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inside
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NOTHING BUT NET
NBA All-Star Gary “The Glove” Payton is changing the way cannabis is viewed as a treatment option for athletes and medical patients. ON THE COVER:
PHOTO BY JOHN GILHOOLEY
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Hole in One The PGA TOUR joins other sports organizations in regulating professional athletes’ cannabis consumption.
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New Beginnings Musician DENM is as real as it gets when it comes to his garage-pop and chill, spacey tunes.
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Quality of Life Scientific researchers and veterinarians uncover the facts about medical cannabis for animal companions.
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departments
news 08 News Nuggets 09 By the Numbers 10 Local News reviews 12 Company Highlight 14 Cool Stuff in every issue 34 À La Carte 38 Growing Culture
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12 Online Exclusive! d Cannabis Can Treat Pancreatic Cancer d Celebrate Apple Season with Infused Recipes
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jamie Solis ASSOCIATE EDITOR Ashley Kern EDITORIAL COORDINATOR Benjamin Adams EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Matthew Abel, Hilary Bricken, Devon Alexander Brown, Jacob Cannon, Alex Distefano, David Edmundson, Caroline Hayes, Carl Kozlowski, Alison Malsbury, Kiara Manns, Madison Ortiz, Denise Pollicella, Nicole Potter, R. Scott Rappold, Ed Rosenthal, Lanny Swerdlow, Simon Weedn, Laurie Wolf PHOTOGRAPHERS Steve Baker, Kristopher Christensen, John Gilhooley, Joel Meaders, Mike Rosati, Eric Stoner, Bruce Wolf ART DIRECTOR Steven Myrdahl PRODUCTION MANAGER Michelle Aguirre ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Angie Callahan, Kim Cook, Casey Roel OFFICE MANAGER Mikayla Aguilar
CULTURE® Magazine is published every month and distributes magazines at over 600 locations throughout the Southern California. No articles, illustrations, photographs, or other matter within may be reproduced without written permission. CULTURE® Magazine is a registered trademark. All rights reserved.
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NEWS
NUGGETS
Imperial Beach Cannabis Bill Qualifies for Ballot A bill that would allow an unlimited number of dispensaries, lounges and manufacturing businesses in Imperial Beach will move forward for the November 2020 ballot, despite multiple attempts to invalidate it. On Aug. 21, the Imperial Beach City Council reluctantly approved the bill, after an appeals court rejected an earlier technical issue. Now that the bill
was approved, the city council will be “adding the proposed measure to the November 3, 2020 election” and direct “the City Attorney to prepare an impartial analysis; setting priorities for filing written arguments; and providing for the filing of rebuttal arguments,” the agenda reads. On Sept. 18, the city council will receive an assessment report, at which point it will then enact the bill or place it on the November ballot. Under current law, only one dispensary is allowed in the city, with an option to allow a second dispensary one year after the first one opens doors.
City of San Diego Sued in Dispensary Lawsuit Back in 2014, San Diego’s Ordinance 20356 sought to designate where dispensaries can be located in the city, but didn’t include a key environmental impact requirement. On Aug. 19, the Supreme Court of California ruled that the city of San Diego violated the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) by failing to identify the significant environmental impacts of their actions. CEQA requires local agencies that put forward zoning ordinances to evaluate environmental impacts. “The city did not conduct any environmental review when 8
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adopting the ordinance, finding that adoption of the ordinance did not constitute a project for purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act, Cal. Pub. Res. Code 21000 et seq. (CEQA). Petitioner filed a petition for writ of mandate challenging the City’s failure to conduct CEQA review. The trial court denied the petition,” the court ruling stated. The Union of Medical Marijuana Patients filed an appeal to the lawsuit, but was denied by the California Supreme Court.
Recreational Cannabis Bill Filed in Arizona On Aug. 9, Smart & Safe Arizona, a cannabis advocacy group, filed a bill proposal with the Arizona Secretary of State’s Office to legalize recreational cannabis in the state. The bill aims to legalize the sale, possession and consumption of one ounce or less of cannabis for adults 21 and over. The bill would also legalize five grams or less of concentrate and require childproof packaging and labels. Legalizing recreational cannabis in Arizona would help right the wrongs of prohibition by including drug war reparation provisions. “Do the right thing by providing an option for folks who were previously convicted of lowlevel marijuana charges to have their criminal records sealed so they have fair access to jobs and housing,” the bill proposal reads. Campaign organizers plan on collecting signatures to get the bill on the ballot. In order to qualify for the November 2020 ballot, organizers must collect 240,000 valid signatures.
