Grow Or Buy: Making the Best Choice For Your Cannabis Supply

The age-old debate of growing versus buying is as lively as ever. As the legal landscape for cannabis continues to evolve, more people find themselves faced with the choice of whether to cultivate their stash or rely on dispensaries for their supply. 

To shed light on this dilemma, let's delve into the pros and cons of both buying and growing cannabis. Whether you are a casual consumer seeking convenience or an enthusiast looking to immerse yourself in the cultivation process, understanding these aspects will help you make an informed choice. 

In this article, we’ll explore the various facets of both options, providing you with the insights needed to make the correct decision for yourself. From the convenience and variety offered by dispensaries to the cost efficiency and control of home cultivation, we cover all bases to guide you through this important decision.

Buying Cannabis: The Pros and Cons 

Buying cannabis from dispensaries is exactly what it sounds like. You walk into your local coffee shop, pick out a few packets of weed, pay the bill, and walk out. That’s it. But there’s more to this as a cannabis connoisseur, especially if you’re confused between growing and buying it. So, to make things easier, let’s look at the pros and cons of purchasing cannabis. 

Why You Should Buy Cannabis 

Purchasing cannabis from dispensaries has a few pros, which are as follows:

1. High-Quality Guarantee 

When you purchase cannabis from a reputed dispensary, you can be sure about its quality. They are obligated to give you high-quality products and, at the very least, tell you everything about the product you’re purchasing. 

As a result, if you pick a bunch of Girl Scout Cookies, the packaging will list the expected high, potency levels, flavors, aromas, et al. Plus, the buds will be grown by professional farmers, so that’s always a plus. 

2. Ask As Many Questions As You Want 

When you visit a dispensary, you’ll come across professionals we call budtenders — these guys know everything about cannabis. So, you can ask as many questions as you want to find the right product for you. 

3. So Much Variety 

If you grow cannabis, you’re pretty much stuck with what you have, but walk into a dispensary and you’ll find nearly endless options for the same. So, at a single time, you can get your hands on some of the best cannabis strains out there. 

The choice doesn’t end at the strains, though. Dispensaries sell a variety of cannabis products, so you get to pick from flowers, edibles, topicals, pre-rolls, vapes, and much more. 

4. You’ll Always Get It 

Except for a few holidays, dispensaries are always open during working hours. So, you don’t have to worry about going a day without cannabis. Run out of weed? Pop on by your local dispensary and restock your supplies. 

5. It’s Completely Legal 

In many regions, purchasing cannabis is legal whereas growing may not be legal. And even if growing it is legal, there is a lot of nuance to growing cannabis. Instead, you can purchase cannabis legally from any dispensary as long as you’re of the legal age. That’s it. No worrying about nosy neighbors or cops. 

Why You Shouldn’t Buy Cannabis 

Then come the downsides, which are not many, but they still matter if you want to get the best cannabis experience out there. Let’s look at the cons of purchasing cannabis from dispensaries.

1. Expensive 

It is as simple as that — purchasing cannabis can be an expensive affair. Considering the effort that goes into farming it, taxes, commissions, store margins, etc. — it can get very expensive in the long run. 

Plus, high-quality, specialized cannabis strains and products demand a premium that may not always be worth it. If you’re a regular consumer of cannabis, purchasing pre-rolls or buds every week isn’t financially sustainable. 

2. You Can’t Have It All 

Many regions have possession limits in place, and while it can vary, the basis stays the same — you can’t horde cannabis. So, depending on your region and other variables like possession of a medical card, you are limited to how much you can buy. 

3. Dispensaries, Not Always Local 

Finally, dispensaries are not as common as Starbucks. So, chances are you may have to drive afar to get your stash for the week. That’s a hassle, considering how expensive gas is. And if you live in LA, the traffic is another thing you need to worry about. 

Growing Cannabis at Home: Pros and Cons 

For cannabis consumers who like their weed as often as the sun rises (or sets), growing it is the better option than purchasing it. But there’s so much nuance to this that the decision can be a bit confusing. We’ve got you covered, though. 

Why You Should Grow Cannabis at Home

Engaging in the cultivation of cannabis can prove to be a fun activity especially if you possess a knack for gardening. Here are a few compelling benefits that you can consider that come with growing cannabis. 

1. It’s Cheaper 

The expense of purchasing cannabis from dispensaries can escalate significantly over time. By cultivating your supply you stand to save a huge sum of money. The initial investment required for setting up your cannabis growth operation whether it be indoors or outdoors typically represents a one-time outlay. 

