As the mainstream acceptance of cannabis use rumbles ever forward across the globe, the time when families and friends can gather around the Christmas tree vaporizing top-shelf cannabis may not be as far off as it once seemed. Those who choose to honor their health and turn away from the mulled wines and spiked egg nog this year should not have to hide their enjoyment of our favorite flower.

That signature scent of most flowers and plants, including the pine tree propped in the living room, originates from terpenes. As master horticulturalist Ed Rosenthal explains in his Big Book of Buds series, terpenes are also the components of cannabis responsible for the different effects and odors of the many varieties of marijuana.

“Pinene is the familiar odor associated with pine trees and their resin,” Rosenthal writes in the Big Book of Buds, volume 4. “Pinene probably gives true skunk varieties, the ones that stink like an animal, much of their odor… The smoke seems to expand in your lungs and the high comes on very quickly since a high percentage of the substance will pass to the bloodstream and brain.”

Pinene, which is most dominantly found in cannabis as the compound alpha-pinene, is the terpene that has established a solid reputation for tasting and smelling like a pine tree. The following three strains are sure to bring on this unique flavor so often associated with the holiday season.

Jack Herer –  This world-renowned strain was named after and bred in honor of the legendary author and cannabis activist, Jack Herer. “Upon the first draw, you immediately begin to identify its complex flavors,” West says. “It’s almost as if you can roll the smoke over the different parts of your tongue and taste each one individually. After exhaling, you will enjoy the lingering taste of the haze and lemon cleaner. A single experience smoking this strain is all it takes to be able to confidently identify it in the future as well as recognize strains with which it has been bred.”

Super Silver Haze – This selection comes compliments of Strainhunter Franco Loja. Loja is the manager of Green House Seed Co. and says Super Sliver Haze offers the highest levels of alpha-pinene. This strain is an uplifting sativa and bursts with skunk-like notes alongside the sweet floral of its Haze parentage. Super Silver Haze is a great choice for keeping your energy going today.

Bubba Kush – This Green House Seed Co. offering is known for causing powerful sedative effects. Enjoy this strain after the company has left for the day. It’s a great solution towards ensuring the new year begins in a state of complete relaxation and reflection.

What are your favorite strains? Tell us in the comments below. 

The post Cannabis for Christmas: Strains to Celebrate the Season appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Another year is drawing to a close AKA the holiday season is upon us. As the usual holiday hustle and bustle settles upon us like a layer of fresh snow, our thoughts have turned to all things Christmas. This includes thoughtful gifts, delicious feasts and family visits. While Everclear may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Christmas, the creative uses of this versatile and high-proof spirit will have it become your secret ingredient for making this holiday season extra special for the cannabis lover in your life (yes, that includes you!)

With an odorless, flavorless and colorless composition, Everclear offers a blank canvas with which you can let your imagination run wild. The clean palette of this American-made, 190-proof grain alcohol encourages you to unleash your creativity and concoct a range of creations in the kitchen—and beyond. Everclear can also be used for many other purposes in your home, from making your own perfume to cleaning and more.

In this article, we’ll unwrap the magic of Everclear and explore five creative uses that will transform your Christmas celebrations.

Maximize Your Recipes

Christmas is often synonymous with indulgent feasts—and Everclear can be your culinary ally in the kitchen. With its high alcohol content, Everclear is an excellent choice for extracting flavors from herbs, spices and fruits, creating vibrant extracts that elevate your recipes. Whether you’re infusing holiday cookies with a burst of citrus zest or crafting a homemade vanilla extract for your cakes and desserts, Everclear’s neutral flavor profile and exceptional extracting power make it a valuable addition to your holiday baking arsenal.

Cranberry Sauce Recipe

Ditch the canned berries for delicious, homemade cranberry sauce. In this recipe by acclaimed cannabis chef Vanessa Dora Lavorato, Everclear softens berries and captures their sweet/tart taste in this fresh take on the seasonal sauce.

Ingredients:

• 24 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
• 2 tbsp Everclear
• 1 cup sugar
• 3 orange peels, pith removed
• Juice of an orange
• Pinch of salt
• 1/4 cup pomegranate seeds

Instructions:

1. Combine cranberries, Everclear, sugar and orange peel in a bowl. Let macerate overnight.
2. In a saucepan, add macerated cranberries with orange juice and salt. Cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens and cranberries pop.
3. Remove from heat and mix in pomegranate seeds.

Clean Your House for Guests

Preparing your home for holiday guests can be daunting, but Everclear is here to help. Its potent disinfectant properties can be harnessed for creating DIY cleaning solutions that leave your home sparkling and fresh. From sanitizing countertops to reviving dingy glassware, Everclear-based cleaning solutions are effective and eco-friendly, ensuring your home is a welcoming and pristine haven for your loved ones. It also helps to eliminate the smell of cannabis, too.

Create Thoughtful Gifts

The creative uses of Everclear can bring a delightful and personal touch to your Christmas presents. Consider gifting homemade liqueurs, flavored extracts or even handcrafted cocktail kits featuring your favorite Everclear-based concoctions. The pinch of effort and a sprinkling of love you’ll put into creating these thoughtful gifts will surely warm the hearts of your recipients, making the holidays feel even more special. Get some inspiration here.

Everclear Odor-Fighting Spray

One of the most straightforward and efficient ways to neutralize cannabis odors is by making an Everclear spray. You’ll need a spray bottle, Everclear (preferably 190 proof) and water. Mix equal parts of Everclear and water in the spray bottle, shake it well and you have a powerful, odor-fighting solution at your disposal. Everclear will eliminate persistent cannabis scents from your home thanks to its high alcohol content, which acts as a potent deodorizing agent. 

Create Thoughtful Gifts

Everclear can bring a delightful and personal touch to your Christmas presents. Consider gifting homemade liqueurs, flavored extracts or even handcrafted cocktail kits featuring your favorite Everclear-based concoctions. The pinch of effort and a sprinkling of love you’ll put into creating these thoughtful gifts will surely warm the hearts of your recipients, making the holidays feel even more special. Get some inspiration here.

Produce Effective Tinctures

Tinctures have been used for centuries to extract the beneficial properties of herbs and spices—and Everclear makes the ideal base. Cannabis tinctures are traditionally made with food-grade, high-proof grain alcohol to remove terpenes and cannabinoids from the plant’s foliage. With a concentration of 95% alcohol by volume (190 proof) and 75.5% (151 proof), Everclear is one of the best choices for making tinctures. That’s because the higher the alcohol percentage, the more effectively it dissolves the plant’s compounds—resulting in a more efficacious end product. Ed Rosenthal has an easy-to-follow technique for making tinctures you can read here.

Elevate Your Cocktails

The holiday season wouldn’t be complete without a proper old-fashioned toast to good times. Everclear can be your secret weapon for crafting signature cocktails to impress your guests. From vibrant fruit punches to festive flavors, the high proof of this grain alcohol allows you to create bold libations that will add joy to your celebrations. And of course, you can always add a drop or two of your cannabis tincture if you prefer.

Holiday Highball Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ oz. Fall Flavors Infusion
• Club soda
• Slice of Red Delicious apple
• Slice of Granny Smith apple

Instructions:

1. Combine Fall Flavors Infusion and club soda in a highball glass full of ice
2. Stir briefly
3. Garnish with both apple slices

This Christmas, let Everclear be your versatile holiday helper. The creative uses are endless!

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. Everclear® Grain Alcohol is 75.5%-95% Alc./Vol. (120-190 Proof), ©2023 Luxco®, Inc., St. Louis, MO.

The post 5 Creative Uses for Everclear This Holiday Season appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Infused pre-rolls are shaping today’s cannabis retail market as consumers gravitate toward stronger, more flavorful options. In California, it’s reported that from December 2024 through February 2025, cannabis sales reached about $1.1 billion, with infused prerolls accounting for 66.3% of all pre-roll sales totaling $178.1 million.

This surge in demand has also exposed a major production gap. Many manufacturers still finish infused pre-rolls by hand, brushing on oil and applying kief in labor-intensive batches that slow output and introduce quality issues. AV2, a California-based engineering company, set out to solve that problem.

The company’s flagship innovation, the AV2 Roller, is the first automation system built specifically for coating and infusion in cannabis production. The AV2 Roller replaces manual finishing work with precise, repeatable automation, helping brands produce faster, cleaner and more uniform products.

Engineering Built for Cannabis

AV2 was founded with a clear purpose: to solve the operational headaches holding cannabis producers back. The founders saw manufacturers working with repurposed machinery that couldn’t keep pace with demand or compliance standards. Drawing on industrial engineering expertise, they began designing purpose-built systems that deliver the precision, reliability and scalability modern cannabis manufacturing requires.

Unlike many systems that borrow from food or pharmaceutical machinery, AV2’s equipment is designed from the ground up for cannabis. Built from industrial-grade components, the AV2 Roller handles sticky, resin-rich materials without clogging or downtime. Every function, from temperature control to coating thickness, is calibrated to how cannabis actually behaves. This is cannabis machinery in the truest sense: professional-grade, purpose-built and engineered to meet the industry’s evolving demands for consistency and scalability.

Elevating Cannabis Production

At its core, the AV2 Roller automates one of the most labor-intensive steps in the production of infused pre-roll. The system applies cannabis oil or food-safe adhesive evenly across cones, straights, or blunts, creating a perfectly uniform surface for kief or other coatings.

The entire process takes about 2.5 seconds per pre-roll, producing 4,500 – 7,000 units per hour, depending on operator and speed. By comparison, a manual finishing team might produce one-tenth of that volume. The difference is more than speed: it’s accuracy. The AV2 Roller eliminates uneven application, wasted material and batch-to-batch variability.

Key Benefits for Cannabis Manufacturers

• Labor Cost Reduction: Each AV2 Roller replaces large manual finishing crews. With just two employees per system, manufacturers can reallocate skilled staff to product development or packaging, reducing overhead and streamlining operations.

• Increased Output and Capacity: Running at high speed, the machine completes 4500 – 7,000 pre-rolls an hour (again, depending on the operator and speed), keeping production ahead of sales growth. That efficiency gives brands room to scale without expanding facilities or staff.