The value of illegal cannabis, in millions of dollars, that was found in a shipment of jalapeño peppers crossing from Mexico into Otay Mesa, San Diego in mid-August: (Source: USA Today)
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The number of votes from the California State Assembly, out of 65, that were cast in favor of Senate Bill 223, which would allow medical cannabis on school campuses: (Source: California Legislative Information)
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The projected amount of money, in billions of dollars, that MedMen estimates California’s legal cannabis market is worth: (Source: Yahoo! Finance)
The amount of money, in thousands of dollars, that it would cost for Imperial Beach to place a cannabis-related measure on the November 2020 ballot: (Source: The San Diego Union-Tribune)
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The approximate number of cannabisrelated panels that were up for a public vote to appear at next year’s SXSW event in Texas: (Source: SXSW.com)
The estimated amount of money, in millions of dollars, that was sold in cannabis products at the Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival in San Francisco, California in mid-August: (Source: San Francisco Gate)
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The number of cannabis oil bottles that Thailand’s Government Pharmaceutical Organization delivered to local hospitals in early August:
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The estimated number of low level cannabis convictions that were sealed in New York City, New York in mid-August: (Source: The Washington Times)
4,500
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(Source: Reuters)
Jo Koy WHEN: Wed, Sept. 25 WHERE: San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., San Diego WEBSITE: jokoy.com Get ready for some serious laughter. Former CULTURE cover celebrity Jo Koy is a fan of cannabis, but it’s not necessarily part of his professional routine. “Creatively I don’t need [cannabis],” Koy told CULTURE in 2018. “I do it purely for entertainment value. It’s fun to do it and laugh. I don’t use it for creative reasons, more just recreation. To relax and have a good time.” The Filipino comedian has
come a long way since his early career beginnings. From being a frequent panelist on Chelsea Lately to performing on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Koy has done it all, seeing all of the ups and downs that comedians encounter. One of Koy’s all-time favorite stand-up routines from The Adam Carolla Show is his classic impression of a P.F. Chang’s greeter. CultureMagazine.com
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NEWS
LOCAL
Legal Loophole
San Diego approves certain cannabis operations near churches and schools
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By Kiara Manns
n 2016, a majority of Californians voted in favor of Proposition 64, which effectively legalized the adult-use of cannabis. Despite this, the presence of cannabis companies is prohibited in specific locations. Currently, San Diego laws restrict cannabis businesses from being located near churches, schools, playgrounds and other sensitive locations. Dispensaries and production facilities alike are welcome in the city under the condition that they are more than 100 feet from residential zones and 1,000 feet from churches, parks, schools, libraries and playgrounds. According to the city’s website, production facilities include operations concerning the “agricultural raising, harvesting and processing” of cannabis as well as wholesale distribution and storage of cannabis and the production of cannabis-derived goods. However, technicalities within the law have paved the way for those in the cannabis industry to have the ability to conduct business nearby. For example, churches without their own necessary building permits have disqualified them from the 1,000 feet distance from cannabis businesses. In other circumstances, physical barriers like freeways between the two locations also allowed for operation approval. The presence of a freeway means that there is no direct access between the two locations, and therefore, a cannabis facility would not break the law by being on the other side of the freeway. In another case, it was
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a canyon lying between a church and the potential business location. Previously, the distance rule was based on the actual distance measured between the two locations. An update to the rule replaced it to refer to travel distance, which can be extended if features like canyons or freeways make the journey longer. While the results of this have garnered mixed reactions between opponents of business operations and advocates of cannabis, there is no argument that the businesses are cooperating with the law. “The City Council legislated the criteria for granting conditional use permits for marijuana facilities that they believe protect the public—including staff and customers,” shared Rachel Laing, spokeswoman for the United Medical Marijuana Coalition. “Like our members’ facilities, churches have a responsibility to meet criteria for conditional use permits
“LIKE OUR MEMBERS’ FACILITIES, CHURCHES HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO MEET CRITERIA FOR CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS THAT WERE DESIGNED TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC, INCLUDING THEIR STAFF AND CONGREGANTS.” that were designed to protect the public, including their staff and congregants.” Furthermore, Director of the Development Services Department Elyse Lowe explained that the city approved cannabis businesses in certain locations because they too had to follow the law. “We consistently apply the rules for making determinations about adjacent uses,” she said. “If the church is operating without proper permits, it may or may not be a permissible use at that location. It would be abusing the city’s discretion to not allow another applicant to move forward on that basis.” These technicalities allow some businesses to move forward that typically wouldn’t be able to do so in the past. c
Summer Sundown Mixer Are you thinking about becoming more involved in the cannabis industry? Don’t waste any more time. Brought to you by the San Diego Cannabis Industry Association, a branch of the California Cannabis Industry Association, the Summer Sundown Mixer is where operators and nonoperators in the industry can mingle. Meet some new faces of people who are working in the cannabis industry— it may benefit you later on. Most importantly, it will be a place to make new networking connections, but it’s not all work and no play. A live steel drum band will perform live and provide background music while you munch on light appetizers. There will also be a raffle and a cash bar for attendees. Entrance is $30, and it will be money spent well. WHEN: Wed, Sept. 25 WHERE: Stone Brewing World Bistro & Gardens, 2816 Historic Decatur Rd., San Diego WEBSITE: ccia-sd.com
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REVIEWS
company highlight
Vision of Value
Paradise is celebrating 10 years of leading California’s cannabis market By Jacob Cannon The word “paradise” induces visions of the most beautiful, relaxing and perfect place or mental state— making it the most appropriate way to brand cannabis products that produce the same effect. Co-founders and brother and sister duo, Mike Plomgren and Katie Devoe, started Paradise in 2009, which is a California company that manufactures high-end cannabis and CBD products inhouse. As part of the company’s 10-year anniversary, Paradise is releasing exciting new products while staying true to the values that have ensured the company’s success all these years. “Ten years and still going strong, we have grown Paradise and become a renowned reputation as a leader and innovator in the industry,” the co-founders shared.
Paradise co-founders Mike Plomgren and Katie Devoe
H umble Beginnings Looking at Paradise products, you wouldn’t know that this top-of-the-line brand has humble beginnings. Plomgren entered the cannabis industry almost by accident, after being inspired by a simple job. As the owner of a hauling company at the time, Plomgren was hired to haul away trim from his friends who were cannabis cultivators. Plomgren and Devoe realized the trim could be useful, and they infused butter with the intention of helping others discover the medical benefits of cannabis, something that the two of them already knew about firsthand. The two set out to discover which delivery method of cannabis would be the most effective for patients in terms of absorption. They discovered that candy would the perfect product to get cannabinoids into the bloodstream fast and effectively. “We took it to the kitchen and starting formulating recipes. We eventually got it right and invented the firstever cannabis-infused candy in 2009,” they said. “It was 12
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truly groundbreaking. We were first-to-market with the hard candy. It didn’t take long for the candies to take off and became a bestseller in cannabis medical dispensaries throughout California. Paradise was born.” In 2012, the pair expanded Paradise’s vision and started to manufacture the recipes with CBD. “We were also the first to create an infused CBD candy and caramel, which quickly expanded to a full suite of products, from candy to tinctures, gummies, oils and more,” they recalled.
