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Features
20 26
Essential Nutrients for Growing Cannabis by Chris Bond
Cannabis plants require certain essential nutrients to grow healthy, strong, and productive. Chris Bond identifies these nutrients, how many are needed, and their role in development so you can grow the most fruitful cannabis plants.
Expanding Consciousness with Cannabis, Meditation, and Yoga by Jessica Zimmer
A combination of cannabis, yoga, and meditation can reduce stress and increase positive thought and movement. Jessica Zimmer looks at how these three elements work together to enhance spirituality.
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Maximum Yield
Contents
First Feed
Grow Cycle
10 From the Editor
34 Four Expert Tips for Rookie Growers
12 Bare Roots 14 Branching Out 16 Ask a Grower 18 Good to Grow 58 Stash Box
Chronicals 32 Cut and Dried 48 Ask a Nurse 73 Baking a Fool of Myself
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42 How Minerals and Light Affect Terpene Production 44 How to Set Up a SCROG Cannabis Grow 50 Cannabis Strains to Avoid if You Need Sleep 54 How to Read CBD Product Labels 60 The Art of Growing Cannabis in Bubblers 66 How to Grow Marijuana Outdoors in Raised Gardens 68 Dakine 420
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Whatever edibles legislation looks like in Canada and legal US states moving forward, edibles are going to play a large roll in society.”
from the EDITOR TG Toby Gorman
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Maximum Yield
W
hile many North American jurisdictions bask in the glow of medical and adult use cannabis legalization from 2018, the next wave of cannabis legislation — edibles — will have a much broader reach. A recent Canadian study by Deloitte says that six out of 10 Canadian cannabis customers would choose edibles over smokables, a large percentage of them being over the age of 45. Canada legalized recreational marijuana nationwide in October 2018 and is expected to pass legislation for cannabis edibles in October 2019. Colorado already has legislation in place after learning the hard way with numerous accounts of intoxicated children ending up in emergency rooms after unknowingly eating edibles. Colorado lawmakers responded by limiting edible servings to just 10 milligrams of THC. Health Canada’s restrictions on dosing are not yet available, but it’s currently not uncommon to find products like cookies available for sale with as much as 200 milligrams of THC.
Whatever edibles legislation looks like in Canada and legal US states moving forward, edibles are going to play a large roll in society. With that in mind, in this month’s issue of Maximum Yield Cannabis, 420 cover girl and influencer Watermelon serves up her 25 years of experience baking with cannabis, sharing her secrets so others can make healthy, safe, and delicious edibles. In her regular column “Baking a Fool of Myself” on page 73, Watermelon provides insight on sourcing the best weed, measuring dosage, shelf life, and other things to consider when making your own edibles. “Let’s face it, cannabis is expensive. Making edibles that have a long shelf life will protect against waste,” says Watermelon. “I prefer recipes that improve with age like rum balls or ginger snaps and avoid things like pastries and puddings that may not all be eaten right away.” However you prefer your edibles — sweet, savoury, pastries, or even in beverages — proper culinary preparation will go a long way in helping people enjoy this new and legal wave of cannabis.
bare ROOTS Featured Contributors
CB Chris Bond’s research interests
are with sustainable agriculture, biological pest control, and alternative growing methods. He is a certified permaculture designer and certified nursery technician in Ohio and a certified nursery professional in New York, where he got his start in growing.
JZ Jessica Zimmer is a California, Florida, and New York-licensed attorney and reporter based in Sonoma County, California. She has a background in cannabis defense. One of her primary interests regarding cannabis is understanding its medical uses.
Contributors
+
Kasey Craig August Dunning Wiley Geren Kent Gruetzmacher Rich Hamilton Kyle Ladenburger Karen Lloyd Joy Smith Eloise Theisen Watermelon
CANNABIDIOLS (CBDs)
VOLUME 2 NUMBER 2 March/April 2019 Maximum Yield Cannabis is published monthly by Maximum Yield Inc. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without permission from the publisher. If undeliverable please return to the address below. The views expressed by columnists are personal opinions and do not necessarily reflect those of Maximum Yield or the editor.
Publication Agreement Number 40739092 Printed in Canada
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Maximum Yield Cannabis is now available on magazine stands across the USA!
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Maximum Yield Cannabis will be at: CannaCon Seattle January 31 — February 2, 2019
Washington State Convention Center Seattle, WA
Cannabinoids are the chemical compounds of cannabis that have an effect on the human body when the plant is consumed. The human body has cannabinoid receptors that help the compounds produce many effects, including pain relief, euphoria, and appetite. There are between 85 and 113 known and suspected cannabinoids present in cannabis, each having various effects on the body. Cannabinoids are separated by various subclasses, including cannabigerols (CBGs), Cannabichromenes (CBCs), Cannabidiols (CBDs), tetrahydrocannabinols (THCs), Cannabinol (CBN), cannabinodiol (CBDL), cannabicyclol (CBL), cannabielsoin (CBE), cannabitriol (CBT), and other types in small amounts. The most abundant cannabinoid is CBD, which is believed to have anti-anxiety effects as well as long term pain management. CBDs are not known to produce any psychological effects at all, whereas THC, CBN, CBDL and some other cannabinoids produce some psychological effects, to varying degrees and intensities. CBDs are easily separated from the full cannabinoid spectrum and are thus experienceing widespread legalization across the globe as their healing effects and lack of “high” have become more widely accepted.
Check out Joy Smith’s article on reading CBD product labels on page 54.
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branching OUT
Article Archives
@eden_hope_garden Love this. Has helped us out a lot when we were in our research phase. Now we have startup a company. Thank you!”
Can’t recall that great gardening recommendation from a few months ago? Look it up online. We have hundreds of indoor gardening articles available at maximumyield.com.
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@sweet_potato_highs Always #learning. Even while #supporting mine.
@
@
Your website gave me the courage to start growing! Love you guys, keep it up.
Thank you for a very informative magazine. After my back surgery Cannabis has help me get back up and to live a somewhat normal life again.
Do you want to be featured? Send your email or post to:
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You helped me up my production last summer I was able to feed 900+ homeless out of a 20th of an acre.
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Maximum Yield
CUSTOM SOLUTIONS FOR INDOOR GROWERS Lighting | Controls | Sensing | Monitoring | Analytics
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DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR A GROWER? Email editor@maximumyield.com to get an answer.
ask a GROWER Q
I’m about to grow Tangerine Dream from seed. I have a 2x4x6-foot tent with 1,200W full spectrum LEDs. What should the air temperature and humidity be, and how far should my LEDs be in each stage? Thanks for helping this noob. Scott
a
Dear Scott, Thank you for your question. When growing in a small enclosed area (like a grow tent), atmospheric conditions are a major concern. Since you are growing from seed, you will need to know the atmospheric conditions for each stage of cannabis growth. To begin, you will need to have your atmospheric conditions conducive to the seeding stage of growth. Typically, seedlings prefer a higher humidity (65-75 per cent) and a temperature range of 75-80°F. Instead of trying to maintain a high humidity in the entire grow tent, you may want to use a humidity dome with a seedling tray. Your LED light will work for this stage, but it should be placed far away from the seedlings, as it may be too intense for young seedlings. The grow lights should be on for 18 to 24 hours a day. Many growers opt to use a small fluorescent lamp for this stage of growth. Once the seedlings have produced a few sets of true leaves (the leaves that look like actual cannabis leaves), they are ready to be treated as vegetative plants. The atmospheric conditions for the vegetative stage are similar to the seedling stage. The humidity range should be 55-65 per cent and the temperature should be kept between 70-75°F (assuming you are not supplementing CO2, which would require a slightly higher operating temperature). At this stage, the artificial light source can be placed closer to the canopy as long as it is not causing
LL
16
any burning (bleached/white looking growth at the very top). If your LED lighting system allows you to tailor spectrums, this is the stage where a blue spectrum would be more applicable. The photoperiod, or “lights on,” should be set for 18 to 24 hours. Finally, once you are ready to initiate the flowering period (by reducing the photoperiod to 12 hours per day), you will need to watch the atmospheric conditions more closely. If possible, the humidity during the flowering stage should be kept below 55 per cent. Higher humidity in the flowering stage can lead to pathogenic molds and rots. The temperature in the flowering stage should stay in the 70-75°F range (again, assuming you are not supplementing CO2). It is also important to make sure the “lights off” temperature does not vary more than 10 degrees from the “lights on” temperature. A large temperature swing from “night” to “day” can cause spikes in humidity. In this stage, your LEDs should be hung as close to the plant canopy as possible (without causing damage to the plants). Light radiation diminishes exponentially, so the closer you can have the lighting system to the plants, the more usable light energy is available for photosynthesis. If your LED lighting system allows you to tailor spectrums, this is the stage where a red spectrum would be more applicable. Keep on Growing, Lee G. Lyzit
Lee G. Lyzit has been involved in the medical cannabis industry for nearly 15 years. His passion for natural healing drives him to learn as much as he can about the miraculous cannabis plant. Lee breeds his own strains of cannabis to create concentrated glycerine and coconut oil extracts. Aside from cannabis education and consumption, Lee enjoys playing music, gardening, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
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1 | ClearWater Tech
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ClearWater Tech’s C1 mobile disinfection cart provides ozoneenriched water for surface disinfection of cannabis production facilities. Wash down floors, walls, equipment, rinse barrels and tanks with the push of a button and be assured you receive the ozone you need to get the job done. Easy to maneuver, the cart replaces traditional hot water and chemicals with safe disinfection on contact. The C1 cart is best when ozone disinfection is needed in multiple locations within a facility, different buildings, larger facilities, or when you simply want the convenience of mobility.
At just one gram per gallon, Stackswell plant growth powder is a super-concentrated formula that can be used in reservoirs or mixed into a concentrate for dosers and fertigation systems. Delivering your plants with more than calcium and magnesium, Stackswell is also a cation exchange enhancer and root and shoot growth stimulator. Additionally, this product contains plant-derived surfactants and free amino acids. It comes in four different sized packages ranging from one to 25 pounds.
