How to Dry Pot Plants Outside

If you want to preserve your pot plants for a longer time, then drying them is an effective method. Drying pot plants can be done indoors, but drying them outside is a great way to save on energy and give your plants an extra boost of sunlight. Here is everything you need to know about drying pot plants outside:

Choose The Perfect Day

The first step to drying pot plants outside is to choose the perfect day. This is important because drying your pot plants on a day with high humidity or rain will lead to mold and mildew growth on your plants, which defeats the purpose of drying them. Check the weather forecast, and choose a day with low humidity, plenty of sunshine, and a gentle breeze.

Pick The Pot Plants To Dry

You have to select the pot plants you want to dry. Choose plants that are healthy and full-grown, but try to avoid plants that are still producing new buds or flowers. After picking the plant, remove any dead or diseased branches to ensure that the plant is in the best condition possible for drying.

Prepare Your Drying Area

Once you have chosen the plants to dry and selected a perfect day, you have to prepare your drying area. Find a flat surface that's shaded and protected from rain and wind, like a garden table or floor mat. You can also use a clothesline or a dry area under your porch. Use a string or clips to hang your plants upside down from the base of the stem.

Hang Your Pot Plants to Dry

To dry your pot plants, you have to hang them upside down. This is important because the plant's sap will flow downwards towards the base of the stem as it dries, which improves its flavor and potency. Tie a string or fishing line around the base of the stem, then hang the plant upside down on your drying area. Keep your plants a few inches apart from each other to avoid overcrowding, and ensure that they get enough light and ventilation to dry evenly.

Monitor Your Pot Plants

After hanging your pot plants, you have to monitor them regularly. Check on your plants daily to ensure that there is no mold or mildew growth. If you notice any fungus or discoloration, remove the infected portions of the plant and keep checking every day until it's completely dry. Depending on the size and density of your plants, it can take around two to four weeks to dry fully.

Cure Your Pot Plants

Once your pot plants are fully dry, you have to cure them to get the best flavor and potency. Curing is the process of storing your dried plants in airtight containers, like jars or vacuum-sealed bags, for several weeks to allow them to release any remaining moisture. During this time, the dried buds will become denser, the taste will improve, and their potency will increase. Store your cured plants in a cool, dark, and dry area to avoid moisture and light, which can reduce the potency and flavor.

Conclusion

Drying pot plants outside is an easy and cost-effective method to make your plants last longer. With careful monitoring and proper curing, you can produce high-quality dried buds with excellent flavor, aroma, and potency. Follow these simple steps, and you'll be able to dry your pot plants outside like a pro.