• Reduced Variability: Precision coating ensures each pre-roll receives the same amount of oil or adhesive. The result is improved product quality, better burn performance and fewer rejected units—key advantages in a market built on reliability.

• Infinite Scalability: With a compact footprint and accessible pricing, the AV2 Roller allows operators to expand at their own pace. Adding additional systems multiplies capacity without requiring major capital investment or facility redesign.

The machine was designed to meet the strict regulatory environment unique to cannabis manufacturing. AV2 engineered the AV2 Roller to help producers stay compliant while maintaining speed and accuracy.

AV2 approaches its work as an engineering partner, not a vendor. Each installation begins with a consultation to understand the client’s specific workflow and product mix. The company provides complete training, on-site setup and ongoing service to ensure each system continues to perform as intended.

That partnership approach reflects AV2’s philosophy: long-term collaboration over one-time sales. The goal is to build equipment that scales with a customer’s growth, whether that’s a boutique producer with a single facility or a multi-state operator managing a network of sites.

AV2 positions itself as the connection point between industrial-grade engineering and cannabis culture. The company combines the precision of advanced manufacturing with a deep respect for the craft and community that built the industry. Its machines bring global production standards to cannabis without sacrificing the creativity that defines the space.

Setting the New Standard for a Rapidly Evolving Market

The cannabis landscape is changing faster than ever. New products, new regulations and new consumer expectations are reshaping how companies produce and compete. The AV2 Roller helps manufacturers meet that change head-on. It provides the precision, reliability and throughput necessary to succeed in an increasingly professionalized market.

AV2’s message is simple: innovation is no longer optional. Brands that invest in automation built for cannabis, not just adapted from other industries, are the ones that will thrive.

The AV2 Roller proves that automation can align perfectly with cannabis culture while delivering measurable business results. For producers seeking real efficiency, scalability and a strong ROI, it’s a solution built for today and ready for what comes next.

The post The AV2 Roller Brings Industrial Precision to Infused Pre-Rolls appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude… and the annual tradition of keeping your cool when Uncle Arthur brings up politics before dessert. Between dodging Aunt Linda’s “helpful” remarks about your life choices and enduring your cousin’s 17-minute explanation of their job, it’s no wonder so many people approach the holiday with a mix of excitement and existential dread. But there is another way: discreet cannabis products.

Whether it’s a low-dose gummy to keep you zen while Grandma critiques your mashed potatoes or a discreet dab to make your third helping of pumpkin pie even more delicious, we could all use a little extra holiday support. And after the last election cycle, we might all need the calming effects of weed to help us deal with our families. And let’s not forget about how anxiety-inducing holiday travel can be: flight delays, big crowds and lots of people in a hurry. Even if you’re not a stoner or regular cannabis user, you may be popping some edibles when the stress of traveling during the holidays hits. And then there are the folks out there meeting new people for the first time—like your boyfriend’s extended family. It’s exciting and dreadful all at the same time. With the help of the right discreet cannabis products, your holidays can be less stressful and more fun. Yes, please.

So, with that said, let’s explore how discreet dosing with these cannabis products can help you keep your sanity, unwind and enjoy the holidays with the whole family.

Under-The-Radar Cannabis Picks

KANHA Minis

KANHA Minis are shareable, pocket-sized chocolates that utilize minor cannabinoids and terpenes to deliver fast, targeted effects. Whether you need energy for carving the turkey, a social boost for mingling with relatives, or a chill moment to survive your crazy uncle’s usual political rant, these are sure to help. Compact, delicious and easy to share, KANHA Minis make navigating the holiday chaos a little sweeter.

High-Not

Thanksgiving is a time for indulgence—and sometimes that means overdoing it, even with cannabis. Enter High-Not, the first “THC Recovery Shot,” designed to help you quickly curb the effects of cannabis and eliminate the groggy “hangover” feeling that can linger after edibles. Developed with a licensed compounding pharmacist, High-Not combines terpenes, L-theanine, black pepper extract, limonene and electrolytes to safely and effectively ease your high.

Tyson 2.0 Modül Dok Deluxe Travel Set

If you need an extra one-two hit this holiday season, Mike Tyson’s latest partnership with Stündenglass might help you win the fight. This sleek, all-in-one handheld device can be used with dry flower and concentrates thanks to its advanced digital heating system that reaches the desired temperature in just 15 seconds. Housed in a rugged, drop-resistant case in Tyson’s signature red, the device features bold tiger graphics and connects seamlessly to the Stündenglass Gravity Hookah for ultimate versatility. With a 2.4″ color display, intuitive controls, and customizable sessions, this cutting-edge smoking tech delivers a knockout experience for cannabis lovers.

Cranberry OG by Timeless

If you need a deliciously discreet vape option for your cousin walk, grab your penjamin that’s loaded with the Cranberry OG cart by Timeless Vapes. Flavors of fresh citrus, spice and tart cranberry come from terpenes like limonene, beta-caryophyllene and alpha-pinene and deliver an uplifting and euphoric high.

Code Red Eye Drops

Thanksgiving may bring plenty of joy, but between early-morning cooking marathons, late-night family games and the annual cousin walk, your eyes can end up looking as tired as you feel. That’s where Code Red Eye Drops come in. Designed to tackle both redness and dryness fast, these eye drops are formulated specifically for the cannabis user. Get quick relief before family photos or while catching up with that aunt who insists on intense eye contact.

A Modern Twist on Traditional Cheer

If some of the crowd is 420-friendly or perhaps curious about cannabis now that it’s becoming more mainstream, these discreet products could make for good conversation starters, too. Whether you’re looking to spark creativity in the kitchen, mellow out during family gatherings, or enjoy a stress-free Black Friday, these discreet cannabis products will help you enjoy a modern twist on traditional holiday cheer this Thanksgiving.

The post The Discreet Stoner’s Guide to Thanksgiving appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Every grower hates this moment. You’ve done the work in the grow, everything’s dialed, and then somewhere between the curing process and the jar being opened by the customer, the nose softens, color fades, and the scale trends the wrong way. Post-harvest is where great flower can quietly lose its edge – and with it, valuable weight and terpenes that drive aroma, potency, and price integrity.

For cannabis cultivators, this phase represents a critical and costly challenge. Without proper atmosphere control during the cure, moisture escapes, leading to overall weight loss. At the same time, volatile terpene compounds degrade quickly without the right barriers and anti-absorption technology, diminishing the final product’s flavor and entourage profile.

Drying and curing are critical and costly for cannabis cultivators. Lack of atmospheric control causes weight loss, while inadequate barriers lead to rapid terpene degradation, harming flavor and entourage.

Innovation Driven by Industry Needs

Calyx Containers, long known for its packaging innovations, built Calyx Cure to solve these problems at the source. The flat-bottom curing pouch stabilizes humidity and oxygen, resists terpene absorption, limits UV rays, and reduces static so trichomes stay on the bud instead of the bag.

The Science of a Better Cure

In partnership with the Cannabis Research Coalition, Calyx Cure was tested in a 60/60 environment without active humidification. The results were striking: Calyx Cure maintained a tighter, higher water-activity band than commodity bags, leading to better weight outcomes while retaining a higher amount of key monoterpenes like limonene compared to competitive products as well as the standard turkey bags.

That environment stability translated into practical advantages: more repeatable cures, less dry-down, and a nose that holds longer on the shelf. The study also showed a consistent, predictable relationship between moisture content and water activity under Calyx conditions – simplifying QC workflows and reducing variability.

The Nine Layers of Innovation

Each layer of the Calyx Cure pouch performs a precise role in protecting product integrity:

• Layer 9: A rugged outer shell that resists punctures and warehouse abrasion.
  
• Layer 8: UV filtration that shields cannabinoids and color like sunglasses for your flower.
  
• Layer 7: Reinforced micro-strands for puncture resistance against stems and corners.
  
• Layer 6: A dense oxygen barrier that slows oxidation and preserves potency.
  
• Layer 5: A modified-atmosphere membrane that self-balances CO₂ and O₂ for ideal cure conditions.
  
• Layer 4: Moisture-control tech that keeps humidity in the sweet spot – no extra packs required.
  
• Layer 3: Terpene-lock barrier that prevents aromatic oils from escaping during storage or transit.
  
• Layer 2: Anti-static discharge protection that keeps trichomes on the flower, not stuck to the film.
  
• Layer 1: Food-safe contact layer that’s non-leaching, neutral, and taste-free.
  

Together, these layers form a self-regulating microclimate that protects your crop through every stage of post-harvest handling.

Results That Show Up Where It Matters

Operators notice the benefits immediately. Weight stays closer to target, aroma carries from seal to sale, maintaining terp-forward character and supporting premium pricing for the maximum amount of product. The pouch stands open for quick loading, resists pallet rub, and locks out odor and light – built for real cultivation environments, not just lab conditions.

Economics That Add Up

The math is simple: retain more weight in cure, have more weight to sell. Even a 2–3% improvement in retained moisture multiplied by your wholesale dollars per gram can translate into significant annual gains. Add the value of terpene retention and longer shelf life, and Calyx Cure often pays for itself within just a few turns.

Your Partner in Cultivation

As markets tighten and regulations shift, the clearest lever for success remains the flower itself – and how it finishes. The last container a bud touches can protect that finish or erode it. Calyx Cure is built to protect it – turning a vulnerable post-harvest phase into a controlled, repeatable advantage.

The post Calyx Cure Solves Critical Post-Harvest Problems and Helps Growers Finish Strong appeared first on Cannabis Now.

The Business of Cannabis: New York Summit took place earlier this month on November 6 at the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg, New York. The crowd was composed of dispensary owners, growers, legal experts, marketing professionals, educators and brand leaders. The historic brick-walled space overlooking the East River was filled with conversation, cautious optimism, and shared curiosity about what the next chapter of New York’s legal cannabis market might bring.

The energy in the room was shaped by the industry’s complex moment. New York’s cannabis market has expanded rapidly since legalization, but the state’s industry has also been confronted with major challenges, including delayed licensing and confusion within the Office of Cannabis Management. For many entrepreneurs and advocates who gathered at the summit, the recent election of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani was viewed as the biggest variable in what might come next.

The Cannabis-Friendly Mayor

During a candidate debate, Mamdani was asked, “Have you ever purchased anything in a cannabis shop, and what did you buy?”

