The Drying Phase: A Critical Stage in Cannabis Cultivation
The drying phase is arguably the most crucial stage in the entire cultivation cycle. In just two weeks, one can ruin the entire crop if not handled correctly. It's vital to adhere to certain guidelines to dry your cannabis properly and achieve a high-quality product. Here are some key pointers:
- Patience with Genetics: Follow the genetic growth timetable and don't rush the process.
- Strategic Drying: Plan how and where you'll dry your plants.
- Avoid Quick Drying: An optimal drying duration is 1 to 2 weeks, followed by a curing period of 1 to 3 months. Curing should start at the right time; more on this in the "Curing" section.
- Leaf Management: Remove leaves without crystals, keep others for conservation (see "Post Cultivation"). In dry environments, leave more leaves to slow drying.
- Rainy Harvests: If harvested during rainy or highly humid periods, dry the plants well and remove more leaves to prevent fungal or bacterial growth.
- Dark Drying Space: Dry in darkness as UV light can destroy terpenes and cannabinoids like THC, CBG, etc.
- Control Humidity and Temperature: Set your ventilation system to a gentle level, and don't direct fans straight at drying plants. More on this in "Humidity and Temperature for a Perfect Dry."
