How Long Does It Take to Dry Cannabis Properly?

Drying cannabis usually takes about 7 to 10 days if done under the right conditions. This process is essential for preserving the terpenes and cannabinoids that give cannabis its flavor, aroma, and potency.

While it may be tempting to speed things up, rushing through drying can lead to harsh-tasting buds, loss of potency, or even the dreaded risk of mold.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about properly drying and curing cannabis flowers. From setting up the perfect drying area to avoiding common mistakes, we’ve got you covered with easy-to-follow tips.

Why Properly Drying Cannabis Matters

Drying cannabis is more than just removing water from the plant material. It’s about creating the ideal environment to preserve quality while preparing the buds for the next step: curing.

• If you dry too quickly: The outer buds may feel dry, but the moisture inside can cause uneven curing and even mold.
• If drying takes too long: Excessive humidity creates the perfect environment for mold or mildew to grow, ruining your crop.

Drying sets the foundation for proper curing, which enhances the flavor, smoothness, and potency of the final product.

The Ideal Environment for Drying Cannabis

The drying area plays a big role in the drying time and overall quality of your cannabis. Here’s what you need to get it right:

1. Temperature for Drying Cannabis

Keep the temperature around 60–70°F (15–21°C). A cooler, stable environment helps your cannabis flowers dry evenly without losing terpenes and cannabinoids.

2. Humidity for Drying Cannabis

Aim for a humidity range of 55–65%. This level is critical for preventing mold while ensuring the buds don’t dry too quickly. Using a humidifier or dehumidifier can help stabilize the environment.

Pro Tip: Monitor drying cannabis humidity with a hygrometer for accuracy.

3. Airflow and Darkness

Good airflow prevents stagnant air and reduces the risk of mold. Use a small fan to keep air circulating gently, but don’t point it directly at the buds. Also, keep the drying area cool and dark to avoid damaging terpenes and cannabinoids.

Drying Methods for Cannabis Flowers

1. Using a Cannabis Drying Rack

For large harvests, a cannabis drying rack is a go-to solution. Trim the fan leaves, hang the branches upside down, and let the air circulate evenly around the buds. Dry trimming after this step will give you a smoother finish.

Why It Works: Hanging allows air to flow around the entire cannabis plant, promoting even drying.

2. Drying Cannabis in a Paper Bag

If you’re working with smaller amounts, try the paper bag method. Place trimmed buds in a bag and store them in a cool, dark space. Shake the bag gently each day to ensure the buds dry evenly.

Pro Tip: This method works best as a backup or for personal use, as it’s less efficient than racks for large harvests.

3. Drying with a Humidifier or Dehumidifier

If your drying area’s humidity isn’t ideal, a humidifier or dehumidifier can help. For dry climates, use a humidifier to maintain moisture. In more humid areas, a dehumidifier is essential to keep things under control.

How to Know When Cannabis Is Properly Dry

The best way to know if your buds are dry is to check a few key factors:

• The Stem Test: Bend a smaller stem. If it snaps cleanly, the buds are likely ready. If it bends, they need more time.
• Feel the Buds: Properly dried buds should feel dry on the outside but still slightly spongy when squeezed.
• Smell Check: If your cannabis flowers still smell grassy or wet, they’re not done yet. Properly dry buds have their distinct aroma intact.

The Next Step: Curing Cannabis Flowers

What Is Proper Curing?

Curing allows the remaining moisture inside the buds to redistribute evenly while preserving terpenes and cannabinoids. Store the buds in airtight jars and use humidity packs to maintain the ideal curing environment.

How Long Does Curing Take?

Curing typically takes 2–4 weeks. During the first week, “burp” the jars daily by opening them for a few minutes to release excess moisture. This prevents mold while improving the overall quality of the final product.

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Drying and Curing

Drying and curing may sound simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can ruin your hard work:

• Skipping Ventilation: Poor airflow in the drying area leads to mold. Always ensure air is circulating gently around the buds.
• Drying in Bright Light: Light degrades terpenes and cannabinoids, so keep your drying space dark.
• Ignoring Humidity Levels: Improper drying cannabis humidity can lead to buds that are either too brittle or prone to mold.
• Skipping Proper Curing: If you don’t cure your cannabis, you’ll miss out on the smoothness and flavor that come from properly dried and cured buds.

Tips for Storing Cannabis After Drying and Curing

Once your cannabis is dried and cured, proper storage is essential for maintaining quality.

• Use airtight jars: Glass jars are the best choice for long-term storage.
• Add humidity packs: These help regulate moisture levels, keeping the buds from becoming too dry or too moist.
• Keep the jars in a cool, dark place: This prevents light and heat from degrading the cannabinoids and terpenes.

All Dried Out

Drying cannabis isn’t just about waiting—it’s about creating the perfect environment for your cannabis plant to reach its full potential. By maintaining the right drying cannabis humidity, temperature, and airflow, you can produce high-quality buds that are ready for proper curing.

Whether you’re using a cannabis drying rack, the paper bag method, or controlling the environment with a humidifier, the key is patience. Once your buds are dry, curing and storing them properly will bring out the best in your final product.

Follow these tips, and you’ll enjoy smooth, flavorful cannabis that’s worth the wait. By the way, if you need cannabis pouches, we have you covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does it take to properly dry cannabis?

Drying cannabis usually takes 7–10 days, depending on temperature, humidity, and airflow.

2. What’s the best temperature for drying cannabis?

The ideal temperature is between 60–70°F (15–21°C) to ensure even drying.

3. Why is humidity important for drying cannabis?

Humidity levels between 55–65% prevent buds from drying too quickly or developing mold.

4. How do I know if my buds are dry?

Check if the stems snap cleanly, the buds feel slightly spongy, and they smell like cannabis rather than grass.

5. What’s the difference between drying and curing cannabis?

Drying removes moisture to prevent mold, while curing enhances flavor, smoothness, and potency over several weeks.