Marijuana Curing
Marijuana growing is a process which takes couple of months and it entails the planting process, application of nutrients, and the flowering stage, harvesting and finally drying. Marijuana curing is an extension of the drying phase. It mainly involves prolonged removal of moisture from the dried flowers and fermenting them in a controlled state. Most of us will be tempted to dry our harvest fast in order to consume it hence jumping the curing stage. However, curing weed will make it stronger and milder when it is smoked.
Reasons for curing Marijuana
There are a number of reasons why marijuana should be cured:
- To affect the quality of the smoke and improve the flavor-A slow careful curing process at low temperatures will ensure that the aromatic compounds in our weed(terpenes) are preserved. The low temperatures also ensure that any left-over sugars and minerals produced during the drying process by the decomposition of chlorophyll are broken down completely. This prevents the smoker from getting a harsh burning sensation in the throat.
- Helps in the preservation of Marijuana-Excellent curing acts as a perfect preservative. One can go about their business without worrying about the formation of molds or even loss of cannabinoids. For up to two years, well-cured buds can be stored in an air tight container (preferably glass) in a cool dry place.
- Perfect curing increases potency-During a process called biosynthesis, Marijuana plants produce THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid). Some elements are converted gradually into perfect blends. For instance, THCA becomes THC. This process goes on even after the crop has been cut in harvesting. However, the humidity levels must be between 40-55% and the temperatures between 59-70°F. Our buds will hence gain potency. That is why it is advisable to avoid quick drying and curing at warm conditions as the process is halted at a faster rate.