H ighest of Standards Now well-known in the industry as a leading producer of high-quality THC and CBD products, Paradise has a secret—it’s a secret to success that was born out of passion surrounding the healing power of cannabis. “We figured out a way to turn our passion into a purpose and have always been committed to helping others,” they said. This passion shines through in every aspect of their cannabis and CBD products.
Creating high-end cannabis products starts with the manufacturing process, which is something the co-founders of Paradise take seriously. They are dedicated to being experts of their craft while maintaining the highest standards. “We have always stood for integrity with regard to plantbased healing and pharmaceuticalgrade manufacturing standards,” the co-founders told CULTURE. “Paradise is a private, self-funded company that has always stood true to our family values of integrity, honesty and quality.” Paradise has always operated responsibly and in compliance with the industry’s constantly evolving regulations every step of the way. One key to Paradise’s success is the perseverance and determination of its co-founders, as they have never faltered from their core values. “From raids to regulations, we have had many challenges along the way and have continued to power through and rise up each year through expansion, compliance and effective products. We have always been above board and will continue to be, even while current regulations are occurring. We have always stood our ground to not only be in compliance, but to be above standards,” they said. Plomgren and Devoe maintain their core values from seed-to-sale, allowing consumers to find a higher quality of life through Paradise’s purpose-driven, plant-based products.
N ew Tricks of the Trade Proving the concept of how to create the best cannabis candies and other products, Paradise continues to offer its clients the quality of products they deserve. “In honor of a decade in business for Paradise, we are launching a new e-commerce website, introducing new products for consumers and retailers and expanding our manufacturing operations,” they told CULTURE. “We have expanded
“OUR VISION IS TO CREATE A HIGHER QUALITY OF LIFE THROUGH PURPOSEDRIVEN, PLANT-BASED PRODUCTS AND IN BEING A RESPONSIBLE CORPORATE CITIZEN WITH THE HIGHEST LEVEL OF INTEGRITY, FROM SEED TO SALE.” and upscaled our facilities, positioning Paradise to continue its legacy as the largest, most trusted manufacturer with the expertise, integrity and experience to produce the finest edibles, tinctures and topical products in the market.” New products include highdosage tinctures, which are made using organic, unrefined mediumchain triglyceride coconut oil. Consumers will also love Paradise’s new topical line of THC and CBD products, which include a body balm and muscle rub. Staying true to its edible roots, Paradise offers caramels, gummies and lozenges, which are also available with glutenfree, vegan and sugar-free options. Paradise CBD products are available to consumers nationally, while the cannabis products containing THC are only available in California. Ultimately, Paradise was founded with the intention of bringing the
very best products to the masses. “We have always been about the plant, and not the dollar signs. It’s because of what the plant medicine has done for us and what we’ve seen it do for others,” they shared. The duo is committed to continue making top-of-the-line cannabis products. They will seek out partnerships with like-minded companies and individuals who share in this sentiment. They want to bring legitimacy and validation to the healing powers of cannabis through their professional approach. “That’s what we mean when we say ‘Paradise,’ it means the best, for all. And we think our products will take you there,” they concluded. c www.tasteparadise.com CultureMagazine.com
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REVIEWS
1. SoilSaver Classic Composter With a flash of your wand and a tip of your hat, feel like Merlin the magician by making compost appear out of thin air. So, it might not be an actual magic trick, but turning your kitchen waste into something that nourishes your garden better than anything else, this SoilSaver Classic Composter will have you feeling mystical and otherworldly. Give your veggies and other leafy green plants the best homemade compost with this easy-to-use composter. Price: $89.33+ More Information: hayneedle.com 2. Cannabis Tamper Tool Necklace Nothing says high fashion like a 24-karat gold-dipped piece of functional jewelry with a function exclusively useful to cannabis consumers. Handmade in the U.S. using an anvil and hammer, this Cannabis Tamper Tool Necklace will make sure your bowls are clear and ready for takeoff! Use the poker tool to clear out your pieces, while looking like the epitome of fashionable. The best part is, only those who know, will know! Get ready to take your look to somewhere out-of-this-world. Price: $38 More Information: uncommongoods.com 14
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3. CBD Peel-Off Mask: Porefection Activated charcoal couldn’t be any trendier—that is, not unless you add some CBD to it! Bring your skincare routine to a higher level with Millennial Beauté’s CBD Peel-Off Mask. Literally sparkling with biodegradable glitter, this mask with make your skin glow like you’re the star of the show. The 100mg of labtested CBD derived from hemp is just one more clean ingredient in this perfect product. Both vegan-friendly and crueltyfree, even your hippie friends will want to slather this on their faces during your next spa day. Price: $36 More Information: millennialbeaute.com 4. Simple One-Hitter + Simple Dugout The tech industry brought us away from the overly saturated colors of candy pop from the ‘90s and into the preferred simplistic aesthetic of the new millennium. The cannabis industry has taken notice, offering up this Simple OneHitter + Simple Dugout power couple for the win. Beyond its uncomplicated design, the product is simple to use for those who have stayed true to smoking flower. Smaller and slimmer than other competitors, slide this smoking duo into your pocket for all your end-ofsummer seshes. Price: $49.99 More Information: simpleaccessories.com
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“I don’t want anybody to abuse [cannabis]. I just want them to help t h e m s e l v e s .”
