Spend enough time online, and it’s easy to begin to believe the world is getting darker every day. While there are many terrible things happening on this planet, there are just as many stories of hope to keep our inner light shining. Take, for example, the world of Organic Cannabis.
Before we get into the weeds here, let’s chat quickly about agricultural practices, as there are at least 4 main ways of growing: hydroponics, aquaponics, organic, and regenerative organic (No-Till Living Soil).
Hydroponics is a soilless method which uses liquid fertilizers and nutrients. Organic hydroponics is possible, however, it is much more difficult, as organic forms of some nutrients do not dissolve well in water. Aquaponics is basically the same as hydroponics, but instead they use water that comes from aquaculture projects, like fish farms, which can be loaded with organic nutrients.
Now we get into the world of soil. Standard organic growing uses an organic soil mix. Instead of liquid fertilizer, the plants get their nutrients from ingredients that occur naturally in the wild, however you are still feeding the plant. Now with No-Till Living Soil, the grower is not feeding the plant, they are feeding the bacteria, the fungus, the beneficial insects in the soil, which all in turn feed the plant.
Long story short, if you’re growing in No-Till Living Soil, you’re a microbe farmer, and dank buds are a beautiful side effect. You are adding life to the soil, and basically acting as a steward to a miniature ecosystem. Instead of depleting the soil of its nutrients and eventually throwing it away, you can use this soil over, and over again. This method was used for thousands of years by Indigenous peoples around the world, and in the current agricultural industry, it is known as regenerative agriculture. If you haven’t watched Kiss the Ground yet, do it. Woody Harrelson, a cannabis connoisseur, dives deep into this topic.
Whistler Cannabis Co. – Acapulco Gold
Now that we have an idea of what makes organic, organic, here are some reasons why choosing organic has a meaningful impact that helps build a better future and present, for us all:
- Many organic cannabis growers do not waste water, and either recycle it, or collect rainwater.
- Living soil is proving to be an effective way to capture carbon, methane and nitrous oxide into the earth, which could halt some of the perils of the climate crisis, and perhaps one day even reverse it.
- Some growers use all locally sourced ingredients, and work with First Nations Guardians on the Sunshine Coast, to ensure no detriment to the environment occurs, which also furthers reconciliation efforts.
- Living soil increases in quality over time, as the mycelial (fungi) network grows. This network of mushrooms can transfer nutrients to the plants from deep underground, and even from other plants!
- Many organic growers extend their compassion from plants and animals, to their fellow humans, and pay them a living wage.
- Many organic licensed producers employ people who used to work in the legacy (black) market. This welcomes people who used to live in the shadows, back into our society.
- Reduces the amount of nitrate fertilizers that end up in our waterways which may be linked to certain forms of cancer.
- No cancer-causing pesticides, which also wreak havoc in our local ecosystems. This is especially important for those of us who consume daily for medical reasons.
- Licensed organic cannabis is tested for mold, fungus, and endotoxins, which all can cause respiratory issues, among other things.
- It tastes great, is super dank, and overall, one of life’s peak experiences.
Now if you’ve made it this far, you probably want to know which LPs are actually organic, as some companies claim to use organic methods, however, they are not certified. Here are a few brands that are certified organic, along with statements from their representatives.
Written by Brent Wallace – Level 1 Cannareps Cannabis Sommelier, with information and files submitted by Celine Canlas
