Storing cannabis correctly: How to keep your weed and seeds fresh and potent for a long time
Inhaltsverzeichnis: Storing cannabis correctly: How to keep your weed and seeds fresh and potent for a long time
Why is correct storage important?
Storing cannabis properly isn't rocket science, but there are a few important points you should bear in mind to get the best out of your weed. Here's why proper storage is so crucial.
Loss of cannabinoids due to incorrect storage
Cannabinoids are the active ingredients in your cannabis that are responsible for its effects. THC, CBD and other cannabinoids are sensitive and can degrade if stored incorrectly. This means that your weed loses potency and no longer has the desired effects. If you simply leave your cannabis out in the open or store it in an unprotected bag, you are exposing it to unnecessary oxygen and light - two of the biggest enemies of cannabinoids.
Oxygen can oxidise the cannabinoids, which leads to a breakdown of THC to CBN. CBN has less psychoactive effects than THC, which means that your cannabis becomes less potent. In addition, a high concentration of oxygen can also destroy the terpenes that are responsible for the flavour and aroma. This not only makes your weed weaker, but also less flavourful.
Influence of light and heat on quality
Light, especially UV rays, can break down the cannabinoids and terpenes in your cannabis. This not only leads to a loss of potency, but also affects the flavour and aroma. Heat also accelerates this process. Therefore, always store your weed in a dark, cool place. A shelf in a cupboard, away from windows or other sources of light, is ideal.
UV rays break down the chemical compounds in the cannabinoids, which leads to faster degradation. Even artificial light can have similar effects if it is strong enough. Heat further accelerates these processes by causing the chemical reactions to occur faster. It is therefore important to store your cannabis at a consistently low temperature to protect the active ingredients.
Prevention of mould and drying out
Moisture is the number one enemy when it comes to mould growth. Too much moisture in your storage container can quickly lead to mould forming on your Flowers - and nobody wants to smoke mouldy weed. On the other hand, too little moisture can cause your Flowers to dry out and become brittle. This not only affects the smoking experience, but also the effects. A relative humidity of 55-62% is optimal to keep the Flowers fresh and potent.
Mould can not only ruin the taste and effects of your cannabis, it can also be harmful to your health. In a humid environment, mould spores can multiply quickly and contaminate your Flowers. On the other hand, if the Flowers is stored too dry, it will become brittle and unpleasant to smoke. The trichomes, the small resin-filled glands on the Flowers, can also break off, which reduces potency. With hygrometers and humidifier packs, you can monitor and regulate the humidity in your storage container to ensure ideal storage conditions.
The best methods for cannabis storage
Store in a dark and cool place
Effects of UV radiation on cannabinoids
UV-Strahlen the chemical compounds in the Cannabinoiden and reduce their potency and effectiveness. THC and CBD in particular are sensitive to light. Exposing your cannabis to direct light can cause it to break down faster and lose its psychoactive and medicinal properties. Even brief exposure to light can cause damage, so cannabis should always be stored in dark containers or dark places.
Optimal storage temperatures for cannabis
The ideal temperature for storing Cannabis is between 15-21°C. Higher temperatures can cause the terpenes to evaporate, which impairs the aroma and flavour of the cannabis. Heat also accelerates the degradation of Cannabinoiden . Cool temperatures help to slow down these processes and maintain the quality of your cannabis over a longer period of time. However, avoid temperatures below freezing as these can break the trichomes and damage the Flowers.
Seal airtight
Advantages of Glasbehältern compared to plastic bags
Glasbehälter are ideal for storing cannabis as they do not release any chemicals that could affect the Flowers. Unlike plastic bags, glass containers offer better protection from air and moisture. Plastic bags can easily be punctured and are not completely airtight, causing the cannabis to dry out or lose flavour. Glass containers, especially those with rubber seals, ensure that the cannabis stays fresh for longer.
Suitable container types for the Cannabis-Lagerung
In addition to Glasbehältern there are also special Cannabis-Aufbewahrungsboxen developed for long-term storage. These boxes are often equipped with airtight mechanisms and integrated hygrometers to create the perfect storage environment. Dark pharmacy bottles and preserving jars are also good alternatives. It is important that the container is opaque and airtight in order to optimally protect the Flowers.