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PHOTOS BY JOHN GILHOOLEY
Defense and Determination Hall of Famer Gary Payton is using his grit and determination to disrupt cannabis in sports B
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Gary Payton played 18 seasons in the National Basketball Association (NBA), 13 of them in the cannabis-friendly state of Washington where he played for the now-defunct Seattle SuperSonics. His defense, trash-talking and unparalleled tenacity made him a perennial All-Star and led him to be enshrined in The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013. Now, Payton is taking his talents to the equally competitive arena of cannabis, and there is little doubt that the skills that made him one of the alltime greats on the hardwood will help him prosper in the current green rush. Payton entered the national consciousness when he started playing for Oregon State University (OSU). While there, he was a three-time AllPac-10 selection, an All–American in 1990 and appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated. He still holds school records for steals, assists and field goals, and he was inducted into the OSU Sport’s Hall of Fame in 1996. After college, Payton was the second overall selection in the 1990 draft, going to The Seattle SuperSonics. He would end up spending much of his career in Seattle, and after the team departed
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for Oklahoma City, Payton has been steadfast in his desire to avoid having his number retired in the new city. The Oklahoma City Thunder, to the team’s credit, has not officially retired his number, and no former or current Thunder player has worn Payton’s number 20. Payton has also been active in the quest to return professional basketball to the Seattle, Washington area. Nicknamed “The Glove” for his smothering and oppressive defensive ability on the court, his spunk and perseverance have led him to the world of cannabis. Payton launched CannaSports earlier this year, a venture focused on using cannabis to alleviate pain in a natural and effective manner without the harmful side effects and addictive nature of opioids. The idea originated when Payton was looking for a way to help his mother manage her pain. Once he saw the results, he knew he needed to expand his scope. He did his homework and set his sights on helping fix the massive pain epidemic that leads to opioid addiction. CULTURE caught up with the man himself and found that there is so much more to Payton than world-class basketball.
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What is CannaSports? Well, CannaSports is a company that I started about medical cannabis. My mom is very sick right now. To get everybody to understand that CBD and stuff like that is going to be good for ailing elderly people who get into it and get off of medication and harmful opioids. Get them on natural things so that they can try to start healing their bodies. You’ve gained a name for being a very oppressive defensive player. Has that tenacity helped you off the court in ventures like CannaSports? Absolutely. You know, when you have a passion for something . . . it’s just like me playing basketball. I had a passion for it. I had a drive for it. I had something to look forward to, because that was what my life was going to be about. Now that basketball is over, my life is going to be about trying to help people in other kinds of ways. And I think cannabis is going to be that way. Helping people with patches to aid them when they are recovering from injuries and stuff. My ability to be aggressive with everything that I do comes from basketball, and it’s trickling over now to cannabis. How do you think cannabis can help athletes out? Recovery. There’s a lot of things that can go into athletes’ bodies to aid in their recovery from a long, physical season. Even if you are [a] person who has cancer and you’re going
through a lot of pain, if you smoke some marijuana, it’ll make [you] relax and be joyful in times of feeling bad. Like my mom was really sick, and just the other day and I gave her an edible, and she laughed all day with me, which was great. You know what I’m saying? Even if we can’t cure the illness, you can still make them have an enjoyable time, not going through a lot of pain. The patches are great; they allow you to benefit from marijuana without having to smoke, or wait for an edible to kick in. Athletes play hard for a long period of time, and they can put on a patch. Now the stuff going through your body is natural. It makes you feel good. We’re not trying to say, major injuries or stuff like that can be cured by it, but it’s gonna make them feel better that they can get up, they can eat, they can try to rehab and do things on their own. You recently said, “Be well, be pain free, be informed.” I think the first two are pretty self-explanatory, but what would you like everyone to be informed about? How [cannabis] can help you recover. How it can help you get through a situation of pain and things like that. Make you want to fight. I gotta say this stuff can make a person feel better and then fight the illness, or whatever you have in your body, to try to get it to go away. And that’s what I want them to do. I want people always in; you could be going through rough stuff and this stuff can help. We don’t know if we can’t help unless you try it, and that’s what I want them to understand.
“Even if you are person who has cancer and you’re going through a lot of pain, if you smoke some marijuana, it’ll make them relax and be j o y f u l i n t i m e s o f f e e l i n g b a d .”
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Have you had any conversations with any players’ unions or Adam Silver at the commissioner’s office about trying to improve the perception of cannabis in professional sports? Not yet. And I think that Adam Silver knows, but we have to really, really understand it first. Because you know, everybody still thinks marijuana is like a drug or something. So, I think commissioners, all the commissioners, they get it. They got to get it basically under control and understand it first. And I just got to put it in there. You’ve got to think it’s going to be safe for your sport to do it, and we’re not trying to push that right now, because that’s going to be a hard thing to do. If you had to guess, what percentage of current NBA players or professional athletes use cannabis to help relieve pain or to help wind down? Well, I don’t know. I think about 60-70 percent. I mean, you put a toll on your body like that, and doing things like that is really hard. And then if they find a solution that won’t hurt them and won’t jeopardize anything they have, and when it comes to cannabis then, yeah. You know, use it. I’m not against that. I mean, but don’t abuse it. I don’t want anybody to abuse it. I just want them to help themselves.
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Are you a regular cannabis consumer? No. I don’t have the feeling for it, because my body’s not tearing down. But as I’ve done research on it, I found out a lot of people have given it a thumbs up. So, as I do more and more research and do it, and then give it to my mom, give it to my brother and give it to people in my family, and they’re giving me a thumbs up. Then I know that it’s working. With CannaSports, what’s the ultimate goal?
