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After weeks of careful care and observation of the cannabis plants, the time has finally come to harvest. But before you can enjoy your well-earned weed, there is another crucial step to take: drying cannabis.
How long should you dry your cannabis to get the best aroma, full potency and a smooth smoke? In this article you will learn all the important information and methods that will lead you to a perfect drying result.
How long should cannabis ideally dry?
Average drying time under optimum conditions
Under perfect conditions, the drying of cannabis flowers takes an average of 7 to 14 days. The exact duration depends on various factors: the size of the buds, the room environment, the humidity, the temperature and the method used.
In some cases - especially with very large, dense flowers or cool, damp environments - the drying time can be extended to 21 to 30 days. Patience pays off, as a process that is too quick will impair the taste and effect.
Brief overview:
| Bud size | Estimated duration |
|---|---|
| Popcorn Buds | 5-7 days |
| Medium-sized flowers | 7-14 days |
| Large colas | 14-30 days |
These factors influence the drying time
Humidity and temperature - your key to success
The two most important parameters:
Humidity: Ideal at 60 %
Temperature: Optimal at 18-21 °C
If the drying process is too fast (below 50 % humidity or above 24 °C), the flowers will be poor in aroma and harsh. Excessive humidity (more than 65%) increases the risk of mold.
The tried and tested 60:60 rule
60 % humidity
60 °F (approx. 20 °C) Temperature
These values ensure slow, even drying. Use a hygrometer and thermometer to keep the conditions constant.
When is your cannabis ready to be dried?
The stem test
Choose a thin branch and bend it.
If it cracks clearly, the grass is dry enough.
If it just bends, it still needs time.
Further signs of fully dried buds
Outer leaves are crispy.
Branches break easily.
Aroma is fully developed.
Buds hardly give at all when pressed.
Drying in steps: this is how you proceed
1st harvest time
Trichomes should be milky to amber in color.
2. trimming: Wet or dry?
Wet trimming: Directly after harvesting. Advantage: faster drying.
Dry trimming: After drying. Advantage: better taste.
3. hang up or dry net?
Hanging up: Classic, dark and well ventilated.
Dry net: Ideal when space is limited.
4. have patience
Check regularly, observe the 60:60 rule, don't rush.
Avoid mistakes when drying
Zu schnell: < 50 % Luftfeuchtigkeit, > 24 °C = Aroma- und Wirkverlust
Mold: > 65 % humidity, no air circulation
UV light: Destroys cannabinoids. Always store in the dark.
Incorrect trimming or storage: reduction in quality
Tip: Only use fans indirectly, never point them at the buds.
Curing / fermentation: The finishing touch
After drying comes the often underestimated phase of hardening (curing / fermentation ):
Why ferment?
Provides the best aroma.
Reduces residual moisture evenly.
Preserves potency and cannabinoids
Leads to soft, pleasant smoke.
Procedure for fermentation
Place the flowers in airtight jars (e.g. Mason jars), approx. 70-75% full.
Ventilate daily for 10-15 minutes, check humidity.
Duration: at least 2-4 weeks, ideally 6-8 weeks.
Patience pays off enormously here! A perfectly cured flower offers a much rounder taste experience and maximum effect.
Variety-specific differences in drying
Variety-specific differences
Indica: Dense buds, slower drying (14-21 days)
Sativa: Looser structure, dries faster (7-14 days)
Watch out for possible mold inside indica strains.
Find the right variety for you with our seed finder!
Conclusion: How long to dry cannabis? Take your time - for the best quality
How long to dry cannabis? On average 7-14 days, sometimes up to 30 days for large buds.
Dry for 7-14 days on average, up to 30 days for large buds
Observe the 60:60 rule
Choose the right trimming method
Check temperature, humidity and risk of mold
Then ferment (2-4 weeks)
FAQ
How long does cannabis take to dry?
Depending on the bud size, method and environment, 7 to 30 days.
When should you smoke cannabis after harvesting?
After drying, ferment for at least 2 to 4 weeks.
How long should you dry flowers?
Small flowers: 5-7 days
Medium-sized buds: 7-14 days
Large buds: 14-30 days
What is the 60:60 rule?
60 % humidity and 60 °F (approx. 20 °C) room temperature for uniform drying.
Myths about drying
Oven: Destroys cannabinoids and terpenes
Hair dryer: Only dries the outer layer, risk of mold
Heating: dries too quickly, aroma suffers
Conclusion: No quick fixes. Patience and control bring the best results.
Drying cannabis is a crucial step on the way to high-quality weed. Slow, controlled drying ensures that aromas, cannabinoids and the structure of the buds are optimally preserved. The 60:60 rule - 60 % humidity and 20 °C room temperature - provides the best conditions for consistent results. Depending on the size of the buds, drying takes between 7 and 30 days. This is followed by fermentation, which significantly improves the taste and effect. If you are patient and avoid typical mistakes such as too high temperatures or direct exposure to light, you will be rewarded with first-class quality.
M.Sc. Agricultural Sciences | Expert in Cannabis & Crop Production | Co-founder of HANS Brainfood
Matthias Coufal studied Agricultural Sciences at the University of Hohenheim and Agricultural Marketing and Management in Weihenstephan. Already during his studies, he intensively and scientifically studied the plant hemp with a particular focus on sustainable cultivation, ingredients and potential uses.