“I have, I have purchased marijuana at a legal cannabis shop,” Mamdani replied with a chuckle.

Laughter was heard from the audience at the debate, but the comment was received differently within the cannabis industry. Mamdani’s admission was regarded as more than a humorous moment; it was seen as a rare display of candor by an elected official when addressing cannabis. His words were quickly circulated across industry circles and social media feeds, prompting discussions about the type of administration he might lead and how open he might be to engaging with those who have built the city’s legal market from the ground up.

In the days following the election, curiosity was replaced by a mix of excitement and anxiety. Operators, brand founders and policy advocates questioned whether the new mayor might signal a more collaborative approach to regulation and enforcement.

The Mamdani Effect

When Mamdani’s potential impact on the New York market was discussed, CuraLeaf’s executive vice president and regional leader Robert Sciarrone offered his view. “It’s too early to tell in New York, to see what the new mayor is going to do here,” Sciarrone said. “I’m just happy to hear that he visited a shop in New York during the debates.”

Sciarrone’s remarks were met with nods and agreement from attendees. For many, the comment served as a reminder that even small signs of understanding from elected officials carry importance. A mayor who has stepped inside a licensed cannabis store, observed its operations, and spoken with its staff may have developed a deeper appreciation for the work behind compliance and community impact.

Rather than focusing on uncertainty, Sciarrone encouraged the community to take initiative and advocate whenever possible. “Like any regime change, everybody is on a menu for a hot topic for them to bite down on. It’s our responsibility as operators in the state to get out in front of it and have conversations with Mamdani and make sure he understands that we are fighting for our business. All we can do is hope he listens. I can’t predict what’s going to happen, but all I know is we have to talk about it or else…we’re on a menu. We’ve to get out there with urgency and have a good conversation.”

Taking Action

His call to action was echoed throughout the event. In smaller breakout sessions and hallway discussions, strategies were developed. Some participants concentrated on job creation, SKU analysis and tax revenue, while others discussed strategies for engagement with the Office of Cannabis Management. Many operators spoke about the need to humanize their stories so that the mayor and his team could better understand that behind every dispensary counter and cultivation license are individuals building legitimate businesses after years of prohibition. Above all, concern was expressed about the hemp market and the impact of illegal markets on cannabis. The event took place just days ahead of President Trump’s signing of the new federal budget bill, which bans hemp-derived THC and will surely bring additional challenges for those working in the hemp consumables space.

The Wythe’s atmosphere was described as a crossroads between celebration and vigilance. Attendees congratulated one another for surviving the turbulence of recent years but repeatedly returned to a shared theme: the urgent need for city and state cannabis operators in New York to form a cohesive coalition. The absence of such a coalition within the state was described as one of the most harmful issues facing the market today, hindering collaboration and collective political negotiation. A sense prevailed that New York’s cannabis market might either fragment or flourish depending on its engagement with new political leadership.

Collaboration Between Competitors

As the day concluded, sunlight streamed through the tall industrial windows, and attention shifted toward next steps. Contact information was exchanged, working groups were organized, and commitments were made to attend future events such as the upcoming MJBizCon in Las Vegas.

For those in attendance of the Business of Cannabis event, the takeaway was clear: New York’s cannabis industry cannot wait for clarity from above. Messaging must be created that both challenges and educates. The future of the market will depend not only on new regulations, but also on relationships, persistence and the willingness to continue discussions even when outcomes remain uncertain.

The post Event Recap: Business of Cannabis NY 2025 appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Even though the American cannabis industry became a multi-billion-dollar industry years ago, a decent number of insurance companies are still hesitant to work with cannabis businesses. Whether it’s due to the federally prohibited status surrounding cannabis or certain internal policies among the larger insurance providers that dictate which risks will be insured, the process of finding a quality and reliable insurance provider for licensed cannabis businesses can be quite arduous.   

Especially with the multimillion-dollar cultivation and manufacturing operation setups and subsequent wholesale transactions that are equally lucrative and costly, having dedicated and thorough insurance policies in place is now beyond necessity.       

Luckily for those cannabis businesses, Guardians of Ganja is a top-tier insurance agency with a memorable name whose operations and robust policies are created and tailored specifically to the very necessary and precise requirements of those cannabis businesses.   

“One of the best things about cannabis is its ability to free your mind from the constraints of life,” says Jason Ascheman, co-owner of the agency solely focused on the cannabis industry. “After some research, we found the industry was grossly underserved. Guardians of Ganja started with the desire to find something no one else was doing, something that was equally unique, challenging and something that we wholeheartedly believe in.” 

The agency’s primary location of Billings, Montana, is certainly a preferable one from both a cannabis and agricultural standpoint. The state legalized adult-use cannabis back in 2020 (for a second time) and has had a vibrant adult-use market for well over 3 years, surpassing $1 billion in total sales at the end of 2024. Similarly, the state’s agricultural industry is nothing short of massive, being a major producer of cattle and several varieties of wheat.   

A Specialty Cannabis Insurance Company 

Prior to entering the insurance industry, Guardians of Ganja’s second co-owner, Dalton Knutson, held a variety of interesting and honorable positions, including everything from selling solar panels to bravely serving as a firefighter. Unfortunately, his diagnosis of Crohn’s Disease from his childhood worsened, and after major surgery, he had to resign from his role as a firefighter.    

“But it was after this that my belief in cannabis became stronger, the more I experimented with different treatment methods,” Knutson says. “It became something I wholeheartedly believed in and supported.” 

Knutson soon teamed up with Ascheman, who has over 8 years of experience in the insurance industry. While they both share a passion for the plant, Ascheman’s hands-on insurance experience combined with Knutson’s entrepreneurial and service-oriented nature gave them an edge. “We both realized the market was underserved,” Knutson explains, expressing how they truly have a desire to help cannabis-related companies protect what they have built.  

With the clever tagline of “Covering Your Grass for a Greener Tomorrow”, the services offered by Guardians of Ganja include policies that have been uniquely designed for every different plant-touching sector of the cannabis industry, along with ancillary businesses—everything from cultivation to manufacturing to retail to vital testing labs, even Lessors Risk policies for landlords with cannabis exposures. From the intricacies and detailed coverage options provided by their policies, it’s clear that the team at Guardians of Ganja has several years of experience working directly in this nascent yet heavily regulated industry. 

With liability coverages alone, so many common circumstances and situations that arise in compliant cannabis operations would be insured. A full spectrum of services is offered, from general liability to product liability and the very crucial professional liability.  

What’s Covered by Guardians of Ganja 

Some other very worthwhile sectors of successful cannabis operations covered through Guardian of Ganja’s policies are product deliveries of all varieties, as well as the transportation vehicles themselves. All types of deliveries, from individual home deliveries to large-scale deliveries, from cultivation facilities to dispensaries. Given how heavily monitored and documented every single cannabis delivery is via platforms like METRC by state regulators, regardless of size, the Guardians of Ganja team ensures that every element of the delivery process is diligently insured is of utmost importance.     

Even crop insurance—a vital safeguard that protects farmers’ investments from unexpected disasters—is available through Guardians of Ganja. Every single stage in the cultivation process is covered, from vegetation and harvest to the pivotal drying and curing stages.     

“We pride ourselves in creating personal connections and relationships with our clients to not only be their agent, but a trusted confidant and partner that has their best interest at heart,” Knutson says with pride.  

As the American cannabis industry evolves and expands at a more rapid pace than just about any other industry, the experienced team at Guardians of Ganja is committed to staying up to date on all those constant changes.   

“Along with this, we are continuously educating ourselves on the intricacies of the industry to ensure our recommendations are well-informed and knowledge-based. It’s our belief that putting the needs of the clients over anything else is always a win in the end,” Knutson explains. “To sum things up, GOG means so much more than just insurance. It’s real people with real experiences with cannabis that want to genuinely make a difference both personally and business-wise.” 

The post Guardians of Ganja: The Cannabis Insurance Company Covering Your Grass  appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Tired of feeling like getting a handle on your cannabis company’s finances is the equivalent of climbing Mt. Everest? You’re not alone. Due to a complex array of factors, the challenges of keeping your books balanced, taxes filed and timely questions answered can often be quite substantial. That’s where InTrack CFO can make a mountain of difference with tailored solutions for all types of cannabis businesses.

Think of InTrack like a ski-lift you can safely ride instead of attempting to trek up any treacherous slopes on your own. Combining convenience and consistency with readily available expert advice, InTrack CFO is here to help turn your stress into peace of mind.

Meet The Experts

Operating a successful cannabis business comes with the challenge of trying to learn the ropes in what can feel like a thousand separate fields.

Depending on the focus of your company, that may include required expertise in everything from botany to security systems. Various businesses can also require a deep knowledge of chemistry, cutting-edge technologies, farming equipment, transportation systems and a host of other vital subjects.

That’s why InTrack is staffed by experts familiar with cannabis-specific accounting needs like 280E tax mitigation as well as matters of cannabis compliance, tax strategy and business scaling solutions. In contrast to general CPAs, InTrack’s deep focus on the cannabis industry means you’ll never be more than a phone call away from helpful answers your urgent, cannabis-specific accounting questions.

Rather than adding the headache of having to master the various elements of effective financial upkeep to your to-dos, scratch it off the list by signing up for InTrack CFO’s suite of services. Services include accurate tax calculations and up-to-date bookkeeping—all provided by responsive, reliable accountants who have your back. Plus, their clients’ books are always audit-ready, investor-ready, and lender-ready, meaning no scrambling and no surprises.

Take comfort knowing InTrackCFO’s boutique CPA and CFO advisory firm exclusively serves clients from the cannabis sector. This isn’t their side job or a bonus hustle—they’re proud to specialize exclusively in cannabis finance.

Cracking The Code

InTrackCFO knows critical elements of the IRS code such as 280E inside and out and is prepared to pursue legal reductions in tax burdens for their clients. Along the way, you’ll find that their friendly team is always fast to respond and eager to explain financial concepts to ensure you never feel lost or left behind. Have a question? Just call!

“There are a lot of firms out there that might advertise these services, yet they ultimately let folks down,” InTrack CPA Cameron McKenney acknowledges. “At InTrack, we have a proven track record of helping operators to save millions in taxes through smart structuring and planning.”

