There has been a significant increase in demand for cannabis products since its legalization in Canada.

Cannabis contains CBD (cannabidiol) and THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). The combination of these substances is commonly known for consumers, but did you know that these compounds are separated, they have different effects on the body?

If you want to make an informed decision about your next trip, it helps to understand facts and misconceptions about THC.

Myth 1. Some weed strains contain THC only

CBD interacts with anti-inflammatory receptors in the body, while THC interacts with psychoactive cannabinoid receptors. An isolated THC product has more psychoactive effects when ingested versus when smoking.

Any flower you consume comes from cannabis plants which contain both THC and CBD. So when growing, growers/producers can’t isolate one compound for their crop; they can only choose plants with genetics that have low levels of THC or low levels of CBD.

THC can only be isolated through processing after a harvest.

Myth 2. THC is “bad.”

Some people believe THC is the “bad” cannabinoid because it induces intoxication.

Although THC affects the mind more than CBD, its effect varies significantly from person to person and cultivated cannabis species. Every single consumer’s experiences with cannabinoids will be different because of their unique endocannabinoid system.

This does not mean THC is intrinsically “bad”; however, inexperienced cannabis users should first test how THC affects their cannabinoid receptors by consuming small amounts first..

Myth 3. There is no difference between products.

As we’ve established, all cannabis includes THC, although the levels and percentages vary by strain.

THC has many different variations in cannabis, the most common type would be Indica or Sativa. Sativa strains are often associated with euphoria, whereas Indica strains are known to “slow things down”.

Just how no two individuals’ endocannabinoid systems are the same, no two THC products are the same. Not only is a person’s experience influenced by the amount of THC and CBD in a plant, it can also be affected by strain-specific terpenes and consumption methods. Popular consumption methods include smoking, vaping, ingesting via edibles or through sublingual applications.

There is no doubt that the same “strain” can take on new characteristics and effects after each harvest.

Myth 4. THC is highly addictive

THC’s addictiveness is unproven and its chemical components don’t have the same effect on the body as alcohol or drugs.

However, chronic usage can result in “Cannabis Use Disorder” (CUD). Most people who develop CUD have a history of substance abuse and antisocial behavior.

THC users may build a tolerance, but the substance doesn’t often cause physical dependence.

Myth 5. THC Is Only Used for Recreation

It’s a frequent misconception that CBD is only used for medical causes and THC for recreational use. Research shows that every cannabinoid in cannabis has a medicinal effect.

Researchers have discovered that THC can prevent an enzyme linked to Alzheimer’s and dementia. Moreover, the single-molecule THC extract Marinol reduces feelings of nausea and stimulates hunger.

THC is most typically used recreationally, but it may also have therapeutic uses.

Myth 6. THC is a dangerous first step

Gateway drugs are those that are assumed to lead to more serious drug abuse. The usage of hard drugs like cocaine, heroin, and opiates is not linked to THC consumption.

There’s no proof that THC leads to hard drug use, even though cannabis use is common among people addicted to other substances due to environment, poverty, and genetics.

This means that while those with a history of heavy drug use may try THC, it does not cause new users to take more drugs.

In fact, studies are conducted and medical marijuana examined as part of a harm reduction plan to reduce drug use among individuals with substance abuse issues.

Dispelling the Myths About THC

These debunked myths should give you a better understanding of THC and how it affects your mind and body. The misconceptions surrounding THC often stem from a lack of understanding and misinformation.

It’s essential to distinguish between myths and facts to make informed decisions about cannabis use. THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, is frequently misunderstood.

Its effects are highly individual and depend on various factors including the specific strain of cannabis, the user’s endocannabinoid system, and the method of consumption.

While it’s true that THC can induce intoxication, THC is not inherently “bad” or solely addictive; its effects vary greatly among individuals.

Continue Reading

There’s no doubt that cannabis enthusiasts are known for their open-mindedness and willingness to explore new experiences. But with legalization, it’s getting harder to figure out how you’re going to buy your ganja.

When purchasing cannabis online, the regulations can be confusing to some. However, there are ways to ensure your transaction is safe.

Here are the steps you must follow to ensure you get your hands on a legitimate product.

Learn at your own pace

Not everyone’s an expert! So first-time consumers should exercise caution when buying cannabis online.

Given the many alternatives available today, knowing which products will work best for you and how you feel most comfortable consuming them is important.