C1 Mobile Disinfection System
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Maximum Yield
Stackswell Growth Powder
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3 | MEDXtractor CO2 Cannabis Oil Extractors
MEDXtractor’s small-scale CO2 -based cannabis oil extractors are ideal for craft marijuana growers. These wellpriced products allow craft growers to produce high-value, residualfree cannabis extracts from trim, flower, and rosin chips without breaking the bank. Using patent-pending technology, MEDXtractor oil extractors are well built and feature stainless steel construction with no mechanical pumps and don’t leave any hydrocarbon residue. MEDXtractor can ship their extractors anywhere around the world.
4 | Beyond Buds: Next Generation by Ed Rosenthal
Beyond Buds: Next Generation is designed to help readers understand everything about cannabis extraction and processing, including identifying various kinds of cannabis concentrate, understanding various techniques, applying active ingredients of cannabis for medical use, learning about dabbing gear and culture, and much more. Since Beyond Buds was released in 2014, there have been technological leaps in cannabis extraction that have created major waves in both culture and commerce, prompting the authors to completely re-write the Amazon Top 20 publication.
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5 | 1st Defence Industries
The Original Bug Coaster
The Original Bug Coaster can be used by commercial, hobby, and home growers. The coasters help protect your plants and crops from a host of crawling bugs and pests from ants to fungus gnats to thrips by trapping them on glue pads. Bug coasters make for an ideal product under any potted plants, propagation trays, flower or trees inside a facility, greenhouse, home, or outdoor patios and decks. The coasters are eco-friendly, non-toxic, and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes as well as a wraparound adhesive cone.
8
6 | South Cascade
Organics SLF-100
SLF-100 is a 100 per cent organic OMRI-listed and Clean Green-certified enzymatic formula designed with system health in mind. The goal with SLF-100 was not to produce an enzymatic product that would target one specific material but to provide a well-rounded plant product that would tackle many different obstacles. Some enzyme products can damage microbial populations, however, SLF-100 will not and the shelf life of this product is unlimited. It will keep your hydroponic system running smoothly and free of toxic buildup.
7 | Geoflora VEG and BLOOM
Geoflora VEG and BLOOM is a fully organic, two-part dry nutrient. Geoflora VEG and BLOOM is dustless, ensuring all 20 of the highest quality organic inputs are delivered evenly and without creating harmful, irritating dust. VEG’s (5-3-4) formula is designed for transplant, while also creating an established, well-supported microbial environment. BLOOM (3-5-5) has reduced nitrogen levels to help flowers and fruits achieve their maximum potential. Unique, organic phosphate and potassium sources kickstart flowering, leading to rich, developed floral structures.
8 | Reiziger Bud Booster
Bud Booster was crafted in Holland more than 20 years ago for the commercial grower to help medicinal plants build extremely large, crystal-laden colas indoors, outdoors or in the greenhouse, in hydroponics and soil. Reiziger Bud Booster is a chosen favorite by Dutch craftsmen for all short-cycle plant strains. The element-rich liquid is brimming with more than 90 different organic compounds including carbohydrates, gibberellins, auxins, cytokinins, phenols, vitamins, amino acids, and polysaccharides which help produce consistent, powerful blooms with a dense growth pattern and the desired combination of increased weight, color, flavor, and potency. Maximum Yield
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ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS
FOR
GROWING CANNABIS
All plants, including cannabis, require certain essential nutrients to grow healthy, strong, and productive. Chris Bond identifies these nutrients, how many are needed, and their role in development so you can grow the most fruitful cannabis plants.
C
by Chris Bond
annabis may have thousands of unique properties, but like any other plant it requires the same essential nutrients to properly grow and produce the desired yield of buds. Plants need relatively large amounts of macronutrients, lesser amounts of secondary nutrients, and small to trace amounts of micronutrients to germinate, grow, flower, and produce seed. All told, there are about 20 essential nutrients needed for optimal cannabis growth and development. A nutrient is considered essential when it meets certain criteria. It must be directly involved in plant nutrition, be a vital component to the plant’s life cycle such that without it, the plant would die or not be able to perform one or more of its necessary functions, and it must be unique enough that no other nutrient can replace it or perform the same function. Let’s examine which nutrients found in nature are essential for the cultivation of top-shelf cannabis.
Essential Macronutrients
The group of nutrients needed in large quantities by plants are collectively known as macronutrients. Some of these are provided by the environment and some are provided by or need to be added to the soil. Oxygen (O), hydrogen (H), and carbon (C) are provided by air and rain and are sometimes not included in discussions of essential nutrients because they are not elements that are often lacking, despite being needed in large amounts, and are not ones that are components of any fertilizer or commercially available nutrient package. The other macronutrients that are needed and can be added to soils or other media are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Most commercial formulations of dry or liquid fertilizers will have three numbers on their packaging. These three numbers refer to the percentage by volume of N, P and K. Each of these individual essential nutrients performs a different but vital function to cannabis plants. What follows is an oversimplification of the exact roles of each nutrient (in some cases, we still don’t know what all essential nutrients do and how exactly they interact with one another). Nitrogen is needed for the development of foliage and the production of proteins. Phosphorus is critical for root, flower, and seed development. Potassium is a requirement of overall plant health and aids in water absorption. Maximum Yield
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Cannabis will need different amounts of the essential macros depending on the stage of development. Nitrogen is needed in higher quantities during the vegetative and bud-forming stages more than during the flowering stage. Phosphorus, however, is needed more during the flowering stage and is only required at about half the ratio of N levels during the vegetative phase of development. During this phase, K is needed at between half and two-thirds the level of N.
Essential Secondary Nutrients
Some sources do not segregate the secondary nutrients, and instead lump them in with the macronutrients since they are not needed in the same high quantities as the macronutrients. They do, however, need to be in a significantly higher quantity than the micronutrients, so they are separated here. The essential secondary nutrients are magnesium (Mg), calcium (Ca), and sulfur (S). These nutrients are often unavailable to cannabis if proper pH levels are not maintained (more on that later). These secondary essential nutrients perform a wide range of critical functions to proper cannabis development. They are often necessary components or complementary parts to other nutrients and functions. They are all needed for plant and root growth, but they do have specific roles. Calcium assists in transporting other nutrients and aids in their absorption. Magnesium is a critical component of chlorophyll. Sulfur aids in the transport of chlorophyll, but also assists with plant metabolism and transpiration. The lesser amount required to aid in the proper growth and development of healthy cannabis should not be mistaken as being less important than the micronutrients. The same can be said for the diminutive amounts of micronutrients needed.
Essential Micronutrients
The number of micronutrients listed as essential can vary based on the source. Like secondary nutrients, it is somewhat a matter of classification and some list the secondary nutrients as micronutrients. Either way, they represent minerals and elements that are not as abundantly available on Earth and as such are not needed in very high amounts by cannabis plants, but are still necessary. No matter what source, boron (B), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), and molybdenum (Mo) will be listed as essential micronutrients. Like the other essential nutrients, all micronutrients have a unique function or serve to assist in the functions and processes of the other nutrients. What follows is not an exhaustive list, but a sampling of some of the roles of micronutrients and how they aid in the development of cannabis plants.
• Boron — helps with the development and growth of root tips. It also helps plants to absorb calcium and transports sugars within the plant.
• Manganese — is a vital component of chlorophyll
production and the photosynthesis process. It also aids with enzyme interactions.
• Zinc — aids in the development of stems, leaves, and
branches. The more mature a plant is, typically the more zinc is present and required.
• Copper — aids in the development of plant proteins and helps with the strengthening of stems and branches.
• Iron — is important for chlorophyll production. Iron defi-
ciencies often present themselves as a yellowing of the leaves between the leaf’s veins (interveinal chlorosis).
• Molybdenum — helps to process nitrogen. • Other trace minerals thought to be essential include cobalt (Co), silicon (Si), chlorine (Cl), and selenium (Se). Not all sources agree on their inclusion in the essential group, though they are important to support all plant life.
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pH and Nutrient Availability
As important as nutrients, if not more so, is the pH of the soil or media the cannabis is growing in. The pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of soil or growing medium. Soils or other media with a pH of less than 7.0 are acidic; soils or other media with a pH greater than 7.0 are alkaline. The pH scale is exponential, with each number representing a factor of 10 times greater or less than the number next to it. For example, a pH of 6.0 is 10 times more acidic than a pH of 7.0, and 100 times more acidic than a pH of 8.0. What does this have to do with the essential nutrients needed for growing cannabis? Nutrients may well be present in sufficient amounts to support robust growth and plant function, but they can be locked out or otherwise made unavailable to the plant. The ideal pH range to try to maintain for cannabis is generally accepted to be in the 6.0 to 6.5 range, with some variation depending on media selected. To determine pH, make sure to perform a soil analysis. Soil testing can be a simple do-it-yourself procedure or can be done by a reputable lab. It’s a routine procedure and is relatively inexpensive either way. A DIY kit may cost only a few dollars and give you instant results, but most kits will not offer the kind of precise results a lab analysis can yield. In most scenarios, a small amount of soil or growing media can be sent into a private or university-owned lab and within a few days to a week or so, a detailed report will reveal many important aspects of your media. Some labs offer a number of services where they can give you current nutrient levels, percentage of organic matter, and other relevant information so that you can make the necessary adjustments to ensure your cannabis has what it needs to thrive.
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EXPANDING CONSCIOUSNESS WITH CANNABIS, MEDITATION, AND YOGA by Jessica Zimmer
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Maximum Yield
A combination of cannabis, yoga, and meditation can reduce stress and increase positive thought and movement. Teachers who offer sessions involving those three elements have numerous tips for ingestion, incorporating music, and duration of the session.
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f you’re interested in a peaceful session in which you are focused on your inner thoughts, indicas and hybrids are the way to go. Recommended strains include Headband, Big Sur Holy Bud, Ringo’s Gift, Hindu Kush, Jager, Baba Kush, Blueberry Kush, OG Kush, Blue Dream, Girl Scout Cookie, and Tangie. Sativas can leave you feeling jumpy, nervous, and excited. They are primarily recommended for practitioners who are leading a session and want an extra burst of energy. If you are experiencing physical pain or discomfort due to everyday activities or the prolonged sitting and movement required for meditation and yoga, consider topicals and tinctures. Edibles spread out a slow effect for extra-long sessions of three to six hours.