What does peace of mind look like? It starts with InTrack’s qualified team producing investor- and audit-ready books every month, giving operators the financial clarity needed for a thriving, sustainable future. It also includes their responsive staff of experts who understand urgent answers to crucial queries can’t wait. Much of InTrack’s model stems from their dedication to being perceived by clients as long-term partners—an outsourced CFO, so to speak—rather than just a service provider.

In fact, many of their current clients initially came to them after suffering through frustrating experiences with unresponsive or inexperienced accountants.

“Many people come to us with books that need to be cleaned and fixed—multiple years’ worth of stuff— taxes need to be refiled, it’s a mess,” McKenney added.

While it’s always an unfortunate situation to endure, InTrack CFO has a sterling track record of helping clients to tidy up messy books, fix past mistakes, and replace broken systems with streamlined, effective solutions.

“Thanks to our deep focus on the industry and experience working specifically with cannabis operators, we know how to help, whether it’s 280E tax mitigation, cannabis specific compliance stuff, tax strategy, or scaling the business,” McKenney confirmed.

InTrack’s goal is simple: to provide clients with frictionless financial upkeep that makes things feel manageable, not overwhelming.

Ready to see how easy it can be? Visit intrackcfo.com today and experience the bliss of knowing your businesses can go back to focusing on what it does best.

The post InTrack CFO Delivers Trusted Financial Services for Cannabis Businesses appeared first on Cannabis Now.

UFC heavyweight contender Curtis “Razor” Blaydes is a major player in the world of mixed martial arts. He’s what you get when you combine the raw strength of an athlete with the strategy of a chess player. Blaydes is recognized across the sport for his formidable wrestling and explosive takedowns. As he navigates the intense physical demands and injury risks inherent in elite MMA, Blaydes is finding that recovery isn’t just about taking a break, it’s also a secret weapon that combats the risk of injury, enhances performance, and increases the potential for overall athletic progress.

Strategic Approaches to Cannabis Recovery

In his quest for the Holy Grail of peak performance and career longevity, Blaydes is pioneering state-of-the-art recovery methods through continuous improvement and a disciplined post-training regimen. Blaydes is not alone. Performance-tuning the recovery process is now an essential component of wellness as athletes balance healing, pain management, and stress reduction. The cornerstone of Blaydes’ recovery program is the AirVape Legacy PRO 2, a bespoke combustion-free experience that transforms the therapeutic benefits of cannabis.

“I’m always looking for ways to recover smarter,” Blaydes says. “The AirVape Legacy PRO 2 is clean, fast, and helps me wind down the right way.”

According to AirVape co-owner Gary Szilagyi, “what sealed the [partnership] was the shared philosophy: we both believe cannabis can be used intentionally for recovery, mental clarity, and focus, not just recreation. It felt like a natural fit: his discipline and story amplified our vision, and our technology elevated his routine.”

The Legacy PRO 2 is AirVape’s next evolution of their original award-winning Legacy PRO dry herb vaporizer. And the love for this device runs deep. As AirVape’s first user-centered upgrade, it reflects direct input from the brand’s dedicated following—a community that’s helped cement its place among the top names in vaporization. As the company website states, they’re “taking everything users loved about the original Legacy Pro and enhancing it with smarter design, refined aesthetics, and user-driven upgrades.”

If you, like Blaydes, are interested in joining the AirVape community and utilizing cannabis as part of your health and wellness routine, then you’ve found the right company. Their entire ethos is centered on promoting wellness through innovation. Founder Roland Szegi, a former athlete, envisioned transforming the portable vaporizer landscape. In the sequel to the original AirVape Legacy, he released a device that captured high performance, elegance, and mindfulness.

Setting a New Gold Standard

The AirVape Legacy PRO 2 is a sleek, ergonomic device that fits naturally in the palm of your hand. Designed for modern wellness seekers, it’s the cornerstone of a discreet ritual—an elegant piece of technology that hides in plain sight while subtly masking the aroma of the herbs within.

Wrapped in hand-applied cork fabric with 24k gold flakes over a gunmetal frame, the vape balances modern design with artisanal detail—no two devices are exactly alike. The gold freckles upon the cork detailing are an homage to AirVape’s dedication to quality materials that produce a session’s luxury experience. Engraved into the leather is its name, bordered with delicate stitching.

While the cork is aesthetically pleasing, it also functions to insulate the device’s heat and to maintain temperature precision. While the top vaporization devices on the market are quick to heat up within 30-40 seconds, the Legacy PRO 2 heats up in just 15 seconds. The hybrid heating methodology, gold-plated filters, detailing, and the glass airpath level up the original Legacy design. By integrating both conduction and convection, the device achieves true hybrid heating—a rare innovation that sets it apart from competitors.

Blaydes had already been using vaporizers as part of his recovery routine, but when he tried the Legacy Pro, he immediately appreciated the design, build quality, and clean vapor experience. The glass is also easy to maintain, with a replaceable battery to enhance the lifespan of the device. The user’s ability to precisely adjust the temperature puts control back into the user’s hands to achieve efficient and even heating of the chamber. You can modify the temperature per strain and terpene profile for the best flavor and extend session time through temperature modulation.

Unparalleled Functionality

AirVape stood out to Blaydes because of his open advocacy for innovative, cleaner recovery methods. That innovation, The Legacy PRO 2, arrives assembled and ready to charge with a universally compatible USB-C port. To turn the device on, click the button three times. The device either times down or shuts down with clicking the button three times. This Legacy PRO 2 provides a visual display that is used to turn the temperature up and down, adjust session length, gauge battery life, and to say goodbye with a “ciao ” and a smile when turned off.

This dual-use vape can hold flower or concentrate, adding convenience to a busy lifestyle. The gold-plated chamber isn’t just for looks— the chamber is interchangeable and easy to replace. It is an innovation on traditional heating devices with gold, a metal that’s traditionally been in medical devices, thanks to its stable characteristics. We’re impressed by how AirVape seamlessly blends form and function to create a device that isn’t just aesthetically pleasing but effective at what it’s designed to do.

The Legacy PRO 2 also comes with two important accessories. First, there’s a loading tool that presses flower from the grinder into a compact puck that’s easy to take in and out of the device, making cleanup easy. Secondly, there’s a glass piece, reminiscent of the top of a water pipe, that helps with cooling the vapor further when playing with higher temperatures and wax. It’s easier to customize and pursue hybrid sessions by incorporating flower and sugar at the same time. The device’s innovations are born from real challenges compiled from AirVape’s dedicated fan base, making this the clean and innovative design Blaydes relies on.

Rethinking The Recovery Paradigm

Together, Blaydes and Air Vape are pushing cannabis and sports with their willingness to educate other athletes about alternatives to traditional painkillers. “What’s really striking is how authentic [Blades’] involvement is,” describes Szilagyi. “He’s not just endorsing a product; he’s sharing his own recovery journey.” Blaydes is championing the paradigm shift in athletic recovery. Acceptance of cannabis in sport is growing as regulations around flower use continue to vary.

Vaporization devices like the AirVape PRO 2 play a vital role in supporting athletic wellness and performance. They offer an opportunity for all of us to channel our inner Blaydes as we strive for peak potential.

The post AirVape’s Legacy PRO 2: This Portable Luxury Vaporizer Is Innovating Cannabis Recovery appeared first on Cannabis Now.

The explosive growth of the infused food and beverage market is proof that the cannabis industry is evolving beyond traditional consumption methods. But creating a great-tasting, reliable cannabis beverage in what’s becoming a competitive category can be a complex challenge. How do you ensure that every single sip delivers the exact same experience, with a predictable onset and a pleasant, consistent flavor? It’s a complex puzzle that few have managed to solve, but it’s one that Sōrse Technology has built its reputation on mastering.

As a leading hemp and terpene emulsion formulator, supplier and compliance lab, Sōrse is the secret ingredient behind some of the most popular cannabis drinks on the market today. They partner with food, beverage and topical manufacturers to take the guesswork out of product development, ensuring scientifically stable infusions that stand the test of time.

The Spark of an Idea

Sōrse Technology’s journey began with a simple desire: to make the edible and drinking cannabis experience better and safer. The founders were frustrated with inconsistent dosing and unreliable results that left consumers wondering when—or if—the effects would kick in. They wanted to create a product with near-perfect dosing and a reliable “off ramp” so people could enjoy a predictable experience without any unwanted surprises.

The “a-ha” moment came with their first product, Happy Apple, a great-tasting beverage that delivered a reliable experience and quickly became the best-selling beverage in Washington State. The team realized that the combination of creating a stable cannabis emulsion as well as a great taste was no small feat. Those two things combined were the secret sauce, a revelation that led them to focus their business on selling their proprietary Sōrse emulsion and leaning into the food science aspect of the industry.

A World-Class Team Behind Every Sip

Sōrse is more than an ingredient provider; they’re a full-scale production partner. Their team is made up of food scientists, CPG specialists and researchers from around the globe with over 200 years of combined experience. This deep bench of expertise includes some of the most respected names in the industry: Chief Science Officer Scott Riefler, a chemist with four decades of experience, and EVP of Research Michael Flemmens, whose work includes a patented cancer treatment and an FDA-approved drug filing.

It’s this depth of in-house expertise that sets Sōrse apart. Their labs don’t just formulate ingredients—they run taste tests and long-term studies on the finished product, testing stability over an entire year and across a range of temperatures. The result is a level of reliability and quality that most competitors can’t match.

This extra level of care and commitment helps brands deliver products that consumers can trust—accurately dosed and safe to enjoy. As Sōrse puts it, their mission is simple: The dose on the can should be the dose the consumer actually experiences. Through comprehensive testing, they ensure the final product remains stable over time, so every sip faithfully matches what the label promises, even as much as a year later.

It’s this technology that enables major brands like CANN, Wynk, and a major American brewery to create wildly popular low-dose beverages. In fact, four of the top ten beverages on Cannabis Now’s list of best summer THC drinks are powered by Sōrse. But what truly sets the company apart is its focus on the science of taste. Many labs can emulsify Delta-9 beverages, but it takes a true food science specialist to engineer one that actually tastes good.

