Plant Expert

Home / Growing Guide / 60/60 Method for Drying Cannabis

60/60 Method for Drying Cannabis

60/60 Method for Drying Cannabis

Last Update:

21/03/24

Publish Date:

08/03/24

Author:

Mike Mair

Are you facing challenges in drying your cannabis while retaining its potency and aroma?

After over a decade and a half in the cannabis cultivation sector, we’ve honed the process of drying cannabis with the goal of preserving its quality.

This blog will lay out the steps to efficiently dry your cannabis using the 60/60 method.

Key Takeaways:

  • To effectively dry cannabis, keep the temperature at 60°F and humidity at 60%, closely monitor the environment, and be patient.
  • The 60/60 method might not be the perfect solution for every strain or desired result.
  • Newer studies encourage looking into different drying techniques for improved terpene conservation.

Table of Content

Before You Get Started

Create a controlled setting where you can precisely manage temperature and humidity levels.

Reflect on the strain and the results you aim for before deciding if the 60/60 approach is right for your situation.

Pros

  • A moderate Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) allows for a balanced drying pace.
  • The slower drying process is believed to better preserve terpenes and cannabinoids.
  • Minimizes the risk of mold development.

Cons

  • Lacks robust scientific validation.
  • Recent studies question its effectiveness in terpene preservation.
  • Demands strict control over environmental conditions.

How To Use the 60/60 Method for Drying Cannabis

Navigating the drying phase of cannabis cultivation is crucial, and the 60/60 method offers a promising path.

Let’s dive deeper into the steps involved, peppering our guide with practical tips and a sprinkle of humor to keep things light.

1. Setting Up Your Drying Environment

Creating the ideal drying environment is like setting the stage for a grand performance where every element plays a crucial role:

  • Temperature and Humidity Control: Aim for 60°F and 60% RH. This isn’t just a random number; it’s the sweet spot for drying cannabis effectively.
  • Tools of the Trade: Equip yourself with a reliable hygrometer and thermometer. Think of these gadgets as your trusty sidekicks, always ready to tell you the climate story of your drying space.
  • Ventilation: Good airflow is the unsung hero of the drying process. Use fans, but place them strategically to avoid direct blasts on your precious buds.

2. Preparing Your Cannabis for Drying

Before you introduce your cannabis to its drying environment, a little prep work is in order:

  • Trimming: Snip away excess leaves to promote even airflow and drying. This is not about giving your buds a haircut but more about ensuring they dry uniformly.
  • Spacing: Lay out your buds on drying racks, giving them enough room to breathe. Overcrowding can lead to uneven drying and might invite mold.

3. Monitoring the Drying Process

This step is where your inner scientist meets your inner gardener:

  • Daily Checks: Peek in on your cannabis every day. Look for changes in moisture and the overall feel of the buds.
  • Adjustments: If you notice the humidity drifting away from the 60% mark or the temperature getting too chilly or warm, tweak your environment. This might mean adjusting your dehumidifier settings or shifting the position of your fans.

4. Finalizing the Drying Process

Knowing when your cannabis is perfectly dried is an art:

  • The Snap Test: Gently bend a stem. If it snaps with a slight resistance, it’s time. If it bends like a gymnast, give it more time.
  • Feel the Outer Buds: They should feel dry but not crispy. The inner moisture will continue curing, so don’t let them dry out too much.

What to Avoid Doing

In your quest for the perfectly dried bud, here are some pitfalls to dodge:

  • Rushing the Process: Turning up the heat won’t speed things up in a good way. It’s more likely to degrade your hard-earned cannabinoids and terpenes.
  • Ignoring Fluctuations: Consistency is key. Allowing the environment to swing wildly in temperature or humidity is asking for trouble.
  • Neglecting Daily Monitoring: Each day in the drying room brings new changes. Skipping your check-ins is like ignoring text messages from your plants saying, “Hey, too dry over here!”

How to Prevent Over-Drying or Under-Drying

Balancing moisture content is a delicate dance.

Here are steps to keep you in rhythm:

  • Steady as She Goes: Implement a stable monitoring routine. Adjustments should be gradual, not drastic.
  • Tech to the Rescue: Humidifiers and dehumidifiers are worth their weight in green gold. They help you maintain that perfect 60% RH.
  • Automation for the Win: If manually checking conditions isn’t your style, consider automated systems that adjust temperature and humidity for you. It’s like having a robot butler for your cannabis.

By following these steps and tips, the 60/60 method becomes less of a mystery and more of a practical guide to drying cannabis effectively.

Remember, it’s all about balance, attention, and a bit of patience.

Conclusion

Drying cannabis with the 60/60 method can be a game-changer for many growers, aiming for a product that hits the sweet spot between moisture content and preserved aromatics.

Remember, while this guide serves as a foundation, the perfect drying method varies based on individual strains and desired outcomes.

Experimentation and adaptation, guided by thorough monitoring, are key to discovering what works best for your buds.

With patience and precision, you’ll master the art of drying cannabis, ensuring your greens retain their greatness from grow room to grinder.