In many ways, cannabis is special among plants. Unlike most of its botanical brethren, it contains psychoactive and relaxing cannabinoids, and an entourage of beneficial terpenes.
However, cannabis is like other plants in other regards. It starts from a seed. It sprouts in ideal conditions with enough sunlight and water. And, like all organic materials, it’s susceptible to mold.
It’s this last commonality we’re exploring today. In this pocket-sized consumer guide, you’ll find all of your frequently asked questions about mold and cannabis, answered. Plus, learn how to properly store weed to prevent all this trouble in the first place.
Can Mold Grow on Cannabis?
Let’s start with the basics. Although already answered in the intro, the point bears repeating: Mold can grow on cannabis. It’s not uncommon in the least. According to some sources, 15% of tested cannabis samples contained mold. Other tests in specific regions put the figure as high as 50%.
It’s a simple equation. When the environment around cannabis reaches a relative humidity higher than roughly 65%, the plant assumes too much moisture; moist organic matter is a breeding ground for mold spores, which get the nutrients and water they need to proliferate. This process can happen before the product hits the shelves, or due to improper storage from consumers living in high-humidity regions.
Can You Smoke Moldy Cannabis?
The short answer is, “No.”
The longer answer is that you really shouldn’t smoke cannabis affected by mold because even combustion (i.e., lighting the weed) isn’t enough to kill heat-resistant mold strains. Smoking moldy weed can lead to lung troubles, sinus problems, allergic reactions, fatigue, dizziness and headaches. In some severe cases, it can have potentially life-threatening consequences.
And before you try to “brush away” affected mold spots, understand that the open structure of cannabis flower is such that mold can penetrate unseen parts. It’s best to toss the affected product wholesale. It’s a bummer, but it’s the only safe course of action.
How Do You Spot Moldy Weed?
Mold appears on cannabis most commonly as matte, powdery patches – sort of like getting a patch of bread flour on your green shirt. In some cases, mold presents itself in discolored stems and even slime patches.
Differentiating mold (not good!) from trichomes (good!) takes a close eye. Trichomes, the terpene-packed crystals covering quality weed, will appear radiant and sparkling. By contrast, mold will be blotchy, dull, and grey-white.
Can You Prevent Mold from Growing on Cannabis?
You sure can. One of the most common causes of cannabis mold is improper storage on the consumer end. Essentially, you want to control the RH in the cannabis’ “environment” (read: it’s container).
First, choose a tightly sealed container like a Mason jar or heavy-duty bag. Next, add a Boveda 2-way humidity control pack to the container. This little powerhouse pack stabilizes the enclosed environment, keeping it at an ideal relative humidity of 58% or 62% (depending on the kind you buy). Replace the pack every three months or so.
Don’t risk smoking moldy weed. Inspect the cannabis you buy from dispensaries, toss out any affected stash, and employ correct storage procedures to prevent these unwanted guests from turning up.