Planning out the Session Creating a relaxing, comfortable space with aromatherapy oils like lavender and sage or incense is key. It is easy to practice in a space where you cannot be disturbed. Put your mobile phone into silent mode. You can use your phone to play music, nature sounds, or vibrations to guide you through the session. You can also use musical instruments like bells, Tibetan singing bowls, or triangles. It’s good to start the session by smoking cannabis. If you are practicing with other people, consider holding a “smoke circle” or “smoke session” to get in touch with your feelings and create a community. Joints and vaping are ideal choices. They allow the medicine to take effect quickly and in time for the first meditation prompts. After five to 15 minutes of meditation, you can consider about 30 minutes of guided yoga movements. Avoid any moves that are too strenuous or painful. Close with a final, shorter meditation session that helps you return to reality. Some practitioners recommend an additional smoke session to close practice, both for reflection and to decrease pain experienced in yoga or sitting. Many teachers say their typical cannabis, yoga, and meditation session takes about an hour and a half.
“Some practitioners
recommend an additional smoke session to close practice, both for reflection and to decrease pain experienced in yoga or sitting.”
Teachers Share Their Wisdom Figuring out how much cannabis to use and what strain works for you is a process, says Eliza Maroney, a cannabis yogi who teaches “Bend + Blaze” classes in San Francisco and Venice Beach. “Micro-dosing every time unless you’re in serious physical pain is a good idea. My goal is to find the least amount necessary. You’re here to get lifted, not to get high,” Maroney says. Rachael Carlevale, a teacher of cannabis plant SpiritYoga in Boulder, CO., recommends sitting with the plant, introducing yourself to it, and engaging in a mindful contemplation before starting meditation and yoga. “In a ceremony which takes about three hours, I help students get to know the soil. (This is) the most important part of the plant medicine, as the soil feeds the plants. I will bring in soil, compost, and worms. We’ll do a meditation holding the soil on marma points on our hands. Then we may do a mindfulness meditation holding a cannabis leaf, using all five senses, including smelling, hearing, and tasting it. We do this education to get to know the plant and our intentions with her,” says Carlevale. Sari Starr, a leader with Cannabliss Retreats who practices at Yoga Nest in Venice Beach, notes practice is all about quieting your mind.
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Maximum Yield
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“When you get present, you get closer to the divine source in you. That’s when you start connecting with who you really are. This practice helps you activate that centering in all areas of life. It’s especially helpful when things get a little chaotic,” says Starr, adding before practice she recommends asking herself some questions. “Why am I taking this? What is my intention and how do I want to feel? I call on protection and guidance. Because we are more energetically open when we use cannabis and other mind-altering substances, we need to be mindful. It’s very important that the environment we are in is supportive of our intentional journey with the plant.”
Cannabis Yoga Training Teachers come to be instructors through different paths. Most teachers of cannabis, yoga, and meditation practice have been using cannabis and learning yoga and meditation on their own for several years. State governments do not require yoga instructors to have a license. Yoga organizations like the Yoga Alliance do not certify instructors. They register individuals who have completed a certain number of hours in teaching and training others. Introductory classes in cannabis yoga and meditation typically cost between $15-$30 a person for a 90-minute session, with private instruction running close to $100 per person. Amber Demers, a San Diego-based instructor, teaches Ganja Yoga, a form of cannabis-enhanced yoga that originated with Los Angeles-based instructor Dee Dussault.
“I began practicing yoga as a young athlete. About three years ago, I started using cannabis for lower back pain as a medical patient. A couple months later, I learned and introduced meditation into my daily life. I realized that when I would use cannabis as part of my meditation practice, I was able to reach a deeper level of focus and relaxation. I became a 200-hour certified yoga instructor in November 2017, and then attended Dee’s first Ganja Yoga Teacher Training program in January 2018,” says Demers. Jessica Clark, an instructor at The Soul Shack Yoga Studio in North Hollywood, says she has been meditating since she was a child. “I started yoga when I was 19 because I suffered from bad back pain. I went for physical reasons, but instantly after the class I noticed the mental effects. Nineteen, coincidentally enough, was also the age when I first started using cannabis. After a month or two, I thought of combining cannabis and yoga. Then I went to India and studied yoga at an ashram. In 2010, I became certified as a yoga instructor. I’ve been practicing cannabis-enhanced meditation and yoga in my own practice as well as with private clients since 2014. I began offering cannabis-enhanced classes to the public in 2017,” Clark says.
What Practice Can Do for You A healthy session should leave you relaxed, energized, and mindful. Do not be surprised if you rest or sleep as part of the session. The point of combining the three elements is not to achieve a set goal, but see where the cannabis, movement, and meditation take you. “You can use cannabis to tune out or really tune in. What I learned about myself is I definitely had not been using cannabis the right way in the past. Maybe I had even been abusing the plant. Now, by combining cannabis, yoga, and meditation, I’ve brought about a complete paradigm shift in my own health and understanding of plant communication. Being an instructor helps me share the healing with others,” says Carlevale.
“The point of
combining the three elements is not to achieve a set goal, but see where the cannabis, movement, and meditation take you.”
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Top Photos Lettuce by verdegreens Bottom Photos Microgreens by High Hill Hydro
. . wwwwsocascadeecom
cut and DRIED by Karen Lloyd
SUPER SILVER HAZE Get focused, creative, and inspired with Super Silver Haze, the strain that brings color to the colorless daily grind.
U
p until a couple of years ago I ordered weed from budtenders like, “Hi, I’m looking for the perfect amount of creative,” and never paid attention to what they gave me beyond a little plastic baggy with my gram of weed and hopefully a high to match what I was up to that day. Through much trial and error, I finally discovered Super Silver Haze and it’s become the answer to all of my modern day problems, namely in the areas of energy, inspiration, and focus. A hybrid of Skunk, Northern Lights, and Haze, Super Silver Haze features a beautiful balance of 70 per cent sativa and 30 per cent indica that promises an uplifting, euphoric buzz minus the anxiety (and panic attacks) that can sometimes be brought on by a pure sativa. While your mind won’t be racing, your imagination will be on fire. When you’re writing, you may find yourself happily researching the meanings and origins of various words without realizing it. When you’re taking photos, ordinary subjects become extraordinary through the filter of Super Silver Haze. In fact, this sativa is a nice treat first thing in the morning when you’re most enthused and open to the new day’s possibilities. With THC content ranging between 18-23 per cent, just a few hits of Super Silver Haze can keep you on Cloud 9 for up to three hours. No wonder it’s an award-winning strain. Covered in silvery glands, Super Silver Haze is a sticky strain that is easy to roll and produces a sweet earthy aroma with citrusy undertones. The only downside to Super Silver Haze is that it can increase your appetite for all of your favorite comfort foods. So, if you’re on a diet, things can get tricky. But if you really don’t care about that kind of thing, and you’re just looking for something to make the daily grind a little more interesting, colorful, and inspiring, then Super Silver Haze is a brilliant choice.
Super Silver Haze is not an easy strain to grow, and is recommended for intermediate to
skilled growers. It is best grown indoors where the plants can be trained (using the SCROG method) for best yields, which are generally low to medium with flowering time of about 11 weeks. It prefers a warm, humid climate with temperatures between 70-80°F.
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NEW
Entire Order
4expert tips for
Rookie Growers Every cannabis grower has to start somewhere. While trial and error is a good way to learn, it can be mitigated to help save time and money. Kent Gruetzmacher points out four variables to consider when growing for the first time.
by Kent Gruetzmacher
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C
annabis is a relatively easy plant to propagate. After all, the species has managed to thrive in most of the world’s continents without human intervention. However, there are several pitfalls experienced by many novice cultivators when attempting to create ideal growing conditions for cannabis. These issues usually relate to light, water, airflow, temperature, humidity, nutrients, and pH. Indoor and greenhouse growers run into a clear majority of potential problems with environmental controls, and variances in troubleshooting techniques arise between indoor, greenhouse, and outdoor cultivation operations. Obvious portions of this brief article, such as water and nutrients, apply to all forms of cannabis cultivation, while certain concepts are only applicable to indoor and greenhouse growing. The cannabis plant finds its evolutionary origins in the steppes of Central Asia, so the climate of this geography is rather telling concerning ideal growing conditions for the species. After all, thousands of years of evolution can teach one far more than any grow book. This region of Asia reports 250 days of annual sunshine, as well as dry summer weather averaging around 80°F. Looking worldwide, other famous marijuana growing climates, like those seen in California, are akin to the species’ evolutionary home in Central Asia. In other words, cannabis thrives in sunny and dry conditions. Growers attempt to recreate these ideal conditions in efforts to push their plants to their full genetic potential. For novice gardeners, it is important to understand that all cannabis cultivators, no matter how advanced, are after this same goal. The best way to work towards this goal is by developing environmental conditions and fertigation techniques to which cannabis plants respond favorably. Here are four areas newbies can focus on to help grow the best buds.
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1
Light
Cannabis plants love light. When planning a garden operation, be it be indoor, greenhouse, or outdoor, light is the most essential variable for success. For indoor marijuana gardening, the design of a successful lighting schematic can be a challenge for the inexperienced grower. To illustrate, different types of lighting, such as high pressure sodium (HPS), metal halide (MH), light emitting diode (LED), and fluorescents, all present unique variances in their applications. For example, an HPS light covers a different square footage of canopy and utilizes different levels of wattage than an LED light. One thing rookies need to be aware of is not positioning their chosen grow lights either too close or too far from the garden canopy. Hanging lights too close to foliage can easily burn leaves, while placing them too far from the canopy will cause plants to stretch. Overly stretched cannabis plants wreak havoc on the small confines of indoor grows. A careful study of the proper use of a chosen grow light can help alleviate most of these issues. A majority of this information is available online and on product packaging. Greenhouse and outdoor cannabis growers should always position their gardens in areas that maximize sunlight. An additional two hours of direct sunlight on a garden can have huge impacts on harvest totals. Of course, the world of legal cannabis growing is still in its infancy, and it’s important for cultivators to weigh privacy and security concerns with the utilization of available sunlight. Still, a common mistake made by novice greenhouse and outdoor growers is to hide their gardens under trees and out of the sun. While this is understandable from a security perspective, planting a garden in the shade will greatly diminish the size of a harvest.
