Not that long ago, cannabis got a lot of negative press. Things have changed, though. Although it’s still illegal federally, cannabis is now legal for medical or recreational use in many states. Today, 38 states and Washington, D.C., allow it for medical use. Of those states, 23 (along with Washington, D.C.) have also legalized recreational cannabis.
Additionally, long-held stereotypes and misconceptions about cannabis are disappearing. An overwhelming majority of U.S. adults (88%) support legalization for either medical or recreational use.
Along with legalizing cannabis use, many states, including Massachusetts, allow residents to cultivate their own buds. However, there are a few laws for growing weed at home you’ll need to keep in mind.
Massachusetts Laws for Growing Weed at Home
Weed growing in Massachusetts isn’t like cultivating flowers or vegetables. You can’t just plant seeds and tend the plants as they grow. Multiple legal requirements apply:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You can keep up to six plants at a time (or up to 12 for two or more adults).
- Your plants must be in a space that has a lock or other security device.
- Your plants can’t be visible from any public place.
What If You Rent?
While growing weed at home may be legal in Massachusetts, your ability to keep plants in a rented residence depends on your landlord. Just as they can prohibit cannabis use, they can prohibit plant cultivation. If you aren’t sure of the rules, check your lease.
Following the laws for growing weed in Massachusetts is of the utmost importance. Breaking them could result in fines or confiscation of your plants.
Weed Growing in Massachusetts: Tips for Successful Cultivation
Are you thinking about growing weed in your Massachusetts home? Here are a few quick tips:
Check Your Electrical Situation
Indoor growing requires additional equipment, which means you’ll be pulling additional electricity. Before you start plugging everything in, make sure your electrical circuits can handle the demand.
Protect Kids/Pets
Avoid accidental ingestion of cannabis by pets or kids. Keep your plants and the buds they produce in a secure, inaccessible location.
Pay Attention to Your Plants
Cannabis goes through several stages as it grows from seed to mature plant, and each stage has unique environmental and nutritional needs. Knowing what your plants need at the vegetative state versus the flowering state and when your buds are ready for harvesting is essential for getting the best results.
Don’t Want To or Can’t Grow Weed at Home? Check Out Harbor House Collective
Growing your own buds can be a rewarding experience. However, it requires space, time, and patience. You also need to make sure you follow all Massachusetts cannabis laws. And if you rent your home, you’ll need to be sure you’re following the rules of your lease agreement.
What if you don’t want to (or can’t) grow your own buds? Harbor House Collective offers a selection of the highest-quality cannabis products in Massachusetts, many of which we cultivate and manufacture ourselves. Our friendly, knowledgeable budtenders are also available to answer your questions and help you find the best strains and product types for your unique needs. Visit our Chelsea dispensary today to see all that we have to offer.