We all have our preferences when it comes to just about anything and weed is certainly no different. A common misconception amongst cannabis smokers is that dryness is an indicator of low-quality weed. Once again, Dockside is here to debunk this myth
The humidity of packaged weed depends on a number of variables that a grower considers and adjusts when drying and curing their product including but not limited to temperature, humidity, duration of time, and storage method. These factors can be adjusted batch by batch based on what the grower thinks is best for a specific strain’s genetic lineage and the way they manage one of the hardest variables to control- the relative humidity of their location. While there is variation in the moisture content of packaged weed that changes from strain to strain and producer to producer, personal perception plays a big role. Sativas often have a more fluffy and fragile bud structure than Indicas, giving the impression that they are drier even when the actual moisture content is exactly the same
So, now that you have a basic understanding of the factors that come into play, let’s look at the wet-dry spectrum and how it impacts the user experience.
Have you ever heard someone say, “That weed is pretty dry and it’s probably going to hit super hot and harsh.” While that may be true for weed that is bone dry, it can also be true for weed that is too wet. Picture a damp log thrown on a hot fire. It crackles and pops. Alternatively, a very dry log burns fast and hot. It’s possible that one of these extremes describes your exact preference, but there are many degrees in between that will strike a better balance for most people and offer a smoother hit.
In terms of grinding, wetter weed has the potential to be overly sticky and clump together. On the other end of the spectrum, bone-dry weed can turn to dust, making it difficult to roll or pack into a bowl. Again, there are a lot of sweet spots in between the extremes, and most of it just comes down to personal preference.
One advantage of dry cannabis is that it weighs less, meaning you are likely getting more plant matter when you buy a drier strain. If you like to bake edibles, dry weed is also the way to go as it aids in decarboxylation (the process of converting THCA into THC). While stickier buds do tend to have more THC than a comparable dry strain, any experienced cannabis user will tell you that higher concentrations of THC do not necessarily equate to a better high.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you actually have a lot of control over the moisture content of your cannabis depending on how you choose to store it after purchasing. If you find that your weed is too wet for your preference, try leaving it open in a relatively dry room for 30 minutes or so. On the other hand, if you find your weed too dry, try leaving the package open in a humid room for 30 minutes. For rehydration, you can also place a Boveda pack, or even a small piece of wet paper towel, in the package.
The next time you find yourself in possession of dry weed, you’ll know now that it’s not a quality indicator. It’s still excellent weed and will get you high!
