Posted on 1 January 202422 January 2025 by Joe

Looking Back, Moving Forward: A Year of Cannabis Insights and What’s Next

As the sun sets on another year and we welcome a fresh start, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the journey we’ve shared through these blogs. Over the past months, we’ve explored everything from the fundamentals of cannabis cultivation to the cultural and medicinal significance of this extraordinary plant. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or recently joined the community, your engagement has been the heart of this endeavour.

This New Year’s Day, we’re taking a moment to summarise the knowledge we’ve cultivated together, express our gratitude for your readership, and share what’s ahead. Let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made and get excited for the journey that lies ahead in the world of cannabis. There is so much more that we wish to put into writing for you. This year we will do our best to deliver more.

A Year of Growth and Discovery

This past year, we’ve delved into the technical, cultural, and inspirational aspects of cannabis. Each blog is built on the last, creating a foundation of knowledge and encouraging a deeper appreciation for the plant and its potential. The idea was always to bring the blogs in a how-to manner, with practical things to consider with every piece we publish.

Foundational Topics for Aspiring Growers:

We began with the basics, setting the stage for successful cultivation:

“Understanding Soil: The Foundation of Outdoor Growing” highlighted the importance of soil health and its direct impact on cannabis yields. We looked into the work of Dr. Elaine Ingham as well as the work done by Jeff Lowenfels on teaming up with Microbes. A book I highly recommend.

“Cannabis Plant Propagation” provided techniques for starting your grow with seeds or clones, catering to growers of all levels. These were all meant to give a basic understanding, we also touched on other topics in this area, including genetic selection as well as other parts of the propagation process. Like soil conditioning and composting

Techniques and Innovations:

As the series progressed, we tackled specific methods to maximise plant health and productivity:

“Maximize Your Yields with Cannabis Training” explored LST, HST, and other strategies for improving yield and growing in limited spaces. A great blog for those that have no clue on training cannabis plants.

“Integrated Pest Management in a Nutshell” offers sustainable solutions to protect your plants while preserving the ecosystem. In this section of our series we also focused more on Natural Farming techniques. How we can use what we have to maximise our growing potential and overall plant health.

The Natural Farming takes up about 6 weeks of blogging and we are so happy with all the positive feedbackwe received. From the recipe sid to the concepts and considerations. We are ever grateful this setion of work was more popular than the rest this year.

Advanced Cultivation Concepts:

For those looking to take their grow to the next level, we introduced:

“The Power of Micronutrients in Cannabis Cultivation” and “Watering Cannabis and Managing Nutrients,” which provided detailed insights into optimizing plant nutrition. We talkabout nuanced concepts that goes over the heads of growers who are not too serious andwe looked at how do weas serious cultivators understand the micros our plants require.

Environmental Control for Cannabis Cultivation” demonstrated how to create perfect growing conditions indoors, outdoors, and in greenhouses. Going overwhat growers cannot ignore when it comes to the environmental controls and how they should approach various situations.

We also looked into newer cannabinoids that have been studied as well as we touched on terpenes and how they work. How cannabis users medically benefit from terpenes and more.

Cultural and Reflective Pieces:

We balanced technical knowledge with cultural and personal reflections. There were many cool things that happened like the Global cannabis march that we attended. Marching the streets.

We asked cultural significant questions likeis Kaas baas? And we looked at why cannabis prices are always so HIGH… All feedback and comments to these were also so well recieved. The community loves knowing whats happening.

“Cannabis Sativa L: The People’s Plant” celebrated the history and versatility of cannabis, bridging industrial, medicinal, and cultural perspectives.

“Why Cannabis?” focused on the joy, community, and therapeutic value that cannabis brings to individuals and society. We even did a cool 4:20 post this year showcasing cool events happening all over our amazing country.

We really wanna Thank You

Your engagement—reading, sharing, and applying these insights—has been the driving force behind these blogs. We’ve aimed to provide value, whether by teaching new techniques, inspiring sustainable practices, or fostering a sense of connection within the cannabis community. Asking culturally difficult questions and destigmatising cannabis is also a part of our objectives.

We are deeply grateful for your time and interest. Every comment, question, and shared story fuels this platform, making it a collaborative journey rather than a one-sided conversation.