Subsequently, you can relish the rewards of your efforts for a long period. With some planning, you can even establish a system that facilitates perpetual harvests, ensuring an ongoing provision of fresh cannabis at a fraction of the market price. We will give you a detailed cost breakdown later in the article. 

2. Personalized Strain Selection

A notable benefit that comes with growing your cannabis is the liberty to select the strain you wish to nurture. This allows you to customize your cultivation process according to your preferences whether you lean towards the calming effects of an indica, the invigorating buzz of a sativa, or opt for a balanced hybrid variety.

If you want to grow your cannabis, all you have to do is get some seeds or cuttings of the strain you prefer. Then you're ready to grow a plant that fits your needs perfectly.

3. You Get Full Control of Your Plant 

When growing cannabis, you have the ultimate control over every aspect of how the plant grows. So, you get to choose the growing medium, nutrients, light cycles, and even the methods used to improve potency and yields. 

This level of control in the process lets you ensure your plants are free from harmful chemicals and pesticides, leading to a more natural product. 

Yes, this does require some diligence and knowledge, but it’s totally worth the effort. With enough research and attention, you can grow high-quality cannabis plants that meet your standards perfectly. 

4. Abundance of Information Online

The internet is a treasure trove of information for growers, even if you’re a complete beginner. You can check out various YouTube channels, websites, forums, etc. that share tips and techniques on growing cannabis at every stage of the process. 

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced grower, you can find information that will help you improve your cannabis cultivation to the next level. You can always learn advanced skills, like breeding new strains, with some patience. All you need to do is look at the right place. 

5. Constant Access to Cannabis 

If you grow your cannabis, you can always have access to your favorite strain. You no longer have to make trips to the dispensary or worry about running out of cannabis in the middle of a chillout session with your friends. 

With the right strain and growing methods, you can ensure your stash box is always full of high-quality buds, ready to be used whenever you need them. 

6. It’s Fun

Finally, growing cannabis is just so much fun! It’s a hobby that allows you to connect with the plant on a deeper level, fostering a terrific appreciation for it. You also get the opportunity to meet other like-minded growers, share experiences, and make friends. 

If you have a bit of an entrepreneurial spirit, you can even turn this hobby into a side hustle. You can sell your surplus weed (legally, of course), make edibles and extracts, teach people how to grow, and much more. It’s a young industry and you can grow with it! 

Why You Shouldn’t Grow Cannabis at Home

But not all is glittery with this green gold. Here are the potential downsides of growing cannabis, where it just makes more sense to purchase cannabis instead.

1. Lack of Options 

Don’t get us wrong, you can grow virtually any strain available in the market. Where it gets bad is that you usually only have space to grow one or two strains at a time. So, you are pretty limited in that regard. 

2. Potential to be Expensive

While growing cannabis isn’t always as expensive as buying it, some growing setups can get super expensive. If you want to dabble in high-tech hydroponics setups, like aeroponics, expect to spend a lot of money here. So, it is usually cheap but sometimes can be super expensive. 

3. May Not Be Legal 

Growing cannabis isn't legal everywhere, and even in regions where it is, there are often strict regulations. These can include limits on the number of plants you can grow and possession limits.

Laws vary widely: some places ban home cultivation entirely, while others allow it only for medical purposes or with a license. Even where it's legal, you might have to grow your plants in a secured, enclosed area out of public view, which can add complexity and cost.

While it might be tempting to grow discreetly — "Habibi, only illegal when police there" — this is risky. Neighbors or passersby might report suspicious activity, leading to potential legal trouble.

Before deciding to grow cannabis, research your local laws thoroughly. Ensure your setup complies with regulations to avoid any legal issues. Weigh the benefits against the risks and consider if purchasing from a legal dispensary might be a safer option for you.

4. Time and Resource Heavy 

Finally, growing cannabis takes a lot of effort and time. It’s not as easy as tossing a seed in your garden and waiting a few months. You need to learn about it, spend time working on the plant, give it love and attention, and spend some money on sustaining it. Mostly, your money will go to the lights, setup, peripherals, nutrients, fertilizers, etc. 

Then there’s always a risk of problems or diseases, like deficiencies or pest infestations. You need to fix these on time, and this can cost more money. In the worst-case scenario, such problems may even kill your plant. 