Partner with Sōrse for Consistent Cannabis Beverages

For large national and international beverage brands, the ability to create a consistent, scalable and delicious infused product is a game-changer. Sōrse helps these brands future-proof their products and scale production with ease. They even offer a mobile run production unit, which supports production at any licensed facility by converting a raw ingredient into a custom emulsion on-site. This commitment to comprehensive service positions Sōrse not just as a supplier, but as a true partner in bringing innovative beverages to life.

Whether it’s a water-soluble Hemp THC or a full-blown cannabis product, Sōrse’s lab and expertise ensure consistency and compliance. In a market where a product’s potency can be affected by everything from ingredients to packaging, they provide the testing and the knowledge to prove a product’s stability over time. For brands looking to enter the cannabis space or expand their current offerings, the choice is clear. The single most important takeaway from Sōrse is this: If you want to create a beverage or product where every sip matches the label on the can, get powered by SōRSE and partner with them for your cannabis emulsions and lab-backed data. With Sōrse powering your product, you can deliver a functional, delicious and reliable experience while focusing on what you do best—creating tasty experiences that consumers truly love.

The post How Sōrse Technology Is Quietly Powering the Cannabis Beverage Boom appeared first on Cannabis Now.

The world of cannabis seeds has transformed faster in the last decade than in the previous century. What began as an unpredictable plant found in remote valleys is now a precision-engineered product bred for potency, flavor and climate resilience. In 2025, growers are seeing the most advanced genetics yet, with brands like Hypno Seeds leading the charge toward smarter, stronger and faster-flowering plants. Understanding how we arrived at this point helps predict what the next generation of cannabis seeds will look like.

From Landrace Roots to Designer Genetics

Early cannabis cultivation relied on landrace varieties. Afghani, Thai, and Colombian Gold each adapted to its native environment. These strains carried unique aromas and effects, but they were unstable. Growers had to navigate unpredictable male-to-female ratios, lengthy flowering times and inconsistent yields.

Then came hybridization. Breeders began crossing regional strains to create new profiles with higher THC levels and shorter cycles. This was the first leap toward modern cannabis seeds—seeds bred with purpose rather than chance.

Feminized Seeds: Ending the Guesswork

The early 2000s marked a turning point with the introduction of feminized seeds. Instead of gambling on which plants would produce flowers, growers could finally plant with confidence. Feminization ensured nearly all plants were female, saving space, nutrients and time.

Today, high-quality feminized genetics are stable, potent and rich in terpenes. They represent a balance of efficiency and craftsmanship that appeals to both hobbyists and large-scale cultivators. Feminized seeds have become the global standard for reliable harvests.

Autoflower Seeds: The Speed Revolution

Next came another major breakthrough: autoflower seeds. Derived from the resilient Cannabis ruderalis species, autoflowers flip the traditional photoperiod rule—they bloom automatically after a set number of weeks, regardless of light cycles.

For growers seeking quick, stealthy, or multiple annual harvests, autoflowers were game changers. Early generations sacrificed potency for speed, but that era is long gone. Modern autoflowers, such as those from Hypno Seeds, regularly reach 25–30% THC and match the flavor and resin output of top photoperiods.

Autoflower genetics have made cultivation accessible to everyone, turning balconies and backyards into micro-grow rooms.

The Evolution of Cannabis Strains: 1980–2026

To appreciate how far cannabis breeding has come, and where it’s heading, here’s a snapshot of its evolution.

Era	Typical Genetics	THC Range	Growth Cycle	Breeding Focus	Example Strain
1980s–1990s	Landraces, early hybrids	5–15 %	14–16 weeks	Outdoor stability, survival	Northern Lights
2000s	Early feminized × photoperiod hybrids	15–20 %	10–12 weeks	Flavor + yield	White Widow
2010s	Rise of autoflowers and U.S. hybrids	18–25 %	8–10 weeks	Indoor performance	Amnesia Haze Auto
2020–2025	Modern polyhybrids / boutique crosses	25–35 %	8–9 weeks	Potency + terpene depth	Glitter Bomb
Predicted 2026	Climate-adaptive genetics	30–38 %	7–8 weeks	Smart breeding & resilience	Next-gen Genomics line

The table shows how cannabis evolved from rustic genetics to laboratory precision. By 2026, breeders will likely focus on AI-assisted selection, climate-tuned plants, and hyper-stable terpene expression, a clear reflection of how fast the science is moving.

2026 Predictions: Smart Seeds and Functional Terpenes

The next wave of innovation won’t just chase higher THC; it will optimize entire plant systems. Breeders are already experimenting with data-driven selection and predictive modeling to create genetics that adapt to temperature swings, water scarcity and nutrient variability.

Expect to see “smart seeds” with digital lineage tracking and traits chosen for regional performance: cool-climate phenotypes for northern growers, heat-resistant cultivars for southern states.

Terpenes will also take center stage. Instead of breeding only for taste, 2026 strains may be tuned for purpose: uplifting limonene profiles for focus, or myrcene-dominant hybrids for deep rest.

Modern Icons: The Rise of Glitter Bomb

Few strains capture the spirit of this new era like Glitter Bomb seeds. This powerhouse combines exotic parentage with 30% THC potential and dazzling resin production—proof that art and science can coexist in a single plant. Its shimmering trichome coverage, explosive aroma and balanced effects mark a pinnacle of modern breeding.

For breeders such as Hypno Seeds, strains like Glitter Bomb aren’t just products. Rather, they’re milestones in an ongoing evolution toward perfection.

The Takeaway

Cannabis breeding has moved from mystery to mastery. Landrace strains laid the foundation; feminized seeds brought control; and autoflowers brought speed. Now, a new generation of smart, data-driven genetics is redefining what’s possible.

For growers, the message is simple: Understanding the past gives you the power to choose your future harvest. The evolution of cannabis seeds isn’t slowing down—it’s accelerating—and 2026 may be the most innovative year yet.

The post From Landraces to Lab Legends: The Evolution of Cannabis Seeds appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Led by former Benzinga executives, the exclusive IgniteIt cannabis conference is a new kind of cannabis networking event. At its core, IgniteIt is a media and events platform built around emerging markets for investors, executives, advocates and enthusiasts in the cannabis space.

The most recent IgniteIt conference took place earlier this month in Anaheim, California, on Oct. 8 at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Anaheim Garden Grove. The Anaheim gathering is considered one of IgniteIt’s “Spotlight” events, where according to IgniteIt CEO Patrick Lane, “We have the capacity to be granularly focused on topics and partnership opportunities specific to a given market, i.e. California.”

The California Market Spotlight was IgniteIt’s third event in SoCal in the last two years, and according to Lane, it was the largest and most strategic to date. “I’ve collected feedback from many of our attendees on how hard-hitting and real our agenda topics were and how valuable the networking ended up being for deals that have already closed as a result of meetings at our conference.”

The single-day format prioritized substance over fluff, allowing attendees to focus on meaningful sessions and connections without any wasted time. Together, these elements made for an efficient, engaging and highly valuable conference experience, leaving participants with both actionable insights and new relationships to carry forward.

“By focusing primarily on bringing leaders and decisionmakers from the major players into the room, my conversations were uniquely impactful—I gained insights, strategies and connections with those who are running their businesses every day,” said Embarc CEO Lauren Carpenter, who spoke at the conference and sits on the Regional Advisory Board. “This event was the perfect size; it was diverse in bringing new voices to the table while simultaneously curated enough to ensure conversations were productive and targeted.”

Guests gathered across two main rooms: one designed for panels and presentations, the other for activations and brand showcases. The registration hall buzzed with conversation over coffee and lunch, while an outdoor patio offered a more casual space to connect. The event fostered a professional but approachable atmosphere that sparked high-value connections.

“The IgniteIt California Spotlight brought together key stakeholders across government and supply chain participants who genuinely care about the industry,” said Green Horizon’s Co-Founder and CEO Carlos “Los” Arias. “Kudos to Elliot and Patrick for putting in the work & making it happen.” 

A Dual Focus on Education and Networking

Beyond meaningful handshakes, IgniteIt placed a strong emphasis on delivering education curated for its attendees. The Anaheim conference was tailored to California’s unique market, featuring sessions that addressed the state’s regulatory hurdles and offered practical guidance for navigating them. Experts also shared insights on how federal rescheduling could impact California businesses.

Angela Pih served as the moderator for a speaking panel called “Rooted and Rising: How You Can Expand Beyond California While Thriving at Home.” Pih spoke to the significance of the California cannabis market: “California remains the heartbeat of cannabis culture and brand innovation. Brands like Bloom, Jetty, Stiiizy, and MADE have shown how to thrive in California’s discerning market before expanding into new states. Their ability to translate authentic California origins into multi-state success proves that strong brand DNA travels. What starts in California often sets the tone for the rest of the U.S. market.”

Several team members from Grow Generation attended, with Jason Holland, GrowGen’s Vice President of Product Innovation & Commercial Solutions, participating in a panel discussion titled “Efficiency Equals Survival: How You Can Increase Yield and Stay Lean in a Compressed Cannabis Economy.”

“Ignite It was one of the most authentic gatherings in the industry. Being LA-focused made it even more relevant—bringing together the heart of West Coast cultivation, culture, and innovation,” said Michael Salaman, president of GrowGeneration. “It sparked real conversations around cultivation innovation and how we scale this industry the right way.”

Darren Lampert, Grow Generation’s CEO & co-founder added, “What made Ignite It stand out was the quality of operators, investors and thought leaders—all focused on execution, not hype. This conference is essential for serious cannabis businesses.”

Attendees left the event with both actionable insights and new industry connections, reflecting IgniteIt’s dual focus on education and networking. With a format that balanced expert-led sessions, interactive activations and opportunities for meaningful conversation, the conference demonstrated how a single day can deliver both knowledge and relationships that drive the California cannabis market forward.

“The IgniteIt team did a great job curating a thoughtful event targeted at providing tangible value for operators and those who work alongside them,” Carpenter from Embarc added. “The discussions were operational, not aspirational, which is exactly the type of insights we all need as we continue to weather the storms of this market together.”

The post IgniteIt’s CA Market Spotlight Event Delivers High-Impact, Tangible Value appeared first on Cannabis Now.

