Cannabis is an astonishing plant for many reasons, including its dizzying array of potential benefits and the fact that it naturally produces a distinctive, euphoric “high.” But while cannabis is a unique plant, it must be dutifully tended to before you can pluck off its ripe buds, stick them in a pipe, and puff away.

One of the least talked-about but most important steps in crafting quality flower is the drying and curing process. Weed requires this crucial “resting period” before it can truly be enjoyed. Below, learn the whats, hows, and whys of post-harvest cannabis, how long it may take to dry and cure your buds, and a few expert tips for growing exceptional cannabis at home.

Drying and Curing Cannabis: Why it Matters

The harvest period tends to be seen as the last act in a plant’s life cycle, but that’s not exactly true for cannabis. Fresh-picked weed is wet, sticky, and definitely not suited for smoking. Traditionally, cannabis was dried and cured by feel; it required someone with experience to carefully gauge variables such as moisture and optimum cure.

Today, we have access to tools that make it far simpler to observe and control the process, including:

• A darkened room, as the UV rays in sunlight can degrade cannabis

• A hygrometer, a simple instrument that measures ambient humidity

• A fan to increase airflow and gently speed the drying process

• An air conditioner in case temperatures are too high, and a dehumidifier if the ambient humidity is too high

These items can be easily purchased and will set you up for success if you’re new to growing.

How Long Does it Take to Dry and Cure Cannabis?

Depending on your approach, it can take between 3 – 7 days to fully dry your cannabis harvest. Curing, however, can take much longer. This crucial—and often underappreciated step—can go anywhere from two weeks to six months or more.

That may sound like a long time to wait for your home-grown flower to be smokeable but trust us, it’s an absolutely crucial step. Curing “finishes” flower, taking it from a raw and potentially harsh state into one that’s rich, flavorful, and a delight to partake in.

Wet Trim vs Dry Trim: Which Should You Use?

While there are many sub-steps involved, drying and curing cannabis is, at heart, a two-stage process. First, the ripened cannabis is harvested and dried before it’s cured.

To dry your cannabis, you’ll need:

• A darkened room, as the UV rays in sunlight can degrade cannabis

• A drying rack or line to hang buds for drying

• A thermometer and hygrometer

• Optional: AC unit and dehumidifier

You also have a decision to make: Are you going to do a “dry trim” or a “wet trim”?