However, humans have been growing plants hydroponically for over 2000 years. If you have a cutting of ivy, or a succulent propagating in a glass of water, you are already nailing the concept of hydroponic gardening.

Continue reading to discover everything you need to know about what it means to grow cannabis hydroponically and how to achieve optimal growth.

What is Hydroponic Marijuana?

“Hydro” comes from the Greek word meaning water. Thus, hydroponics is essentially the practice of growing plants without soil, by using water instead. 

So what is hydroponic cannabis? You guessed it, hydroponic cannabis is cannabis that is grown in water, or soil-substitutes, as opposed to soil. Many of the nutrients that are needed to grow a healthy plant like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, can be given to the plant via water solution. 

Cannabis plants will need more than just water to get all of the nutrients (or, “nutes”) that they need to thrive. There will come a moment when you will decide to either buy a pre-mixed nutrient solution or mix your own. Either way, this solution is the key to giving your plants all that they need without the element of soil.

No matter where you decide to grow your plants, be sure that they are in a clean and totally sterile environment because otherwise, they will absorb dust, pests, and bacteria. No one has time for that.

There are many styles of hydroponic growth, but these methods have specifically been vetted for growing cannabis: 

Stonewool Drain-to-Waste (DTW)

“Stonewool” is a finely-spun volcanic rock that looks a bit like steel wool and comes in rectangles. Also known as “rock wool”, stonewool must be soaked before use due to its extremely high pH balance. 

A single, sprouting cannabis seedling gets planted in the center of a little rectangle and placed under grow lights. The rock wool is excellent because it holds water well, while also allowing air to circulate. 

You will want to invest in an automatic water pump because these babies will need to be watered several times a day. Unless you are solely dedicating your precious time to your plants, it can be easy to forget your watering schedule.

There’s nothing worse than investing in a new grow system only to accidentally water incorrectly, or destroy the plant without meaning to by messing up the nutrient mix.

Nutrient Film Technique (NFT)

This method is done by placing the sprouted cannabis in rock wool and then placing the rock wool in a gutter, or a half of a PVC pipe that is angled downward. Using a water pump, water goes down the angle, constantly grazing the roots. 

The water collects into a reservoir where it is then pumped back up to the top and redistributed among the plants. 

The roots are always getting a little bit of water with this method, but be sure to keep an eye on the system so that none of the roots are submerged. This could lead to rot or mildew, and thus an unhappy plant.

Deep Water Culture (DWC)

DWC is done with a big plastic bucket and lid. Cut a hole in the top of the lid, and fill the bucket with water. Let your plant's roots dangle just over the surface. Then, place an air pump into the water. 

The success of this method is based on the fact that cannabis roots love oxygen. The air pump blows bubbles into the water that then burst at the surface. These bursting bubbles feed the roots. 

The bucket of water needs to be changed once a week. Expect rapid and enormous growth, so make sure to keep an eye on your plant babies. 

Aeroponics

This system consumes the least amount of water but is a little more advanced. 

Rather than starting your cannabis clones off in individual planters, aeroponics is a way to develop a healthy root system by growing the clones all at once using a large board that suspends the roots in the air and sprays them with nutrients. 

To do it properly you must seal the roots of your marijuana plant in a pipe or a closed air container. Then pump nutrient-rich air into the vessel all day and all night. 

Voila! 

Hydroponic Marijuana vs Old Fashioned Outdoor Growing

We humans have come a long way regarding specialty cannabis farming. It is possible to grow potent cannabis plants outside, but they need to be heavily fertilized once they flower in order to achieve those big buds we know and love. 

One thing that good old-fashioned-grown-from-the-ground cannabis has going for it is that the taste of a plant that comes from the ground is usually more delicious and flavorful due to the terroir. Plants soak up the place that they grow, which is what makes things like high-end wine so special. 

Another benefit of letting the plants do their thing in the ground is that you as the gardener don’t have to worry so much about the water level being thrown off. If you are the type of person who doesn’t like to do a lot of hands-on gardening, then you may not enjoy the tedium of hydroponic growing. 

