Grow Your Own Cannabis: Essential Tips for Cultivating Pot

Ohioans Embrace Home Cannabis Cultivation Post-Legalization, But Experts Urge Patience and Preparation

The passage of Issue 2 in November 2024 has transformed the landscape of cannabis use and cultivation in Ohio. With the new law, adults aged 21 and over can now purchase and use cannabis products without needing a medical card. Additionally, the law permits home cultivation, though it comes with specific limitations on the quantity and space for growing.

As of December 7, Ohioans are allowed to grow up to six cannabis plants per person, with a maximum of 12 plants per household where two or more adults reside. Whether grown indoors or outdoors, these plants must be kept in a locked, enclosed area that is not accessible to children or visible to the public.

The Realities of Home Cultivation

While the idea of cultivating cannabis at home may seem straightforward, experts caution that it requires significant time, patience, and financial investment. Benjamin Moidell, owner of Community Garden Supply in Chagrin Falls, advises potential growers to start with the resources they have and gain experience before investing heavily in equipment.

“I recommend people not just run out and buy everything,” Moidell said. “Get a cycle under your belt with the resources that you have when you start, just to get an understanding of the natural ebb and flow of temperature and relative humidity that you can provide for the plant.”

Indoor cultivation in Northeast Ohio, where temperature and humidity can fluctuate dramatically, may require additional tools such as air conditioning, heating, and humidity control systems. Zach Simcoe, a long-time home grower from Columbus, suggests that growers should only consider purchasing advanced tools like a dehumidifier or grow tent after their first growing cycle if issues arise.

Costs and Considerations for Home Growers

Starting an indoor cannabis garden can be costly, with seed-to-harvest kits ranging from $750 to $1,000. This investment typically covers essentials such as lighting, which can increase electricity bills by $100 per month, as well as a small grow tent. Beyond these initial expenses, growers must budget for seeds, soil, and nutrients.

Outdoor cultivation, while potentially less expensive, still requires proper preparation. Some growers may need to landscape their backyards to create an ideal environment, though a good pot and fertilizer may suffice for others.

“People often get caught up in the word ‘the best,’ but the best isn’t always what you think it is when we’re talking about tools,” Simcoe noted. “If you know how to use one power tool really well, you don’t need five other power tools.”

Climate Control and Strain Selection

Maintaining a stable climate is crucial for a successful home cannabis crop. According to Derek Gilman, managing director of the Ganjier program, the ideal temperature for most grow rooms should be between 50-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, cleanliness is vital to prevent mold and deter pests that could harm the plants.

Choosing the right cannabis strain is another key consideration. Gilman emphasizes that growers should select genetics that align with their cultivation methodology, as different strains have been bred under specific conditions and will thrive in similar environments.

“One of the first important decisions to make is what genetics you’re going to grow, and genetics need to align with the cultivation methodology,” Gilman explained.

The Growing Wave of Home Cultivation in Ohio

As home cultivation gains popularity in Ohio, experts like Moidell urge new growers to familiarize themselves with the state’s regulations, particularly those outlined in Chapter 37 of the Ohio Revised Code. For instance, outdoor cannabis plants must be grown in a secure area that is not visible from the street.

Moidell also advises against over-caring for the plants, warning that too much attention can lead to unnecessary interventions that may harm the crop.

“The No. 1 piece of advice I can give to new growers is to not love them to death,” Moidell said. “They are plants, they do need us, but they also need us to leave them alone to some extent.”

Managing expectations and understanding the growth cycle can bring peace of mind and the satisfaction of producing a crop from the ground up. Control over the cultivation process also allows growers to avoid using pesticides, fertilizers, or other chemicals that could affect the final product.

For many, like Columbus grower Zach Simcoe, cannabis cultivation is more than just a hobby—it’s a passion rooted in personal experience. Simcoe, who credits cannabis with helping him manage a stress-related seizure disorder, is now in the process of purchasing a hydroponics store to share his knowledge with others.

“The legality of it was keeping the average person from cannabis,” Simcoe said. “In terms of Ohio post-Issue 2, I think the wave is growing.”

As Ohioans continue to embrace home cannabis cultivation, the industry is poised for significant growth, driven by curiosity and a renewed interest in the benefits of this versatile plant.