Check humidity
Ideal humidity for the storage of Cannabis
The perfect relative humidity for storing Cannabis is between 55-62%. If the humidity is too low, the Flowers will dry out and become brittle, which impairs the smoking experience and destroys the active ingredients. Too high humidity, on the other hand, can promote mould growth, which makes the cannabis unusable and harmful to health.
Use of Hygrometern and Befeuchter-Packs
Hygrometer are small devices that use the Luftfeuchtigkeit inside the container. They are essential to ensure that your cannabis is stored in the right environment. Befeuchter-Packs like those from Boveda, help to keep the humidity constant. These packs release or absorb moisture as required, thus ensuring an optimum storage climate.
No plastic bags
Why Plastiktüten unsuitable are
Plastiktüten do not provide sufficient protection from light and air, two of the biggest enemies of Cannabis . They can also release chemicals that affect the flavour and quality of the Flowers. In addition, plastic bags are prone to tears and holes, which increases the risk of air and moisture contact. All of this causes cannabis in plastic bags to dry out faster and lose its potency.
Alternative Aufbewahrungsoptionen
Statt Plastiktüten sollten Glasbehälter , airtight Aufbewahrungsboxen or vacuum-sealed bags can be used. These alternatives offer better protection and help to preserve the freshness and potency of your cannabis. Glass containers with rubber seals or specially designed cannabis containers are ideal for keeping out light and air.
Cannabis Store in the refrigerator
Risks of storage in the Kühlschrank
The storage of Cannabis in Kühlschrank can be problematic, as the changing temperatures and humidity can increase the risk of mould growth. In addition, the trichomes, which are responsible for potency, can be damaged if they are exposed to condensed moisture. Constant temperature changes can affect the flower structure and quality.
When the Kühlschrank may be suitable
The Kühlschrank can be a good option in certain cases if the temperature and Luftfeuchtigkeit can be kept constant. For example, refrigerator storage can be useful if you live in a very hot climate and no other cool storage options are available. However, it is important to store the cannabis in an airtight container to avoid condensation.
Cannabis Store in a vacuum
Advantages of the Vakuumlagerung
The storage of Cannabis in Vakuum has the advantage of isolating the Flowers from oxygen. Oxygen can break down cannabinoids and reduce potency. By removing air, this degradation process is slowed down, keeping the Flowers fresh and potent for longer. Vacuum-sealed bags or containers are therefore an excellent way to store cannabis for the long term.
Geeignete Vakuumbehälter and methods
There are various methods and devices to Cannabis in Vakuum to store. Vakuumversiegelte Bags are a common option and can be used with special vacuum sealers. Also Glasbehälter with vacuum lids are available. It is important that the container is robust and remains airtight after vacuuming. These methods ensure that your cannabis is protected from oxygen and moisture.
Storing cannabis seeds
Why the correct storage of Cannabis-Samen important is
Cannabis-Samen are sensitive and require careful storage to maintain their germination capacity. If Cannabis-Samen stored incorrectly, they can lose their ability to germinate, which means they become unusable. Correct storage ensures that the seeds are still healthy and able to germinate even after a long period of time.
Preservation of the Keimfähigkeit over longer periods of time
The Keimfähigkeit from Cannabis-Samen is crucial for successful cultivation. Seeds that are not stored correctly lose their Keimfähigkeit and thus their ability to produce healthy plants. In order to Keimfähigkeit the seeds should be kept in a cool, dark and dry place. Temperatures between 6-8°C are ideal, as this slows down cell growth and puts the seeds into a dormant state.
Avoidance of Feuchtigkeitsschäden and Schimmel
Moisture is one of the biggest enemies of Cannabis-Samen . Too much moisture can cause the seeds to germinate prematurely or go mouldy, making them unusable. Feuchtigkeitsschäden can already occur if the seeds are stored in an environment with high humidity. It is therefore important to store the seeds in an airtight container that protects them from moisture. Desiccant packs that absorb moisture can help keep the environment dry and Schimmel to prevent.
