The idea of stepping out into the backyard and growing your favorite variety of cannabis may seem peaceful, but home cultivation is not always as romantic and certainly not as easy. Before rushing to your favorite Growshop or starting to build a greenhouse in your backyard, consider these key pros and cons of home marijuana cultivation.

Advantages of Home Cannabis Cultivation

Among the advantages is the quality control of the product. Just like with food, knowing the origin of your plant is important. By opting for home cannabis cultivation, you control the entire process, defining the potency level and the cultivation method. Additionally, the feeling of consuming something produced by yourself brings pride and fulfillment — something money can't buy.

Another point is the "cost-benefit". Although more complex than planting vegetables, marijuana cultivation can lead to significant savings. A single plant grown outdoors, under ideal conditions, can yield up to 500 grams of flowers. Considering that a quality ounce of cannabis can exceed $200 in the United States, the initial cultivation costs tend to pay off over time, bringing long-term financial benefits.

Climate and Freedom of Choice

Brazil currently presents suitable climatic conditions for outdoor cultivation, with average temperatures between 25°C and 30°C and a photoperiod of 12 to 14 hours. Regions like the Midwest and Northeast stand out for their dry climate and good thermal amplitude, factors that can increase the yield of outdoor crops.

For patients seeking specific therapeutic effects, growing at home ensures access to the exact desired strain, whether for medicinal or recreational use. Home cultivation allows total customization according to the need.

Disadvantages of Home Cannabis Cultivation

As a disadvantage, the insecurity of cultivation stands out. Even in places where cultivation is authorized, the risk of theft remains high, as plants have high commercial value and are easily sold. This is even more critical in outdoor cultivation, where exposure is greater.

Another concern is social hostility. Even patients with judicial authorization may face embarrassments, such as verbal assaults and defamation, due to the characteristic odor of the plant. There are records of threats and even police reports related to this type of conflict.

In Brazil, home cannabis cultivation remains illegal. The only viable recourse is obtaining a Habeas Corpus, which requires medical monitoring, clinical assessment, and often legal support. An alternative to control unwanted attention is indoor cultivation, which also offers full control of temperature, humidity, ventilation, and lighting. 

Techniques like apical pruning and lollipopping optimize growth, even in small spaces. This method allows for year-round harvests, with greater predictability, safety, and quality of results.

With information from El Planteo