Can you grow CBD at home, and how to do it?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a molecule present in hemp, which has numerous therapeutic properties. Unlike THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, CBD does not have a psychoactive effect and does not cause dependence. CBD is therefore legal in France, provided that it is extracted from authorized hemp varieties, whose THC content does not exceed 0.2%.
But can you grow CBD at home, and how to do it? This is what we will see in this article.
Legislation on the cultivation of CBD in France
In France, the cultivation of hemp is regulated by two decrees: that of August 22, 1990 and that of February 21, 2008. These texts specify the conditions to be respected for cultivating hemp, whether for industrial, medical or scientific purposes.
You should know that only active farmers within the meaning of European and national regulations can cultivate hemp in France. Individuals are therefore not authorized to grow CBD at home, unless they declare their activity to the competent authorities.
To cultivate hemp in France, you must also respect the following rules:
- Use only certified seeds supplied by approved organizations
- Use only authorized hemp varieties
- Respect the maximum THC level of 0.2% for hemp plants
- Declare your culture to the National Federation of Hemp Producers (FNPC) and to the gendarmerie
- Indicate the geographical location, the operating area and the number of cultivated plants planned
By respecting these conditions, it is possible to cultivate hemp in France, and extract CBD to make products such as oils, capsules, creams or infusions.
Methods for growing CBD at home
If you want to grow CBD at home, there are two main methods: outdoor growing or indoor growing.
Outdoor growing involves germinating your hemp seeds in a pot, then placing them outside in a sunny location sheltered from the wind. You must ensure that you water your plants regularly and protect them from pests and diseases. Growing outdoors is the simplest and most economical, but it depends on climatic conditions and seasonality.
Indoor cultivation consists of creating a space dedicated to growing hemp, with artificial lighting, ventilation, controlled humidity and temperature. You must also choose a suitable substrate, such as soil, coconut fiber or rock wool, and provide nutrients to your plants. Indoor cultivation is more complex and more expensive, but it allows you to control all the parameters and obtain more regular and abundant harvests.
Whatever method you choose, you must respect the life cycle of hemp, which is made up of three phases: germination, growth and flowering. Germination lasts about a week, and consists of causing the root to emerge from the seed. Growth lasts about two months, and consists of growing the stem, leaves and branches of the plant. Flowering also lasts about two months, and consists of making the flowers appear, which contain the CBD.
The advantages and disadvantages of growing CBD at home
Growing CBD at home has advantages and disadvantages, which must be weighed before getting started.
The advantages are as follows:
- You can produce your own CBD, and control the quality and quantity
- You can choose the variety of hemp that suits you best, based on its characteristics and effects
- You can enjoy the benefits of gardening, which is a relaxing and rewarding activity
- You can save money by avoiding buying CBD products on the market
The disadvantages are:
- You must respect the legislation in force, and declare your culture to the authorities
- You need to invest time, money and space to create and maintain your culture
- You must face climatic hazards, pests, diseases and thefts
- You must be discreet, and avoid attracting the attention of your neighbors or the police
Conclusion
In conclusion, growing CBD at home is possible in France, provided you respect the regulations and declare your activity. There are two methods for growing hemp: outdoors or indoors, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Growing CBD at home allows you to produce your own cannabidiol and take full advantage of it.
We hope that this article has enlightened you on growing CBD at home, and how to do it.