You know we do it big at JARS for the 4/20 holiday. If you are a canna lover and a Michigander, it’s more than likely you’ve heard our name. From Detroit’s Movement Music Festival to the Royal Oak Taco Fest, to, we bring the good vibes   to every cannabis celebration!

Close your eyes and picture the ultimate 4/20 experience… cChilling with friends, sparking up a free pre roll,  enjoying a stash of munchies and snacks, vibing to music, and snagging free swag - sounds like the dream, right?

We couldn’t agree more.At JARS, April 20 is not just another day, it is THE DAY, especially because it falls on a Saturday this year!Let’s dive into what  makes this once-a-year event so epic! Check out  our line-up of deals and events below!

WTF is 4/20? 

It’s not just an excuse to smoke weed all day (well maybe a little bit). But, there is a backstory and plenty of urban legends surrounding  the origin of what makes 4/20 a stoner holiday. 

 Queue “The Waldos,” a group of Californian high schoolers  from the ‘70s who made  4:20 their  code for hunting abandoned cannabis crops. Trust us, it’s legit!

How to Celebrate 4/20 with JARS

On 4/20, it’s like Christmas morning all over again! 

First things first, smash a good hearty breakfast to make sure you’re  fueled up for the day. It’s understandable that very few things will make you want to get out of bed early on a Saturday. But, for this one Saturday only, getting up early and coming to JARS will be very worth it. We promise. 

Once you’ve started your day on April 20, head to JARS for the ultimate 420 experience. Be sure to say “high” to our JARS weed plugs  while  stocking up on your favorite, top-shelf cannabis products. (Reminder: check out our 420 deals and events at the end.) 

Now, it’s just a choose-your-own-adventure day! With the weather warming up, take your favorite 4/20 products from JARS and treat yourself to one of the many top ranked beaches in Michigan. Want to adventure some more? How about glazing your eyes on some must-see murals or taking a stroll on a scenic hiking trail? You can even take advantage of the fact it’s a Saturday and explore the best rated camping sites in Michigan!

Not a huge fan of wild adventures and exploring nature? Yeah, some of us at JARS are all about the chill vibe, too. We encourage you to at least come and score the best deals of the year, stock up on your favorite products, and head back to your layer. It’s the peanut butter and jelly for many stoners when it comes to getting high and playing video games. The same goes for our artsy stoners who really dive into their creativity when high.  

The best way to elevate your 4/20 is of course with your best friends! This can include some cannabis board games or watching stoner-inspired movies. You can even do it big like JARS and throw a cannabis dinner party to invite your friends and family too!

There’s no better way to celebrate the holiday than JARS free giveaways!

• 4 lucky winners a day for 20 days of GIVEAWAYS

• 40% OFF top brands

• DOORBUSTER surprises to start the day

• Anxiety and depression

• Cancer

• Minor aches and pains

• Epilepsy

• Arthritis

If you don't see any conditions that apply to you here, don't fret: this is just a short list of ailments that cannabis may be able to treat. Check-in with your doctor to see if medical marijuana is a good option for you, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Now is your time to get all the information you need to make the best decision for you.

Choosing the Right Strain

While at the doctor's office or through your research, you may be introduced to the concept of cannabis strains. Sometimes called cultivars, the cannabis plant has various varieties that each have their potential wellness benefits. While there are hundreds of different names, shapes, and sizes, cannabis strains are usually broken up into three separate categories.

Indica

In nature, indica cannabis plants traditionally grow in mountainous regions and are shorter fuller plants. Indica strains also produce thicker coats of resin, which develop as a form of protection. Marked by the old adage, "in-da-couch," indica varieties are usually taken for their relaxation health benefits that have the potential to keep you couch-locked. This makes indicas a better treatment for conditions like insomnia or chronic pain as it can help to calm nerves and relieve minor aches and pain.

• Popular Indica Strains: Granddaddy Purple, Afghan Kush, Northern Lights

Sativa

Sativa cannabis plants are tall plants that naturally thrive in regions close to the equator. Sativa varieties of medical marijuana are generally more invigorating than their indica counterparts and are meant for stimulating creativity or physical activities. For this reason, sativa products are often as a potential treatment for depression, chronic fatigue, and the inability to focus.