If you’re a beginner, consider learning about THC and CBD. In a gist, THC causes the “high,” whereas CBD will cause you to relax. If you’re unsure, try cannabis in low doses first to discover how they affect you before going all in.

It’s also usually a good idea to contact a company if you have questions regarding their goods and store policies.

Cannabis Delivery Options in Ontario

Only the OCS is permitted by law to send cannabis through Canada Post. They can ship your order as long as they put it in unmarked, sealed, odor-proof packaging.

However, licensed dispensaries in your area also offer convenient online ordering. While most people will rely on Canada Post, local dispensaries do provide faster delivery options, usually same day delivery by car.

Make sure the person of legal age (who made the purchase) is present to accept the delivery of any cannabis items. The couriers must verify this with a government-issued photo ID that matches the credit card on file.

Consider the costs, is it too good to be true?

Legitimate online dispensaries have products priced the same as their brick-and-mortar shops.

If the deal looks too good, it probably is. Unlicensed online cannabis retailers often offer lower pricing to attract and trick customers.

Online cannabis dispensaries have lower overhead than authorized retailers, allowing for lower prices. To keep customers coming back, they may provide discounts and/or free products.

Before ordering, you can check the official AGCO website for authorized retailers.

Keep yourself safe and exercise caution online

Unfortunately, not all online dispensaries are legitimate, and many are unregulated. Buying from such store fronts could result in legal consequences in Canada. In addition, you could end up with a subpar product that could harm your health.

That is why, when buying cannabis online, keep these in mind:

• Make sure the online dispensary you’re considering is licensed in Canada.
• Check if their store exists and call the company with any questions.
• Check the website’s professionalism with a quick visit. Poor website design is an indication that the site’s creators were in a rush. Legitimate dispensaries will also be transparent with their business practices and data collection and usage policies.
• Look them up on social media. A shop with many followers but little engagement may have bought the followers to create the impression of popularity. Legitimate businesses routinely communicate with consumers on social media.
• Be wary of outrageous bargains. Keep away if the price is extremely low in comparison to other shops.

One important lesson to take away from this is the importance of taking precautions when buying cannabis online.

When shopping from an online dispensary, you must know what you are purchasing and what red flags to watch for to ensure that you are dealing with a legal business.

Shopping Locally Helps!

As we now know, you can get weed delivered by the OCS, not just dispensaries.

Look into your local dispensaries if you want to do your part for the local economy and community while enjoying the anonymity and ease of ordering cannabis online.

If it’s your first time, going to a recreational dispensary in person may be helpful. All your individual preferences and requirements can be taken into account by helpful and professional budtenders on site.

Continue Reading

The legalization of cannabis in Canada has caused a boom in the industry. New products flood the market, and consumers now have a wide range of choices for purchasing cannabis products. In Ontario, cannabis businesses who can sell to the public are categorized as either government-owned (OCS) or privately-owned stores.

How do cannabis stores in Ontario operate?

Authorized cannabis stores in Ontario operate much like liquor stores. They are only permitted to open from 9 am to 11 pm and must be located at least 150 meters away from schools, community centers, and other places where children might gather.

All products sold in the store must be approved by Health Canada and should have warning labels. All employees must be trained to explain the effects of cannabis and how to use it safely.

The Ontario Cannabis Store

In Canada, the legalization of marijuana has opened up a new world of retail possibilities. Government-run shops started appearing in most provinces and territories after the legalization. When it comes to retailers across Canada, the provincial governments own some, and others are private companies with the licenses to sell cannabis.

Although the federal government has passed legislation allowing in-person sales and online distribution of cannabis, each province can make its amendments.

For example, the province of Ontario allows privately-owned dispensaries to sell recreational products online for pick-up/delivery and pickup in-store. The Ontario Cannabis Store (OCS for short) has no physical locations and customers must purchase online with a delivery only option.

The result is an effective and diverse system: it gives Canadians the freedom to shop wherever they like and allows provinces to cater their offerings according to their local needs and preferences.

Privately-owned cannabis stores

One of the most exciting developments is the opening of legal marijuana dispensaries. Authorized retailers are now able to sell products from “licensed producers” to individuals who are 18 years of age or older.

The provinces control how these private retailers operate, so experiences on the east coast will be different from the west coast. For example, some provinces allow Canada Post delivery of cannabis products purchased from government-owned stores but not from privately-owned dispensaries.

In Ontario, it is possible to have products bought at private retailers delivered directly to your home by the store’s delivery service.

