Are dry or sticky flowers better?

12. 12. 2023

Variety is the main factor influencing the resulting flower shape. Some naturally have more resin and are therefore stickier, others have denser buds, fewer trichomes (resin glands) and are drier.

After harvesting, the plant is dried in the open air, losing up to 75% of its moisture. After the plant is stripped of excess leaves, the cleaned buds themselves ripen in the jar, ideally slowly and under supervision. This process is known as curing and is essential to preserve the moisture of the flower and the intensity of the flavour.

For cannabis to be effective, decarboxylation, the process by which acidic substances (CBDA and THCA) are converted into non-acidic substances (CBD and THC), must occur. The process starts during drying and is at its strongest when heated directly, i.e. when smoked, vaporised or baked in an oven.

Damp flowers

Cannabinoids are hidden in long hairs that look extremely spectacular. And it's these beauties that are responsible for the sticky surface. The more resin a flower has, the wetter, more potent and more aromatic it is. Juicy sticky flowers are thus among the favourites for vaping or smoking. However, they are heavier in weight and therefore generally more expensive than their dry counterparts.

Dry flowers

In addition to being more affordable, the pulp from the dry (not dried) flowers is ideal for further processing at home, without necessarily requiring the curing and decarboxylation process. The dry matter can be used in baking or added to salads. However, care must be taken when combining with other herbs to ensure that the aromas, flavours and effects are consistent. Even dry cannabis can be smoked and vaped, but has considerably less active ingredients.

HHC

Speaking of the surface of the cannabis flower, we would also like to mention HHC flowers. Because HHC is only present in minimal amounts in the cannabis plant, naturally HHC-rich flowers do not exist. The flowers that are available are evenly sprayed with HHC distillate. They therefore have a different texture at first glance, are harder and stickier, regardless of the variety or processing method.

Compare

Dry flowers

• Lower purchase price
• Weaker aroma
• Lower cannabinoid content
• Ideal for use in the kitchen and in cosmetics

Sticky (wet) flowers

• Higher purchase price
• More intense aroma
• Higher proportion of cannabinoids contained
• Due to the humidity, they are more susceptible to mould and disease

 

 

Whichever type you choose, you should always pay attention to quality and choose products that you can be sure have been grown responsibly and are not at risk of contamination from pesticides, herbicides or heavy metals. In addition, in the Czech Republic, over-the-counter cannabis must not contain more than 1% THC (in most European countries the limit is 0.3%). Make sure the flowers have been tested in an independent laboratory. If you buy flowers online, this should be stated on the product.

Flowers need to be kept healthy. Especially the moist ones, which are more susceptible to mould. But beware, even dry sticks are not spared from this bogeyman.

There is a wide selection of cannabis flowers on the market with different scents and strengths. As it happens, you often don't find the right one the first time. Whether it's the variety or the processing method, you need to try, feel and smell what suits you best. Don't hesitate to contact our dealers. They have the insight to find flowers tailored to your current needs and preferences.

Summary

The moist, sticky flowers contain more resin and are therefore more potent and aromatic. It brings more fun and effects in smaller quantities. But we cannot say that they are better for all cases. They require more care in their acquisition and preservation, and are therefore a little more demanding. At the same time, dry flowers will be amply sufficient for kitchen use.

 

 

Photo: Shutterstock 

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