It will be considered a success with me, if I can get other athletes onboard with me, sign on with me. We get the message out to the world, and then we start showing people that this is not a drug to just smoke or get high. It’s really helping us. If I can put this around the United States, and I can help a lot of people that are suffering, I’ve got a win-win. c
thecannasports.com
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PROGRESSIVE PUTTING CBD is gaining popularity and acceptance in the world of professional golf By Madison Ortiz There has been an influx of CBD consumption by professional golfers like Bubba Watson in the PGA TOUR. Rumors have it that even Tiger Woods and Phil Nickelson have joined the CBD craze, leading many to believe that CBD is being embraced by athletes across all sports leagues. CULTURE spoke with Senior Vice President of Tournament Administration at PGA TOUR, Andy Levinson, to get clarification on official rules regarding CBD for the 2019 PGA TOUR, as well as insight regarding how players are navigating this recent transition. The PGA TOUR allows its players to consume CBD products, due to the recent change in the World AntiDoping Agency’s (WADA) stance on cannabis. “CBD was previously prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency but was removed from their prohibited list in 2018,” Levinson told CULTURE. 24
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The WADA is an international independent agency, and its key goals include scientific research, education and the development of antidoping capacities and monitoring of The World Anti-Doping Code. This code is a document that harmonizes anti-doping policies in all sports across all countries. The World AntiDoping Code contains a Prohibited List of Substances, which is reviewed annually by a panel of international experts. Athletes are responsible for staying informed of these policies as well as any
substance that enters their bodies. An AntiDoping Rule Violation will occur whether or not an athlete intended to use a prohibited substance. The WADA website currently states that CBD is no longer prohibited because “cannabidiol is not a cannabimimetic and has no psychoactive activity.” Heeding caution to athletes, the code also notes that, “synthetic cannabidiol will not have THC but cannabidiol extracted from cannabis plants may also contain varying concentrations of THC, which remains a prohibited substance.”
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“CBD IN ITS PURE FORM IS NOT PROHIBITED UNDER THE PGA TOUR ANTI-DOPING PROGRAM.”
According to Levinson, players are allowed to consume products strictly containing CBD isolate. “CBD in its pure form is not prohibited under the PGA TOUR Anti-Doping Program,” he said. If a player chooses to consume CBD products, they need to be independently cautious about which products they consume. “CBD products, like all supplements, are poorly regulated and, therefore, pose a risk to athletes subject to an anti-doping program. Since THC is prohibited, athletes are warned that use is at their own risk, and use of a CBD supplement is not an excuse for a positive test for THC,” Levinson added. A player will be sanctioned if they were to test positive for THC, even if they happened to test positive from ingesting a full spectrum CBD product, (a “whole plant” hemp extract, legally containing less than 0.3 percent THC). Bubba Watson (a multiple major champion with victories at the Masters Tournament in 2012 and 2014), announced a two-year partnership with cbdMD in May 2019, and he claims to have personally experienced the benefits from CBD products. His partnership includes sporting the cbdMD logo on his headwear, which he wears on and off the green. Watson has some dialogue about the brand on his social media and is seen posing for a cbdMD group photo at the New York Stock Exchange on his Instagram. His fans on social media are welcoming to this new partnership, replying with statements like: “I’ve heard good things about CBD but I was on the fence. Since your post this morning I’ve pulled the trigger and bought some from @cbdmd.usa today.” While he’s still a champion of years past, Watson has been mathematically eliminated from the running for the remainder of the 2018-2019 season. While CBD branding is being permitted for use and has been incorporated into PGA through sponsorship, there is no chance you’ll catch a player taking a quick puff from a vape pen on the sidelines, according to rules outlined by the WADA’s Cannabinoid Q&A. “Nebulizers are by definition inhalation devices and thus not prohibited as a method.” Tinctures, topicals and edibles are the more likely methods of consumption for the athletes who choose to
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incorporate CBD into their routines. Golf fans who are unfamiliar with CBD may wonder why their favorite athletes would choose to consume or promote the consumption of this formerly prohibited substance. While there are many possible benefits that may be experienced through consistent ingestion of CBD, varying products, proper dosage and consumption methods are all key variables contributing to each individual’s experiences. Speaking generally, benefits such as inflammation reduction and the improvement of the quality of cognitive rest are likely of most interest to these professional athletes, though it surely varies per athlete. CBD consumption should be cautious and steady, as is with the general journey of cannabis acceptance, be it into each new state, marketplace or local community. Levinson shared perspective from the PGA community about the benefits and risks of CBD. “There are a wide variety of claims made by manufacturers with very little substantive scientific research to support the purported benefits, so there is a healthy bit of skepticism,” he said. “While most professional sports leagues do recognize supplements that have been Certified for Sport by NSF, pose less risk than other supplements, to date, no cannabis-based supplements have been certified. Other than the claims made by the manufacturers and their own studies, there is unfortunately not much significant independent research on CBD products. Furthermore, without FDA oversight, there is simply no mechanism to ensure the safety of the thousands of products in the marketplace.” It may seem particular, but all-in-all, it’s fair. Skepticism is closer to understanding than absolute prohibition, so at least there’s room to grow. c
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DENM explains his creative self-discovery through music and cannabis 28
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By Benjamin M. Adams Producer, DJ and artist DENM has created music using a vibrant palette infused with just about everything—garage-pop, house, indie, reggae and trap. On Spotify, over 225,000 listeners tune into DENM’s channel monthly. While his 2016 EP Dreamhouse was more grounded in deep house with spacey songs like “Under Pressure” and “Lit,” and his EP Is Whatever expanded into new territory, his latest material exudes warmth and relaxation that reeks of beach foam and suntan lotion. DENM is about to raise the bar with his new release including “Life’s Too Short” and “My Wave,” supported by his background as a sixth-generation Californian. DENM’s first solo show was Aug. 10 at Moonrise Festival in Baltimore, Maryland. His new single “Blow It Up” dropped Aug. 23 and his latest EP Endless Summer dropped on Sept. 6, produced by Rock Mafia and managed by Roc Nation. CULTURE connected with DENM to learn more about genre-jumping, his musical inspirations and cannabis.
