke or inhale cannabis.
However, it's important to be aware that edibles can have different effects on your body than smoking or vaping. When you consume an edible, the THC is absorbed through your digestive system and processed by your liver before it enters your bloodstream. This can take longer to kick in than smoking or vaping, and the effects can last longer as well.
It's also important to be aware of the dosing of the edibles you consume, as consuming too much THC can lead to negative side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and anxiety. It's a good idea to start with a low dose and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more to avoid overconsumption.
It's worth noting that edibles can be high in sugar and calories, so it's important to be mindful of your overall diet and exercise habits when consuming them. Additionally, some edibles may contain cannabis extracts that are more potent than smoking cannabis, so it's important to be aware of the THC ratio and dosage.
In summary, edibles can be a safe and effective way to enjoy the benefits of cannabis, but it's important to be aware of their adverse effects on your body and to consume them responsibly. If you have any concerns about consuming edibles or their effects on your health, it's always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before trying them.
In summary, edibles can be a safe and enjoyable way to consume cannabis, but it's important to be informed and consume them responsibly. If you're a first-time consumer or have any concerns about the effects of edibles on your health or medical conditions, it's always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider before trying them. DC Collective, a trusted marijuana dispensary, can also provide guidance on choosing the right edibles and ensuring a safe and enjoyable cannabis experience.
When it comes to choosing and consuming edibles, it's also important to choose high-quality products from a trusted source. DC Collective is a marijuana dispensary that offers a wide variety of cannabis-infused treats, including edibles that are carefully crafted to provide a consistent and enjoyable experience. Their knowledgeable staff can help you choose the right products for your needs and answer any questions you may have about dosing, onset time, and other important factors.
⚠️WARNING: Products sold on this site can expose you to chemicals including marijuana smoke, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information, go to http://www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
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