Online cannabis stores

The legalization of cannabis for medical use and recreational use in several provinces has made it easier to purchase cannabis products online.

In Canada, you can now shop for products through an online retailer and have them delivered to your home through the mail or through a delivery service.

However, buyers must be cautious when ordering cannabis-related products from sites that are not reputable or safe. When ordering cannabis products online, be sure to take the following precautions:

Are they selling legally?

You want to make sure that you’re buying from a legitimate retailer. Illegitimate retailers do not have transparent business practices and often insist on payment via an electronic transfer to a generic email address or cash only.

If the site does any of these, or intentionally excludes their location or contact information, that should raise a red flag.

Is their website safe and reputable?

A quick glance at a retailer’s website can tell you whether or not it is operating within the law. First, check the site’s security certificate to ensure that it is a secure website.

The site should also have clear information about its return policies, privacy policies, and age restrictions. It should be easy to navigate and well-designed. These are all ways to determine whether or not you’re dealing with a legitimate business.

Are their products regulated?

An excise stamp on the package indicates that the product meets strict health and safety standards. It is a sign that the product has been tested for quality, potency, and contaminants and approved by Health Canada.

Although there is no law prohibiting the purchase of cannabis products online, consumers should be aware of the potential risks of such purchases.

What is the future of the cannabis industry?

As more legal dispensaries enter the market, cannabis sales in Canada are expected to increase. With legal high-quality products available at lower prices than on the black market, consumers will have every incentive to choose legal sources over illegal ones.

The legalization of cannabis has become a massive milestone for the industry, once people have become accustomed to purchasing their cannabis legally, they are likely to continue doing so.

Continue Reading

In 2018, ‘CBD gummies’ was among the top three searched foods on Google in the United States. It showcases its rising popularity and curiosity among the people about CBD edibles. As the name suggests, CBD edibles contain cannabidiol that helps you relax but doesn’t actually get you that psychoactive ‘high’ offered by marijuana. 

What’s Happening Under The Hood

As recent scientific studies have found that CBD tends to latch on to cells in the digestive tract and immune system. When consumed through edible format, it goes through the digestive tract and is metabolized through the liver. Our body naturally synthesizes neurotransmitters known as endocannabinoid, and CBD belongs to the family of cannabinoids, which works on the same receptor as the body’s neurotransmitters. These receptors in the brain are part of the endocannabinoid system known for regulating a wide range of vital body functions, including sleep, mood, and pain. The problem with is that it activates the trigger points much later than other ingestion methods like vaping, smoking or taking CBD oil through tinctures.

How much CBD your body needs before feeling effects depends on your tolerance level. The key is to try a high-quality CBD edible and find out the dose that works for you and your body chemistry. After consulting with a physician if this is right for you, you’re able to find cannabis dispensaries on weedmaps.com or if you’re looking for something local, you can do a curb-side pickup from your local cannabis store

Contributing Factors

The way the CBD or even THC edibles are prepared makes a huge difference in the results it provides to the users. CBD beverages allow for faster absorption in the body and are to be more potent than edibles in solid form. Whether you’re consuming on an empty or full stomach can also make a difference mostly because it is fat-soluble.

It would easily get metabolized along with the meal and enter the bloodstream much faster than in an empty stomach. However, some people believe that when a meal you consume is highly greasy, it can coat the inner lining of your gut, making absorption frustratingly slow. 

One of the deciding factors to understand if an edible work for you or not is your unique body chemistry. CBD is absorbed and metabolized in the body differently for every person, and the response of the body after ingestion also varies. Some people have even reported feeling ‘high’ after taking a CBD edible while others just feel relaxed and calm. Surprisingly, some people are not affected by them much, especially people who are used to smoking and using THC often.

Always Start Slow

If you are new to the world of CBD, it is suggested you go slow and start with one milligram for every twenty pounds of your weight. It would help you identify and understand your body tolerance level. It also takes time for your body to get acclimatized, so give it a couple of days before increasing the dose. Consuming too much too fast and you would start feeling disoriented, exhausted, and notice symptoms of anxiety surface.

So, the answer to whether edibles work or not is it depends. The effects received from CBD taken recreationally all depends on personal your body’s unique biology as to whether you prefer edibles over vaping, smoking and other methods. CBD products are currently not FDA regulated, so manufacturers’ claims are not verified. Do your research, find a good CBD edible product, try various dosages over the next few days, see how you feel, and repeat the process until you find a good product, brand, and dosage that offers you the benefits you were looking for.