P H O T O S BY DAV E K AT R I N A
Tell us why you like to experiment with vastly different tempos. Man so what’s crazy is back in 2016, I was touring with my indie band, FMLYBND, and would just make random beats on the road. I would make these quick beats and sing a little falsetto hook over it. That music was never something I actually intended to make as an artist, and so when I put it out and people started talking about DENM, I was like, I wanna make music I really believe in and that feels super honest to me. If I’m gonna be a solo artist, then I wanna be proud when I step on a stage. Hence this entire three-year journey of self-discovery and finding my real voice as an artist. I grew up in SoCal so I wanted to make music that represented the culture, which is barbecue vibes, party music and beach music, so that’s what I’m making now. Your fans love your acoustic songs. What do you love about acoustic guitar? If it’s played right, it’s such a rad instrument. I remember when I was really deep into electric guitar stuff, and was buying so much gear for tones and what not and sort of thought people who still played acoustic were just bozos. But I was a kid and dead wrong. If the acoustic is played tastefully, it is one of my all-time favorite sounds. It can fill a stadium show or be played gently at a bonfire. There’s really nothing like it. That’s why it’s all over a ton of my new stuff—beach vibes with reggae and trap aesthetic. What were you feeling when you recorded Is Whatever? Honestly, I was trying to move away from the house music I put out before. It sucked, because I wasn’t able to put any music out for a long time, because I kept being told I had to make more house records. It felt like I was really at the end of my road, so I called the EP Is Whatever. “DENM is whatever.” It was the old punk rock in me coming out saying “screw you, here’s the music—like it or don’t.” That’s when I met Rock Mafia, and they started diving into production with me on a new vibe, and that’s really when DENM came to life. “Badfish” is a great summer classic. Were you influenced by bands like Sublime? Straight up—Sublime is one of my all
time favorite bands. I was raised by their music. I was just a little kid when Bradley passed away, R.I.P., but his lyrics and voice were always with me. Eric’s basslines and Bud’s pocket were so raw, and they didn’t play by the rules. I was always getting into trouble and kicked out of houses and schools when I was a kid, so I always felt
connected to them. When we were thinking about doing a cover, I was like “man let’s do ‘Badfish.’” I knew for a fact I could knock it out of the park. I’ve been singing it since I was 14 when I learned to play guitar. Brad helped me learn to sing as a kid, so I knew it was the move. The video is inspired by the Sublime video.
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“Life’s Too Short” is perfect for the end of summer. What is this song really about? The song is really about internal pain and how you carry it in life— like I better learn to love myself. Leave regret and all that behind, because I only get one chance at this thing called life. Even though it can sound happy, it’s really an anthem for people who struggle with real depression and anxiety and just feel broken. It’s like a “let’s rise up and live a good life”-type thing. I wrote it in a really dark, depressed state, so it’s a special song to me for sure. Just trying to make myself feel better by singing it out. “Life’s too short to stress out!” It’s a mantra. Your songs still hold up by melody alone, even when they are unplugged and without the beat. Is that important to you? Yeah, absolutely. My goal is to be able to play every song I’m writing on
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just an acoustic and still have it feel amazing. I can’t wait to do an acoustic set and just have it be a massive sing along. That’s the best feeling. No hiding behind production. A song is a song if you can play it with one instrument and have everyone sing along to it still. I love that. Your collaborations with artists like Tommy Trash and Gnash are incredible. Who do you plan on working with next? Those are both some good dudes right there. Much love to those guys for believing in me and wanting to work with me. But who knows! There may or may not be some legendary people involved, but it’s still very much in the works. Do you consume cannabis, and if so, does it help during the creative process in the studio? [Cannabis] eases my body pain and anxiety big time. Without all that I
can focus on creativity and having fun. Music should be fun man; it’s the greatest job for me. I just get to create something new every time, and my producer Mr. Rock Mafia himself is always hitting his Dosist. Is there anything else you would like to share with readers? Man I love it. Major shout out to Rock Mafia, because we’re in there making some special tunes every day. Shout out to Roc Nation and my management Nima and Justin. Y’all been grinding with me for a long time. Shout out to my publisher Ben Groff; he’s been with me since day one too. Much love to him for hustling the music to get it on TV and in films. I’m just so thankful for the journey thus far. It’s been the hardest and worst, but the most gratifying and best thing in the world. It’s all a part of the story. c rocnation.com/denm
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“THERE ARE A LOT OF CLAIMS OUT THERE FOR WHAT CBD CAN DO, AND SOME OF THOSE CLAIMS ARE EXAGGERATED OR LACK GOOD EVIDENCE.”
Pets and Vets What experts know about medical cannabis for pets
By Caroline Hayes All good animal owners will agree that they will go to great lengths to keep their furry housemates happy, healthy and pain-free. It’s not uncommon that our beloved pets can suffer from everything from anxiety, seizures, disabling joint pain and even cancer. Typical methods of relief for animals are similar to how humans are treated—prescription drugs and other sorts of therapeutic modalities. Medications can have side effects and anecdotal reports say that they are sometimes not effective enough. In the recent past, owners are turning to CBD for an all-natural remedy to ease any suffering their pets may be experiencing. The internet can be a great resource for information, but is also filled with biased facts. It can be confusing 32
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to sift through the unknown when all you want to do is provide your pet with a plant-based remedy. CULTURE sought out to get some clarification with the question of, what do we know about CBD to treat pets? Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a compound found in the cannabis plant that does not have psychoactive effects. Using CBD for pets has increasingly become a growing trend in the last few years. Testimonials from owners say that CBD is working wonders for their animals to reduce anxiety, seizure activity and to provide pain relief, but these claims lack one major thing, and that’s scientific data. Bottom line, there has not been enough solid research conducted to make valid claims about the effects of CBD, but this is slowly changing as medical professionals and scientists make strides by actually doing the research in controlled studies.
