Harvest
Beginner
Drying and Curing: The Final Step That Defines Quality
The post-harvest process is where good cannabis becomes exceptional — proper drying and curing converts good buds into something extraordinary.
TRIMMING
Cannabis can be trimmed wet (immediately after harvest, before drying) or dry (after drying, before curing). Wet trimming is faster and easier as the leaves are turgid, but it removes the sugar leaves that can protect buds during drying. Dry trimming preserves more terpenes during the drying process as the leaves slow the drying rate, maintaining a more consistent moisture gradient through the bud. Most premium producers dry-trim.
DRYING
Hang cut branches or individual buds in a dark, well-ventilated space at 15–20°C and 45–55% relative humidity. These conditions slow the drying process to the ideal 7–14 days — slow enough for chlorophyll to break down properly (which removes the harsh, "green" taste of fresh cannabis) but fast enough to prevent mould. Air should circulate through the drying space but not blow directly on buds.
The buds are ready for the next stage when small stems snap rather than bend, and the outer surface of the bud feels dry but the interior still has some flexibility. Do not rush this stage with heat or excessive airflow — rushed drying destroys terpenes and results in a harsh, unpleasant smoke.
CURING
Transfer dried buds to sealed glass jars, filling jars about 75% full. Store in a cool, dark location (15–20°C). For the first week, "burp" the jars by opening them for 5–10 minutes 2–3 times daily to release accumulated moisture and gas. Relative humidity inside the jar should be maintained at 58–65% (use Boveda or similar humidity packs to stabilise this).
After the first week, burping frequency can be reduced to once daily. The minimum cure time for good results is 2–4 weeks; 4–8 weeks is considered optimal by most producers. Some strains continue to improve for 3–6 months of careful curing.
Chemical changes during curing: chlorophyll breaks down, harsh compounds metabolise, and terpene profiles integrate and mature. A properly cured bud smells more complex, smokes smoother, and produces a more complete effect than the same bud consumed immediately after drying.