Continue Reading

Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of the most popular plant-derived supplements today. Even though its benefits and uses are still being researched broadly, its use has grown substantially in the last few years. One of the primary reasons behind the massive popularity of recreational CBD is that it does not provide psychotropic “high” like THC, another compound extracted from the Cannabis plant. 

With the growing popularity of CBD, manufacturers have introduced a range of products to help people enjoy recreational CBD’s benefits in different ways. One of the widely preferred CBD products is CBD edibles, which are edibles containing CBD concentrate in varying amounts and composition.

The ease of availability, a wide variety of flavours, and affordable prices has made it one of the much-loved CBD products in the market today. So, what do recreational CBD edibles offer, and is it worth trying? Let’s dive deeper into the topic and find out.

Potentially Longer Lasting Effects of Edibles

One of the biggest advantages of choosing CBD edibles over other ways of taking CBD is the length of the effects it may offer. Smoking and using a vape are methods that may mellow your mood quickly. However, when you have CBD edibles like CBD infused gummies, snacks, cookies, brownies, etc., the effect does take time to surface but potentially lasts longer. Everyone’s body processes CBD differently, therefore, consult a physician before consuming.

Less Lung Irritation Compared to Vapes

Vaping is a trend that has gained massive traction recently and continues to do so. However, it’s also a well-known fact that smoking or vaping is not for everybody. Many people may choose not to smoke or vape because the exact side-effects and long-term implications are not yet known, and more research is needed on the subject. When considering the use of CBD oil in a vape, research must be done to determine if a CBD oil product contains thinners like polyethylene glycol. When heated, it produces toxic fumes that, in the long-term, may have unwanted consequences. Vaping CBD may cause unwanted health issues, including lung irritation, shortness of breath, and more.

Recreational CBD edibles are easily available online and offline and manufacturers are always introducing new products to customers. Depending on your state or province, legal distributors sell recreational CBD products that appeal to many different people these days. Just make sure to select a brand that has its ingredients and concentrate levels appropriately labelled.

What you can expect from an edible

The answer to whether CBD edibles provide desired effects is – it depends. You must always consult a physician. It all depends on personal preference and your body’s unique biology as to whether you prefer CBD edibles over vaping, smoking and other methods. There are no FDA-approved drug products that contain CBD. CBD products are currently not FDA regulated, so manufacturers’ claims are not verified. In Canada, CBD is a controlled substance so you must do your research and, find a reputable recreational CBD edible company or distributor.

A Disclaimer On CBD and Cannabis

This website does not contain medical advice. The contents of this website, such as images, graphics, text, and other material are intended for educational and informational purposes only and not for the purpose of rendering medical advice. The contents of this website are not intended to substitute for professional medical advice, treatment, or diagnosis.

You must consult your physician for personalized medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare professional with any inquiries regarding a medical condition. Do not delay seeking or disregard professional medical advice or treatment because of something you have read on https://www.dispensarydigital.com/.

Before taking any medications, recreational drugs, over-the-counter drugs, herbs, or supplements, consult a physician for a thorough evaluation. DispensaryDigital does not endorse any vitamins, herbs, or medications. A qualified physician should make a decision based on each person’s medical history and current prescriptions. Do not rely on this website to make a decision. A physician should be consulted concerning any issues that you may have.

In a medical emergency call 911 immediately. DispensaryDigital does not recommend or endorse any specific physician, product, test, opinion, procedure, or any other information provided on its website. Reliance on any information provided by DispensaryDigital, DispensaryDigital writers, others represented on the website by DispensaryDigital’s invitation or other visitors to the website, is solely at your own risk.

Continue Reading

CBD edibles are quickly becoming popular among CBD enthusiasts. Cannabis is legally permitted for recreational use in 11 U.S. states, and 22 states have allowed it for medicinal purposes. Recreational CBD is also legal in Canada.

If you’re in Canada, or one of these states, trying out CBD gummies or other forms of CBD edibles is easy as it can be easily bought online or from a local dispensary. For people who do not live in these states, trying out hemp-derived CBD edibles is a good idea as this form of CBD is legally permitted in all 50 states. 

So, what are CBD edibles, and how to identify a good product? In this article, we would discuss the basics of CBD edibles. 

What are Edibles, Specifically CBD?