There’s nothing quite like growing your own cannabis at home. Watching a tiny seed turn into a beautiful, potent plant that twinkles with trichomes, smelling those first terpenes, knowing you did it all yourself, is unmatched. But for many people, the dream of growing at home hits a brick wall before they even get started. It’s easy to feel like you’ll mess it up and lose a bunch of time and cash. Thankfully, I Love Growing Marijuana (ILGM) is here to help ensure that doesn’t happen. 

A Dutch cannabis seed company operating exclusively in the US market, ILGM was built on a simple, powerful belief: Anyone can grow their own cannabis.

They are dedicated to providing not only top-tier seeds, but also the expert knowledge and a foolproof safety net you can count on. Expect success at every step of your journey.

From a Simple Blog to a Thriving Community

The company’s story started with its founder, Robert Bergman, a Dutch grower who genuinely loved the plant but was tired of the misinformation around it. So, he started a low-key blog to share what he knew so everyone could grow weed at home. He wanted to pull back the curtain on cultivation and show that it wasn’t some big secret for a few pros. His straightforward approach resonated with the canna-curious and amateur cultivators around the world.

“Getting started can feel like the hardest part,” says ILGM CEO Ernst Rustenhoven. “But if you have a knowledgeable friend who guides you through it, that big hurdle turns into a small step. We are that friend.”

That blog turned into a buzzing community. Growers would jump into the comments to ask questions, share tips and celebrate their wins. It was a true collaboration built on trust and a shared love for growing. That’s what eventually led to the launch of a trusted seedbank.

The seedbank is a huge part of ILGM’s DNA—the belief that the best weed is the one you grew yourself and the best way to do that is with a solid community behind you. It’s this grower-first mindset, mixed with a deep understanding of what US home growers actually need, that gives them their edge.

Top-Shelf Seeds, All The Way To Harvest

The heart of ILGM lies in its genetics, as showcased in their cannabis seed bank. All the cultivars that are carefully selected because they’re easy to grow, tough and have killer terpene profiles. ILGM has done the homework for you, so you can pick a strain that’s a perfect fit for your location.

ILGM also does limited drops from some of the best craft breeders in the country. With every single strain, you get the whole backstory—the breeding intent and the best way to grow it.

But a great cannabis seed is just the start. To really succeed, you need to know what you’re doing. That’s why ILGM has built the industry’s best educational support. Every strain comes with a detailed, step-by-step grow guide. It’s like having a cheat sheet for everything from planting to watering to fertilizing.

And if you ever hit a roadblock, the free ILGM Grow Guide Library is a goldmine. It’s packed with expert-written content on everything from spotting pests to mastering advanced techniques. It’s a resource the company is proud of because it shows they’re in this with you, from the first day to the last.

“Learning to grow cannabis, like everything else, begins with the basics,” Rustenhoven says. “Our grow guides are designed to take you through each stage, from your first grow to advanced techniques, one step at a time.”

The Germination Guarantee: Your Safety Net

One of the biggest anxieties for a new grower is a seed that won’t sprout. It can stop a grow journey before it even gets going. That’s why ILGM created its Germination Guarantee. It’s pretty simple: If your seeds don’t pop, the company will send you new ones, no questions asked. This is a game-changer. It takes the fear of failure off the table and lets you start your grow with a ton of confidence. It’s one of the few truly grower-friendly return policies you’ll find in this business, and it’s ILGM’s way of proving they’ve got your back.

The customer support team is legendary for a reason, too. They’re not just some call center reps; they’re real growers who get it. They offer genuine advice and help, not canned responses.

Ready to Get Growing?

If you’re ready to start your own grow adventure, ILGM is making it easy for you. Check out their wide selection of high-quality seeds, from classic strains to exciting new drops. And while you’re there, be sure to visit the deals page for special bundles and offers, especially if you’re just starting out.

Ultimately, ILGM’s mission is making home cultivation easier and way more fun. They combine top-tier genetics with expert guidance and a promise that you’re set up for success every step of the way. Because when it’s all said and done, the best flower is the one you grew yourself.

The post Your Home Grow Journey Starts With I Love Growing Marijuana appeared first on Cannabis Now.

The glitter bomb strain is not just another cannabis variety; it represents a fusion of unique aromatic qualities that can enhance various experiences. Known for its rich terpene profile, this strain offers a complex blend of scents and flavors that appeal to both recreational users and those looking to incorporate cannabis into their culinary practices. Understanding the characteristics of the Glitter Bomb strain can open up new avenues for exploration, whether you’re a seasoned cannabis connoisseur or a curious newcomer.

Understanding the Aromatic Profile of the Glitter Bomb Strain

The Glitter Bomb strain is celebrated for its intricate terpene profile, which plays a significant role in its aromatic and flavorful appeal. Terpenes are organic compounds that contribute to the unique scent and taste of cannabis. In the case of the Glitter Bomb strain, these compounds create a distinctive combination of citrus and earthy notes that can enhance various sensory experiences.

When exploring cannabis strains, selecting one with a suitable terpene profile is crucial. The Glitter Bomb strain’s unique blend makes it versatile for both personal enjoyment and culinary applications. Its aromatic qualities can bring out subtle nuances in different settings, making it an excellent choice for those looking to experiment with cannabis-infused experiences.

Moreover, understanding how terpenes interact with other elements can help you craft experiences that are not only enjoyable, but also memorable. Pairing the Glitter Bomb strain with complementary scents and flavors can create a symphony of sensations that delight the senses. As you explore these combinations, you’ll discover how cannabis can enhance traditional practices and elevate new ones.

Incorporating the Glitter Bomb Strain Into Your Lifestyle

Incorporating the Glitter Bomb strain into your lifestyle involves several important considerations to ensure both enjoyment and safety. First, understanding the strain’s psychoactive properties is essential. Proper preparation, such as decarboxylation, is necessary to activate these properties without compromising the strain’s natural flavors.

Once prepared, the Glitter Bomb strain can be used in various ways to enhance different experiences. Whether you’re infusing it into oils for culinary use or enjoying it in its natural form, this strain offers a unique opportunity to explore new dimensions of cannabis enjoyment. Pairing it with ingredients or activities that complement its terpene profile can further enhance its effectiveness and appeal.

As you experiment with the Glitter Bomb strain, start with small amounts and adjust based on personal preference and desired effects. This approach allows for a personalized experience that aligns with your lifestyle and interests.

The Impact of the Glitter Bomb Strain on the Cannabis Community

Celebrated for more than just its flavor, the Glitter Bomb strain is captivating the cannabis community with a rich, multi-sensory experience. Its unique aroma adds an intriguing element to various settings, surprising and delighting those who encounter it. This olfactory component can set the stage for exceptional experiences, whether in social gatherings or personal relaxation.

Furthermore, incorporating the Glitter Bomb strain into your lifestyle encourages mindfulness and appreciation for the artistry involved in crafting memorable experiences. Paying attention to how flavors and aromas blend highlights the creativity and skill required to enjoy cannabis fully.

This experiential approach extends beyond individual enjoyment to influence broader practices within the cannabis community. By exploring innovative strains like the Glitter Bomb, you contribute to a growing trend that celebrates diversity and creativity in cannabis exploration. Embracing these opportunities enriches your journey while opening doors to new sensations and experiences.

Final Thoughts

The Glitter Bomb strain embodies the evolving creativity and sophistication of today’s cannabis culture. With its rich terpene profile, versatile applications and sensory depth, it offers more than just a recreational experience; it provides an opportunity to elevate everyday moments into something memorable. 

Whether enjoyed for its distinct aroma, incorporated into culinary creations or used as a catalyst for mindful relaxation, Glitter Bomb highlights the endless possibilities cannabis has to offer. As the community continues to embrace innovative strains like this one, the future of cannabis looks brighter, bolder and more flavorful than ever.

The post Exploring the Unique Qualities of the Glitter Bomb Strain appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Ah, fall! The time of year when Mother Nature paints the landscape in shades of russet and ruby. We start pulling on our coziest sweaters, the air becomes fragranced with all things cinnamon, and crispy fallen leaves crunch underfoot. You have an overwhelming urge to visit a pumpkin patch or go apple picking.

The changing of the seasons also activates our taste buds to start craving foods that are warm, comforting—and pumpkin-spiced. And if there’s one thing cannabis lovers know, it’s that delicious recipes are always in season. By adding a splash of Everclear grain alcohol to your cooking, your fall recipes will pop, and flavors will flicker like Jack-o’-lanterns.

Four Delicious Recipes for Fall

If you’re unfamiliar with Everclear, it’s not just any spirit. The clean palette of Everclear can be used as a blank canvas for creating your own kitchen concoctions. This versatile grain alcohol packs a punch but serves as an ideal base for infusions, tinctures and a zesty spin on beloved autumn recipes. Its subtle flavor expertly enhances flavors and spices rather than overshadowing them. It adds a little extra magic—a hint of something you can’t quite place but keeps you coming back for more.

These four delicious fall recipes all use Everclear to enhance the flavors of fall, but you can enjoy them all year round.

Fall Flavors Infusion

Prep: 15 minutes

Steep: 24 hours

Yield: 24 oz.

Whether it’s fall or you’re just hoping to elicit fond memories of costume parties, comfort food and football, this Fall Flavors Infusion recipe will do the trick. It uses apples, cranberries and spices to create what should be dubbed as the official taste of autumn.

Ingredients

• ¾ cup chopped Granny Smith apples
• ¾ cup chopped Red Delicious apples
• ¾ cup chopped cranberries
• 2 allspice berries
• 2 whole cloves
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 10 oz. Everclear
• 10 oz. filtered water
• 4 oz. simple syrup

Instructions

1. Chop cranberries and apples with a food processor or knife, then measure ¾ cup of each.
2. Combine chopped fruit with Everclear, allspice, cloves and cinnamon in a large, sealable container.
3. Shake thoroughly.
4. Let steep in a cool, dark place for 24 hours.
5. Strain out all solids with a fine mesh strainer or coffee filter.
6. Add simple syrup and water.
7. Stir, bottle and enjoy.

Tip: Fresh cranberries are certainly preferred, but frozen will also work in a pinch or if they’re out of season.

Harvest Spice Infusion

Prep: 15 minutes

Steep: 14 days

Yield: ~500ml

A cornucopia of autumnal flavor. After all, it’s just not fall without a little harvest spice infusion.