What to Expect in the New Year

The upcoming year is brimming with opportunities to expand our horizons. Here’s a glimpse of what’s to come:

Advanced Topics: We will take deep dives into genetic breeding, advanced training methods, and optimizing harvest and curing techniques. We will examine the secrets to making cannabis commercially viable for growers and take more detailed approaches to topics we have discussed this year.

Sustainability: Exploring eco-friendly cannabis practices, from regenerative growing to reducing carbon footprints. Looking at companies that are ahead in the game and how we should be applying these practices in our spaces. We will look at the renewable energies linked to cannabis and discuss some out-of-the-norm concepts regarding cannabis sustainability.

Cannabis Culture: Highlighting community stories, celebrating South African cannabis heritage, and diving into the evolving global cannabis landscape. Perhaps we will do some interviews this year too. Whether you’re an experienced grower or just starting, the goal remains the same: to provide practical insights and inspiration to enhance your cannabis journey.

As we step into this new year, let’s carry forward the lessons we’ve learned and the connections we’ve built. Cannabis is more than just a plant—it’s a symbol of resilience, growth, and community. Together, we’ve laid a strong foundation, and the future holds endless possibilities for cultivation, creativity, and discovery.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to another year of learning, growing, and celebrating cannabis together. Wishing you a prosperous New Year filled with thriving plants, abundant harvests, and meaningful connections.

Posted on 27 December 202331 July 2024 by Joe

Pre-Rolls: Lazy Smokers or Convenient Brilliance?

In the ever-evolving landscape of cannabis consumption, one trend has taken the industry by storm – pre-rolls. These neatly rolled joints have become the nuance of cannabis, captivating both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike. But why have pre-rolls become so prevalent? Is it sheer convenience, or is there something more profound at play? Let’s explore.

The Evolution of Cannabis Consumption

Before the decriminalization of cannabis in South Africa, the ritual of consuming this herb was a hands-on process. Joint smoking, bong hits, and pipe sessions were the norm. In those early days, concentrates were a distant concept. Rolling a joint was an art, a meditative act that went beyond merely getting high. It was a journey – from visiting the dealer to setting up the station and meticulously preparing the cannabis. The act of rolling, in itself, became a form of relaxation and stress relief.

The Therapeutic Act of Rolling

Rolling a joint wasn’t just about the end product; it was an at-ease ritual. Even today, for those who have been part of the cannabis culture for years, the act of rolling remains a therapeutic way to decompress and de-stress. The rhythmic motion of crafting a joint induces a sense of calmness, a prelude to the enjoyment that follows. It’s a moment of meditation that goes hand in hand with the cannabis experience.

The Rise of Pre-Rolls

However, as society shifted towards convenience and a new wave of smokers emerged, the era of pre-rolls began. While pre-rolls had been available for some time, initially serving as a quick solution for on-the-go toking, the landscape changed. Some unscrupulous players started using trimmings and sub-graded flower trim to fill pre-rolls, casting a shadow of skepticism over the market. Trust became a critical factor – consumers needed assurance that what was inside the pre-roll matched the promised quality.

Navigating Trust in the Pre-Roll Market

In a market tainted by uncertainty, brands like Hi-Plug emerged as pioneers, growing indoor flowers specifically for pre-rolls. Despite the initial distrust, they have established themselves through transparency and a commitment to high-quality products. Yet, the challenge persists – consumers must trust that the pre-roll’s contents align with the label, be it premium flower or a specific strain.

The Learning Curve: Rolling Your Own Joint

In a world where new smokers enter the scene, the art of rolling a joint is fading. It’s not solely due to laziness or convenience; many have never learned the skill. Herein lies a subtle encouragement for pre-roll enthusiasts – take the time to learn the craft. Grab a packet of Raw or OCBs, buy some weed, and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Learning to roll not only enhances your connection with cannabis but also diminishes the reliance on pre-rolls.

The Market Dynamics

Despite the push for self-reliance, the demand for pre-rolls remains robust. Brands like Hi-Plug thrive by delivering a premium, ready-to-go experience. For those seeking a hassle-free indulgence, pre-rolls are an enticing option, offering a taste of quality without the need for rolling skills.