An edible item can be anything fit to eat. CBD edibles can be anything from baked goods to gummies and from beverages to candies and lollipops. As the name suggests, the CBD edibles contain cannabidiol in a chemical form derived from hemp plants or Cannabis. More than 100 different chemicals are present in a cannabis plant, and cannabidiol is one of them. Typically, CBD edibles contain CBD oil or hemp derivatives. CBD oil is also used in various other products for medicinal purposes, like making tinctures, pain relief balm, and more. 

Common Edbile use?

CBD edibles available widely in the market legally do not contain THC or Tetrahydrocannabinol, the chemical extracted from the Cannabis plant. THC is responsible for providing ‘high’ Cannabis is known for. So, people having CBD edibles wouldn’t ideally feel high.

The primary reason why these edibles don’t get you high is that CBD is not a psychoactive chemical like THC. There are edible variants available in the market today that do contain some percentage of THC.

The long-standing ban on Cannabis has prevented major research and clinical studies from being conducted on it, resulting in a lack of information about its potential benefits and effects.

Types of CBD Edibles

One of the common reasons behind the massive popularity of CBD edibles is that people don’t have to smoke or inhale its fumes. When going in to buy CBD edibles for yourself, you must be aware of the types of edibles available in the market, which can be classified into:

Balanced Edibles 

Also known as Marijuana edibles, these kinds of CBD edibles contain an equal proportion of THC and CBD. This form of CBD edibles may provide you that classic high Cannabis is known for. If you are looking for non-THC CBD edibles and don’t do your research well before buying, you might end up buying balanced CBD edibles.

CBD-Dominant vs THC-Dominant

This form of CBD edible does not contain THC or only has traces of it. So, do know you wouldn’t feel a THC high with this.

The CBD edibles are also classified into three distinct types, depending upon their compositions.

Full-Spectrum

It contains all the other compounds present in the hemp or cannabis plant and is highly potent. The range of THC varies in full-spectrum edibles. If you’re in a state where Cannabis use is still restricted, make sure to consult the laws and regulations within your jurisdiction.

Isolate

Most of the CBD edibles falling in this category doesn’t contain any other compound found in Cannabis or hemp plant and are less potent. Isolate CBD edibles contain 99.9 percent CBD and, in most cases, are produced from hemp derivatives than Cannabis.

Broad Spectrum

Broad-spectrum CBD edibles are similar to the full spectrum counterpart except for the fact that it doesn’t contain any THC. Most of the CBD edible brands prefer to make broad-spectrum edibles from the extract of hemp plants. 

Simply put, the CBD edibles can be any food item that contains varying amounts of cannabidiol extracted from hemp or Cannabis. 

Do Edibles Have Any Negative Side-Effects?

It is one of the common questions asked by first-time users. Like with any other CBD products, it varies from person to person and their tolerance and body chemistry.

How Soon Will the Effect of Edibles Begin?

When you consume through CBD tincture, its effect starts the quickest. However, when you take CBD edibles, its effect may start to kick in after a longer period of time, depending upon which product you’re having. Many factors affect how long before you start feeling the effect of consuming CBD edibles. It depends on the dosage, concentration of THC in the edible you’ve consumed, whether you have eaten anything before you consumed the CBD edible, and obviously, your tolerance level.

It is suggested that you start with a low dosage and gradually increase it if you feel the need. As mentioned earlier, the effect of taking CBD edibles won’t be immediate, and it’s better to wait and watch before going for another dose. 

What are the Different Types of Edibles Available in the Market?

The market for CBD edibles continues to grow at a massive pace due to the wide-scale popularity it has been gaining in recent times. As per some estimates, the CBD market would grow to over $4 billion by 2022 and over $5 billion by 2027. One of the most popular forms of CBD edibles are CBD gummies, but there is an increase in competition from new products like CBD chocolates, tea, coffee, syrup, snacks, honey sticks, and surprisingly, even beer. 

As CBD edibles are gaining huge popularity and its market continues to expand with every passing day, manufacturing companies are introducing new products to attract customers. It’s important to check the ingredients of the product and whether the CBD edible you’re considering buying is checked by a third party.

There are many different ways you can get your daily dosage of CBD, like oils, vape products, and tinctures. Edibles are amongst the most common. Why? It’s because CBD edibles are convenient, economical and most companies offer CBD edibles in different flavours.

Continue Reading

An Overview On Growing Your Own Marijuana Plants, Continued

The growth of the cannabis plant can be divided into two stages, namely flowering and vegetative. Seedlings, when exposed to proper light, tend to grow taller, branch out intensely, and develop more growing tips. If the light cycle is shortened to 12 hours per day or even less, the plant’s growth is stunted. When growing outdoors, this process happens automatically as fall approaches after the plant has grown substantially during summer. However, the grower’s responsibility is to ensure the plant gets sufficient exposure to light when growing the plant indoors. 