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Water
“For novice gardeners, it is important to understand that all cannabis cultivators, no matter how advanced, are after this same goal.� 36
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Water presents an extremely important yet difficult-tomaster variable in cannabis cultivation practices. As such, proper watering technique is probably the most problematic factor for new cannabis growers. While indoor, greenhouse, and outdoor gardens each have different environmental constraints that dictate how often cannabis plants should be watered, basic irrigation rules apply to all these cultivation practices. Novice gardeners are notorious for overwatering. While there are countless reasons as to why this happens, a primary one is simply that new growers like spending time with their plants. It is well and good to be excited about cannabis growing, but being a skilled horticulturist requires patience and attentiveness. Overwatering causes countless problems with essential plant functions, from nutrient uptake issues to root rot. Cannabis plants like their root zones to dry out between watering sessions. Of course, proper irrigation requires a careful balancing act as it is harmful to let root zones dry out to the point that the leaves of the plant wilt. To make things more complicated, shifts in weather patterns and temperature affect when one should water. It takes some practice to understand when the best time to water might be.
“Proper airflow is essential to a successful grow.”
There are a few ways that a rookie grower can ensure they are properly watering their cannabis plants. The most traditional and low-tech way is to simply pick up a pot and feel its weight. Over time, one gains an understanding of what the pot feels like when the plants require water. Also, many cannabis growers use moisture meters, which can be purchased at most garden centers. These devices give accurate readings of water retention levels within the root zone. Finally, for the tech-savvy grower, there are several options on the market for high-tech, individualized soil sensors that give real-time digital readings of water levels at the root zone.
3
Airflow, Temperature, and Humidity
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Proper airflow is essential to a successful grow. When developed correctly, it can help alleviate most issues relating to temperature and humidity. Indoor and greenhouse cultivators have much larger concerns with airflow than their counterparts in outdoor horticulture. As full-sun gardens are at the mercy of Mother Nature, the best advice an outdoor cultivator can get regarding airflow is to not plant a garden in a cold, shady, and damp area. It’s important to remember cannabis plants thrive in dry climates. A common mistake with newbie indoor and greenhouse growing is to not consider airflow at all. Without proper air exchange, gardens are plagued with countless problems that all stem from excesses of heat and humidity. For starters, the essential growth functions of cannabis plants are retarded when temperatures reach 90°F indoors. Also, excessively humid ambient conditions in a greenhouse or growroom cause plants to absorb water from the air and not utilize the nutrientrich water at their root zone. Finally, heat and humidity open the door to the proliferation of a plethora of pathogens and bugs including botrytis, powdery mildew, and spider mites. To avoid these problems, controlled environment growers should strive to keep humidity levels below 50 per cent.
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“Without proper air exchange, gardens are plagued with countless problems that all stem from excesses of heat and humidity.�
There are several ways to ensure proper airflow and subsequent temperature and humidity controls in a greenhouse or growroom. For most hobbyist grows, a relatively simple and affordable intake and outtake air exchange system will do the trick. Expert gardeners recommend that the air in a growroom or greenhouse should be entirely exchanged every one to three minutes for optimum growth and vigor. While a simple air exchange system is generally suitable for most novice grows, certain locales and geographies also require the use of air conditioning units or dehumidifiers.
4
Nutrients and pH Proper fertilization and water pH techniques are vital to push cannabis plants to their full genetic potential. However, new growers do not need to be overly concerned with the ins and outs of N-P-K ratios, micronutrients, and living soil. For novice gardeners, an obvious first step in understanding fertigation is simply following the directions and schedules of a chosen nutrient line. The most common mistake made by rookie cultivators relating to nutrients and water has to do with pH. Different water sources, such as city water and well water, differ greatly in their mineral content and pH levels. These levels can fluctuate greatly with changing seasons and water tables, especially in locales like California that have drastic shifts in precipitation patterns. For new growers, pH issues generally boil down to complacency. They get used to certain pH readings and fail to understand the changing dynamics of water tables and different water sources. To rectify these issues, it is essential that cultivators check the pH of their water every time they irrigate with nutrient mixes or straight water. Cannabis cultivation takes time to master. With this process comes the gradual development of an intuitive feel for garden essentials. To begin developing this knowledge base and feeling, it is recommended that newbies start with learning the basics of cannabis plant needs. For most new growers, this education is based on understanding the environmental constraints surrounding prime cultivation conditions as well as irrigation techniques. Other potential problem areas arise with such garden maintenance practices as pruning or spraying, which are worthwhile to investigate. With patience and attentiveness, new growers can attain a relatively strong grasp on cannabis horticulture.
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IGHT AFFECT L D N A S L A R E IN M HOW
n o i t c u d o r P e n e p r e T by August Dunning
With newly discovered healing properties, terpenes are more important than previously thought. August Dunning explains how minerals and light can be used to boost terpene levels in cannabis plants. Our olfactory sense is hardwired to our immune system. If a fragrance produced by a strain is particularity pleasing, there might be a reason. Fragrance can be a means of identifying strains for medical application, not just recreation. When we’re sick with a cold, we identify certain fragrances, like lemon, for example, to bring us relief. We evolved with this plant to ultimately be able to incorporate the plant’s cannabinoid compounds in our endocannabinoid receptor system. Cannabinoids (CBD) interact with the body’s organs, nerves, and CB1, 2, and 3 receptor sites in the brain to mitigate conditions of pain and anxiety and establish a means for the terpenes to get into cells to perform medical functions far greater than sedation or elation, like slowing cancer cells. It’s not the CBD that attacks cancer — the CBD opens the cells in a tumor for terpenes to get inside cells to end replication in cancer cells without poisoning the body. With growth halted, the tumor may die. 42
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This is why terpenes are more important than previously thought. It has been proven that terpenes can get inside different types of cancer to stop replication. Cannabinoid ratios differ greatly in the various strains of weed and are associated with the production of terpenes. High-CBD strains produce high levels of myrcene as CBD synthase converts cannabigerol (CBG) into CBD and the associated terpenes. High-THC strains produce large levels of lemonene and pinene as the THC synthase converts tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THC-A) into THC, tetrahydrocannabivarin (THC-V), and cannabichromine (CBC).
THC Terpenes Rely on Minerals and UV-B
These terpenes are mineral dependent for their production in trichomes, so let’s discuss the metal ions necessary for terpene production along with the light frequencies involved for synthesis, as well as those involved with terpene emittance and storage in flowering cannabis. Yes, that’s right, something many growers are not aware of is that the final fragrance of weed can be made stronger in the last 72 hours before harvest and curing. Ultraviolet-B is required during flowering phase to stimulate genetic plastids in the trichome disc cells to create enzymes required for terpenes and cannabinoid synthesis. But there are other photosynthetic processes in the phytochromes that can be employed to mediate light/dark signaling that increase terpene content and production. First off, several metal ions are necessary since most terpene cyclases require a divalent ion such as magnesium (Mg2+) or manganese (Mn2+) for the cyclization of substrates. They are also necessary for THC-A conversion to THC by THC synthase. Moreover, all terpene cyclases, including limonene synthase, require either Mg2+ or Mn2+. To explain the roles of Mg2+ and Mn2+ in terpene cyclization, it has been proposed that these metal ions might neutralize the negative charge of the diphosphate moiety and assist in ionization of the allylic diphosphate substrate to create the geranyl diphosphate terpene precursor molecule. What is clear, however, is that divalent metal ions Fe (iron) and Mn (manganese) have been shown clearly in dispensary bud tests to affect levels of THC and CBD because deficiencies of Mn2+ (for THC) and Fe2+ (for CBD) in fertilizers during growth directly affect synthesis of THC and CBD.
Red Light and Terpene Potency
As shown earlier, CBD and THC levels are strongly related to mycrene and lemonene production. Everything is tied to adequate micronutrient minerals and specific light frequencies to form cannabinoids and terpenes. However, some frequencies that are eliminated at the end of growth can produce very strong terpene potency and subsequent highly fragrant dried buds.
“Something many growers are not aware of is that the final fragrance of weed can be made stronger in the last 72 hours before harvest and curing.” ANANDAMIDE THC
NERVE CELL RECEPTOR NERVE CELL Anandamide and THC molecular structures are similar. This allows for THC to mimic anandamide by connecting the nerve cell receptor in its place.
Several light sensitive photoreceptors outside the trichomes are involved in the processes of production and emission of terpenes, and different trichomes are dependent upon specific wavelengths of light to be activated or deactivated. Emission of terpenes is a process that is entirely dependent upon phytochromes and red and far-red light cues in most plant species. This is especially useful for growers using LED systems because it has been proven that if red LED light is eliminated during the last 72 hours of growth and only white and blue LEDs are used, the plant continues to synthesize terpenes, but a lack of red light to trigger the phytochrome results in a lack of terpene emission by the plant. This causes the terpenes to accumulate in the maturing trichomes. The good news is that eliminating red light at the end of a flowering cycle has almost no effect on the final cannabinoid content of dried and cured buds. For stronger fragrance, medical potency, and higher commercial value of your buds, cut out red light 72 hours prior to harvest. Maximum Yield
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SCROG HOW TO SET UP A
by Kyle L. Ladenburger
CANNABIS GROW
If you want to grow your own cannabis but are short on space, check out the bud-producing SCROG (screen of green) method of marijuana cultivation. Kyle Ladenburger lays out the process, step by step.
T
hroughout my life one major value that’s been consistently hammered into my brain time after time is to always make the best of what you’ve got. Growing up, we were by no means poor, but money was tight enough that frivolous spending wasn’t a luxury. On most occasions we were forced to make do with what we had, as well as we could, before even considering putting money towards whatever it may be. This is something I’ve carried with me into my adult life. This way of approaching life can be of great benefit to cannabis growers too, since space is often a limiting factor. This is true for home growers who are almost always dealing with confined indoor spaces or laws limiting the amount an individual can grow at a time. Getting the most out of each individual plant and achieving the highest potential yield possible is the key in a small cannabis garden. Many factors can contribute to reaching such goals but one method that can have a huge impact on end yields is a method called “SCROG” (screen of green). It is ideal when growing in limited space or with limited plant numbers. This method utilizes low-stress training to allow for better overall bud development. Botanically speaking, cannabis plants exhibit a growth pattern that is referred to as apical dominance. Apical dominance is the phenomenon by which the main, central stem is the dominant growth site in comparison to lateral side shoot development. This is evident by just looking at a cannabis plant in the flowering stage. The main flower (cola) is top and center, receiving the most light and, in conjunction, more nutrients allowing it to grow larger than any other flower buds. The flowers on the sides and lower portions of the plant receive less light and develop into smaller buds commonly referred to as “larf.” When using the SCROG method a grower will interrupt the plants’ natural apical dominance by cutting the top or main central stem off the plant. This encourages more prolific side or lateral shoot development. Instead of there being just one main cola, there will be several separate heavy flowering points on a single plant. Using a horizontal grid system, the plants will be lightly trained to grow through the grid in more of a lateral fashion compared to the normal vertical growth. The SCROG method is beneficial in several ways. It allows more light to reach the maximum number of flowering sites which will direct more available nutrients to these locations resulting in better flower production. It will also help keep the plants lower to the ground and away from the intensity and heat of powerful horticultural lighting. This can be extremely helpful when growing sativa dominant varieties that tend to stretch quite a bit during the first few weeks of flowering, especially in rooms with low ceilings. SCROG also helps the grower maintain a more uniform canopy height which comes in handy when doing regular garden maintenance. The bottom line is the SCROG method can lead to higher yields in situations where space is limited or plant counts are lower, and it can be done in just a handful of steps.
