Stage 6 of 6
Curing
The slow, easy-to-skip step that improves smell, smoothness, and potency more than almost anything else in the process.
Typical duration:2–8 weeks (2 weeks minimum, 4+ recommended for real quality difference)
What happens here
Dried buds are sealed in airtight containers (glass jars are standard) and periodically opened to release moisture and exchange air, allowing chlorophyll to break down and flavor compounds to develop.
Key tasks
- 1Fill jars about two-thirds full — buds need room to be moved, not packed tight
- 2"Burp" jars (open briefly) once or twice a day for the first week, tapering off as buds stabilize
- 3Store the finished cure in a cool, dark place — light and heat degrade quality over time even after curing is done
What to watch for
- A humidity pack or hygrometer in the jar takes the guesswork out of this stage and is worth the small cost
- Any musty or ammonia-like smell means too much moisture was sealed in — buds need to dry out more before continuing
You've reached the end of the grow
This is the final stage. Once the cure is done, store your jars somewhere cool and dark.