This means that if the amount of light the plant is exposed to is not reduced, it will continue to remain in a vegetative state. There will be many sticks, lumber, and leaves, but no signs of buds’ growth if the light is not reduced. It is a practice that is more commonly used when growing mother plants to take cuttings or looking to clone the vegetative plants continually. Even the mother plants have to be cloned after several years due to space limitations. While it is uncommon, there are gardens where you can see mother plants of over twenty years. 

Indoor plants in the initial growth stage are exposed to around 18 to 24 hours of light in a day. When the plant’s growth and height has reached the desired limits, the light cycle is reduced to 12 hours. If the dark phase remains uninterrupted, the plant will transit from the vegetative stage to the flowering stage. When the plant’s outward and upward growth halts and flowers bloom, it becomes what we call “prized buds.”

The transition from vegetative to the much-awaited flowering stage is not instantaneous and may take several weeks. During the transition period, there would be some upward and outward growth. The hybrids grown by most cultivators today have a flowering period of around 45 to 65 days. Some rare and pure Sativa strains are known to have an exceptional flowering period of more than three months. 

One thing to note here is that the plant’s nutrient requirements during both vegetative and flowering stages are entirely different. It’s essential to tailor your grow methods accurately each phase, especially during the transition, to ensure the desired harvest. During the vegetative or initial growth stages, the plant requires more nitrogen-heavy nutrients, such as seaweed or liquid fish. During the flowering stages, the plant requires nutrients rich in phosphorus and potassium, such as bat guano. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with NPK fertilizers, so you have high-performance formulas needed for good results during the growth stages. 

Growing Cannabis Indoors vs. Growing Cannabis Outdoor – Which is Better?

Typically, the pot grown outdoors is not considered “good quality” because outdoor cultivation is mostly done on a large-scale. These plants grown outside are leafier, and their buds are not fully developed. However, it doesn’t mean that great pot cannot be grown outdoors. All you need to do is make sure your cannabis plants are protected from rain or wind. Fast winds can degrade THC’s quality, bruise trichomes, and even break branches. It’s essential to create a greenhouse or a windbreaker to protect the plant from the wind. 

Rain can be detrimental to the plant’s growth, too, especially during the later stages of flowering. Rain can potentially cause mold that would rot the bud and reduce the amount of high it provides. Covering the plants during the rainy season or windy weather is essential. 

When it comes to growing indoor plants, the entire process is different. Cannabis is grown best in rooms with intake fans, outtake fans, and charcoal filters, which can quickly soak any odour from the environment. The combination of intake fans and outtake fans ensures a constant supply of fresh air in the room.

Growers need to keep pests away from indoor plants. As there are no natural predators to take care of the bugs, the vegetarian bugs would have a free run on the unsuspecting plant leaves. The branches of the plant may also need to be staked to lend additional support. Make sure the lighting is never too close or too far from the top of the plant. The distance of around one to two feet is considered optimal for indoor plants. Growing cannabis is not difficult either indoors or outdoors; the choice depends on your personal preferences and what you have available.

Fertilization – Should You Choose Chemicals or Go Organic?

Like all plants, cannabis needs a sufficient amount of nutrients for ideal growth. Besides the basic supply of NPK or Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium, many other micronutrients are also required. The primary difference between the organic and chemical-based nutrients lies in how the nutrients are supplied to the plant. Laboratory developed formulas are considered inorganic, such as Miracle-Gro, which is a concentrated salt formula. However, nutrients retrieved from living organisms such as Liquid Fish, Seaweed, and Bat Guano are organic. 

Many growers feel that plants cannot distinguish between the elemental molecules they feed on from organic or chemical-based compounds. Some growers openly claim that all the fuss about organic pot is nothing but a sham. On the other hand, organic growers believe that the taste of buds of organically grown plants is much better. The nutrients and other resources needed for organic pot’s growth are readily available and much cheaper. 

Whether the plant is organic or not, it needs to undergo flushing in the last couple of weeks. Flushing is done to ensure we remove all the salts and minerals the cannabis plant has soaked up. It’s a mandatory process, and if more growers followed this step strictly, the quality of weed available worldwide would be much better today.