How Much Does It Cost to Grow Cannabis?

Growing cannabis at home is more affordable than you might think. The primary challenge is finding the right space — an outdoor garden, a grow tent, or an indoor area. You need to pick which one suits you best and makes the process easier. 

In any case, before we proceed, ensure that you check your local regulations to confirm that growing cannabis at home is legal in your area. 

The Cost of Growing Outdoor Weed

Growing cannabis outdoors is pretty ecological and can even be free. If your local climate is conducive to cannabis, you can simply toss a seed and water it daily until you’re rewarded with buds. 

However, in areas with extreme weather, you might need to spend more to counteract environmental challenges. Here, the primary requirement of an outdoor cannabis garden is good sunlight. It's best if your garden gets around six hours of sunlight daily from a south-facing area. 

Basic gardening tools, like shovels and trowels, are affordable. It might already be in your garage. Investing in soil and fertilizer is important. Usually doesn't cost much, though.

Supporting your plants is crucial too. You may have to buy stakes, tomato cages, or trellising materials to help your plants grow well. These items are usually cheap. You might already have them in your gardening supplies. Also, if you live in an area with fall rains, using a tarp or greenhouse materials can protect your plants from much moisture.

Seeds or Clones?

Deciding between seeds and clones is a big step for home cannabis cultivators as each option comes with its benefits and specific expenses. Seeds provide a variety of options allowing growers to explore different strains and characteristics. Also, starting from seeds lowers the risk of pests or diseases entering the growing environment since seeds are typically cleaner than clones. You can store seeds for a longer period, as long as you provide the right conditions. 

However, keep in mind that not all cannabis seeds will germinate, so you may have to try and sprout more than the number of seeds you want to grow. For instance, if you want to grow 5 plants, sprout at least 8 seeds so you have a buffer. 

Time is another factor to remember. Growing from seeds takes time for germination and the seedling stage. It can be a week before the plants are strong enough to move on to the vegetative stage.

Also, you can buy regular seeds that are cheaper but you'll have both males and females in your growing tent, and the risk of pollination will be high. You can remove the male plants when you spot them, or you can also go for feminized seeds but they are significantly more expensive. 

Quality cannabis seeds usually range from $10 to $15 per seed. Seed packs, which often contain 5 to 10 seeds are generally priced between $50 and $150. Premium or rare strains may cost more than $20 per seed.

Coming to clones, growing them will be a breeze as they are very consistent and you’ll see uniform growth, cannabinoid profile, and overall similar plant traits as their mother plants. 

Starting off faster is another perk of using clones since they're already in the seedling or early vegetative stage when you purchase them, so you'll be skipping the germination and seedling phases and saving more time. You also won’t have to worry about culling males as they are guaranteed females. 

Clones typically range from $20 to $50 each depending on the strain and supplier. While pricey clones can cost up to $1,000 each, you can easily start an outdoor garden for less than $100 per year especially if you have access to low-cost seeds.

Ultimately choosing between seeds and clones depends on your priorities and level of experience in cultivation. Both choices present advantages and difficulties so you must carefully assess your requirements and situations before you purchase either of them. 

The Cost of Growing Indoor Weed

Indoor cannabis cultivation may come with a higher initial cost, but it can prove to be economical over time. 

Here’s a brief breakdown to help you understand more about it:

Initial Expenses

When you're setting up a cannabis cultivation setup, the initial expenses can vary significantly depending on the scale and quality of the equipment chosen. Below is a breakdown of the equipment along with their associated costs:

1. Grow Lights

LED Lights: These are favored for their energy efficiency and durability. High-quality LED grow lights may range from $100 to over $500. They emit the right spectrum that mimics sunlight, which is crucial for promoting healthy plant growth. Although they are slightly more expensive initially, it is balanced by lower electricity consumption and extended lifespan.

HID Lights: HID lights include Metal Halide (MH) and High-Pressure Sodium (HPS) lights and both are well known for their output and effectiveness in promoting cannabis growth. However they tend to use more electricity and produce lots of heat, so it becomes even more important to use additional cooling methods. The price of these lights typically ranges from $50 to $150 for the fixture itself with added expenses for replacement bulbs averaging around $20 to $50 each.

Fluorescent lights are not commonly used throughout the cannabis growth cycle but can be beneficial for seedlings and clones. They are generally more affordable with fixtures priced between $50 and $100; however, they are usually less efficient and not as powerful as LED or HID lights.

