Laws in MN: Is It Legal to Grow Cannabis in Minnesota?

Minnesota has undergone a transformative period—the legalization of marijuana. Adopting a progressive stance on both cultivation and consumption, the North Star State is witnessing the once-taboo plant gaining acceptance in the soil of societal norms. With cannabis becoming an integrated part of Minnesota's economic and social fabric, people are increasingly embracing this evolving lifestyle.

Is Cannabis Legal in Minnesota?

Cannabis is legal in Minnesota for adults aged 21 and older, making it the 23rd state to embrace recreational marijuanas. The state permitted the sale and consumption of THC derived from hemp in 2022, and officially passed recreational marijuana starting Aug. 1, 2023.

In Minnesota, public possession of two ounces or less of cannabis is allowed. Individuals can also possess up to 8 grams of cannabis concentrate, edibles containing up to 800 milligrams of THC, and two pounds of cannabis at home. Restrictions are that it cannot be used on public school playgrounds, minors accessible areas, smoking prohibited places, or behind the wheel of a car or boat.

Minnesota's medical marijuana program is still open for new enrollees to sign up. Enrollment is free from July 1 onward, with no annual fees required. Qualifying conditions for the program cover a variety of health issues such as cancer, chronic pain, sleep apnea, PTSD, and more.

Can You Grow Weed in Minnesota?

Recreational marijuanas are not only legal for use in Minnesota, they can be grown at home as well now.

Starting from August 1, 2023, individuals aged 21 or above in Minnesota are allowed to cultivate a maximum of 8 cannabis plants at home. However, only 4 of these plants can be in full maturity at any given time. Any excess beyond this limit may incur a civil penalty of $500 per plant.

In addition, the legal stipulation requires cannabis growing in a secure space, like a grow cabinet or room, ensuring they remain discreet and not visible from the outside.

Outdoor Growing

To grow marijuana outdoors, you must secure a business cultivator license from the Office of Cannabis Management. Given the short and not consistently warm natural growing season, outdoor cannabis crops are limited to specific seasons (like late spring to early fall: late April to early October). Many outdoor growers opt for the fastest-growing autoflower strains to maximize their yield within the constrained timeframe.

Indoor Growing

If you're looking to grow your own cannabis at home, consider a stealth grow box designed to seamlessly fit into any space. Hey abby's grow systems are compact and pre-assembled for effortless use.

Experience the satisfaction of harvesting up to 6oz (or more with the advanced model) of premium buds every 3-month growth cycle, providing a year-round supply of fresh and flavorful harvests.

Hey abby grower @shames1025_harvesting 4oz of dried buds

Hey abby grower @Alexander RastaMan_harvested 7oz dried buds

How to Grow Weed in Minnesota?

For a happy plant, just dial in the basics: light, air, growing medium, the right temp, adquate watering, and some good cannabis fertilizers.

If you're growing cannabis outdoors in Minnesota, keep in mind that the growing season is relatively short, only lasting for 3-4 months. You can go for fast-growing varieties. Autoflowering seeds, especially indica and hybrid varieties, are particularly advantageous as they start blooming in the fall when temperatures are cooler. Top picks for the outdoor-grown cannabis strain in Minnesota include Skywalker OG, White Widow, Kush varieties, Zkittlez, Girl Scout Cookies, and Blue Cheese.

Image via Hey abby grower

On the other hand, indoor growing offers flexibility. No need to stress about the weather – you can grow whatever strain you fancy, whenever you want. Plus, you can pull off multiple harvests throughout the year.

Where to Buy Cannabis?

Dispensaries can’t open until the state establishes a businesses licensing system, likely in early 2025. However, breaking the ice, tribal governments took the lead and swung open the doors of the first recreational marijuana dispensary, NativeCare, on August 1, nestled in the heart of Red Lake Nation in north-central Minnesota. It's rolling out the green carpet for anyone 21 and older.

With dispensaries still a year away, why not going for indoor growing now for your recreational cannabis fix? With Hey abby, grow your cannabis stash all year round, no matter the outdoor season. Each growth cycle can bring in a sweet harvest of up to 6/8 ounces (depending on the strains/grow system you pick), enough to keep the good vibes rolling for your daily personal use.

Where Can I Buy Cannabis Seeds in Minnesota?

As cannabis growing was recently legalized in Minnesota, you might find it hard to get cannabis seeds from local seed banks. That's why we recommend you order them online.

To stay in the loop, consider joining our Discord communities and Facebook groups where where fellow growers dish out recommendations for top-notch seed banks. The community vibe ensures you get all the info you need for a successful cultivation journey.

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