Dr. Stephanie McGrath, a neurologist at Colorado State University’s (CSU) James L. Voss Veterinary Teaching Hospital, conducted an oncampus study at Colorado State University. From 2016 to 2017, Dr. McGrath and CSU scientists conducted a double-blind study with 16 dogs, to which half were administered CBD and the other half a placebo. The point was to study the effects of CBD on epilepsy in dogs. Per Dr. McGrath and her team’s research, they found that 89 percent of the dogs in the study showed reduced seizure activity. She described the results as “promising and exciting.” Dr. McGrath has plans to conduct similar studies in the upcoming year. The results are published in the June 1 edition of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Despite the availability of CBD, there is still so much uncertainty and grey area surrounding the distribution and application of it. Veterinarian Dr. Tim Shu is the founder behind VetCBD, a California-based CBD company for animals. We were able to seek his expertise about what we do know about our pets and CBD. Dr. Shu expressed that although this sector of the
industry is still in the early stages of research and developments, that there are conclusive benefits to CBD. “The legal barriers have made it difficult to conduct studies that we typically find with other therapeutic modalities, but more studies are being conducted around the world and are confirming the benefits that we’ve seen in real world cases for years. We can say for sure that CBD has the ability to decrease pain, anxiety, seizures and nausea. Other potential uses which are being studied include using CBD for neuroprotection, inflammation and cancer,” Dr. Shu told CULTURE. The full-spectrum tincture from VetCBD is designed for pets, made from the cannabis plant as opposed to the hemp plant. Full spectrum refers to an array of beneficial components instead of isolating just one component from the plant. In addition to CBD, full-spectrum products contain a range of other beneficial cannabis compounds such as THC, CBN, CBG and CBC. “This is important as studies have shown that full spectrum products provide greater therapeutic benefit
compared to isolate forms of CBD,” Dr. Shu explained. Be advised that while a product may contain THC, this is not getting your pet “high.” It is important to note that mid to high levels of just THC are dangerous to animals. “THC has therapeutic properties and can benefit animals, but proper formulation and dosing are crucial to prevent any adverse effects. We utilize cannabisderived CBD so that we’re able to utilize appropriate THC content for optimal medicinal benefit.” VetCBD’s website further explains that in addition to the combination of THC and CBD, the cannabinoids CBC and CBG prove to benefit pain relief and inflammation. It’s important to be aware of what facts we do know and to seriously consider each animal’s individual needs before treating them with CBD. Dr. Shu stressed that it’s vital to discuss your pet’s medical condition and CBD with a veterinarian first. “Not only so the veterinarian can provide reliable medical advice, but help the owner decide the best treatment options,” he said. “There are a lot of claims out there for what CBD can do, and some of those claims are exaggerated or lack good evidence,” Dr. Shu said. He went on to express that in some cases, traditional practices such as medications or therapy are the best way. For your pet’s sake, explore all options. Because of current laws and the fact that VetCBD is made from cannabis as opposed to hemp, the product cannot be shipped at this time. However, they are in the stages of nationally launching a hemp-based pet CBD line named Dr. Shu’s Pet Care, which will allow for shipping nationwide. Don’t be put off if your veterinarian is hesitant or doesn’t have all the answers regarding CBD for man’s best friend. As mentioned, the lack of research in the industry creates a lack of concrete evidence and most medical professionals will not be fully on board until more studies are conducted and published. Educate your veterinarian by bringing in solid research rather than anecdotal results from owners. CBD is making its way into the world of animals, and the industry is at the front lines of groundbreaking research and results. c CultureMagazine.com
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Perfectly Paired By Laurie Wolf
It’s all about the terps. The more we learn about cannabis, the more clearly we understand the importance of terpenes when choosing a strain. Terpenes are the aromatic oils in the cannabis plant, and, along with cannabinoids and flavonoids, determines the taste, smell and effects of your experience. There are over 100 terpenes in the cannabis plant, and the combination of these compounds will determine whether your experience will be sedative or active, focused or spacey. The following recipes have been created to pair with the prominent terpene in each strain—to complement, contrast or add another layer of flavor. If these specific strains are not available to you, there is a likelihood that you can find a strain with a similar terpene profile. We’ve included three different strains that are similar to the paired strain in each recipe.
Coconut Mango Smoothie PA IRED W IT H 9 L B. H A MMER
I N S T R U C T I O N S:
Serves
2
I N G R E D I E N T S: 1/3 cup toasted coconut* 1 cup mango chunks
This smoothie is rich in myrcene and infused with the strain 9 Lb. Hammer. Myrcene is the main terpene in mango, hence the pairing. This strain is relaxing and sleepy, a stay-at-home kind of strain. Some claim that ingesting mango will speed up the onset of your high. *Similar strains are Mango Dreams, Blue Dream, Grape Ape and White Widow. 34
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1 banana, sliced and frozen 1 1/2 cups coconut milk 1-2 tablespoons honey 2 teaspoons cannabis-infused coconut oil Toasted shaved coconut garnish
PHOTOS BY BRUCE WOLF
1. Place the toasted coconut on a plate or piece of parchment. Brush the rim of the glass with the honey. Dip the rim in the coconut, turning the rim to cover with coconut. Set aside. 2. In a blender, combine the mango, banana, coconut milk, honey and the oil. Process until smooth. Carefully pour into the glass. Top with shaved coconut if desired. *In a small skillet, over low heat, cook the coconut, stirring constantly, until golden brown. This should take just a few minutes.
Mini Cherry Orange Scones
PA IRED W IT H L EMON H A ZE
These two-bite treats are infused with Lemon Haze, a delightful strain with the dominant terpene limonene. The sweet, earthy and citrus notes pair with the fruit and ginger in each adorable scone. Strains with limonene are thought to affect the brain more quickly than others. Limonene works well with CBD and is thought to strengthen the body’s cancer-fighting ability. Consumers can anticipate an uplifting, occasionally euphoric experience. *Similar strains are Dirty Girl, OG Kush and Tangie.