Pest Control – Choosing Between Organic and Chemical-Based Products

Like fertilization, there are differences in opinions among the growers about whether to use organic pest control methods or chemical sprays and pyrethrum. Some growers stick to organic pest control products and methods like using Neem Oil and using predator insects or nematodes to fight off pests. However, at times, the growers are overwhelmed with pest issues and have no options left but to choose chemical-based pest products. 

Keeping a close watch on the plant and regularly checking for any pests’ presence would help keep any pest issues at bay. Rinse the leaves and mist the plant regularly with pest sprays. Using safe and organic methods is always preferred as far as possible. It would not only produce a better-tasting pot but ensure no unwanted chemicals are ingested while smoking.

The Future of Cannabis

Cannabis use will continue to increase as more and more states are passing laws to permit the use of medical and recreational marijuana. Today, the majority of voters in the United States are in favour of decriminalizing marijuana use by adults. The voice of voters and the influence of the cannabis industry is finally being heard, and support for significant law reform has reached a record high. The fight for the legalization of marijuana has come a long way and is finally past the tipping point. 

The practice of growing pot at home for personal use is spreading globally at a rapid pace. Reports say that pot is grown for personal use as far as Lebanon, Mexico, Belgium, and Spain. Many other independent reports claim that the practice of cannabis cultivation for recreational purposes is growing in Asia, Eastern Europe, and beyond. 

What’s Next?

Smart growers should build a nursery of mother plants and continue to share its materials with like-minded people interested in growing. Cultivators now have access to better technology, materials, and information than ever before. Growing techniques continue to get more refined, and cultivators can easily share their experiences and growing tips online.

The internet has provided a public forum for growers to come together, solve each others’ problems, provide solutions, and share knowledge freely and openly. As these forums and alliances develop further and continue to thrive, refined techniques and better strains find their way across the globe.

Continue Reading

An Overview On Growing Your Own Marijuana Plants

Now that many states and provinces have legalized recreational marijuana and dispensaries are popping up every day, cannabis culture has slowly become accepted by the public. The most recent trend among cannabis smokers across the country is homegrown cannabis. Marijuana smokers are shifting their focus on cultivating cannabis on their own because the process has been simplified. By providing the optimal environment, humidity, nutrients, and pesticides, their plants can offer a large amount of flower when considering the amount spent on supplies and materials.

When starting with cannabis cultivation, it’s best to stick to the basics. Use a 2 to 4-gallon bucket and fill it in with soilless mix or loose potting soil. Make sure the bucket has holes at the bottom for drainage. Using a few fluorescent bulbs or HID lights of around 250 to 400-watt should be sufficient for a small room. However, for larger spaces, High-Intensity Discharge (HID) lights of around 600-watt to 1000-watt are required along with Metal Halide or High-Pressure Sodium bulbs and ballasts. 

Keep in mind that while high-wattage lights provide more illumination, it also generates more heat. The solution for this would be LED’s because their technology generates less heat, and as a result, saves electricity costs. LEDs provide less illumination but still provide enough light so plants can grow without side-effects.

Understanding the Primary Variants – Indica & Sativa

Marijuana in use today can be easily classified into Indica, Sativa, or a hybrid, which is a combination of the primary two types. There is a less know strain called Cannabis Ruderalis, a low-THC variant mostly available in Russia or Eastern Europe but can’t be smoked. 

Indica strains are characterized by their fat leaf structure and short stature as compared to Sativa. It originated from the Hindu Kush region of Central Asia. It was earlier cultivated primarily to make hashish. Glandular trichomes layer the buds of Indica, often referred to as “Crystals” or “Kif.” The trichomes are removed before being pressed to make hashish. The users usually feel sluggish or fatigued after smoking indica.

Sativa strains typically have a longer growing season compared to Indica plants and are taller and have longer branches. The leaves and buds of Sativa plants are much thinner and elongated. It is native to equatorial regions and is mostly bred for hemp purposes or a wide range of medical applications, mostly taken through smoking or brewing tea. The characteristic ‘high’ Sativa offer is often termed as “ecstatic” or even “racy.” The veterans returning from Vietnam are credited with describing the high provided by smoking Sativa. These veterans smoked Laotian, Vietnamese, and Thai Sativa strains, some of the most potent variants found in the world. Smoking pure Sativa can often induce a feeling of paranoia or make the heart race abnormally, which is more so the case with unsuspecting smokers. 