Ingredients

• 500ml butter washed Everclear
• ½ c. fresh ginger
• ½ c. whole nutmeg
• 4 cinnamon sticks
• ¼ c. whole cloves

Instructions

1. Combine all ingredients in a sealed mason jar.
2. Place in refrigerator and store for at least two weeks. Shake occasionally.
3. Pro tip: Place ingredients in a spice bag for easy removal

Sweet Preserved Pears

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Steep: 4 weeks

Yield: 1 qt

Extend pear season into the entire year with this sweet recipe. Inspired by the German fruit-preserving tradition of “rumptof,” the resulting pears have a slightly more complex flavor owing to the dried fruits and vanilla. This makes them a perfect complement to baked desserts and ice cream alike.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs. pears (halved, peeled and cored)
• ½ lb. dried fruit (such as apricots, peaches or prunes)
• 2 ¼ c. white sugar
• 1 vanilla bean (cut in half)
• the peel of 1 orange (with all pith removed)
• 1 ½-2 c. Everclear

Instructions

1. In a 1-quart mason jar, stack the pears, alternating with dried fruit and pieces of orange peel in between. Add in vanilla bean.
2. In a pot, combine the sugar with just enough water to wet thoroughly (about 1/4 to 1/2 c.) and heat. Stir until sugar is fully dissolved, or about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Pour sugar solution over the pears. Top with enough Everclear to fill the mason jar. Close tightly.
4. Store mason jar in a cool, dark place for at least one month. Pears will be ready to enjoy in a month.

Pumpkin Spice Shake

No self-respecting fall recipe list is complete without a delicious pumpkin spice drink. Shake it up with this boozy confection.

Ingredients

• ½ oz. Harvest spice infusion
• 3-4 scoops vanilla ice cream
• 2 tbsp. pumpkin puree
• ½ c. milk or milk alternative
• whipped cream
• ground nutmeg, for garnish

Instructions

1. Place Harvest Spice Infusion, ice cream, pumpkin puree and milk in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour into glass.
3. Top with whipped cream and freshly ground nutmeg.

If you enjoy spiciness in your cannabis from terpenes like caryophyllene and myrcene, try whipping up these delicious fall recipes to enhance your season.

PLEASE ENJOY RESPONSIBLY. Everclear® Grain Alcohol is 75.5%-95% Alc./Vol. (120-190 Proof), ©2023 Luxco®, Inc., St. Louis, MO

The post Everclear-Infused Recipes for Fall appeared first on Cannabis Now.

If you love to roll your own joints, you know the frustration of running out of cones. The hassle of searching for a smoke shop, paying a high price and sometimes even worrying about whether you’re buying the real deal can take the relaxation out of the experience.

That’s where Green Blazer comes in. The company built its reputation by solving this very problem, optimizing a delivery system that takes the stress out of stocking up on your favorite RAW pre-rolled cones and rolling papers. Today, they operate two incredibly efficient networks: one tailored to pre-roll producers and distributors and one for cannabis lovers. The company’s mission is simple: to make sure you spend less time worrying about cones and more time enjoying your weed.

From Simple Idea to Game-Changing Solution

Green Blazer’s origin story began with an all-too-common frustration: paying a dollar for a single cone at a local smoke shop. The founders knew they could do better and set out to provide cannabis lovers with the best pre-rolled cones at the best price and with the best service. 

Drawing on their background in e-commerce and logistics, the founders streamlined the way people source RAW cones, whether they’re filling one cone at home or 10,000 on a production line. By creating a reliable online delivery system for authentic RAW cones, they were able to drop the price per cone by 90% and offer one-day fulfillment.

They also quickly realized that the cones themselves were a key part of the solution.

RAW cones are renowned for their consistent quality, with an ultra-thin paper and a signature watermark that helps them burn slowly and evenly. This preserves the flavor of the cannabis and makes for a smoother smoking experience, which is why they’re a favorite among consumers and a top search on platforms like Google, Amazon and TikTok. The cones are also made with clean, unrefined, chlorine-free plant fibers and natural acacia gum, aligning with the growing demand for sustainable products.

Your Supply Chain, Mastered

Green Blazer’s real edge is in its mastery of the supply chain, which they’ve used to build a robust B2C delivery system over seven years. This network is engineered for speed and reliability, ensuring you get authentic RAW cones right when you need them.

For business customers, Green Blazer has established itself as the preeminent national supplier of authentic RAW cones. They serve licensed pre-roll manufacturers, distributors, co-packers and cultivators with dedicated B2B services. With fulfillment centers in Nevada and Indiana, they can ensure two-day delivery nationwide. Their system is built for the needs of large-scale operations, offering same-day invoicing and shipping with a RAW cone price match guarantee. This commitment to efficiency is a core part of their service. The cones are manufactured under an ISO 9001-certified quality system, which ensures consistent sizing and reduces machine jams, a huge benefit for automated pre-roll lines.

For consumers, Green Blazer operates the #1 best-selling DIY RAW Cone kit on Amazon, and its system is so efficient that most orders arrive in as little as one day. Their DIY kits include everything you need to fill a cone, including a cone loader, packing stick and storage tube, making the process easy and mess-free. For people who prefer a steady supply, the company offers subscription savings through Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program. This optimized system takes the hassle out of rolling, so you can “roll less, relax more.”

With over 100,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, Green Blazer has a proven track record of customer satisfaction and a 100% success rate over the last seven years. They also protect their brand by identifying and removing fraudulent or inauthentic sellers from the platform.

Their deep engagement with Amazon’s retail ecosystem does more than enable fast, reliable access to RAW cones; it offers a window into real consumer habits. These insights help Green Blazer support pre-roll manufacturers, aligning production with real-world demand and preferences across cone types and formats.

A Brand of Service Built on Integrity

Behind all the logistics and technology is a simple core value: doing right by the customer, every single time. This belief is what sets Green Blazer apart and is reflected in their 100% satisfaction guarantee. If something isn’t right, you’ll get an instant refund or replacement—no questions asked. Green Blazer’s  core values of integrity, urgency and learning through failure guide their decision-making. The goal isn’t just to fix problems, but to make sure every experience keeps you coming back with confidence.

Green Blazer believes that cannabis is a positive force in people’s lives and they’re here to make that experience more accessible with tools and systems you can rely on. With Green Blazer, you’re buying more than a product; you’re buying into a guarantee of convenience, speed and integrity. You get the same great RAW cones you know and love, backed by a company that’s obsessed with getting them to you in the most reliable, hassle-free way possible

The post Green Blazer: Optimizing RAW Cones Delivery to Manufacturers and Smokers appeared first on Cannabis Now.

A cannabis cultivation breakthrough recently occurred with iconic cannabis seed bank Barney’s Farmand Doja Exclusive forming a strategic alliance.

The two companies are collaborating to produce novel cannabis genetics. The tie-up will combine Barney’s Farm‘s global breeding prowess with Doja Exclusive’s flavor pioneering, creating what is being termed a powerhouse duo in cannabis breeding.

The joint venture recently produced RS11 x Banana OG and Cookie Casket (scroll down for details!)

For Barney’s Farm, a European leader in seed production, this venture marks a strategic leap into the burgeoning US cannabis sector. Aligning with California’s cutting-edge breeders reflects a deliberate effort to tap into America’s rapidly evolving market, where demand for premium, genetically distinct strains is surging.

Industry experts highlight this move as a calculated response to shifting legal landscapes, with over 40 states now permitting medical or recreational use.

Featured Collaborations and Notable Strains

Release No 1: Barneys Farm x Doja Exclusive – RS11 x Banana OG

The RS11 x Banana OG is an Indica-dominant hybrid combining RS11 and Banana OG genetics. With a THC content of 29%, this is a potent strain with a rich citrus and tropical terpene profile that has sweet banana undertones. According to the Barney’s Farm website, it “offers potent relaxing physical effects.”

Highly sought-after California flavor guru Ryan Bartholomew worked with Barney’s Farm breeding team to craft RS11 x Banana OG’s signature profile. Bartholomew’s skill in developing novel terpene profiles made him one of California’s most desired genetic collaborators. He has become well-known for his unique cannabis profiles.

This collaboration marks a strategic moment in Barney’s Farm’s expansion into the US market.

According to a source familiar with the matter, the breeding program should yield the following results: “By combining our library of genes with the advanced technology being developed in California, we’re creating something truly unique for growers all over the world.”

The RS11 x Banana OG strain is the ultimate expression of what can be achieved through global collaborations in producing distinctive results in cannabis genetics. By melding Barney’s Farm’s tried-and-tested breeding methods with Doja Exclusive’s innovative approaches to seeking taste and strength, the companies developed a genetic lineage that would never have been possible through individual efforts.

Release No 2: Barneys Farm x Doja Exclusive – Cookie Casket

Cookie Casket is a cutting-edge, Indica-dominant hybrid crafted through the innovative cross of The Hearse Strain and Thin Mint Cookies by Barney’s Farm, again in collaboration with Doja Exclusive. This masterful genetic combination has produced one of the most sought-after varieties in today’s cannabis market.

This strain offers an impressive THC potency of up to 30%, delivering a deeply relaxing body high that’s perfectly balanced by a spark of creative clarity. The effects begin with a gentle cerebral uplift that enhances mood and stimulates artistic thinking. They gradually transition into a profound full-body relaxation.

Despite its potent sedative properties, Cookie Casket allows users to maintain mental clarity, making it suitable for evening use when unwinding while still engaging in creative pursuits.

The terpene profile presents a complex bouquet of sweet cookie undertones complemented by earthy pine and subtle notes of mint and berries. These flavors are accompanied by a distinctive creamy finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate.

Visually striking, Cookie Casket buds display dense, resinous structures with deep purple hues, fiery orange pistils, and a thick coating of trichomes that hint at its exceptional potency.

New Horizons

This timing is in sync with the expanding legal cannabis market, which is creating more space for global cooperation and genetic innovation.

As more states legalize cannabis programs, operators such as Barney’s Farm have more platforms through which they can ship their know-how and genetics to their United States collaborators, potentially remapping the cannabis cultivation future across continents.

