How much money would you save if you could smoke all the free weed you wanted? It can happen if you grow your own, and it’s easier than you may think.

In Colorado and many other states across the nation, medical marijuana patients can grow their own medicine, though many choose not to. Here in Denver, this is due in part to the fact that medical marijuana is relatively cheap ($150-$200 per ounce) and abundant. The main reason patients choose not to grow is because they think that it is complicated and expensive. This is simply not true to someone growing for personal use.

For patients with a private back yard, planting one to three clones or seedlings in late spring can yield enough medicine to last the entire year. If you plant directly in the ground, make sure it drains easily. Outdoor plants work well in containers. This is because they can be moved and high quality soil can be used. Keep all outdoor plants watered. Fertilize as directed. Growing outdoors is easy, productive and almost free. Unfortunately, not all of us have this option.

For those that have to deal with nosy neighbors or lack a private outdoor area, an indoor grow room is the way to go. Growing can reduce the overall cost of your medication by an enormous amount. This is especially important while so many are struggling to keep their heads above water.

The knowledge needed to cultivate excellent plants is available free on several great websites, including this one. Excellent books are also available at very reasonable prices. Two books that I highly recommend are “Cultivating Exceptional Cannabis” by DJ Short and “Marijuana Horticulture” by Jorge Cervantes.

The equipment necessary for indoor growing does not cost a lot, although some research, investment and work are required. Check out my article “Grow Room Equipment for Beginners” for a list of equipment needed for indoor growing and an estimated cost.