You’ve seen it on bread and cheese, but what about marijuana? Mold spores are everywhere and cannabis is not immune. One study from a microbiology lab in Berkeley, California tested 20 strains from medical marijuana dispensaries in Northern California to see if any pathogens were present that could harm immunocompromised patients. 20 predominant fungal genera were identified, with three that were found in nearly all samples (purpureocillium, penicillin, and golovinomyces). Here’s what you need to know about moldy marijuana and how you can avoid contamination of your stash.
Can weed get moldy?
Unfortunately, cannabis is extremely susceptible to mold and mildew. This includes potted cannabis plants and the dry herb you may have bought from a dispensary. Growing cannabis plants can get mold if the humidity and temperature are not monitored and controlled, thus it’s more likely for an outdoor grow to get mold. Mold can also grow and spread if trimmed buds are not fully dried out and cured before storing. The water within the flower will increase the humidity in the jar, creating a breeding ground for mold. The perfectly good bud you bought from the dispensary can also get mold if not properly stored.
What does weed mold look like?
The beginning of a mold outbreak is often overlooked since it can sometimes resemble naturally produced cannabis trichomes. Trichomes are the sticky, white crystals and hairs that blanket your buds and are responsible for much of the plant’s aroma which deters insects and other animals. You will need to look very carefully in order to spot mold growth. Instead of individual crystals that shine, mold will look like a white, brown, or black fuzz or a white powder. You’re actually more likely to smell the mold before you see it. Mold will give your flower a very musty, hay-like or mildew-like aroma.
Can moldy weed be saved?
Don’t be tempted to trim off the moldy bud and continue to smoke the rest of your stash. Once you see a whitish fuzzy patch of mold begin to grow on your flower, it will immediately begin to spread and contaminate any buds that are in the same jar. If this happens, there is no way your moldy weed can be saved and though it probably won’t be fatal, it can make you very sick. You may develop a cough and experience vomiting and nausea. Symptoms can become very dangerous for those with a mold allergy, weakened immune systems, or respiratory issues. Just toss it out.
How to avoid moldy weed
When it comes to avoiding moldy weed, where and how you store your flower is key.
- Never store mold in the refrigerator or freezer.
- Always use a glass jar with an airtight lid.
- Store in a dry, dark place like a drawer that is out of direct sunlight.
- Invest in a smart storage device that has full control over temperature and humidity levels.
The optimal environment to store ganja is 77°F (25°C) with between 59% to 63% humidity, which can be a challenge to maintain depending on where you live. How do you keep the temperature and humidity stable you ask? The easiest thing to do if you always have a supply on hand is to invest in a Uniti X1 Smart Storage for Your Herb.
Uniti X1 - The Smart Home for Your Herb
If you love ganja and live in a location that harbors mold, the Uniti X1 should be at the top of your list. The ideal gift for stoners, the Uniti X1 allows you to monitor your stash from anywhere via the Uniti app. Here’s what you need to know.
Uniti X1 Specs
- Patent pending anti-mold air circulation system.
- App enabled smart lock to keep out pets and children.
- Control and monitor your stash from your phone.
- Climate control maintains the optimal temperature and humidity level.
- Two separate containers to separate strains.
- Built-in scales to track usage and know when you need to stock up.
- LED screen.
- Multiple colors to choose from.
- Lithium polymer battery.
- Sleek, minimal design.
Whether you decide to go with the high tech Uniti X1 smart storage or monitor your stash on your own, check out our online smoke shop for the best weed storage containers. Right now you can reserve the Uniti X1 for $50 off!