• Popular Sativa Strains: Jack Herer, Green Crack, Acapulco Gold

Hybrid

As the name suggests, hybrid cannabis plants are cultivated by breeding both indica and sativa plants. The result is a blend of effects that you might expect from each individual strain, making them some of the most versatile cultivars on the market. Hybrid plants are typically recommended when medical marijuana patients have very specific needs for symptom relief. The ability to tailor the effects is what makes hybrids great for both beginner patients and those with serious medical conditions.

• Popular Hybrid Strains: Pineapple Express, Blue Dream, Trainwreck

While cannabis plants are still often talked about in these terms, the industry continues to adapt to the consumer's needs. In fact, one could argue that there is a sub-category in town that deserves your full-attention: CBD-rich strains.

CBD-Rich Strains

CBD, or cannabidiol, is becoming increasingly alluring to medical marijuana patients as it has less of the psychoactive THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) but still has all of the potential health and wellness benefits of the cannabis plant. Many find that strains abundant in CBD give them the relief they need from conditions like stress and anxiety without derailing their entire day with an overwhelming "high" feeling.

Ask your budtender for recommendations on cultivars that may have a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC or somewhere in between to get the specific effects you are looking for.

• CBD-Rich Strains: ACDC, Remedy, Charlotte's Web

Going to Your First Dispensary

Now that you've started your own research and have an idea of what strains might be up your alley, it's time to take the plunge and go to your first medical marijuana dispensary, like JARS in Michigan and Arizona! If the thought of walking into a dispensary sends chills up your spine, you're not alone.

The different names and the variety of products can overwhelm any individual that might be new to the legal cannabis scene. However, medicating with marijuana for the first time can be a painless process with the appropriate knowledge and guidance at your side.

Understand Regulations

Before stepping foot into your first medical marijuana dispensary, it can help have a handle on your local regulations to have a better understanding of what to expect. For example, in both Michigan and Arizona there are limits to how much medical marijuana you can purchase.

Michigan Possession Limits:

• 16 ounces of marijuana-infused products in solid form

• 7 grams of marijuana-infused product in gaseous form

• 36 fluid ounces of marijuana-infused product in liquid form

Arizona Possession Limits:

• No more than two and one-half ounces of usable marijuana per 14 day period

While these possession limits are important for our Jars patients, be sure to look into your local laws and regulations.

Get to Know Your Budtender

Similar to a skilled bartender, a "Budtender" is the industry term for the in-store experts who work in dispensaries that will act as your guide on this cannabis journey. JARS budtenders have in-depth knowledge when it comes to strains, varieties, uses, and consumption methods.

Though they are not usually medical professionals, they do have the expertise to help point you in the right direction to choose the right product for your specific symptoms. Our budtenders stay up-to-date on the latest cannabis news and research and are a priceless industry asset, especially when it comes to choosing the best cannabis strains for newbies to the game.

Perhaps most importantly, do not be afraid to ask questions!

Questions to Ask:

• What do you recommend for a first-time cannabis user?

• Would you recommend this to someone who has never tried alternative medicines before?

• What would help best for this _______ condition?

• Do you have a favorite strain?

• What is the most popular product you sell here?

• How will this product affect me?

• What method of consumption would you recommend? Flower, topical, sublingual, or edibles?

• How much medical marijuana can I purchase in Michigan? Arizona?

Final Step: Go Home and Enjoy

Once you settle on a product or variety of products, all that is left to do is go home and enjoy your cannabis in a safe and comfortable environment. Whether you settled on an array of cannabis strains or a box of THC-infused gummies with the help of your budtender, you now have the tools you need for a stress-free dispensary experience. As always, feel free to comment below or give one of our friendly locations a call for more information!

A cannabis sommelier contributes to the industry's credibility by promoting responsible consumption and guiding you in the right direction during your dispensary visit. Sommelier's and budtenders all work together to dispel myths and misconceptions, and continue to spread the love.

The Importance of Certifications in the Cannabis Industry

Obviously a place that is legit and passes all of the tests, checks all of the boxes, and has all green flags is where we put our money. Earning these certificates can sometimes take a quick online course and sometimes a lengthy multi-week class with an exam. 