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“ONE OF THE trickiest parts of the SCROG method is determining when to force the switch to the flowering cycle.” SETTING UP A SCREEN OF GREEN
The first step is to set up the grid (a.k.a. the “screen” in “screen of green”) that will be used to train the growth laterally. Wire caging will be the strongest choice, but nylon trellis netting will work as well. Just make sure it is secured tightly on all ends. Caging or trellis netting that has squares of around 2x2 inches is ideal for SCROG-ing. The grid should be placed horizontally about eight to 10 inches above the top of the pots. When growing in a tent, secure the corners of the grid tightly to the support poles on the inside corners of the tent. If the SCROG method is being used in a normal room, additional supports may be needed. In general, around one square foot of grid space should be reserved per plant. Once the seedlings or clones reach about six to eight inches tall, where they are just about to reach the grid, the main center stem should be cut off or topped. This will encourage more side growth that will start to grow up and through the holes in the grid. Be sure that each branch has its own hole to grow through and that they are not sharing. This next step takes a little finesse but is relatively simple once you get the hang of it. While the plant is still in the vegetative growing stage, allow the individual branches to grow above the top of the grid by about six inches. Then begin to weave the branches down and back up through the grid. Each time the plant is tall enough above the grid repeat the weaving motion in a manner that evenly spreads the branches over the screen. You may want to use plant clips or ties to secure the branches to the grid but usually the weaving itself will hold them in place. One of the trickiest parts of the SCROG method is determining when to force the switch to the flowering cycle. The best way to figure this out is to
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“THE BOTTOM LINE is the SCROG method can lead to higher yields in situations where space is limited or plant counts are lower.� understand the characteristics of the variety being grown. As stated earlier, the sativa-dominant varieties tend to stretch and grow taller during the early weeks of flowering. So, in order to not run out of grid space, they should be switched to flower earlier than an indica variety that will put on most of its growth in the vegetative stage. A general guide to follow is to allow around 50-60 per cent of the grid to be covered before switching to flowering cycle for sativa. For an indica variety, allow as much as 70-80 per cent coverage before forcing into flowering cycle. While the plant grows and the branches are continually weaved through the grid, the bottom portion of the plant should be given attention as well. As the grid fills up, the amount of light that can penetrate past it is diminished; this is really the whole point of the SCROG method. Any vegetative growth, such as fan leaves and branches, growing under will not receive enough light for any substantial growth and should be removed on a regular basis. Keeping the plants bare beneath the canopy will also make regular feeding/ watering and maintenance a much easier task. Continue to keep the bottom branches clear as the flowers continue to grow and a nice harvest should follow. When it comes to growing cannabis indoors, limited space does not always have to mean smaller yields. The SCROG method and other similar techniques are a relatively easy way to create more highly active flower bud sites with increased developmental potential. Putting in the small amount of work involved will almost always be worth it and it’s a great way to make the most with what you have.
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ask a NURSE Q
I’m considering using a cannabis suppository but have read a lot of contradictory information online. Is this a safe method? Will I get high? Thank you for any information you can provide! Samantha S.
a S
uppositories are a popular method of cannabis administration and can be effective at treating some conditions and disease. However, information available on healthcare forums, blogs, and social media posts includes prevalent misconceptions about the efficacy of suppositories and erroneous interpretations of the existing research. The following information should enable you and others to make more informed decisions about which delivery method is best to treat their condition. During rectal administration, fluids are absorbed by the rectum’s blood vessels and are mostly directed into the body’s circulatory system, which distributes the fluid to the organs and bodily systems. Typically, a drug that is administered rectally has a faster onset, a higher bioavailability, a shorter peak, and a shorter duration than when the same drug is administered orally. Multiple factors affect the absorption rate of rectal medications, including molecular size, water-solubility, depth of insertion, dehydration, low surface area, and the base of a suppository preparation. Additionally, absorption rates of suppositories are slower than that of other delivery methods and the rate at which suppositories absorb is largely dependent on chemical additives in the suppository. Currently, there is some debate about whether rectally administered cannabis can effectively treat conditions affecting the entire body. Commonly-referenced research states that rectal absorption rates of cannabis are as high as 50-70 per cent. In these studies, however, delta-9-THC was coupled with an ester hemisuccinate, which is an additive designed to increase absorbency by breaking down fat-soluble compounds into water-soluble compounds. Other studies designed to test rectal absorption of cannabis demonstrated that, without hemisuccinate,
rectal absorbency was three per cent or less. In fact, there exists some general agreement that fats and oils are poorly absorbed from the rectum. Cannabinoids are lipids (fats) and cannabis products are nearly always extracted into an oil or fat base, so it’s reasonable to assume that whole-plant cannabis oil products are poorly absorbed rectally. And, because most preparations of cannabis suppositories do not contain hemisuccinate, it is safe to assume most of these preparations are not being adequately absorbed. Clearly, more research is needed. While Radicle Health occasionally recommends rectal administration for conditions that can benefit from a topical cannabis administration (such as fissures, hemorrhoids, and rectal cancer), this route can produce results that are incomplete, unpredictable, and erratic. Importantly, Radicle Health does not recommend rectal administration for patients undergoing chemotherapy because of the increased risk of infection and rectal bleeding. Patients should always consult with a healthcare professional before considering rectal administration.
DO YOU HAVE A QUESTION FOR A NURSE? Email editor@maximumyield.com to get an answer.
ET Eloise Theisen, AGPCNP-BC, is a dedicated and patient-focused nurse. For more than 17 years, she has specialized in aging, cancer, chronic pain, dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, anxiety, depression, fibromyalgia, and various autoimmune and neurological diseases.
eturning cannabis health care to healthcare professionals.
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We help patients use cannabis to treat chronic illness, and we teach healthcare professionals about using cannabis as a treatment modality.
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Cannabis users who suffer from insomnia and have trouble sleeping should make sure their strain of choice is not having a detrimental effect. Kasey Craig looks at three weed strains that might have people tossing and turning in bed instead of sleeping soundly.
CANNABIS STRAINS TO
Avoid if you Need Sleep
by Kasey Craig
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M
ost adults need seven to eight hours of sleep a night, but those with insomnia can find it hard to get that much rest. Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can make it difficult to fall asleep, stay asleep, or cause someone to wake up early and not be able to get back to sleep. Insomnia can deplete energy levels, affect mood, health, work performance, and quality of life. Cannabis has been used for thousands of years for its psychoactive and medicinal qualities. Endocannabinoids activate cannabinoid receptors, which are involved in regulating things like appetite, pain, memory, and mood, along with other physiological processes. Past studies indicate that those with mood or anxiety disorders have lower levels of endocannabinoids. THC can activate the cannabinoid receptors, and the drug may be able to relieve symptoms of these disorders. Insomnia sufferers know the struggle of attempting to fall asleep after smoking a highenergy strain, the kind of hyperactive mental buzz that has you climbing the walls at 2 a.m. It is important to know which strains to avoid when you are using cannabis and you suffer from insomnia, or generally have a hard time getting to or staying asleep.
AVOID HIGH-ENERGY STRAINS
Those that suffer from insomnia should avoid high-energy strains late in the day (you should also avoid caffeine and sugary snacks). Too much focus and energy can make falling asleep become more complicated than necessary, so avoid the following strains:
Green Crack
The name Green Crack perpetuates a negative image of cannabis; some have been calling it Green Cush (with a “C”) or Cush instead. The plant was bred by inbreeding Skunk #1 and got its name from Snoop Dogg. The taste is illustrated as tropical mango-like sweetness. This strain is excellent for daytime use in patients suffering from fatigue, loss of appetite, stress, and depression. This sativa is heavensent for those who need motivation. However, Green Crack could be too much for paranoiaprone people and those with insomnia should avoid smoking this strain, especially before bed.
Durban Poison
Thankfully, this strain is not poisonous, just powerfully uplifting. This is the natural fivehour energy many people look for come midday. Durban Poison is sweet and spicy — sure to motivate even the laziest cannabis connoisseur. The primary medicinal qualities of Durban Poison are energy, creativity, migraine relief, and anti-nausea properties. This is ideal for people suffering from stress and fatigue; the strain is associated with a general energy boost, mental productivity and increased sociability.
Durban Poison has proved effective in treatment for depression, anxiety, ADD and ADHD, bipolar disorder, and even those who suffer from PostTraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). This cannabis strain has medicinal benefits for many people, however, those with insomnia may find falling asleep after consuming this strain difficult.
Ghost Train Haze
Ghost Train Haze is a sativa-dominant hybrid that could easily be classified as some very potent cannabis, with very pleasurable effects for artistic people. This strain has energy-boosting euphoric sensations — great for a morning smoke. Ghost Train Haze will have users feeling lively and creative. This plant has high THC content and is best suitable for frequent cannabis users, while those with low tolerance should approach this strain with caution. The hybrid may make users feel anxious, especially if they are not accustomed to some strong sativa or are prone to anxiety. If consumed in large quantities, possible overthinking and paranoia may be experienced. Overthinking can be stressful and those with insomnia don’t need more reasons to toss and turn at night. Insomnia can be detrimental to one’s health in the long run, with many other side effects for those who don’t get a good night’s sleep. There are pharmaceutical treatments for sleep issues, but they come with plenty of side effects and some can be addictive. Those with insomnia looking for a natural solution should look for strains that give an awesome night’s sleep.
