FAQ

How to Start Growing

Q: What are the laws regarding growing cannabis in Canada?

A: In Ontario, it is legal to own and grow up to 4 cannabis plants in your own residential dwelling. The same laws apply in Nova Scotia. In British Columbia, adults 19 and older can grow up to four non-medical cannabis plants per household, but these plants cannot be grown in a space that is visible from a public place.

Q: What kind of soil should I use to grow cannabis? A: Cannabis plants thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good cannabis soil mix will contain a blend of peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, and compost. Some growers also like to add additional nutrients and supplements to their soil mix to provide their plants with optimal nutrition.

Q: How often should I water my cannabis plants? A: Cannabis plants need to be watered regularly, but overwatering can be just as harmful as underwatering. As a general rule, you should water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. The frequency of watering will depend on various factors such as the size of the plant, the size of the container, and the environmental conditions.

Q: How do I know when my cannabis plants are ready to harvest? A: Cannabis plants are typically ready to harvest when the trichomes on the buds have turned cloudy or amber in color. Trichomes are the small, crystal-like structures that appear on the buds and leaves of the plant. You can check the trichomes using a magnifying glass or jeweler's loupe. Harvesting at the right time is crucial to ensure that your plants produce high-quality buds with maximum potency.

Q: Can I grow cannabis outdoors in a cold climate? A: Cannabis plants are sensitive to cold temperatures and can be damaged or killed by frost. If you live in a cold climate, you can still grow cannabis outdoors, but you'll need to choose a strain that is hardy and can withstand colder temperatures. You may also need to use a greenhouse or other protective measures to keep your plants warm.

Q: How do I prevent pests and diseases from affecting my cannabis plants? A: Pests and diseases can quickly damage or kill your cannabis plants, so it's important to take preventative measures to keep them healthy. You can use natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap to control pests, and avoid overwatering and other conditions that can lead to mold and mildew. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of damage or illness, and remove any affected parts immediately to prevent the problem from spreading.

Q: How can I start growing cannabis?

A: You can start growing cannabis either with seeds or clones. If you choose to start with seeds, you can begin the germination process by soaking them overnight in distilled or cooled boiled water. Then, line a saucer with a layer of wet paper towel and place the seed(s) on top. Cover with a second layer of damp paper towel and store in a warm (approximately 21ºC), dark area for a few days, misting the paper towels as needed to keep them moist. Once you see small taproots, transfer them to a small container of grow medium to avoid mold or rot. If you choose to start with clones, you can plant cuttings from plants that have already been rooted.

Q: What are the growing conditions for cannabis?

A: If you choose to grow cannabis indoors, you'll need an enclosed space where you can control light and humidity. Cannabis plants require 12 hours of light and 12 hours of darkness to promote flowering. Younger plants benefit from about 18 hours of light to grow. With less than 12 hours of darkness, the plant stays in a vegetative state where it matures, grows stems and leaves. When the plant is allowed 12 or more hours of darkness, the plant enters the flowering stage where buds form. If you choose to grow cannabis outdoors, plant them outside in mid to late spring in a private fenced-in spot with good soil and plenty of sun and space and water them regularly.

Q: What are the transportation laws for cannabis in Canada?

A: Consuming cannabis in/on any motor vehicle is illegal, with the exception of those being used as temporary residences (such as a parked RV). Within Canada, you are allowed to transport cannabis in a vehicle, but it must be secured in closed packaging and not within reach of the driver or occupants. Travelling with recreational cannabis is allowed within Canada and its provinces, provided it was purchased from a provincially licensed retailer or grown in your own home under current regulations. However, international travel with recreational cannabis is not allowed regardless of your destination. Tourists who purchase recreational cannabis in Canada are not allowed to take it across federal borders. Carrying any cannabis or cannabis products (legal or illegal) across Canada’s borders will remain a serious criminal offense, with individuals convicted of engaging in such activities liable for prosecution.

Q: What is the difference between THC and CBD?

A: THC and CBD are both cannabinoids derived from the cannabis plant, but they differ in many ways that may influence your next purchase. THC is the psychoactive compound in cannabis that produces a "high," while CBD does not produce any intoxicating effects. CBD has various potential therapeutic benefits and is often used for medicinal purposes.