The cannabis industry needs certified professionals to guarantee quality control processes and make sure that cannabis products meet the highest standards. This not only enhances the credibility of the suppliers but also opens up new career opportunities in the rapidly expanding market. 

Types of Cannabis Certifications

Cultivation: focuses on sustainable and organic farming practices, ensuring that cannabis is grown without harmful chemicals or pesticides.

Processing: verify that cannabis products are manufactured using safe and ethical methods, adhering to strict quality control standards.

Product: evaluate the safety and potency of cannabis products, ensuring they are free from contaminants and accurately labeled.

Professional: designed for individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge and skills in the cannabis industry, covering topics such as sommelier training, budtender education, and cannabis business management.

The Cannabis Sommelier Certification Program

This program offered by CannaReps is no joke. It's a multi-level course that covers everything from the basics of cannabis to the nitty-gritty of quality control and business practices. Graduates come out with a serious edge in the industry, pretty much a degree in weed. 

Priced at $347 CAD, the course includes various modules that cover topics such as cannabis ancestry, botany and biochemical constituents, genetic families, classification, extracts, consumption methods, the endocannabinoid system, and assessing cannabis quality. It also offers resources like a Cannabis Landrace Map and a Cannabis Sommelier Quality Grading Scale, and culminates in a certification exam for becoming a Cannabis Sommelier Level 1.

The Ganjier Certification Program

Following the footsteps of wine sommeliers, cigar aficionados, and master chocolatiers, Ganjier introduces a unique and thorough cannabis trade certification program. This program is designed and led by highly respected experts in the industry, with the goal of cultivating a new breed of cannabis professionals known as Ganjiers.

Becoming a Certified Ganjier involves completing thorough online training, undergoing a comprehensive skill evaluation, and receiving hands-on instruction in California's Emerald Triangle. The training will be led by 18 leading experts and skilled professionals in the industry, covering various topics such as history, genetics, growing, processing, consumption, customer service, and more.

The Certified Ganjier vs Ganjier Product Specialist

The Certified Ganjier level stands out from the Ganjier Product Specialist program with its more thorough and extensive curriculum. It covers topics such as the history of cannabis, genetics, terroir, service, and provides in-depth training on the Systematic Assessment Protocol® for accurately evaluating the quality and value of cannabis flower and concentrates.

The Ganjier Certification Program also distinguishes itself by requiring a 2-day in-person training session to refine assessment skills and palate. Additionally, candidates must pass three in-person exams to obtain Certification, making it a much more challenging and prestigious qualification in the cannabis industry.

Career Advantages and Industry Impact

The rise of cannabis sommeliers and certifications is driving the industry towards higher standards of quality and professionalism. By promoting best practices and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, these experts are helping to establish a more reputable and trustworthy market. This, in turn, attracts a broader range of consumers, including those who may have been hesitant to explore cannabis due to concerns about safety and quality.

Here's where it gets really exciting. People who've gone through this certification are popping up all over the place. We're talking budtenders, CEOs, retail managers, even doctors and lawyers! It's opening up a whole new world of career opportunities for cannabis enthusiasts.

But it's not just about individual careers. These certified ganjiers are raising the standards across the entire industry. They're making sure we all get the best possible cannabis experience. 

Innovation and Growth

As the cannabis industry continues to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals and high-quality products is driving innovation and growth. Cannabis sommeliers and certifications are at the forefront of this movement, pushing the boundaries of what's possible and inspiring new developments in cultivation, processing, and product offerings. This dynamic environment brings a spirit of creativity and collaboration, propelling the industry forward.

The Future of Cannabis Sommeliers

Looking ahead, things are only getting more exciting. As the cannabis industry continues to grow, we're going to see more and more demand for these certified experts. They're shaping the future of cannabis, and it's looking pretty bright!

The next group of students is getting ready to enroll in the cannabis sommelier certification program. These future ganjiers will be out there elevating standards and guiding us all to the best cannabis experiences possible.