“
THOSE THAT SUFFER FROM INSOMNIA SHOULD AVOID
highenergy
strains late
day ”
in the
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There are hundreds of cannabis strains and each unique strain falls into one of three categories: sativa, indica, and hybrid. Sativas are typically energizing, while indica strains usually create a relaxing euphoria for users. Insomnia sufferers should avoid smoking sativa strains, especially in the evenings. The energy associated with its effects can make it difficult for users to find peaceful sleep quickly. If your insomnia is causing daytime tiredness or sleepiness, smoking some sativa in the morning could help you be more productive. The best sleep-inducing cannabis strains are indica and indica-dominant hybrids. These strains will see you through those sleepless nights. Some strains are highly potent, and you should always use caution. Remember, a little can go a long way.
“ The
best sleep-inducing
strains
ARE INDICA AND INDICA-DOMINANT HYBRIDS.�
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growing with you since 1998
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How to Read
CBD by Joy Smith
Product Labels When it comes to learning about the CBD products you are considering or are taking, the product label can often be misleading and confusing for consumers.
T
he CBD industry is set for a massive growth in the coming decade. Medical research has proven the therapeutic benefits of cannabidiol (CBD), ranging from neuroprotective to analgesic properties. Moreover, CBD is one of the 100 cannabinoids identified in the hemp plant. It has a wide range of health benefits and is devoid of psychoactive effects. Consequently, CBD is being widely manufactured, promoted, and used in the form of oil, tinctures, vape oil, and soothing salves to manage a myriad of health issues. The rise in popularity of this cannabinoid has encouraged manufacturers to introduce other innovative forms of cannabidiol products, namely CBD gummies and sprays. Each of these products have labels offering information that can help people select the right product for their health care needs. However, most CBD consumers often find it tough to decode this perplexing and potentially misleading information. Read on to learn some valuable tips on deciphering the information shared on CBD product labels, enabling you to make an informed decision for your well-being.
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First Things First: Know How Much CBD You Need
In the US, CBD is federally approved for use as a nutritional supplement. However, CBD oil doesn’t have a recommended dose, overdose level, or an official serving size. Therefore, it can be quite confusing to choose a CBD product based merely on the manufacturer’s recommendations on the label. Furthermore, the one-size-fits-all rule doesn’t apply to CBD dosing. So, the rule of thumb is to start low and gradually increase the dose until you experience the desired result. When determining the right dose of CBD, consider factors like the concentration of CBD in the product, your body weight, and the severity of the illness into consideration. Each CBD product has a different amount of cannabidiol per dose. Use the CBD dosage calculator below to determine the right dose for you. Let’s say a person weighing 180 pounds is suffering from severe pain and is looking for a suitable dose of CBD per day. He comes across a CBD oil brand offering the following information on the label: • Serving size: 10 drops • Amount of CBD per serving: 25 mg In other words, 10 drops = 25 mg cannabidiol or 2.5 mg CBD per drop. Referring to the Dosage Calculator chart (Figure 1), the starting dose for this individual should be 18 mg. The number of drops to be administered per day can be calculated: 18 mg divided by 2.5 mg = 7.2 or seven drops of the product (for a decimal higher than five, consider rounding it up to the next number).
Pay Attention to Contents on Label
Whether you are buying CBD oil, tincture, or salve, make sure to go through the following information on the product label before purchasing it:
Serving Size
The serving size or servings per unit gives a rough estimate of how long the product will last. For instance, 15 servings mean the product will last you for 15 days at a once-daily dosage.
CBD Content
As seen earlier, CBD content is important for determining the appropriate dose. CBD product labels offer information not only on the amount of cannabidiol present per serving, but also whether the product contains THC. The desired level of THC in CBD oil should not exceed 0.3 per cent. The product label may not carry information about the presence of THC if its concentration is below 0.3 per cent.
Pain Level
Weight <25 lbs
26-45 lbs
46-85 lbs
85-150 lbs 151-240 lbs >241 lbs
Mild
1.5 mg
6 mg
9 mg
12 mg
18 mg
22.5 mg
Medium
6 mg
9 mg
12 mg
15 mg
22.5 mg
30 mg
Severe
9 mg
12 mg
15 mg
18 mg
27 mg
45 mg
Figure 1: CBD Dosage Calculator for Chronic Pain
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“When browsing the company
website, it is wise to investigate its testing standards, third-party lab test results, and the organization’s endeavor to offer premium-quality products.”
Whole Plant or Isolate?
Check the product label to determine whether the manufacturer is using the whole plant (also referred to as full spectrum) or CBD isolates in their product. Though CBD isolates are becoming popular, it is wise to go for a full-spectrum CBD product that contains not only cannabidiol, but constituents like terpenes, flavonoids, and other cannabinoids that offer a superior therapeutic effect in comparison to CBD alone.
Other Constituents
Cannabidiol is just one of the many cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Hence, it is normal for a CBD product label to carry information on other cannabinoids (not including THC) and terpenes. In fact, research shows cannabinoids and terpenes work together synergistically to elicit the therapeutic effects. Furthermore, since cannabidiol has a nutty flavor that may not be appreciated by all, the products are infused with flavors and natural sweeteners to improve taste and aroma.
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Storage Instructions
Manufacturers often recommend how to best preserve the CBD product in order to prevent it from going rancid over a period of time. Also, check the label for the expiration date, and purchase a product that exhibits optimal therapeutic effect when used.
Research the CBD Manufacturer
All CBD product labels carry the name of the manufacturer. This gives you an opportunity to research the company and determine whether it has a good reputation in the industry. When browsing the company website, it is wise to investigate its testing standards, third-party lab test results, and the organization’s endeavor to offer premium-quality products. Furthermore, read about the strains of CBD and the extraction process used by the company in manufacturing the product. A few companies are able to sell their CBD products at a relatively low cost as they use cheap and toxic petroleum-based solvents like propane, hexane, pentane, and butane that can be harmful to the human body.
Several other manufacturers use pharmaceutical-grade ethanol to extract CBD and get rid of the hemp plant residue. This process is proven to yield the highest level of cannabinoids and the products are safe for consumption. The supercritical CO2 extraction process is another method of ensuring high-quality CBD products. Researching the manufacturer’s website should help you find the relevant information for selecting the most effective CBD product.
“The information on
the CBD product label is supposed to be help buyers decide on what they need.”
The burgeoning cannabidiol industry offers a wide range of CBD products to customers, making it tough to choose a product that will best suit their needs. The information on the CBD product label is supposed to be help buyers decide on what they need. However, more often than not, this information becomes a source of confusion, thereby preventing customers from experiencing the therapeutic benefits of CBD. The valuable tips shared in this article will help you decipher the information shared on CBD product labels, allowing you to purchase a product that meets your health goals.
OMRI listed
MAXIMUM YIELD FOR HYDROPONICS A biostimulant that maximizes growth rates and yield Compatible with both soil and soil less growing media Use with any fertilizer or nutrient system
Frank Iafrate • 610-656-7651 liventia.net/en/agriculture Distributed by www.Hydrofarm.com
Manufactured by Micro-TES, Inc
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stash BOX 3
1
4 2
1 | Blue Sky Biologicals
2 | HighOnLove Lychee
3 | The Root of It All
4 | SkyBlue Vapor Deluxe
Kanabia CBD+
The Kanabia CBD+ brand from Blue Sky Biologicals offers unique and innovative products based on the company’s cutting edge, proprietary Golden Harvest cannabinoid complex. Not only does it deliver CBD in significant quantities, it also has meaningful levels of the next hot and trending Cannabinoids CBD-V, CBG and THC-V. It’s available in 250 mg, 500 mg, and 1,000 mg tincture options in a base of MCT oil. Kanabia also has an infused version with super critical extracted turmeric oil for extra antiinflammatory properties.
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Martini Massage Oil
It’s no secret sensual massage can be an incredible springboard to the next level of intimacy. Carefully developed with premium ingredients and infused with pharmaceutical-grade cannabis, this massage oil delivers a sensual aromatic experience that will bring your romantic connection to new heights. It also has the power to melt away pain, relax the mind and body, stimulate circulation, and increase energy flow. Lychee Martini massage oil is made with 100 per cent natural cold-pressed oils and CBD in small batches to guarantee the highest quality.
Cannabis Remedies
Combining scientific scrutiny with ancient wisdom, The Root of It All is a suite of powerful plantbased essential remedies for everyday conditions. Introducing pioneering formulations: GO for energy, SLOW for calming, STOP for sleeping, UNWIND for recharging and REWIND for restoration. They all promote rejuvenation and balance in mind and body — the natural way. Each formula uses a specific cannabis extract that works in harmony with a complementary cast of ayurvedic essential ingredients to take you through every pace of your day.
3-in-1 Vaporizer Kit
SkyBlue Vapor products are designed to be ultra portable, discreet, and high functioning. Virtually smell proof and backed by a lifetime warranty, this vape pen can be taken everywhere. SkyBlue Vapor offers a variety of atomizers to vape wax, bud, hash, kief, and cartridges. Every atomizer is crafted with medical grade titanium, ceramics, and pure SiO2 quartz that operate at a low temperature to preserve terpenes, medicinal compounds, and your cannabis itself.
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Art
The
of
Growing in
Cannabis
Bubblers
by Rich Hamilton Growing marijuana in bubblers is relatively easy and promotes very fast growth from the vegetative to the flowering stages, allowing growers to get much bigger cannabis yields in a shorter time frame.
U
ndecided about how to grow your cannabis? Looking for a change? Have you considered a bubbler deep water culture (DWC for short) system? The principle with bubblers is simple: the plant is suspended above an oxygen-rich nutrient solution. The roots of the plant hang down into this solution which feeds them 24 hours a day, allowing for super-charged growth and development of both plant and produce. Bubblers are versatile in letting a person grow a single plant, where space is limited, or they can grow many plants. There is no soil or coco medium to worry about with bubblers, meaning less mess and hassle. Most important, a DWC system has the potential to yield massive results with little input. Isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t that what everyone is after?
Considerations Before Adding Cannabis Plants to a Bubbler So where do you start? Well, bubbler kits are sold as single units (pots) that hold one plant. Brands differ in style but generally they all do the same thing. However, as the system will be filled with water, the last thing you want is a leak, so a good hack to check for leaks is to fill your system up in the bathtub and leave it for several hours. Like any product, it is possible there could be some small manufacturing fault that could cause a leak, so it is best to eliminate this risk before you use it.
