Hanging the Whole Plant vs. Hanging Branches
Welcome, weed wizards! We’re about to embark on a post-harvest odyssey that can make or break your buds. We’ve nurtured our green babies from seedlings to mature plants, only to chop them down in their prime. Cruel? Perhaps. But it’s all part of the circle of life in the cannabis kingdom. So, let’s dive into…
Understanding the Drying Process
Drying is not merely a process but a pilgrimage.
The transitory phase molds your cannabis into the potent, flavorful product you so passionately desire.
Drying and curing may be two distinct processes, but they are interdependent – like Batman and Robin in the fight against mediocre marijuana.
Too fast, and you end up with harsh smoke and depleted terpenes.
Too slow, and mold becomes your uninvited guest.
Hanging the Whole Plant
Imagine a chandelier made of cannabis – an entire plant hanging upside down in all its green glory.
It’s not just for aesthetics; hanging the whole plant promotes slower, more even drying.
It’s like the plant’s final homage to the grower, providing the most exquisite smoke.
Slower Drying for Better Results
No one likes waiting, but in the case of drying cannabis, patience pays.
Slower drying times, like 7-10 days or even up to 14 days, are preferred for preserving the best taste and aroma.
Picture it as an extended vacation for your buds after a tough growing season, helping them relax and enhance their inner beauty.
Proper Environment and Airflow
Your buds may be hardcore, but they are sensitive souls when it comes to drying.
A cool environment with temperatures around 65°F (18-19°C) and 45-50% relative humidity (RH) is ideal for hanging plants to dry.
The right temperature and humidity levels and sufficient air circulation keep mold and bad vibes at bay.
Checking Dryness and Trim Techniques
Stems will tune to indicate if the buds are dry – a satisfying snap instead of a bend.
And then comes the trimming, like giving your buds a haircut before their big date in the jar.
Dry trimming after hanging the whole plant is generally preferred, as it’s gentler on the buds.
Hanging Branches for Drying
But what if you’ve got spatial constraints, or you’re just more of a “branch” person?
Then hanging branches for drying may be your go-to method.
This technique accelerates the drying process, providing more access points for air, but with great power comes great responsibility!
Faster Drying with a Controlled Environment
Branch drying is the cannabis equivalent of a fast-paced thriller.
It’s quicker but demands vigilant control of the environment to maintain the fine line between adequately dry and arid-as-the-Sahara.
Keeping the drying room temperature around 70-75°F (21-24°C) with a humidity level of about 45% RH and air circulation on point is critical.
Trimming and Handling Considerations
Trimming before hanging branches is like preparing your buds for a beauty pageant, parading their allure without the leafy entourage.
But remember, those buds are as delicate as a soufflé – handle them carefully to preserve their integrity and avoid losing precious trichomes.
Factors to Consider
Choosing between hanging the whole plant or the branches boils down to the following:
- Available space
- Desired drying time
- Personal preference
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
So there you have it, growers – the lowdown on drying cannabis, whether you’re hanging whole plants or individual branches.
The key is controlling your environment, monitoring your buds, and ultimately doing what feels suitable for you and your green darlings.
Happy drying, folks!
FAQ
Should I leave fan leaves on while drying?
Leaving fan leaves on while drying can slow down the drying process and protect buds from over-drying but may make the subsequent trimming process more labor-intensive.
How long to dry buds in a drying rack?
Drying buds in a rack usually take about 7-10 days, but it can vary based on environmental conditions and the moisture content of the buds.
How long to dry buds before jarring?
Buds should dry entirely before jarring, typically taking 7-14 days.
How do you dry buds individually?
Individual buds can be dried on racks or lines. Maintaining optimal temperature and humidity levels and ensuring adequate air circulation to prevent mold development is crucial.
About the Author
Share the Love:
