Last reviewed October 18, 2026
To dry and cure weed, hang the harvested branches in a dark room at around 18–21 °C and 55–65% humidity for about 7 to 14 days, until small stems snap. Then trim the buds and seal them in glass jars, opening the jars briefly each day (“burping”) for 2 to 4 weeks. Drying removes water; curing slowly finishes the job and brings out smoothness and flavour.
Drying
- Cut and hang whole branches upside down, with space between them.
- Keep the room dark, at about 18–21 °C (64–70 °F) and 55–65% relative humidity.
- Move the air gently with a fan pointed away from the plants, not at them.
- Check daily. After 7 to 14 days, small stems should snap rather than bend.
Curing
- Trim the buds from the branches.
- Fill glass jars about three-quarters full and seal them.
- Burp the jars by opening them for a few minutes once or twice a day for the first week or two.
- Watch for moisture. If buds feel damp, leave the lid off for an hour or two.
- After 2 to 4 weeks, burp less often. Many growers cure for a month or more for the smoothest result.
A small hygrometer inside a jar takes the guesswork out: aim for about 58–62% humidity.
Common mistakes
| Mistake | What happens |
|---|---|
| Drying too fast (heat, direct fans) | Harsh smoke and lost aroma |
| Drying too slowly (too humid) | Mould risk |
| Jarring too early | Trapped moisture and mould |
| Light during drying | THC and terpenes break down |
| Skipping the cure | Grassy taste, harsher smoke |
How to spot mould
Look for white or grey fuzz, a musty smell, or webbing between buds. Mouldy cannabis shouldn’t be used. Throw out affected buds and check the rest carefully.
Common questions
How long does it take to dry weed?
Usually 7 to 14 days, depending on humidity, temperature and bud size.
How do you know when weed is dry enough?
Small stems snap instead of bending, and the outside of the buds feels dry.
Why cure weed?
Curing finishes drying evenly and lets chlorophyll break down, which gives a smoother smoke and more flavour.
How long should you cure weed?
At least 2 weeks, and many growers go a month or longer.