How to Transplant Clones/Cuttings to Bubblers
Once you are satisfied everything is watertight and in good working order, you should transplant your cutting/clone. Your plants should be ready to go into the vegetative stage and be able to handle a strong intense light and feed increase. Cuttings should have three stages of nodes which are the vertical levels on the main stem where new canopies of leaf formations grow from. If growing from seed you are likewise looking for them to have either three stages of nodes or to have rooted through a three-inch block of stonewool, both of which happen at around the same time. When transplanting, I usually add about half the clay pebbles, place the stonewool cube in, and fill up with more clay pebbles until it is level with the top of the stonewool cube. This way you are not pushing or forcing the stonewool into the pebbles and you will cause less damage to the roots.
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photo by nebula haze courtesy of freeimages.com
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“
MOST IMPORTANT, a DWC system has
the potential to yield massive results with little input. Isn’t that what everyone is after?”
Tips for Setting up Your Bubbler
Growing in a bubbler follows the same timetable as growing using most other systems: four weeks in vegetation and eight weeks in flower. Some good tips to remember when setting up your bubbler include the following:
1 2 3 4 5
6
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Keep your electric pump motor away from the water in your bubbler. I’m sure you don’t need me to tell you that water and electricity do not mix. For best results make sure the air being pumped into the water is originating from an external source so that it is the freshest that it can be. The positioning of your air stone is crucial. Make sure it is centered in the bottom of the main reservoir, so all the plant’s roots are receiving an optimum and fair distribution of oxygen. To start, your plant’s roots will not be long enough to reach the nutrient feed in the water, so it is best to overfill the bubbler so the water reaches half way up the net pot and the roots can drink with ease. Use a temperature monitor and control to keep your nutrient solution at optimum temperature between 64-68°F. The warmer your solution is, the lower the oxygen level is and the lower the nutrient uptake is. Keeping the solution at the perfect temperature will also help keep algae and diseases (that thrive at higher temperatures) at bay. Make sure your nutrients are suitable for a bubbler or, even better, are specifically designed for bubblers. You want to avoid products containing organic ingredients like seaweed and molasses, which, when oxygenated, can foam and ferment, forming sticky residues that can block pumps, destroy air stones, and lower oxygen levels. Bad news all round.
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Top: Clones must be strong enough to withstand the increase in light and nutrients that a DWC system will impose upon transplantation. Bottom: Be prepared for the challenges that will arise as your plants become bigger and heavier.
Now that you are all set up, how do you keep everything running smoothly? The first thing to address is how often you should be topping up the solution in your system. The answer is whenever your plants need it. The golden rule is 90 per cent of the roots should be constantly submerged. You should prioritize this in the first few weeks, as the plants are establishing and strengthening themselves.
photo by nebula haze courtesy of freeimages.com
photo by nebula haze courtesy of freeimages.com
“
THE GOLDEN rule is 90 per cent of the roots should be constantly submerged. You should prioritize this in the first few weeks, as the plants are establishing and strengthening themselves.”
Managing Electrical Conductivity Levels in Bubblers
Electrical Conductivity (EC) and pH management are crucial in telling you if your feed strength is adequate for your plants. If the EC suddenly shoots up, resolve the problem by adding fresh water until levels are back within range. I would check them once or twice a day to keep conditions perfect. You can find the EC and pH goal for bubbler systems week by week on any good feed chart. If EC levels drop below range, I would replace all the liquid in that pot with a fresh batch. This is because EC only gives an indication of the level of chemicals in the water. If the EC drops, then all we know is the plants are taking up more nutrients than water. We do not know which element a plant is taking more of though, and so removing all the liquid ensures we are not overfeeding the plant with any one element. Bubbler EC levels, however, are prone to fluctuation, so if you do see a change, give it an hour or so and check again before taking any action, as it could well return to normal levels within that time. Replacing the solution in your bubbler becomes more challenging as the plant gets bigger and heavier. It’s best to prepare in advance for this situation. Prepare a new reservoir with fresh feed solution, then gently but firmly lift the plant out of the bubbler by the main stem supporting the root mass with your other hand (the lid and net should still be attached in the middle) and then quickly place the plant into the new pot. You can then clean out the old reservoir and repeat the process with all your other bubblers. You should perform this process quickly and efficiently as to cause a minimal amount of stress to your plants and to limit the roots exposure to the light. Speaking of roots, be sure to check, as time goes by, that the roots are not growing entirely around the air stone. If this happens, gently remove the roots as they can affect the rate of oxygen distribution in the reservoir. It’s no surprise that bubblers are one of the most popular systems on the market today — when everything is going well, they are one of the easiest systems to assemble. When used with care, the bubbler system can be your best friend giving you bigger, faster growing plants at a low cost.
Top: EC levels are prone to fluctuations in DWC systems so accurate and regular measurement of levels is crucial. Bottom: Roots descend into an oxygen-rich nutrient solution.
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Maximum Yield is
taking a
stand.
a newsstand. Maximum Yield is excited to announce that Maximum Yield Cannabis is NOW AVAILABLE on select magazine stands across the USA! Find us at:
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RAISED how to grow marijuana outdoors in
GARDENS by Wiley Geren
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D
S
Marijuana grows exceptionally well hydroponically and, as writer Wiley Geren tells us, cannabis also does very well in its natural environment, growing outdoors in a raised garden.
M
ost states, with the exceptions of South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, and Idaho, have legalized marijuana in some form. Whether it’s decriminalization, medical use, or recreational legalization, America has been shrugging off historic stigmas associated with cannabis. Brewers and beer enthusiasts can make their own brew, while gardeners and green enthusiasts can cultivate (where legal) their own cannabis. Each state has unique possession and growing laws that must be adhered to. If you are interested in growing cannabis, please research and understand the laws and regulations in your state. Cannabis, just like any other garden plant, has its growing preferences including season, soil, watering, and spacing, along with the different varieties to consider. Indoor growing gives gardeners complete control over the environment, but control can come at a cost. Follow these guidelines for cultivating marijuana successfully outdoors in a raised garden.
When to Plant: Avoid the Cold
Marijuana is a warm-season plant, preferring warmth and humidity to cooler, dryer temperatures. It is advisable to begin planting after the last frost but note colder temperatures will adversely affect growth and flowering. It’s important to provide cannabis with direct sunlight, however, too much heat can be just as damaging as cold. Prolonged direct sunlight (more than eight hours), paired with temperatures higher than 90˚F can be detrimental, but easily remedied. If plants begin to wilt or develop burns, simply provide some shade. By using screen material or some light cloth, you can erect a covering to limit some of that direct sunlight.
Raised Bed Square-Foot Gardening
Raised bed square-foot gardening is celebrated for its simplicity, structure, and growing efficiency. Coupling the advantages of a raised bed (accessible, controlled soil, and great drainage) with square-foot gardening (organization, efficient space utilization, and reduced watering needs), creates the ideal conditions for nearly any plant to thrive, including marijuana.
Matthew Sokolowski, operations manager at True Plant Science in Seattle, says cannabis loves nutrient-rich soil, good drainage, and at least four to six gallons of soil per plant. One square foot in an eightinch tall raised bed provides a gardener roughly five gallons of soil. So, if a grower wanted to exclusively plant marijuana and they had a 4x4-foot garden bed (16 square feet of planting space), they could plant 16 plants. Sokolowski notes cannabis is fairly adaptive to the space given, producing a smaller yield with less space and a larger one with more room. Here are two spacing options using a 4x4-foot raised garden as an example.
Soil, Drainage, and Watering
Marijuana plants require plenty of nutrients to grow strong and vibrant. Backyard soil isn’t known for being nutrient-rich, but raised beds avoid this issue by letting gardeners add their own pre-mixed nutritious soil. Soil will settle naturally, so be sure to add about two inches of soil above the top of your raised bed. That way it remains full to the top after settling. Also, don’t tamp down the soil when you add it. Leave it loose. Plants prefer looser soil so the roots can grow without obstruction. Loose soil also provides for better drainage, unlike yard soil which has been compressed over time. Cannabis plants, in typical conditions, should be watered every few days. Every morning, check to see if the soil is moist up to an inch below the surface. If the soil is crumbly and dry an inch or more down, then it’s time to water.
“Raised bed square-foot gardening is celebrated for its simplicity, structure, and growing efficiency.”
Which Strain? Sativa Optimum for Square-Foot Gardening
There are two primary strains of marijuana. Sativa is more prone to growing up/elongating, while indica tends to grow bushier and outward. For those who intend on growing weed in a square-foot bed, sativa is preferable as it won’t crowd as much as indica. Air flow is important when gardening, and dense plant-clusters can keep air from moving freely, resulting in mold. Overall, you can treat growing marijuana in a raised garden the same way as growing other warm-weather garden plants. Problems with the plants can arise (mold and pests) and if that does happen, research the issue as you would for any other plant. If you give the plants good soil, avoid weather extremes, keep an eye out for concerns, and water well, you should have a great cannabis harvest this season. Maximum Yield
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TRUST THE MAD
SCIENTIST Dakine 420 is a leading fertilizer and soil medium manufacturer based in Redmond, OR. Their products are designed for rapid growth, compliments of the genius who is the Mad Scientist, the legend responsible for creating most of the company’s products. Founder Kelly Martin talks about his company.
494 SW Veterans Way, Redmond, OR 97756 1-541-420-4645 | dakine420.com 5 Years in Biz | Motto: “High Yield Science”
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What is in your background that drove you to start Dakine 420?
It is almost a curse, but I am a serial entrepreneur. I also consider myself a legacy grower — meaning, I was growing lots of weed in the US before growing weed was legal. I grew up in the 1960s in a liberal household where both my parents smoked pot; neither one drank alcohol. My Dad was a closet grower in the 70s and by the 80s, I was firing up some 100-plus light grows. By the 90s I found myself serving a four-year federal prison sentence for manufacturing a controlled substance (growing pot). After my incarceration, I was a successful landscape contractor for nearly 10 years and had a good understanding of plants and fertilization. In the 80s, growing weed was simple trial and error. Other than a handful of basic books, very few people were willing to help a person grow weed. It was a very underground community. My friends and I were big fans of Peters 20-20-20 all-purpose fertilizer.