Hydroponic growing can also get very expensive, quickly. Between the water pumps, the pH testing, and the grow lights, it’s possible to spend a ton of cash trying to do it right. 

If you are a hobbyist looking to get good at growing for the heck of it, you may want to look into some of the more inexpensive hydroponic growth methods, like Deep Water Culture, or Drain to Waste mentioned above. 

Benefits of Hydroponic Marijuana

Because there isn’t a need for soil, more cannabis plants can grow in the same amount of space. 

There are also fewer chances for pests or fungus to grow in the plant’s root system since the soil has been taken out of the equation. Pests and fungi have many places to thrive in soil. 

Hydroponic cannabis is also good for eco-friendly folks who are trying to be mindful of water waste. Since the system is so exact, there isn’t much concern for overwatering, which is great for the environment.

Happy Gardening

Growing cannabis hydroponically is a bit like having a pet, except there’s a lot less dirt on the floor. 

Unless you are starting a whole new grow operation there’s no reason to rush into the most intense hydroponic method. Be sure to choose one that is good for you, your space, and your budget. 

If you aren’t ready yet to try out your green thumb, you can always stop by any of our JARS locations to satisfy your flower needs. Be part of the cannabis conversation and head to our socials at @jars_life for updated tips, tricks and to be the first to hear about events.

However, with WNBA star, Brittney Griner, recently being detained and jailed in Russia for carrying medical cannabis cartridges, it doesn’t hurt to revisit the legality of flying with cannabis and to review the laws.

What TSA is Looking For

In 2001 the TSA was formed in the United States after September 11 and is committed to keeping our skyways safe. This means that the TSA is mainly looking through luggage for weapons.

But while they search for weapons, they might also come across your stash.

TSA has gone on the record saying that they, “do not search for [cannabis] or other illegal drugs, but if any illegal substance is discovered during security screening, TSA will refer the matter to a law enforcement officer.” 

However, while the TSA is not explicitly looking to bust people for cannabis, they are a federal organization and will get the local police involved in the event that they find something.

It’s impossible to predict how the police will act, so the best thing to do is just not to bring your cannabis unless it’s CBD, and within the United States.

State to State

Depending on the state that you are trying to catch a flight in, law enforcement officers may be relatively chill and just make you confiscate your cannabis.

That, or they may write you a ticket, give you a court date, or arrest you (depending on how much cannabis you have).

Illinois is among the first states to set up cannabis amnesty boxes. These boxes are for travelers who are about to go through security and then realize that they accidentally have THC-rich cannabis in their bag. Not many people use the boxes… but they exist.

Cannabis may be legal for recreational use in 18 states (and medical use in 38 states) but it still remains illegal on a federal level. 

What if you are flying from one state where cannabis is legal to another state where cannabis is also legal?

Well, the air space that you must travel through falls under federal jurisdiction. Unless you are carrying CBD, which is non-psychoactive and has less than .03% THC, you are breaking the law. 

Are the Laws the Same for Medical Patients?

If you have a medical card and are caught carrying cannabis from a state where cannabis is legal to a state where cannabis is illegal, your medical card won’t do you any favors.

It is also worth reiterating that even if you are traveling from a state where cannabis is legal, to another state where cannabis is also legal, the airspace between the two states is governed by federal policy, which dictates that cannabis is illegal.

However, due to the Farm Bill of 2018, hemp is perfectly legal in all 50 states. 

Products with CBD as the main ingredient that contains less than .3% THC are good to go.

But I’ve Flown With Cannabis Before

Whether you have accidentally flown with cannabis or did it purposely by picking a good hiding spot among your belongings, it may have been possible to fly with cannabis in the past.

But, bringing the focus back to Brittney Griner, other countries are not so lax. Russia recently sentenced Brittney to 9 years in a penal colony for accidentally bringing her doctor-approved vaping cartridges in her luggage upon entering the country for a basketball tournament.