Conclusion

In the ever-shifting landscape of cannabis culture, pre-rolls have carved a niche, providing both convenience and controversy. The question of whether new smokers will embrace the art of rolling remains open. As we navigate this evolving terrain, one thing is clear – the allure of pre-rolls is here to stay. Like it or not….

Leave your thoughts on the matter below.

Posted on 20 December 202317 January 2025 by Joe

CalMag – It’s Like Panado to SA growers

In the vast world of agriculture and horticulture, CalMag has emerged as a remedy for various ailments that plants may encounter. Just as a painkiller is a quick fix for minor human injuries, CalMag has become the go-to solution for growers when faced with issues in their crops. In this blog, we will delve into the reasons behind the popularity of CalMag, its benefits, and whether it truly deserves the status of a panacea for plant growers.

The Panado-pill of Plant Ailments

When growers spot issues with their plants, the instinctive reaction is often to incorporate CalMag into their fertigation regimens. The primary reason behind this lies in CalMag’s effectiveness in improving cation exchange capacity. Cation exchange capacity refers to the capacity of soil to hold to cations. And in turn, exchange nutrients with plant roots . this is a crucial process for nutrient absorption. If there are imbalances in charges on particles, nutrient lockout may occur, preventing the proper exchange of nutrients. CalMag plays a pivotal role in preventing such lockouts and ensuring a healthy nutrient exchange within the plant’s root system.

Decoding Cation Exchange Capacity

Cation exchange capacity involves the exchange of nutrients and the ability of cations to move in and out of the plant’s surface. Imbalances in charges can disrupt this process, leading to nutrient lockouts. CalMag’s role in enhancing cation exchange capacity makes it a valuable tool for growers seeking optimal nutrient absorption.

Calcium and Magnesium: Plant’s Essential Duo

Two of the most crucial secondary nutrients for plants are calcium and magnesium. Calcium contributes to cellular growth and communication, while magnesium aids in the production of chlorophyll, enzymes, and proteins. In an organic setting, these nutrients are often naturally abundant in the soil, especially when using hard or mineralized water. Simple additives like Epsom salts or gypsum can recalibrate calcium levels if needed after a soil test.

CalMag in Organic and Hydroponic Settings

In organic settings, where minerals are typically present, CalMag supplementation may be unnecessary. Hydroponic growers, on the other hand, often rely on reverse osmosis water, devoid of minerals. In such cases, CalMag becomes an essential additive to aid cation exchange capacity and ensure proper nutrient absorption by plant roots.

The Panado Effect: CalMag as the Go-To Solution

CalMag has earned its status as the “Panado” (a well-known painkiller brand) in the growing industry. Growers turn to CalMag at the first sign of plant discoloration or issues, as cation exchange capacity is often the culprit. While CalMag is undoubtedly beneficial, it’s essential to explore other potential factors contributing to nutrient deficiencies, such as pH imbalance, incorrect electrical conductivity, sunlight variations, or excesses of specific nutrients.

The first checkpoint in this holistic approach is scrutinizing the pH balance within the soil. Fluctuations in pH levels can significantly impact nutrient availability to plants, potentially leading to discoloration or growth issues. Additionally, growers must be attuned to the electrical conductivity of their fertigation, ensuring a harmonious blend that facilitates optimal nutrient absorption. Sunlight, a fundamental catalyst for photosynthesis, plays a pivotal role in plant health. Variations in sunlight exposure can influence the overall well-being of the crop, making it essential for growers to monitor and adjust accordingly. Lastly, an excess of specific nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium, may inadvertently contribute to plant deficiencies.

A Reliable Aid?

In conclusion, CalMag has rightfully earned its place as the go-to Panado-pill for many growers. Its role in enhancing cation exchange capacity and providing essential secondary nutrients makes it a reliable aid in ensuring healthy plant growth. However, growers should remain vigilant and consider other factors that may contribute to plant issues. CalMag is a valuable tool, but a comprehensive approach to plant care is essential for sustainable and thriving crops.

What are your thoughts on CalMag? Is it your go-to Panado-pill, or do you use it sparingly and only when absolutely necessary? Share your experiences and insights in the comments below!

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