Drying freshly harvested cannabis buds is one of the most critical steps in securing a high-quality end product. While traditional hanging methods work drying in paper bags offers some distinct advantages for the home grower. This specialized technique helps better preserve terpenes and control humidity for smooth flavorful buds.
As an avid home cannabis grower, I’ve tried various drying methods over the years. Recently, I switched to gently drying my sticky harvests in paper bags and have been blown away by the results. In this complete guide, I’ll share everything I’ve learned about properly drying buds in paper bags.
Why Take the Time to Dry Buds in Paper Bags?
You may be wondering, why go through the extra effort of drying in paper bags versus just hanging up branches to dry? Here are the main benefits this method provides:
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Better terpene preservation – Terpenes, the compounds responsible for aroma and flavor, are delicate. Paper bags protect them from degrading too quickly.
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More controlled humidity – Paper allows moisture to escape while preventing buds from drying out entirely
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Space efficiency – Bags take up less room than hanging whole plants.
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Faster, more even drying – The bag environment dries buds more uniformly.
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Prevents mold growth – Daily monitoring lets you catch any dampness before mold develops.
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Smoother final product – Gentle handling preserves trichomes for maximum smoothness.
For the highest quality homegrown cannabis, paper bag drying really can’t be beaten. Now let’s look at how to do it right.
Step-by-Step Guide to Drying Cannabis Buds in Paper Bags
1. Choose the Right Bags
Select plain brown paper bags that are lightweight and porous. Avoid wax-coated or heavy, dense bags that won’t allow good airflow. Pick bags large enough to give buds room without cramming them in.
2. Prepare the Buds
Trim off larger leaf matter, but leave smaller sugar leaves if desired. Break up large colas into smaller buds about 3-4 inches long to expose more surface area.
3. Place Buds in Bags
Distribute buds loosely along the bottom of bags in a single layer. Don’t overfill – buds need space to breathe. Fold over the tops once or twice to allow some airflow.
4. Control Humidity
Use a hygrometer to monitor humidity around the bags. Ideal levels are 60-65%. Use a dehumidifier if needed to prevent mold growth.
5. Check and Gently Turn Buds Daily
Inspect buds closely each day for any signs of mold starting. Carefully turn buds to promote even drying on all sides.
6. Monitor Dryness
Test buds by squeezing after 5-7 days – they should feel dry outside but still a bit springy inside when squeezed. 62% humidity is ideal at this point.
7. Transfer to Curing Containers
Once dried to perfection, transfer buds into airtight glass jars or other containers for the curing stage. Enjoy your expertly dried harvest!
Tips for Drying Cannabis to Perfection in Paper Bags
Here are some additional tips and best practices for getting the most out of paper bag drying:
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Dry in a dark, cool, dry space around 60-70°F. Avoid light exposure.
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Inspect buds at least once daily for any moist areas where mold could start.
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Gently shake and redistribute buds in the bags daily for even drying.
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Use hygrometers to closely monitor humidity levels both in bags and the overall space.
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Be patient – slow drying preserves terpenes and potency better than rushing it.
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Add desiccant packs to bags to absorb excess moisture if needed.
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Transfer any moist buds to new dry bags to prevent mold spread.
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Paper bags work best for smaller harvests – for larger grows use breathable drying racks.
How Drying Methods Affect Quality and Potency
The drying process has a huge impact on the final quality and potency of your cannabis harvest. Buds dried rapidly under harsh conditions lose terpenes and THC quickly. But when dried slowly under controlled conditions, the delicate aromas and potency remain intact.
Paper bags create an ideal microclimate for even, gentle drying. The result is exceptionally smooth, fragrant buds that deliver robust effects. In my experience, the paper bag method preserves terpenes and trichomes much better than traditional hang drying of whole branches.
While it does take a bit more effort than just hanging plants up, paper bag drying is worth it for the premium quality achieved. Top-shelf buds start with expert drying and curing.
Should You Give Paper Bag Drying a Try?
If you’re looking to maximize the quality and potency of your homegrown cannabis, I highly recommend giving paper bag drying a try on your next harvest. While not quite as simple as just hanging branches to dry, with a bit of practice this technique can really take your buds to the next level.
Just remember to choose breathable bags, give buds plenty of room, keep a close eye on humidity, and dry gently. Follow the steps outlined above and you’ll be rewarded with sticky, fragrant nugs that preserve all those precious terpenes and cannabinoids you worked so hard to cultivate.
Nothing beats smoking smooth, flavorful buds grown with your own hands. Dial in paper bag drying, along with proper curing in jars, and you’ll be enjoying harvests to be proud of. Your patience will be rewarded with dank, delicious cannabis grown right at home.
Avoid these 5 Mistakes when Drying Cannabis!
FAQ
Do paper bags absorb moisture?
For produce that shouldn’t get too damp, paper bags help absorb moisture without letting produce dry out completely.
What is the brown paper bag method?
The test was used to determine what privileges an individual could have; only those with a skin color that matched or was lighter than a brown paper bag were allowed admission or membership privileges.
What is the easiest way to dry buds?
The best way to achieve this is to place the buds into a sealed container for a short period at drying temperature (for 2 to 24 hours depending on quantity), while periodically exchanging the container air. The bud will again become uniform in moisture consistency or dryness.