Curing is the slow drying and aging process that happens after cannabis is harvested and before it is packaged. It is one of the biggest factors in how flower smells, tastes and smokes.
The process usually has two stages. First, the plants or branches are hung to dry slowly in a dark room with controlled temperature and humidity, often for one to two weeks. Then the buds are trimmed and placed in sealed containers, where they rest for weeks. During this time, growers "burp" the containers to release moisture and let moisture even out through the buds.
A good cure helps flower keep its terpenes, develop a fuller aroma and burn smoothly. Poorly cured flower can smell like hay or grass, taste harsh, or be too wet or too dry. Over-dried flower crumbles to dust and loses aroma; flower that is too moist can grow mold.
Signs of a good cure: a strong, pleasant smell when the jar opens, buds that are slightly sticky and springy, and a smooth, even burn.
Curing also matters for concentrates: "cured resin" is made from cured plants, and some rosin is "cold cured" in jars to change its texture.