How to Help your Cannabis Survive the Hot Summer Heat

Cannabis is a unique plant; there’s no question. But it’s not just the cannabinoids like THC that make it so special. A big part of the cannabis experience is the rich aromas and flavors. These come from terpenes, a seriously important part of the plant. 

If you’ve ever cracked open a bag or jar and thought your bud provided only one note of smell it could be a sign of terpene loss. And sadly, the taste and odor of your cannabis isn’t the only thing that is disappearing: the effects could be muted as well.

Many things lead to terpene degradation, but a big one is heat. For people growing in warm climates or simply sweating away the dog days of summer, it could spell trouble for your terps. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help keep your cannabis fresh and smelling dank. Want to know more? This blog is for you.

What are terpenes?

Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants. They’re responsible for the distinct scent profiles associated with various flowers, including cannabis. They’re also believed to help drive the effects of weed. If cannabinoids like THC are the gas in the tank, terpenes are the GPS system helping you navigate your journey.

Smelling terpenes on the farm.

Whether you like it dank and gassy or sweet and creamy, there’s a terpene profile for everyone. There are hundreds of different terpenes, including dozens found in cannabis. However, there tends to be a small number that appear in higher concentrations in weed. The main cannabis terpenes are as follows:

• Myrcene is the most abundant cannabis terpene. Also found in mangos, it has an earthy flavor and tends to be more sedative in its effects.
• Limonene is a citrus terp found in lemons (and many household cleaners). It is often found in sativa-leaning strains.
• Beta-caryophyllene is on the peppery side as another abundant terp in cannabis. It’s found in many GSC crosses and offers relaxing effects.
• Pinene evokes an evergreen forest, and it’s often found in coniferous trees. The effects are typically energizing and cerebral.
• Humulene is herbaceous and thought to have anti-inflammatory benefits, making it great at the end of the day. This dank terpene is also found in hops, explaining the weed-y scent of many IPA beers.
• Linalool is also found in lavender (and many aromatherapy oils); it’s known as a relaxing and dreamy terpene. While not the most common terp, it’s found in many indica-leaning varieties. 
• Terpinolene is among the least common cannabis terps, but it definitely stands out thanks to its potent mixture of fuel and haze. It can be found in many old-school strains like Jack Herer.
• Ocimene is a somewhat rare terp making waves thanks to its pungent, fruity nose. It’s also incredibly stoney, making it highly sought after.

The cause of terpene loss

Not long after harvest, terpenes and cannabinoids begin to degrade naturally, slowly disappearing over time. However, certain situations can expedite the process leading to less-than-stellar bud in your stash. People in hot climates tend to be even more at risk. 

Here’s why:

High temperatures, oxygen, and UV light are the main causes of terpene loss. When exposed to these elements, cannabis oxidizes. The active compounds lose their luster, meaning terpenes are muted and THC converts to the less potent CBN. If cannabis is stored improperly, whether that be in direct sunlight, in a hot room, or in a container that’s not airtight, it’s going to degrade far faster. 

Furthermore, dry climates can also be problematic. If you’re in a desert, it’s double trouble. Why? Relative humidity.

Relative humidity (rH) is the amount of moisture in the air versus the maximum amount of moisture that same air can hold at its current temperature. It’s been discovered that cannabis thrives in 55-65% humidity. If the environment is too humid, your bud could develop mold. But if it’s too dry, your cannabis will lose terpenes. 

And once those terps are lost, you can’t get them back.

Fortunately, there are ways to preserve terpenes and prevent degradation, even in the hottest of times.

Save the terps: preserving cannabis terpenes

Keeping weed fresh is not rocket science, even on the hottest days of the year. Here’s how it’s done.

Choose your harvest time carefully

For growers, preserving terps starts at harvest. Plants off-gas volatile compounds like terpenes during the day when the sun is high. These compounds are replenished overnight, so you want to harvest in the cool hours of the morning before the sun is bright. As soon as the stalks are cut, move them into a cool, shaded spot as soon as possible.

Create proper conditions post-harvest

You didn’t spend all season growing your bud with the utmost care just to have it deteriorate immediately post-harvest. The dry/cure phase is often tricky, as many things can go wrong. 

Ensure your dry room is cool and dark, with humidity levels in the range of 50 to 60 percent and temperature between 60 and 70 degrees. Fresh air exchange is also important. If the room is too humid with stagnant air, your bud may develop mold. Conversely, if it’s too dry, the flower can dry too fast. This will lead to harsh smoke and unpleasant flavor.

You’ll want similar conditions during the cure phase, whether curing in jars or something like Grove curing bags. Store your containers in a cool, dark place. If curing in jars, be sure to “burp” them by opening the lid and rolling the bud around gently for a few minutes every day to refresh the air.

Secure the right storage

Turkey bags and ziplocks may be convenient, but they don’t do much to protect your cannabis. Instead, use airtight containers like jars or Cvaults. Bonus points if they’re opaque. The less exposure to air, light, and heat, the better. Keep your containers out of direct light, even if they’re not transparent. 

Use protection

Many cannabis growers and consumers alike opt to add an insurance policy to their stash. This comes in the form of humidity control products. This may be a sachet like Boveda, which you place right in your weed container. Alternatively, you can store your flower inside a Grove Bag, which is designed with built-in humidity control. These types of products ensure the environment within the jar or bag is just right, preserving terpenes so your flower is always at its freshest.

Consider a cooler

If you must venture out with your weed, or your home is without air conditioning, you may want to grab a cooler. Some people even have a dedicated terp fridge (aka a mini fridge used specifically for cannabis flower or extracts). Cars can be literal hot boxes and a cooler may add a layer of protection when the mercury climbs.

Final thoughts

Terpenes are a vital part of the cannabis experience. They offer the rich aromas and robust flavors that weed is known for, while helping drive the overall effects. And while hot climates can spell disaster for terps, there are solutions.