There’s nothing quite like visiting a recreational cannabis shop. The atmosphere, the smell, and the almost overwhelming variety of incredible products make the experience nothing if not exciting. Just thinking about stepping foot into your favorite dispensary is enough to fill you with a sense of bliss.
With so many products to choose from, it’s natural to want to buy a few different items. The thing is, you’re probably not going to use them all in one or two days. That can leave you wondering, how much should you buy? Does weed get old or go bad? Understanding the importance of proper storage and how to store your favorite strains to ensure their quality and longevity can help you get the most out of your cannabis products.
Does Weed Get Old and Go Bad?
In short, weed can go bad. It might not go the way of forgotten leftovers in the back of your fridge, but time and improper storage can lead to a loss of potency, affect flavor, and even result in mold growth.
While you might still technically be able to use it without adverse health effects, it’s certainly not a joy to use.
How to Tell If Your Weed Is Bad
There are a few different signs that may point to your weed going bad:
Aroma
Fresh weed has a pleasant, dank aroma. As it ages, however, it begins to lose terpenes. The result is a loss of that familiar, wonderful scent. It may not be as strong as when you first bought your stash, or it may have no smell at all.
If you ever open up your stash container and pick up a musty aroma, you’ll know for sure it’s bad. That scent indicates mold.
Color
Green may be the color most often associated with cannabis, but different strains feature a range of vibrant hues, including orange, purple, and blue. Over time, those colors fade and become dull. In some cases, they may begin to turn yellow or brown.
In the case of moldy buds, you may also notice visual cues. Mold looks like fuzzy or powdery white patches on your flowers and indicates it’s time to replace your stash.
Feel
Improper storage could expose weed to excess air or moisture. Too much airflow can dry out your buds, causing them to become crumbly. Too much moisture, on the other hand, can make them damp and spongy. It can also increase the risk of mold.
Effects
When smoking old cannabis, you may notice your favorite strain doesn’t have its usual kick. That’s because weed loses its potency over time. According to research, it loses approximately 16% after one year, 26% after two, and 34% after three. You may also find your hits harsher.
Marijuana Storage Tips
Generally speaking, properly dried, cured, and stored weed will last approximately six months. Starting with high-quality cannabis is a must.
How you store your product at home will play a substantial role, too. Here are a few marijuana storage tips to help you ensure the longevity of your stash.
- Keep it dark and cool. Exposure to light and heat can degrade THC faster. Store your buds in a cool, dark location, such as a cabinet you don’t use often.
- Use airtight containers. Air is a weed enemy. Airtight jars (such as mason jars) are your buds’ best friends.
- Avoid moisture. Damp buds can be just as bad as dry ones. If necessary, toss a humidity pack in with your stash to help soak up excess moisture.
What About Other Cannabis Products?
Other cannabis products can lose potency and go bad over time, too. Edibles can expire like other regular food items.
Heat and light can degrade tinctures, vape oils, and concentrates. Following their storage guidelines will help to ensure they last as long as possible.
Get High-Quality Weed from a Trusted Recreational Cannabis Shop
The best way to avoid having your weed go bad is to use it in a timely manner. However, that may not always be possible. Proper storage is always your best bet for ensuring the longest possible lifespan for your favorite products.
Another great way to ensure that your buds (or other weed products) stay fresher longer is to start with high-quality items from a trusted recreational cannabis shop like Campfire Cannabis. Visit our website to view our products and place your order today.