2. Grow Tents

Grow tents are essential if you want to grow cannabis indoors as they help to regulate light exposure, temperature levels, and humidity. Available in many sizes to suit cultivation spaces ranging from small closets to larger rooms, prices vary from approximately $70 for a compact 2x2 foot tent up to $200 or higher for larger 4x4 or 5x5 foot tents. Premium quality grow tents come equipped with interiors, sturdy frames, and multiple ventilation openings for air circulation.

3. Ventilation 

Ensuring sufficient ventilation is essential in maintaining air quality and controlling temperature levels while also preventing issues such as mold growth and pest infestations. A basic ventilation system setup consists of the following components:

Inline Fans: These are necessary for circulating air in and out of the growing area with prices ranging from $50 to $150 depending on their size and power.

Carbon Filters: These are used to eliminate any odors and usually cost between $50 and $100.  

Ducting: Flexible ducts are utilized to connect the fans and filters with prices typically falling within the range of $20 to $50.

The overall expenses for a ventilation system can vary from $100 to $300.

4. Containers and Soil

Containers: Various types of pots such as plastic, fabric, and air pots can be utilized, each costing between $5 and $20 per pot. Fabric pots are preferred for their breathability, which contributes to excellent root systems.

Soil: Opting for quality organic soil is essential for fostering robust plant growth. Although the prices can fluctuate, you can anticipate spending around $20 to $50 for a bag of premium soil. Many growers also incorporate soil enhancements like perlite, vermiculite, and compost to enrich soil quality at a cost ranging from $10 to $30.

5. Nutrients

A standard nutrient package that contains the macronutrients along with the micronutrients generally falls in the range of $50 to $100. Good quality brands or complete kits that come with supplements might set you back around $150. 

As plants go through different growth stages, their nutrient needs change requiring different formulations for vegetative growth and flowering. Replenishing these nutrients and supplements throughout the growing cycle could be an additional $10 to $30 per month depending on the size of the growing operation and the specific products used.

6. Tools

Clocks and Electrical Outlets: Essential for automating schedules and controlling power usage, these typically range from $20 to $50.

Temperature Gauges and Humidity Meters: These are used to track temperature levels and moisture content with prices usually falling between $10 and $30. 

pH and EC Meters: These are used to keep an eye on the pH levels and nutrient content in the soil and water typically costing between $20 to $100.

Pruning Shears and Training Equipment: These are tools for maintaining plant health and promoting growth with prices ranging from $10 to $50.

7. Additional Supplements

Occasionally, you may have to use some supplements but they are optional. You can find such supplements below; however, pH adjusters are not optional. 

• pH Balancers

pH adjusters are mandatory as maintaining the pH level in the growing medium is essential for the plants to absorb nutrients. Without these, you cannot grow cannabis, especially if you're growing plants in a hydroponic medium. With pH adjusters, you can keep the range between 6.0 to 7.0 for soil and 5.5 to 6.5 for hydroponics. These typically cost between $10 and $20.

• Beneficial Microorganisms

Products containing bacteria and fungi (like mycorrhizae) can boost nutrient uptake and enhance soil health. These supplements usually range from $20 to $50.

• Enzymes

Enzymes aid in breaking down root matter and other organic substances in the soil, making nutrients more accessible to the plant. Typically, they are priced between $15 and $30.

• Growth Boosters

Substances such as kelp extract, amino acids, and humic acids can stimulate growth, enhance stress tolerance, and uplift overall plant well-being. The price range for these enhancers is usually $20 to $40. 

Ongoing Expenses

1. Electricity Usage

Running grow lights and ventilation systems can lead to an increase in electricity bills. On average you can anticipate spending $20 to $100 per month depending on the size of your setup and the local electricity rates.

2. Water Usage

Caring for cannabis plants involves watering but this usually results in an increase in costs.

3. Nutrients and Additives

The additional expenses for nutrients typically range from $10 to $30 

4. Upkeep and Maintenance

This covers tasks like replacing bulbs, filters, and other equipment with an estimated cost of around $50 to $100.

As you can understand by now, a basic indoor growing system typically requires an investment of $500 and above to support either one sizable plant or four smaller ones. This initial expense caters to equipment that can be used for years, making it a one-time investment. 

While larger setups may demand an even bigger investment, they do tend to result in a greater quantity of cannabis per harvest, offering a more favorable return on the money spent. In a way, you get what you pay for. 

