Marijuana cultivation like 'growing a weed', Colorado growers advise

Show Caption Hide Caption Growing marijuana at home: Federally illegal but pretty easy Many states permit residents to grow marijuana for their personal use, and we decided to look at just how easy it is to grow cannabis -- known as pot or weed -- at home.

As of March 1, Alaska, California, Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Maine, Massachusetts and Nevada have legalized recreational marijuana use, as has the District of Columbia. Vermont has legalized it as well, but that law doesn't go into effect until July 1.

The exact rules vary in each state. And remember — marijuana possession remains entirely illegal under federal law.

In this attached video, you’ll see a pot plant go from a cutting to a mature bush in about four months, along with an explanation of the basics of growing this “weed,” which the experts at Colorado’s Organic Alternatives say is simple.

"It's not difficult at all. Essentially you're growing a weed," says Kirk Scramstead, a growing expert for Organic Alternatives. "It's a super easy plant to grow."

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Organic Alternatives grows high-quality marijuana at its facility in Fort Collins, Colo., and each plant can generate about 4 ounces of smokeable cannabis flowers. Scramstead said amateur growers can't expect such a high yield, but people with a green thumb could expect similar results if they take time and care in their growing.

While Scamstead said a pot plant will grow just fine outside with regular watering, enthusiasts are willing to spend thousands of dollars on special lights, fertilizer and irrigation systems to ensure a consistent crop. There's even companies selling self-contained growing cabinets, which make the process even easier.