What motivated you to start a fertilizer and soil manufacturing company?
In the late 90s and early 2000s, I was amazed at the cost of liquid-based fertilizers targeting the cannabis community. There are some great products out there, but it really pissed me off to spend ridiculous amounts of money on fertilizers. Many lines are broken down into so many parts, it compounds the price-per-gallon many times over. I first started toying with the idea of a nutrient line around 2010 but didn’t start the research until 2013. I finally launched Dakine 420 in 2014. There is a real science behind quality fertilizers and I got lucky meeting the right PhD chemist whom I refer to as the “Mad Scientist.” I sent him a nutrient line that I liked and asked him to reverse engineer it and make it better. After the testing, he called back to ask me why people liked that line so well because, in his opinion, it was very watered down. We talked about manufacturing powders instead of liquids and I was reluctant at first. He assured me he could develop a simple line of powders that would “knock my socks off,” so I agreed to R&D the powders.
“THE TIDE IS TURNING TOWARD POWDERS.”
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The results were crazy — pH balanced, the cleanest line I had ever seen, and the plants loved them. Costs and sustainability factors hit home. The first year, it was tough to convince people that my powders kicked ass. Now, with hundreds of photos and testimonials based on results, the verdict is in: They work great! Add in low cost and sustainability factors, and the tide is turning toward powders.
We notice you manufacture coco-based soilless mediums also. How is that going?
It was a big risk to take on manufacturing soils. The margins are thin and blending packaging and shipping is costly and labor intense. I saw it as an opportunity to add to the line and help promote the use of our nutrients. Seems that growers are a little more receptive to trying a new grow medium vs. switching nutrients. We also have a proprietary “secret sauce” that kicks butt and (we) blend all our products indoors to eliminate pest issues.
What’s up with the Mad Scientist? I love him!
We have a ton of fun branding the depiction of Einstein as our Mad Scientist. It allows our brand to stand out, while allowing us to tell a story of the science behind our product line.
Why the name Dakine 420, and did you get pushback for using 420?
“WE CONSIDER OURSELVES ADVOCATES FOR THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY.”
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Very little pushback. I think our timing was good with the legalization progress. Had it been five years earlier, I am sure we would have had some issues with 420. I understand the position of other companies not wanting to promote cannabis for liability reasons, but we all know who uses those products and it is certainly not the tomato farmer! Dakine is a Hawaiian slang word meaning “the kind” or “high quality.” I thought it was a cool name — not to mention, I love Hawaii.
“OUR MISSION IS TO DO THE BEST WE CAN TO ENSURE THE SUCCESS OF OUR USER BASE AND ADAPT TO INDUSTRY CONDITIONS AS NEEDED.”
What is your company culture and what makes you different?
We consider ourselves advocates for the cannabis industry. Our sales reps are experienced growers who help other growers achieve success in the garden (send us photos, tell us what’s up, and we will help diagnose problems or talk grow talk). Try this level of personal engagement with the leading brands and see what help they are! Our guys rock!
Is Dakine 420 launching any products in the near future?
Yes! We have a bloom boost we call “Shock and Awe,” as well as powdered pH up-and-down, a new foliar product, and a cal/mag supplement we introduced in 2018.
“Shock and Awe” sounds impressive.
That’s what the Mad Scientist told me to get ready for, and I thought it was a great name. When he developed our microbial root powder, he told me it would grow roots on a bowling ball, which I thought was a bold statement. It lived up to its name (just ask Harry, my bowling ball).
What words of wisdom can you share about the industry as you see it?
As a business owner, it’s about honesty, integrity, and hard work. We want our retailers and growers to succeed with our products. People misjudge how difficult the cannabis industry can be. From banking and compliance issues, to oversupplying the market, a lot of people can and do get hurt financially. We see firsthand the struggles people in the industry face as it evolves. Our mission is to do the best we can to ensure the success of our user base and adapt to industry conditions as needed. As I stated earlier, we are advocates for the industry.
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the magazine you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t put down...
even when you probably should.
growing with you since 1998
subscribe today and never miss an issue! subscriptions@maximumyield.com
baking a
FOOL OF MYSELF by Watermelon
PEARIJUANA PHYLLO TART
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
SAUCE:
1. Quarter and cut pears into medium-thin slices.
• 4 medium-firm pears
2. In a sauce pan, on low heat, melt butter and shake flour together. Cook for one minute.
• 0.5 grams of shake flour • 1/4 cup butter • 1/4 cup maple syrup • 1/8 tsp. nutmeg • 1/4 tsp. cinnamon • 20 whole cloves • pinch of salt PASTRY: • 4-5 sheets of phyllo pastry • 1/4 cup of butter melted
3. Add maple syrup and sliced pears. 4. Once the pear slices begin to soften, add the cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. 5. Individually brush each sheet of phyllo with melted butter, paying close attention to the edges. Layer one buttered sheet at a time in your pie plate on different angles letting the excess fall over the sides evenly around the perimeter. (Don’t be shy with the butter. The more you put on the phyllo the crispier it gets.) 6. When the pears reach the softness consistency you like, remove from the heat and pour the pear/sauce mix directly into the center of the phyllo-filled pie plate. 7. Fold in the phyllo edges into the center in a ruching fashion, making the pie tart look a bit like a white rose. Pierce some of the ruched phyllo down with your whole cloves making a nice design on your Pearijuana Tart. 8. Brush a bit more butter on the top of the phyllo before baking (Ooh, the decadence!) 9. Bake at 325°F for 8-10 minutes. (Keep a close eye on your tart. Phyllo burns easily and we are looking for “golden”) 10. Let cool before serving. Ice cream and whipped cream make excellent toppings. 11. Party On!
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8home bakers important considerations for
Home bakers are the new home brewers!
baking a
FOOL OF MYSELF
In her 25 years of home baking with cannabis, Watermelon has learned a thing or two. As edibles become the preferred method of ingestion, she shares her secrets of baking with cannabis so all home bakers can benefit.
by Watermelon
T
o get the most out of home baking, grow your own organic cannabis plants if you can. This is the best and cheapest way. Cure some for smoking, if you’re into that, dry everything else for baking. Remove any twigs, stalks, or fibrous material, and grind up all the rest in a high-powered blender. Run it through a tight mesh sifter, then store shake flour in an air tight container in your fridge or freezer. Take out when ready to bake and keep a point scale in your kitchen. Once that is done, follow these eight tips to be a better home baker.
CONSIDER YOUR SOURCE
Indoor plants are stronger than outdoor as they have a denser trichome profile. You will use approximately half of the required amount from outdoor shake flour when using indoor grown plants for your recipes. Home bakers don’t need to use high-end cannabis. You can use lower-grade plants or leaves trimmed off the buds. Also, are your flowers free from pesticides? Bugs? Mold? You will not want to bake with moldy weed.
CONSIDER YOUR FATS
Some oils’ smoking points are better for converting your cannabis than others. Some have flavors that are stronger. Butter is always a good source, but you could use any oil or fat. Olive oil. Grape seed oil. Coconut oil. Sesame oil. Peanut oil. Animal fats (bacon). Playing around with different fats is where all the fun happens. Consider crumbling some hash or kief on top of pizza and watch the conversion with the cheese or pepperoni while it bakes.
CONSIDER YOUR TEMPERATURE
There are no hard and fast rules for temperature when converting. The delta is somewhere between 200-350°F depending on what you are trying to achieve and your preferred fat. Low and slow was the failsafe method for decades, but we’ve learned you can get a very good conversion at higher temperatures even though you may lose some terpenes in the process. Conversely, other terpenes require higher temperatures in order to be released.
CONSIDER CONVERTING IN ALCOHOL
I have made dozens of cannabis infusions by converting in alcohol first then adding that to my recipes. See pg. 73 for Pearijuana Phyllo Tart Recipe
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You don’t need a lab coat, ethanol, or a Bunsen burner. We home bakers need an oven and we can use any alcohol we like. Rum? Tequila? Black sambuca? Simply place some dried cannabis flowers and leaves on a cookie sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes without burning it. Then, stuff a mason jar with those toasted plants and pour in your favorite booze. Seal with a tight-fitting lid and put away for a week, maybe two. Then strain and… voila! You can also put uncooked dried cannabis in a mason jar with your alcohol of choice, then double boil on the stovetop for a few minutes. This technique reduces some alcohol content while increasing cannabis conversion. Pay attention. You can simply put non-cooked cannabis in a jar with alcohol, too, but it won’t be as strong.
CONSIDER SHELF LIFE
Let’s face it, cannabis is expensive. Making edibles that have a long shelf life will protect against waste. I prefer recipes that improve with age like rum balls or ginger snaps and avoid things like pastries and puddings that may not all be eaten right away. Oxygen and light are the enemy of long-lasting food items. Think back to those old cookie tins with the super tight-fitting lids, designed to keep your cookies in the dark and without atmosphere. Get yourself a quality cookie tin. Sometimes, if you are lucky, those big, old-fashioned cookie tins can be found in a thrift store. Do your self a favor and buy one next time you see one. Also, you can freeze any uneaten edibles for a later date. By the way, it doesn’t have to always be sweets.
CONSIDER COLOR
Marijuana is such a vibrant green color when fresh and sometimes even dry. After it is cooked, however, it can turn an ugly, cat puke, greenish-brown. Home bakers using raw plant material need to consider this in the final product. For example, shortbread versus gingersnap. The gingersnap will hide the color but shortbread… not so much, unless you are using a clear tincture. Home bakers use fresh or dried flowers. Adding tincture to foods is not home baking. Pick ingredients that will mask, complement, or enhance the cannabis color like spinach, lime zest, or creme de menthe.
CONSIDER POTENCY GOALS
A little, properly converted, cannabis can be very potent. The amount required for low-dose edibles is less than 0.25 grams of outdoor grown marijuana and 0.12 grams converted yields around 10-15 mg, which means you could potentially make nine low-dose edibles with one gram. A little goes a long way.
WM Watermelon is a Vancouver-based entrepreneur who loves to tango, tell jokes, bake, get baked, suntan nude, and host dinner parties. She has graced the cover of most leading marijuana magazines including Maximum Yield. You can find her Baking a Fool of Myself videos on YouTube and her backstory at maximumyield.com.
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