Final Thoughts on The Rise of Cannabis Sommeliers and Certifications

In a rapidly evolving cannabis landscape, advanced education is needed. Programs like the Cannabis Sommelier Certification and Ganjier provide valuable insights and skills for budding cannabis sommeliers. As the industry grows, so too does the need for sophisticated understanding and professionalism. This education not only legitimizes the field but also enriches the experiences of all involved. Consider diving into the world of cannabis sommeliers—the future is bright and fragrant.

Now, low-quality weed isn't subject to just the strain, any strain can produce high-quality bud, it's the life it lives before it comes into your hands. This guide is going to go deep into spotting low-quality cannabis, specifically moldy weed.

Understanding Moldy Weed

Moldy weed is a big no-no when it comes to consuming cannabis. If there is mold on your weed it can look like a white powdery mildew, grayish fuzz, or black spots. It can also have a noticeable musty smell. 

In order to get mold on weed, it can happen pretty easily if you aren't aware of how to properly store your flower. Just like with many foods and drinks, if they are left out in the open or a place that has a lot of moisture, mold is going to form. 

The Risks of Smoking Moldy Weed

Again, consuming moldy weed is a very big no-no. Not only are you inhaling these mold spores and damaging your respiratory system, it's more than likely you will have an allergic reaction. Even after smoking just a few hits of moldy weed you can experience sneezing, itching, and skin rashes. Plus, you'll have a rough coughing fit, and not like the ones you get with top-shelf weed.

If you are just now learning about low-quality weed with mold and think you've consumed bad weed on several occasions, you are at a much higher risk for infections and a weakened immune system.  

So, when it comes to experimenting with consuming moldy weed, do NOT. The effects are more harmful than psychoactive. It's far from enjoyable from the taste, to the smell. Also, while some of you may think that smoking moldy weed will kill off any mold spores, the heat from smoking is not enough to eliminate all of the fungi toxins. 

Types of Mold

Decarboxylating cannabis is the first and most important step to unlocking the full potential for your cannabutter recipe. Let's dive into some handy tips to ensure you decarb like a pro:

Tip 1: Preheat for Success

Before you begin, preheat your oven to around 240°F (115°C) to create the ideal environment for decarboxylation. Consistency is key, so ensure your oven is accurately calibrated for best results.

Tip 2: Grind it Right

Grinding your cannabis into a fine consistency ensures uniform decarboxylation and maximum surface area exposure. Opt for a hand grinder or blender for a consistent texture.

Tip 3: Time it Right

Decarbing times can vary based on the moisture content and density of your cannabis. Generally, aim for 30-45 minutes for optimal decarboxylation. Keep an eye (and nose) out for the distinct aroma indicating readiness.

Tip 4: Spread the Love

Spread your ground cannabis evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This allows for uniform heat distribution, ensuring all bits decarb evenly.

Tip 5: Monitor with Care

While your cannabis decarbs in the oven, monitor the process closely. Avoid opening the oven frequently to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent heat fluctuations.

Tip 6: Cool Down Gracefully

After decarboxylation, allow your cannabis to cool before infusing it with butter. This step ensures that the cannabis is ready for the infusion process, optimizing flavor and potency.

Kief, being the most concentrated part of the cannabis plant, tends to produce a stronger high compared to other cannabis products. In essence, a small amount of kief can have a big impact. While most regular cannabis flower contains 12% to 25% THC, kief can have THC levels as high as 70%. Additionally, various types of kief are a combination of different cannabis strains, resulting in a diverse mix of cannabinoids, flavonoids, and terpenes. Many weed lovers prefer kief as part of their nighttime routine due to its potent relaxing effects.

How to Collect Kief

For your convenience, you can always stop in to grab prepackaged kief at your local JARS dispensary. But, if you are more of a diy'er and have ground up more flower than you can imagine, you can basically get your kief for free! You can easily find three or five compartment grinders at any smoke shop. When you place your bud in the top compartment and give it a little twist, the bud gets grinded up and sifted into the next compartment where it sits on a mesh screen. During the whole twist-grinding process, a lot of the trichomes fall off and create a powder, this is your kief. Hopefully your grinder has a very bottom compartment that will catch and store all of it. 

What's the Difference Between Kief and Hash?

While both of these are considered cannabis concentrates, there are some noticeable differences between kief and hash. Here are the top three differences. 