Be sure to examine local cannabis laws for international travel. Many countries do an additional security check once you arrive at foreign airports before you are able to physically enter the country and begin your trip. 

Places like Japan have extremely strict laws regarding cannabis. If you are caught with cannabis that has any amount of THC, you will not only be arrested and jailed but you will never be allowed back in the country again. Yikes.

In Conclusion

The TSA in the United States is not looking to apprehend anyone, but the issue goes beyond TSA and gets dealt with by local police. If you have flown with cannabis without repercussion, you are lucky to not have been caught. 

If you are confused about which CBD products are allowed onboard (only if you are flying within the United States), feel free to ask one of our JARS representatives which federally legal products they recommend.

Flying with cannabis is illegal. Don’t do it.

Over the last few years, cannabis tourism in the United States has exploded into a worldwide phenomenon. Everyone from old school hippies and young professionals to stoner newbies and cool parents are traveling far and wide to enjoy a canna-cation. With 19 recreationally legal states (and counting), there are plenty of options to consider. 

To help you narrow down your next vacation, we’re here to break down some of the top cannabis tourism experiences in the United States. 

Glowing Goddess Getaways - Various US Locations

An exclusive, members-only experience for those who identify as women, Glowing Goddess Getaways focuses on offering 420-friendly glamping retreats. Held at private outdoor destinations across the United States in locations where recreational cannabis consumption is legal (such as their bi-annual gathering in NorCal and SoCal), it is not only a chance to get closer to nature but also be a part of a global sisterhood. 

While each getaway has its own flair, this experience typically features an all-you-can-consume-cannabis experience, from infused treats and platters of joints, to dab bars lined with the finest shatter, accented by activities like yoga, dancing, and meditation. Each detail is thought through to help uplift and empower your inner goddess.

Cannabis-Infused City Cruise Tours - San Francisco

Have you ever gotten (responsibly) lit in a limo? Well, now is your chance. If you want the VIP treatment, check out Emerald Farm’s Cannabis-Infused City Cruise Tour of San Francisco. 

Guests have the opportunity to ride around town in a luxurious limo as they take in the sights and sounds of some of San Francisco’s most famous destinations and canna-tourist attractions. This tour is also a great way to meet local enthusiasts and see parts of the city you may have otherwise overlooked – and did we mention you get to smoke on this excursion?

You’ll also receive celebrity treatment at all the retail cannabis lounges you stop at, in addition to steep discounts on cannabis products that are exclusively offered to tour guests.

Cannabition Immersive Cannabis Museum - Las Vegas, NV

For an educational and entertaining day of canna-tourism, add the Cannabition Immersive Cannabis Museum to your bucket list. Although you can’t smoke inside the venue, there is still plenty of fun to be had. 

Inside the social-media-friendly museum, you can swing on puffs of faux smoke or snap a selfie sparking up a joint that is double your size. Alongside the vast array of creative photo ops, guests can also learn about the long history of the cannabis plant, its biology, and how cannabis culture has evolved. 

Blunts & Brushes - Grand Rapids, MI

Hosted every Saturday at a secret location in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Blunts & Brushes gives you an opportunity to let your imagination run free. Inspired by the ever-popular “Paint & Sip”, they provide everything you need like paint and canvas to create your next masterpiece in a warm and welcoming environment. All you have to do is provide your own blunt, so make sure to stop by our JARS Grand Rapids location to get the creative juices flowing. 

Cannabis Supper Club - Los Angeles, CA

Combining cannabis and haute cuisine, Cannabis Supper Club elevates your munchie experience to new heights—both figuratively and literally. Chefs, cannabis cultivators, mixologists, and event specialists team up to create one-of-a-kind meals in private spaces so that guests can consume in peace. 

Unlike your typical dining experience, different cannabis strains are paired with each course or incorporated into the dishes the way you typically include herbs or fine wine in a meal. Each supper club has its own theme or menu, but one thing is for certain—it’ll be an experience of a lifetime. 