Regular pot smokers are well aware that different hybrids would have other characteristics in terms of scent, taste, flavour, and intoxication levels. Various strains of cannabis offer different qualities, ranging from paranoia to giddy and from stoned to catatonic or even a simple high. One of the most significant factors that play a huge role here is personal preferences. It is well documented that humans have bred cannabis they prefer repeatedly. Indica would mostly be smoked at night, while Sativa would be suitable during the daytime. Most marijuana smoked today is a hybrid of Indica and Sativa, with one being not more than 60 percent or so over the other. 

Understanding the Characteristics of Male and Female Plants

When we smoke weed or marijuana, we are basically smoking the dried flowers from a female cannabis plant. The male cannabis plants are useless except for the breeders. The breeders use the male plants’ pollen to pollinate flowers inside the female plants, eventually producing seeds. The first thing to remember for pot production is to discard the male plants as soon as they are identified. In other words, it can seed the entire female crop. You must be wondering how to identify which plant is male or female, right?

It can be easily found out during the initial phases of flowering at the plant node, where male plants would show their sex. The plant node is the area where the stem and leaf meet. A male plant’s flowers would protrude, looking distinct like a spear’s tip, and then gradually incline downwards. It would appear as a small bunch of bananas, and if the growth is allowed further, the flowers will burst open, spilling its pollen all over. It would destroy your efforts to grow a seed-free pot. Make sure to discard all-male plants, no exception!

During the early flowering stages, when females would show their sex, they’re identified by their pear-shaped bracts and white hairs coming out of the nodes. The white hairs emerging out of the nodes are a clear sign that it’s a female. However, you need to be careful because cannabis plants are capable of being male and female at the same time. Some plants are known to appear as a female when determining sex but do grow male flowers too. It can ruin the crop entirely if such plants are not discarded at the right time. Keep a close watch on the growing flowers for any signs of hermaphrodite behaviour. 

Soil, Soilless, or Hydroponics?

Traditionally, cannabis plants are grown either in soil or in soilless potting mixes that replicate an earthly loam type of characteristics. Loam soil is usually a mix of 40% sand, 40% silt, and 20% clay. Hydroponic techniques allow cultivators to increase their harvest. Hydroponics is a way of cultivating plants with their roots immersed in a nutrient-based solution. Roots growing through the hydroponic system grow bigger and faster than when the same roots are “live” in soil. 

However, it needs to be noted here that hydroponics is an advanced technique and not for everyone. The hydroponic system’s success depends on many other factors, including the pH level of the nutrient solution, water temperature, environment temperature, etc. Moreover, the water temperature and the pH level needs to be closely monitored and checked several times through the day for optimal growth and desired outcome. While cultivating cannabis in a soil-type potting mix may not yield results as good as in hydroponics, it is still the recommended method for beginners. It is mostly because growing cannabis in a soil environment is much more forgiving, and any issue can be resolved in a matter of days. 

There have been many exciting developments taking place in the world of hydroponics. NASA pioneered an Aeroponics system in which the roots are sprayed continuously with nutrient solution. The system was primarily developed for long-term space missions. Another development is the 360-degree grow-units where the plant’s air-cooled roots are rotated to expose the plant to the maximum light footprint. It impacts the size of the harvest and quickens the growth rate.

Hydroponic cultivators are now using innovative ways to use organic nutrients for their plants, and one of the most interesting examples is Aquaponics. In this form of cultivation, there is a fish farm stacked right below the hydroponic plant trays. The fish farms feed the plant and vice versa.

The most preferred mixes for growing cannabis, especially for the beginners and the home growers, are coco coir or soilless mix, a combination of clay, silt, and sand. The coco coir is an organic, renewable product made out of the outer layer or hulled coconuts shells. The primary reason these mixes and methods for growing cannabis are more preferred is that there are far lesser hassles than the hydroponic system. As mentioned earlier, the hydroponic system needs constant maintenance and supervision in terms of water temperature, pH levels of nutrient solution, clogged tubes, etc. When using coco coir, the growing process is slightly different because its nutrient requirement and the pH profile is not the same as the soilless mix. When using coco coir, the pot needs to be watered frequently but in optimal amounts. If you are looking for a method that’s the best of both worlds (i.e, offering the benefits of hydroponics and the soilless mix), using coco coir would come reasonably close. Using coco coir can be termed one of the more straightforward and ecologically method to cultivate cannabis indoors.

Part 2 coming next week! For a detailed step-by-step process, you can read more about growing cannabis here.

Continue Reading