MMJ: It's Not Just Weed Jobs

Any thoughts about the possibility of California going recreational? Or corporations like Microsoft getting in the game? -AG916

Microsoft is in the game. They just announced a partnership develop a marijuana “seed-to-sale” software program. There are already a few companies (like MJ Freeway) that offer this service, but Microsoft is the first big corporation to enter the market, if you don’t count Facebook’s support of the 420-friendly social app Massroots.

The cannabis industry is attracting big money from everywhere. At the National Cannabis Industry Association’s giant business conference in Oakland last week there were rich folks from all over looking to get into the game. The cannabis business conference industry is booming. I bet the hotel and convention industry is very happy about all this weed legalization talk. Weed creates all kinds of jobs, not just weed jobs.

As to the Adult Use of Marijuana Act: Who knows? AUMA has money and power. All the major activist groups are for it but many growers aren’t happy about all the new rules. Some people hate weed more than they like new jobs and tax revenue. I’d say there’s a 50-50 chance AUMA will pass.

If it doesn’t, there is a good chance California will fall behind all the other states where weed is legal. Not in terms of growing (our black market export game is hella strong), but in terms of keeping people out of jail and embracing the future.

Where can I buy some quality seeds? Any strain you suggest? -DB

Cannabis is fun and fairly easy to grow. Most clubs these days have a decent selection of seeds. One thing, though: Cannabis is a sexed plant. The female plants are the ones you want. The males aren’t very good for smoking, and if you let the boys grow into adulthood, they will fill your female plants with seeds and all your pot will look like it escaped from the ’70s. It may be easier to buy a clone or two from your local dispensary (although with clones, you run the risk of bugs and pathogens into your garden).

Blue Dream is easy to grow and a big yielder. I also like Sour Diesel or Trainwreck for outdoor growing. Have fun, and invite me over if you need help trimming or smoking.