Copper House - Detroit, MI

If you’re on the hunt for a place to kick back and relax on your next canna-cation, look no further than Copper House in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. 

Built in 1932, this historic home has been fixed up to fit your every need. As an overnight guest, you’ll have access to your own private room, in addition to the home, and backyard for consumption purposes. The hosts also aim to create a memorable experience for their guests, so they are more than happy to arrange a private massage, plan a meditation and sound therapy, or whatever your heart desires. 

Sushi and Joint Rolling Classes - Denver, CO

Ready to put your rolling game to the test? Hop on the next plane to Denver, Colorado to try your hand at a Sushi and Joint Rolling Class. 

Offered by My 420, you’ll first get insider tips on how to hand roll a high-quality joint packed with the cannabis flower of your choice (you’ll get a coupon before class to purchase a few grams from a local retailer). Once you’ve perfected the art of the spliff, you’ll head outside and spark up your masterpiece in the designated smoking area. Then, you’ll step back inside to satisfy your munchies with hand-rolled sushi. This 2-hour class sells out quickly so be sure to plan ahead! 

Bonus: JARS - Various Michigan Locations

We’d like to think that our storefronts are worth the trip for the cannabis enthusiast, so make sure to add us to your travel checklist. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, our friendly budtenders will guide you through our vast selection of cannabis products to find exactly what you need. It’s a dream come true for the canna-tourist. 

The short answer? Yes, cannabis actually does reduce your body temperature—temporarily, that is.

A phenomenon dubbed THC-induced hypothermia, it is not as serious as the name might make it sound. It simply means that when you’re exposed to tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), your skin and muscles feel slightly cooler for a short period of time. 

It appears that cannabis cools us down and reacts similarly to:

• Wasabi

• Hot mustard

• Red chili flakes

Although these foods might feel hot and spicy on your tongue, they can also help cool you down. It’s an ancient trick that has long been used in culinary cultures across the world. For example, if you’ve ever had super spicy food at a Thai restaurant, that’s because Thailand can be notoriously hot and humid. Locals eat this spicy food in order to help them stay comfortable when it’s hot AF outside. 

This reaction is thought to be controlled by a specific cell receptor called the TRPA-1 receptor. Tiny but mighty, this receptor may be responsible for other reactions like:

• Dealing with pain

• Reducing inflammation

• Regulating body temperature

Many believe that when you consume something spicy or enjoy some freshly ground cannabis, this receptor activates and causes a cool-down effect and pain-shielding reaction. So if you’re feeling a little chilly after smoking a bowl, it’s a perfectly normal side effect. 

How to deal with the cannabis cooling effect. 

We know that you might feel a little cold after you smoke cannabis so we want to share some of our favorite ways to handle that chilly feeling. 

• Snuggle up with your favorite movie or show. 

Binge-watching and cannabis go hand-in-hand so take this as a sign to kick back and catch up on the latest trending series. By the time you finish watching, you’ll feel right as rain. 

• Make a cup of tea. 

Nothing warms the soul quite like a steaming hot mug of tea (or hot cocoa if you have a sweet tooth). We suggest trying an herbal tea that may have some added therapeutic benefits. For example, ginger tea may help settle the stomach and chamomile tea may improve sleep and relaxation. 

• Lounge in the sun. 

Soaking in some Vitamin D is a surefire way to reduce those goosebumps on your arms. Take a quick walk outside to get your body moving and reap the benefits of some daily sunshine. 

• Take a bubble bath.

You don’t have to be cold to indulge in a hot bubble bath but it’s certainly a great excuse. Treat yourself to a self-care moment in the bath to warm your skin and soothe your muscles. 

Stay cozy. 

Next time you’re feeling slightly cooler after smoking cannabis, just know that you are not alone. Use our tips to cuddle up and get cozy, and you’ll be back to normal in no time. For more tips, tricks, and insider information make sure to stay tuned for more on the blog.