Store cannabis seeds in a cool and dry place
Optimum storage temperatures for Cannabis-Samen
The ideal temperatures for storing Cannabis-Samen are between 6-8°C. These temperatures slow down cell growth and keep the seeds in an inactive state, which means that their Keimfähigkeit is retained for longer. A Kühlschrank can be a suitable storage option as long as the seeds are kept in an airtight container to avoid condensation.
Seal airtight
Cannabis-Samen should always be stored in an airtight container to protect them from moisture and air. Glasbehälter with rubber seals or special seed storage boxes are ideal as they provide a constant, dry environment. Vacuum-sealed bags can also be a good option to keep the seeds fresh in the long term.
Avoid moisture
Avoiding moisture is crucial to Feuchtigkeitsschäden and Schimmel to prevent the air from drying out. Desiccant packs, which absorb moisture, can be placed in the storage container to keep the air dry. It is important to check the seeds regularly and ensure that they are stored in a dry environment.
Suitable containers for cannabis seeds
Cannabis-Samen should be stored in an airtight container to protect them from moisture and air. Glasbehälter with rubber seals are ideal as they do not allow air exchange and therefore keep the seeds dry. Specialised seed storage boxes, which are also airtight, are another good option. These containers also protect the seeds from pests that could enter through the smallest cracks.
Protection against moisture and pests
Airtight storage not only controls moisture, but also prevents pests from reaching the seeds. Pests such as insects can damage seeds and impair their ability to germinate. Therefore, an airtight container is doubly useful to keep out both moisture and pests.
Avoid moisture
Use of desiccant packs for humidity control
Desiccant-Packs are small packets that absorb moisture and thus keep the air in your storage container dry. These packs are particularly useful if the seeds are stored in a Kühlschrank as they can prevent condensation. It is advisable to regularly check whether the Desiccant-Packs are still active and replace them if necessary.
Tips for avoiding moisture in the storage environment
To avoid moisture in the storage environment, you should ensure that the seeds are stored in a dry room. Avoid damp cellars or rooms with high humidity. Store the seeds in a cupboard or drawer that is not opened frequently to minimise temperature fluctuations and changes in humidity. If you store the seeds in the Kühlschrank make sure they are stored in an airtight container and add Desiccant-Packs to absorb any moisture.
Conclusion: How to keep your cannabis fresh for a long time
Proper storage of cannabis, whether Flowers or seeds, is crucial to preserving its quality, potency and freshness. By following a few simple but important steps, you can ensure that your cannabis retains its best properties over longer periods of time.
Store in a dark, cool and airtight place
For flower storage, it is important to store them in a dark, cool place to prevent the degradation of cannabinoids by UV rays and heat. Airtight containers, preferably made of glass, protect the Flowers from air and moisture, which preserves its potency and flavour. Humidity control is also crucial to prevent mould growth and protect the Flowers from drying out.
Differences in the storage of Flowers and seeds
While the Flowers mainly need to be protected from light, air and moisture, cannabis seeds require special treatment to maintain their germination capacity. Seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place, ideally at temperatures between 6-8°C. A refrigerator can provide a suitable storage environment, as long as the seeds are kept in airtight containers with desiccant packs to avoid condensation.
Long-term storage and quality assurance
Regardless of whether you are storing Flowers or seeds, it is essential to regularly check the storage conditions. Ensure that the temperature, humidity and light conditions remain constant. Use appropriate containers and additional humidity control measures to maintain the optimal storage environment.
Tips for extending the shelf life of cannabis
- Use high-quality glass containers with airtight closures.
- Store cannabis in a cool, dark place to minimise the influence of light and heat.
- Check the humidity regularly and use hygrometers and humidifier packs.
- Avoid storing in plastic bags and use vacuum-sealed bags or glass containers instead.
- For seeds: Use the fridge, but make sure the seeds are packed airtight and protected from moisture.
With these tips and methods, you can ensure that your cannabis stays fresh, potent and ready to enjoy for a long time. Whether for immediate use or long-term storage, proper storage makes all the difference.