• Composition: kief consists of the resinous trichomes that naturally occur on cannabis flowers. Hash on the other hand, is made by compressing and consolidating the collected trichomes (kief) into a solid form. 

• Texture: kief is usually soft and powdery kind of like sand. Hash varies in texture depending on how it is made. It can range from sticky and pliable to solid and brittle. 

• Potency: since kief is so powdery, it is generally considered to be less potent than hash. This is because hash is a concentrated form of trichomes, whereas kief still contains some plant material. However, kief can still be quite potent. 

What to do With Kief

Now we are getting to the good stuff. Like mentioned earlier, kief is so loved because of the many ways it can be used. The main ways to incorporate kief are by smoking, and making edibles, hash, or concentrates. Here are some more details on these common methods of each.

Smoking Kief

There are quite a few ways to infuse a joint or blunt, one of them is by adding kief. You can sprinkle some right on the top of your flower before you roll it up. You can also mix your kief and flower together before rolling up, too. Many infused pre rolls have a layer of cannabis wax coating the outside and then rolled in kief. Another option for smoking kief is to add it to your bowl or bong pack. In a way it's the same deal when adding kief to your joint or blunt, but we've got a hot tipfor you. Place a thin layer of flower at the bottom of your bowl, then add a layer of kief, followed by another layer of flower. This method lets the kief to melt and mix with the cannabis as it burns.

Making Edibles with Kief

If you have not dabbled into the world of making your own edibles, using kief is a perfect way to start. Again, use your own kief that you've collected over time, or pickup some prepackaged kief at JARS. The first thing you need to do with your kief is a process called decarboxylation. In short, you place your kief on some parchment paper on top of a baking sheet and heated in the oven. This activates the cannabinoids present in the kief, making them easier to enter your bloodstream as you digest your treat. With your decarboxylated kief combine it with oil (coconut, olive, vegetable, etc.) or butter. It's more than likely your recipe will call for the use of butter or oil, or go full send and add the butter to some toast or drizzle that oil on your salad.

Turning Kief into Hash or Concentrates

Earlier we went over the main differences between kief and hash and found out that hash is made by compressing kief. This is a little more of an uncommon method due to the need for a press machine and heat source. This is the same deal with turning kief into concentrates. Not so much a popular at-home diy project, but more left to the professionals. To turn kief into concentrates, there are typically solvents involved, like butane or CO2. The solvents separate the cannabinoids and terpenes from the flower. This extracted solvent then goes through a process called purging where heat and suction are used to evaporate the chemical solvents. What's left is a concentrated form of cannabis!

Frequently Asked Questions About Kief

Q: Why should I collect and use kief?

A: Collecting and using kief has several benefits. Firstly, kief is highly potent, containing concentrated amounts of cannabinoids and terpenes. Adding kief to your cannabis experience can enhance the potency and flavor of your smoke or edibles. Additionally, collecting kief allows you to make the most of every part of the cannabis plant, minimizing waste and maximizing your enjoyment.

Q:How do I store kief? Does kief expire?

A: Kief, like other cannabis products, can degrade over time. However, when stored properly, it can maintain its potency and flavor for an extended period.You want to keep it in an airtight container, away from light, heat, and moisture. Storing it in a cool, dark place, such as a sealed jar or a specialized kief container, helps preserve its potency, flavor, and overall quality. Some cannabis enthusiasts even store their kief in the freezer to further protect it from degradation.

Q: What strains produce the most kief?

A: The amount of kief produced by a strain can vary, but generally, strains with a dense coating of trichomes tend to produce more kief. Trichome-rich strains like White Widow, Northern Lights, and Blue Dream often yield a significant amount of kief. However, it's important to note that the amount of kief produced can also be influenced by factors such as cultivation techniques and harvesting methods.

Q: How much flower is needed to make 1 gram of kief?

A: The amount of flower needed to produce 1 gram of kief can vary depending on factors like the strain and the density of trichomes. On average, it takes approximately 7-10 grams of cannabis flower to produce 1 gram of kief. However, this can vary, and it's important to note that the amount of kief collected may differ depending on the specific methods used for extraction.