How Long Can You Store Cannabis and Marijuana Infused Products?

How long does marijuana stay fresh? What is the best way to store cannabis?

A lot depends on proper storage of your weed and infused products but here is an overview that should give you a basic timeline:

Flower

Cannabis flower can be stored for up to a year, although it may lose some potency and terpenes. Keep it away from sunlight, make sure the temperature is about 72 degrees and humidity is within 35-50% and you will be able to significantly prolong the storage time. Do not store it in the fridge or freezer.

To learn more on flower storage from one of our experienced growers, go to Proper Storage of Cannabis 101. How Long Can Marijuana Flower Last?

Edibles

How long do edibles last? Average shelf life of edibles is around 12 months, but they usually have an expiration date from the manufacturer as well as instructions on whether you need to store it in the fridge. Basically, it depends on its ingredients. 

Storing edibles in the fridge or freezer will prolong their life. You should also minimize contact with oxygen and light.

For a detailed guide on storing edibles, click here.

Vape Cartridges

Storing your vape cartridges is a bit trickier, plus there is a lot of confusing information on the web. 

The average shelf life of a vape cartridge is about 12 months, although modern technology can prolong that term. It can be used after the date but it will usually lose some pf the potency and flavor.

The basic rule is to store your cartridge upright or in the case it came in, away from the light. The ideal temperature would be around 70 degrees.

For more, please refer to our detailed article on proper storage of vape carts.

Concentrates

Extracts can last for over a year if stored properly.

Depending on the term, you may store them in a silicone container they came in or use an airtight container and store them in the freezer. The latter will extend their life by a lot, but it comes with the price of possible degrading. 

To learn more on proper storage of cannabis concentrates, click here.

Topicals

Patches, creams and others can be stored for up to two years depending on ingredients. The shelf life is usually provided on the packaging by the vendor.

The original packaging is usually sufficient for proper storage. Light and high temperatures are topicals’ worst enemies. You can store topical products in a fridge but that is not crucial. 

For more details, read our Topicals Storage Guide.

Conclusion

Most cannabis products, as well as flower, can be safely stored for around 12 months, if you follow the guidelines provided here. After a while they lose some of the potency, terpenes, and flavor. Labeling the date of purchase/manufacturing on your products might come in handy and if you are not sure how long you have had it, do not consume it. Safety first.