When you set up your growing space, be prepared for an increase in your utility bill as you'll need to keep grow lights on for 12 to 18 hours daily. Depending on the temperature and humidity levels you might also have to use an air conditioner, heater, or dehumidifier. 

Over a 5-month growing cycle, the first year of cultivation could amount to about $650. This includes $500 for setup costs $100 for utilities and $50 for seeds or clones. After the setup phase, subsequent harvests are expected to cost $150 each time, making indoor cultivation more cost-effective in the long run.

How Much Weed Will One Cannabis Plant Yield?

When it comes to estimating how much weed one plant will yield, there are some factors at play such, as the plant's genetics, strain, available growing space, and light exposure. Outdoor growth may also be influenced by weather conditions in a given year.

 When growing your weed, generally, you can anticipate the following yields:

• 1 indoor plant: Around ¼ lb. (112 grams)
• 1 outdoor plant: Approximately ½ lb. (224 grams)

Cost of Purchasing Cannabis vs. Growing it at Home

The cost of cannabis can vary widely based on factors such as location, quality, and legality. High-quality cannabis generally costs between $10 and $20 per gram in markets. For a consumer, using 1 gram per day, the monthly cost could range from $300 to $600. Although there are no higher initial costs, the ongoing expenses add up quickly. Over a five-year period, a regular user could end up spending between $18,000 and $36,000 on cannabis!

Cost Analysis

Depending on how much you have invested initially, you can expect to reach a break-even point within 6 months to a year when growing cannabis at home. Once you've set everything up, the ongoing expenses for growing plants at home are much lower. This can lead to savings over the years. For example, after one year, you may spend around $700 to $1,900 annually compared to $3,500 to $7,200 if you were buying instead.

Which One Should You Choose: Growing Cannabis at Home or Purchasing It?

When it comes to deciding between growing your cannabis or buying it, the key is to consider the advantages and drawbacks of each option. Your decision will mainly hinge on your lifestyle, personal preferences, and level of dedication. 

For individuals who use cannabis occasionally and have limited time, buying cannabis from a dispensary may be a convenient choice. The variety of options and ease of access make it a popular decision. This contributes to the success of the cannabis industry as many people find purchasing made products hassle-free.

On the contrary, if you are willing to invest time and effort, cultivating your cannabis can be a fulfilling endeavor. It provides a sense of achievement. It is also a fun hobby. However, it is essential to understand that growing cannabis is not as simple as lighting up a rolled joint. It requires patience, attention, to detail, and sometimes physical labor.

The process of growing cannabis involves multiple stages that each require care and attention. From selecting the seeds or clones and creating a growing environment to monitoring plant growth and making necessary adjustments, it can be quite intricate. 

Along the way, you may experience moments of work leading to occasional setbacks, too, causing frustration and perhaps even a minor injury if you accidentally prick yourself with trimming tools. Many people find joy in cultivating their top-notch cannabis, finding the process to be rewarding. 

Furthermore, tending to your cannabis plants gives you control over the entire growth cycle, ensuring that no harmful chemicals or pesticides are involved. It also opens up opportunities to experiment with strains and cultivation methods offering a blend of education and fun.

In essence, if convenience is your priority and you lead a busy life, buying cannabis may be the more practical choice. On the other hand, if you have the time dedication, and curiosity to delve into the cultivation journey, nurturing your cannabis can be an incredibly fulfilling experience. Each option has its advantages so choosing between them ultimately depends on your preferences and situation.

Summary: Grow Or Buy: Making the Best Choice For Your Cannabis Supply

So, should you grow your own cannabis or buy it from a dispensary? It boils down to what suits your lifestyle and preferences.

Buying from a dispensary is super convenient. You get access to a variety of high-quality strains without any effort. If you're an occasional user or have a busy schedule, this is the way to go. You can rely on professional farmers and knowledgeable budtenders to get what you need.

On the flip side, growing your own cannabis can save you money in the long run and give you full control over what you’re consuming. It’s perfect if you enjoy gardening and don’t mind putting in some work. Plus, there’s a lot of information online to help you get started and improve your growing skills. 

In the end, if you value convenience and variety, stick with buying. But if you’re up for a rewarding challenge and want to ensure a natural product, give growing a shot. In our opinion, growing cannabis is so much fun that you should do it at least once! Even a balcony or closet will suffice. Either way, you can enjoy the benefits of cannabis in a way that fits your life.