Welcome to the essential guide to storing your cannabis. Whether you are new to the world of cannabis or a seasoned users, understanding the proper storage techniques is fundamental to preserving the quality of your products.

In Canada, where we value quality and safety, making sure your cannabis is stored correctly will maintain its freshness, potency, and aromatic profile. This guide offers factual, straightforward advice to help you get the most out of your cannabis.

Why is Proper Cannabis Storage Important?

Proper cannabis storage is essential for preserving the product's freshness, potency, and aromatic profile. It protects the cannabinoids and terpenes from degradation caused by environmental factors.

When cannabis is exposed to improper conditions, it can lose its desirable characteristics, leading to a less potent product . By controlling the environment in which you store your cannabis, you are taking a crucial step in maintaining its quality from the day you purchase it until the moment you use it.

The 4 Factors That Degrade Cannabis Quality

There are four primary environmental factors that can negatively impact the quality of your cannabis. Understanding each of these will help you create the ideal storage conditions.

1. Light

Exposure to light, especially direct sunlight, is one of the most significant factors in the degradation of cannabis. Ultraviolet (UV) rays can break down cannabinoids, the compounds responsible for the effects of cannabis, and terpenes, which contribute to its aroma and flavour. This degradation can lead to a decrease in potency and a loss of the distinct aromatic profile of your cannabis.

2. Air (Oxygen)

While cannabis plants require oxygen to grow, exposure to an excessive amount of air after harvesting can speed up the degradation process. Too much oxygen can cause the cannabinoids to break down, reducing the potency of your cannabis over time. It is important to limit the amount of air that your cannabis is exposed to during storage.

3. Humidity

Humidity control is a balancing act when it comes to cannabis storage. If the humidity is too high, it creates an environment where mould and mildew can thrive, rendering your cannabis unsafe to use. On the other hand, if the humidity is too low, the cannabis can become overly dry. This can cause the delicate trichomes, the resinous glands that house the majority of the plant's cannabinoids and terpenes, to become brittle and break off.

4. Temperature

Temperature plays a crucial role in preserving the quality of your cannabis. High temperatures can cause the terpenes, which are responsible for the aroma and flavour, to evaporate. This can result in a harsh experience.

Additionally, high temperatures combined with high humidity can create a breeding ground for mould and mildew. Conversely, while it may seem intuitive to store cannabis in a cold place, freezing temperatures can cause the trichomes to become brittle and break off, similar to the effects of low humidity.

What is the Best Way to Store Cannabis?

Now that we have identified the environmental factors to avoid, let's explore the best practices for storing your cannabis to maintain its quality and freshness.

Choose the Right Container

The ideal container for storing cannabis is one that is airtight and protects the contents from light. Glass jars, particularly those made of dark or opaque glass, are an excellent choice.

Glass is an inert material, meaning it will not impart any unwanted flavours or chemicals into your cannabis. It also does not hold a static charge like plastic, which can attract and strip away the trichomes from your flower. An airtight seal is crucial to prevent the exposure of your cannabis to oxygen.

Maintain Ideal Humidity Levels

To prevent your cannabis from becoming too dry or too moist, it is important to maintain a consistent level of humidity. The ideal relative humidity (RH) for storing cannabis is between 59% and 63%.

This range is optimal for preserving the texture, aroma, and flavour of the flower without creating a risk of mould. A simple way to achieve this is by using humidity packs, which are specifically designed to maintain a consistent RH level within an airtight container.

Find the Perfect Location

The final piece of the puzzle is finding the right place to store your cannabis. Based on the four factors we have discussed, the ideal location will be cool, dark, and dry. A cupboard, a drawer, or a closet are all excellent choices, as they protect your cannabis from light and are generally in temperature-controlled areas of your home. Be sure to keep your storage container away from any sources of heat, such as electronics, appliances, or heating vents.

Common Cannabis Storage Mistakes to Avoid

To further clarify the best storage practices, here is a table of common mistakes and how to avoid them:

Frequently Asked Questions About Storing Cannabis

Here are the answers to some common questions about storing cannabis:

How long does cannabis stay fresh?

When stored properly, cannabis can stay fresh for six months to a year. After this period, it will begin to lose its potency and flavour as cannabinoids degrade.

What are terpenes and why do they matter for storage?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in cannabis that create its distinct scents and flavours. Proper storage is crucial because terpenes are volatile and can evaporate in high heat or dry conditions, diminishing the overall quality of the product.

Can I use a mason jar to store my cannabis?

Yes, a glass mason jar is an excellent and widely used option for storing cannabis. It is airtight and does not have a static charge, which helps preserve trichomes. For best results, store the jar in a dark place to protect it from light.