How to Harvest, Dry & Cure Cannabis: Beginner’s Step-by-Step Guide

You've made it to harvest — congrats! But you're not done yet. The way you handle your cannabis after cutting it down will determine how smooth it smokes, how strong it hits, and how great it smells. In this beginner’s guide, you’ll learn how to harvest, dry, and cure cannabis properly to lock in potency and flavor while avoiding common mistakes.

When Is Cannabis Ready for Harvest?

The best way to tell if your plants are ready to harvest is by checking the trichomes—those tiny resin glands covering your buds. When most trichomes turn from clear to milky white, and about 10–20% turn amber, you're in the sweet spot. You’ll also notice:

• Pistils turning orange or brown
• Buds appear swollen and sticky
• Fan leaves begin yellowing

How to Harvest Cannabis

There are two popular methods: wet trimming and dry trimming.

• Wet trimming: Trim fan leaves and sugar leaves right after cutting the plant. Easier to handle but can dry faster than desired.
• Dry trimming: Hang whole branches or plants, then trim after drying. Helps slow the drying process for better results.

Use clean, sharp trimmers like Harvest Trim Bins and sanitize your scissors often to prevent mold or sticky buildup.

How to Dry Cannabis Properly

The ideal drying environment is 60°F with 60% humidity (often called the "60/60 rule").

• Hang branches or use a drying rack
• Keep it dark — light degrades cannabinoids
• Ensure gentle airflow without direct fan contact

Drying takes about 7–10 days. You’ll know your buds are ready when small stems snap instead of bending.

!!IMAGEGOESHERE - Line-art or realistic sketch of a drying room showing temperature/humidity monitor, fans, hanging plants, drying racks.!!

How to Cure Weed for Best Flavor & Potency

Curing is the slow removal of internal moisture over time. It makes weed smoother, tastier, and more potent. Here's how:

1. Place dried buds in airtight glass jars, filling them ¾ full
2. Store in a dark, cool room (65–70°F)
3. Burp jars once a day for 5–10 minutes during week 1
4. Add 62% humidity packs to stabilize RH

Most growers cure for 2–4 weeks, though longer cures can yield better results.

Troubleshooting Drying & Curing Issues

Here’s how to fix common problems:

• Too fast drying: Hang full plants instead of branches
• Mold: Lower humidity, increase air circulation
• Weed smells grassy: Cure longer — it breaks down chlorophyll

Before & After Curing: What Changes?

Properly cured buds will:

• Feel slightly sticky but not wet
• Smell louder and richer
• Break apart easily but not turn to dust

Weed before curing may taste harsh, smell like hay, and lose potency. After curing, it’s smoother, smells stronger, and delivers a better high.

FAQs About Harvesting, Drying & Curing Cannabis

How do I know when cannabis is ready to harvest?

Check the trichomes with a magnifier—when they turn from clear to mostly milky with some amber, your buds are ready to harvest.

How long does cannabis take to dry?

Drying typically takes 7–10 days in the right conditions: 60°F and 60% humidity.

How long should I cure my cannabis?

At least 2 weeks, ideally 4–6 weeks. For the best flavor and potency, some growers cure for 3–6 months.

Do I have to cure weed after drying?

Yes. Curing smooths out the smoke, intensifies aroma, and preserves potency.

What's the best temperature and humidity for drying weed?

Stick to 60°F with 60% relative humidity and total darkness for best results.

Conclusion

Drying and curing cannabis properly is just as important as growing it. With a bit of patience and the right tools, you can elevate your flower quality, preserve terpenes, and enjoy smooth, potent buds long after harvest day.

Ready to gear up? Browse our harvest tools, drying racks, and curing kits to get the most from your grow!