What’s the Difference Between Craft and Regular Cannabis?
Craft cannabis and regular cannabis, often referred to as “mass-produced” or “commercial” cannabis, differ in several key aspects. These differences encompass various stages of the cultivation, production, and overall approach to growing and selling the plant. Let’s delve into the distinctions between these two categories:
- Cultivation and Growing Practices:
Craft Cannabis: Craft cannabis is cultivated on a smaller scale, often by independent growers or small-batch producers. These cultivators prioritize quality over quantity, employing hands-on, artisanal approaches to growing the plants. Craft growers typically focus on producing unique and carefully selected strains with distinct flavors, aromas, and effects.
Regular Cannabis: On the other hand, regular or commercial cannabis is grown on a larger scale by licensed producers or commercial enterprises. The cultivation practices often lean toward standardized methods, seeking efficiency and yield maximization. While quality control is important, the emphasis may not be on individualized care for each plant.
- Strain Selection and Diversity:
Craft Cannabis: Craft growers are known for their dedication to preserving and developing a diverse range of cannabis strains. They often specialize in heirloom or landrace strains, which are strains that have been passed down for generations and have unique characteristics specific to their geographic origin. Craft cannabis enthusiasts appreciate the rarity and complexity of these strains.
Regular Cannabis: Commercial growers tend to focus on cultivating strains that are in high demand and have proven market appeal. They may prioritize well-known strains with consistent effects and genetics, which can be more predictable in terms of growth, yield, and consumer preferences.
- Growing Environment:
Craft Cannabis: Craft cannabis growers typically create controlled and personalized environments to suit the needs of each strain. This might include specialized lighting, temperature regulation, humidity control, and organic cultivation practices. Craft growers often hand-trim their plants to maintain the integrity of the flowers.
Regular Cannabis: Commercial cannabis cultivation often occurs in larger indoor or greenhouse facilities or outdoor farms. While still subject to regulations, these facilities aim to optimize production through economies of scale and standardized practices.
- Attention to Detail:
Craft Cannabis: Craft growers are deeply involved in every aspect of the cultivation process. They pay close attention to each plant’s needs, often employing sustainable and organic methods, and use their expertise to coax out the plant’s full potential.
Regular Cannabis: In commercial settings, the cultivation process may be more streamlined and automated to increase efficiency and yield. While quality control measures are still in place, the hands-on approach of craft cannabis growers may be less prevalent.
- Market Presence and Pricing:
Craft Cannabis: Craft cannabis is often associated with higher prices due to the intensive care and limited availability of the unique strains. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for the artisanal, small-batch, and specialized nature of craft cannabis products.
Regular Cannabis: Regular cannabis products, being produced on a larger scale, are generally more widely available and come at a more affordable price point. Mass-produced cannabis can cater to a broader market, including budget-conscious consumers.
What’s the Difference Between Craft and Regular Cannabis?
In conclusion, the difference between craft cannabis and regular cannabis lies in the scale of production, cultivation practices, strain selection, attention to detail, and overall approach to the plant. Both have their place in the cannabis market, catering to different consumer preferences and offering unique experiences for enthusiasts and consumers alike.