Serves
I N G R E D I E N T S: 2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 cup chopped dried cherries
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chopped candied orange peel
6 tablespoons butter, cubed and chilled 2 tablespoons canna-butter, cubed and chilled
8
(16 pieces)
1 tablespoon chopped candied ginger Powdered sugar
I N S T R U C T I O N S: 1. Heat oven to 340 degrees. 2. In the bowl of a food processor combine the flour, sugar, baking powder and salt. Pulse to blend. 3. In a small bowl, combine the heavy cream and vanilla extract. 4. Add the butter, cream and vanilla and pulse until the mixture begins to come together. 5. Turn into a bowl and add the cherries, orange and ginger. Gently form into a ball. Chill for 15 minutes. 6. On a lightly floured work surface, form two five-inch circles. Cut each circle into eight wedges. 7. Bake from 15-17 minutes, until light golden brown. Cool thoroughly. Dust with powdered sugar CultureMagazine.com
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Tacos for Two
Serves
2
PA IRED W IT H GG4
(6 tacos)
Get ready for Taco Tuesday by pairing your favorite Mexican dish with everyone’s favorite strain, GG4. The strain contains the terpene B-Caryophelene, which has a woody, spicy tone with hints of citrus and coarse black pepper. The spices in the taco mixture work together to create a complex flavor palate that’s earthy and rustic. *Similar strains are Wedding Cake, Northern Lights, Death Star.
I N G R E D I E N T S:
Salsa* I N G R E D I E N T S: 2 medium ripe tomatoes, stems removed 1/2 red onion, peeled and cut in large chunks 2 serrano chiles, stems, ribs and seeds removed 1 garlic clove, peeled 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro Pinch oregano
1/2 pound beef cubes, cut in small pieces
2 teaspoons cannabisinfused oil
Pinch cumin
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 small flour or corn tortillas, warmed
Juice of one lime
2 teaspoons chili powder
OPTIONAL TOPPINGS
1 teaspoon cumin
Salsa, your favorite recipe or the one on the right*
I N S T R U C T I O N S:
1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika 1/4 teaspoon coarse black pepper 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 tablespoon cooking oil
Avocado, peeled and cut in pieces, toss with lime juice 1 tablespoon lime juice Shredded cabbage Scallion Shredded cheese Sour cream
I N S T R U C T I O N S: 1. In a medium bowl, combine the beef with the garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, paprika, black pepper and clove. Allow to marinate for at least several hours, overnight is even better. 2. In a large sauté pan, heat the oils. Add the meat and sauté until browned, stirring frequently, 6-8 minutes. 3. Place the tacos on two serving plates. Top with the optional ingredients.
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Salt and pepper to taste
1. In the bowl of a food processor, combine all the ingredients. Pulse until the ingredients are approximately the same size.
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GROWING CULTURE
Garden Fever (Part IV)
S
By Ed Rosenthal everal months ago I placed seedlings in an all-water system. I have ended that experiment for now, because I have not been able to bring the oxygen levels up, and the roots are drowning. In addition there were pH and some nutrient problems. Right now, the plantlets are in a sorry state. I plan on bringing these sickly specimens back to health and flower them within 30 days. Here’s how I revised the system: I cut the polystyrene foam sheet in half and filled the 64 holes with the best plants, They remained in 6” centers, then laid the sheet on a bed of hydrocoral that fills a 4’ x 4’ x 6” tray, which is resting on nine inverted planting containers. I installed an overflow drain with a tube connected to it and a bottom drain on its side that also drains into a tube. Both tubes flow into a 40-gallon reservoir sitting to the side of the tray. The submersible pump is controlled by a timer that is set to go on one of every three minutes throughout the day. The light is being kept on 20 hours per day. We’ll see how the plants do in the new environment. Meanwhile, the plants in the greenhouse are doing very well. The top buds were approaching the ceiling, but I bent them or clipped them to avoid
The plants in the greenhouse. Small lights turn on automatically early in the morning and then again in late afternoon to supplement the limited natural light. 38
Lollipopping a plant, or removing the lower portions and smaller buds.
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it and to encourage top growth of the strong side buds. The small branches with tiny buds were removed, so that they would not thwart growth of the larger top buds. This opens up the space so there’s less humidity and more light getting to the important buds and their supporting leaves. All of these plants are being grown hydroponically. The plants in the back are in planting mix and watered using a wick system supplemented by drip watering from the reservoir twice a day, supplying the plants with about 10 ounces of water daily. The plants in the front are planted in hydrocoral in eight 8” high plastic colanders sitting half submerged in water. These plants are also irrigated by a constant drip. The plants are in their second to third week of flowering. In the next week I’m going to install blackout curtains to speed up flowering by allowing the plants only 11 hours of light daily. I hope to harvest in six weeks, at the end of September. The outdoor garden is in a 2’ x 4’ hydroponic tray with 1.5 gallon containers filled with hydrocoral. They are sitting in the tray with a constant drip irrigation system. They get about five hours of direct sun and bright light the rest of the day. In addition, they receive light reflected from the white wall behind them. These plants are in the first stage of flowering. To speed up the flowering process, I plan to start using light deprivation in the coming week, helping the plants to ripen by midSeptember, while the days are sunny and warm, avoiding the iffy weather later in the season. c
The greenhouse in direct sunlight with the plants.
Early budding on the ER Super-Bud plants, 2-3 weeks into flowering.
GARDEN TIP
An easy way to grow some bud in autumn is to place plants in an unobstructed, southfacing window. The sun is at an oblique angle, rather than high in the sky, so it will shine directly on the plants for a good part of the day. Perhaps you or a friend have some plants that are ready to flower. If not, you may be able to purchase some “adolescents” from your local cannabis dispensary. They can be flowered immediately. Just put them at the window and don’t turn on lights, even for a moment, during the evening. Fertilize with bloom formula, and they will soon start to bud. If you have only clones, use them. If you want them to grow a little before flowering, do interrupt the dark period with light several times each evening. Soon after you stop the nightly interruptions, the plants will begin to flower.
The greenhouse plants in a recirculating drip system. They get direct sun as well as light reflected from the wall behind them. Notice the roots coming out of the colander.
The outdoor system—plants are thriving and in the early stages of flowering.
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