Make sure you visit the Barney’s Farm USA website today and check out the latest releases. And don’t forget you can get exclusive offers plus 20% off your first order by signing up to the Barney’s Farm newsletter here https://www.barneysfarm.us/subscribe

The post Barney’s Farm x Doja Exclusive: A Global Powerhouse in Cannabis Genetics appeared first on Cannabis Now.

Cannabis Ruderalis

Although it’s not nearly as popular as indica and sativa, ruderalis has become a more prevalent species in more recent years. Originating from Central Russia, it has a similar chemical profile to hemp and contains very low levels of THC.

Classification

The name ruderalis comes from the word ruderal, a term used by botanists to describe hardy, non-domesticated plants. So any breed of cannabis that has the ability to adapt to extreme environments and avoid human cultivation has been classified as ruderalis. Only recently have indoor growers begun to utilize the characteristics of the ruderalis plant to influence new hybrid varieties.

Plant Characteristics

This stalky species of cannabis only grows to a height of 1 to 21⁄2 feet tall (30.5cm to .75m) and produces small, chunky buds. But what really differentiates the ruderalis from indica and sativa is its flowering cycle. Unlike the other cannabis species, ruderalis’s flowering cycle is induced according to its maturity and not by the photoperiod (seasonal changes in night length), a process known as auto-flowering. This auto-flowering can begin in as little as 21 days.

Hybrids

Over time, growers have combined their top indica, sativa, or ruderalis strains to create strains with the best aspects of both parents, known as hybrids. One well-known hybrid is Afghanica. This strain, once erroneously identified as indica, is an indica-predominant strain with a potent and sedating high. Great for indoor or outdoor growing, the plant can grow between 5 and 6 feet (1 and 2m) tall, depending on the setting.

Another well-known type of hybrid is an auto-flowering strain. As you might expect, this comes from cross-breeding a strain with ruderalis. Very popular with growers, this hybrid is easy to grow due to the short time from seed to harvest and its ability to flower when mature rather than when seasonal changes happen.

Reprinted from “Idiot’s Guides: Growing Marijuana” by permission of Alpha Books, an imprint of DK, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. Copyright © 2016 Dorling Kindersley Limited. All rights reserved.

Originally published in Issue 26 of Cannabis Now. LEARN MORE

TELL US, ruderalis is very rare, have you ever seen a ruderalis strain?

The post Species of Cannabis: Ruderalis and Hybrids appeared first on Cannabis Now.

It’s no secret that the cannabis industry has a plastic waste problem. Convenient cannabis consumption—like disposable vapes, edibles, beverages and individually packaged joints—all contribute to single-use plastic. For true green-loving eco-warriors, the most sustainable way to consume cannabis is with flower that’s grown using sustainable practices.

However, this isn’t an option for everyone. Plus, if you live in an apartment, have a roommate, or need to keep your cannabis use discreet, smoking joints or ripping bongs can give you away. That is, unless you use a personal smoke filter. Thanks to Smokebuddy’s next generation of sustainable products, you can discreetly smoke your green on the down low with the All-Paper Original Smokebuddy.

The All-Paper Original Smokebuddy offers cannabis lovers an environmentally conscious alternative to plastic smoke filters. It’s made entirely from paper materials, including its packaging, making it a fully compostable solution that eliminates plastic waste from both manufacturing and disposal processes. This thoughtful design helps eliminate smoke smells without contributing to the long-term environmental impact of plastic waste.

Benefits of the All-Paper Original Smokebuddy

The All-Paper Original Smokebuddy has three key benefits:

1. It’s completely eco-friendly
2. It’s easy to carry because it’s so light
3. It filters smoke effectively, removing odors and reducing second-hand smoke

Let’s explore these benefits in more detail.

Eco-Friendly Advantages

The All-Paper Original Smokebuddy is a huge step forward for sustainable smoking accessories because it uses no plastic at all; both the filter itself and its packaging are made only from paper.

The packaging is also compostable, which means it’s even better for the environment— even after you’re done with it. You can compost the whole package instead of throwing it into the garbage. Because it’s paper-based, it supports circular economy principles, meaning your Smokebuddy can go back into natural cycles instead of becoming permanent waste and ending up in landfill.

Smokebuddy is also committed to sustainable sourcing, ensuring responsible material sourcing and prioritizing renewable resources in its product manufacturing. Using sustainable resources helps the earth by conserving natural resources, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impact of human activities on the environment.

Portability and Convenience

The All-Paper Original Smokebuddy is even easier to carry than older plastic filters. Its light, paper construction means it weighs less (3.4 ounces) without losing any of its filtering power. Its compact design (3 x 3 x 4 inches) easily fits into pockets, bags or storage spots. Its sleek shape is perfect for discreet carrying and storage. The device is also travel-friendly, with materials that are safe for TSA, so it won’t cause any security issues when you travel.

This version is slightly larger than the original plastic ones, which means it lasts longer per unit—up to 300 uses, to be exact. This reduces how often you need to replace it, especially when you’re on the go for a while. Disposing of it is simpler, too. Because it’s biodegradable, you don’t have to worry about how to properly get rid of plastic waste, no matter where you are.

Odor Elimination Effectiveness

Even with its sustainable design, the All-Paper Original Smokebuddy still filters smoke very well. Its paper-based filtering system captures smoke particles and reduces airborne odors. It uses the same active filtration technology as traditional Smokebuddy filters, channeling exhaled smoke through special paper. This system eliminates visible smoke and reduces noticeable smells. You can count on consistent performance throughout its life, ensuring reliable odor control. The paper construction stays strong during regular use.

It also improves air quality in enclosed spaces where smoking happens by reducing smoke particles that would otherwise spread.

The Cannabis Industry’s Plastic Problem

It might surprise you, but the cannabis industry, despite often being seen as “green,” is actually a big producer of plastic waste. Experts estimate that plastic packaging from cannabis products alone generates a staggering 10,000 tons of waste per year in North America, with some reports narrowing that down to about 7,000 tons annually in the US alone. To put that in perspective, one study suggested that for every 3.5 grams of dried cannabis sold, roughly 70 grams of plastic packaging is used. That’s 20 times the weight of the product itself in plastic! Much of this plastic—think “doob tubes,” Mylar bags, and disposable vapes—is single-use and often can’t be recycled in regular curbside programs, meaning it usually ends up in a landfill or as litter or worse, polluting our oceans.

In a world where convenience is key and sustainability takes a backseat, the All-Paper Original Smokebuddy proves you don’t have to pick one over the other. You can enjoy your cannabis responsibly, discreetly, and with a clear conscience, knowing you’re making a better choice for our planet.

Use promo code All-Paper for 30% off.

The post The All-Paper Smokebuddy Is a Greener Way to Blaze appeared first on Cannabis Now.

The wait is over—this weekend Bozeman will once again host the Alpenglow Festival, now in its third year. For the first time, the festival expands to include the inaugural Alpenglow Cannabis Village, presented by Cannabis Now and Montana Green Pages. The event runs Friday and Saturday, August 22–23 at 726 N 7th Ave, Bozeman, MT, bringing two days of music, culture, and community connection.

“Good people deserve great nights, we are very excited for the next two days of festivities and music.” said Josh Perkins Co-Founder of Alpenglow Festival 

Since its inception, the Alpenglow Festival has become one of Montana’s most anticipated cultural gatherings. Over the past three years, it has grown from a local celebration into a regional event that merges music, arts, and community engagement. In 2025, the festival is proud to host the first-ever Alpenglow Cannabis Village, a dedicated space to highlight cannabis advocacy, local brands, wellness, and education alongside the festivals live entertainment.

“This event is about more than cannabis—it’s about community,” said Eugenio Garcia, CEO of Cannabis Now. “We’re excited to showcase Montana culture, music, and wellness while spotlighting the role cannabis continues to play in our state’s future.”

The 2025 Alpenglow will feature a lineup of main stage artists from 4 PM – 10 PM, creating an atmosphere of celebration and togetherness. Each evening kicks off with a lively Cannabis Village Patio Party from 4 PM – 6 PM, offering DJ performances and cannabis activations.

“Lionheart is honored to be a part of Alpenglow and this first ever Cannabis Village. This event is a chance to celebrate with our incredible Montana community.” Said Christopher Fanuzzi the Founder and CEO of Lionheart Cannabis 

Cannabis Village Highlights

• Scavenger Hunt with prizes, raffles, and giveaways

• Onsite opportunities to obtain a medical card

• Networking with Montana’s cannabis leaders, brands, and advocates

A Look Back: Cannabis in Montana and Across the Nation

Cannabis has a deep and evolving history in Montana. The state first legalized medical marijuana in 2004, becoming one of the early adopters in the Mountain West. Despite periods of regulatory challenges and legislative pushback, Montanans reaffirmed their support for cannabis, passing adult-use legalization in 2020. Today, Montana is home to a thriving cannabis economy that reflects both its independent spirit and agricultural roots.

Nationally, cannabis has transitioned from prohibition to a rapidly growing multi-billion-dollar industry. Once relegated to underground markets, cannabis is now embraced for both its medical applications and its cultural significance. With more than half of U.S. states legalizing some form of cannabis use, events like Alpenglow Cannabis Village highlight how far the movement has come—bringing together communities, entrepreneurs, and advocates to celebrate progress while continuing to push for reform and education.

Presented By

• Cannabis Now

• Montana Green Pages and Lionheart Cannabis

Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

• Top Shelf Botanicals

• Sacred Sun Farms

• Moon Rocks

• Soultonix

• Honey Sour

• Natural Wellness

• 406 Glass & Vape

• Smokies

• Stokes

• Euphorian Wellness

Event Details

When: Friday & Saturday, August 22–23, 4 PM – 10 PM

Where: 726 N 7th Ave, Bozeman, MT

About Alpenglow Cannabis Village

The Alpenglow Festival is an annual Montana celebration of music, culture, and community that has grown steadily since its launch three years ago. In 2025, the festival will introduce the first-ever Alpenglow Cannabis Village as a new pillar of the event, designed to highlight the role of cannabis in Montana through music, wellness, education, and community engagement. By blending entertainment with advocacy, the Cannabis Village offers a space for both celebration and conversation. This inaugural Village marks the beginning of what will become an ongoing tradition within the Alpenglow Festival.

—

Media Contact:

press@cannabisnow.com

The post Alpenglow Cannabis Village Lights Up Bozeman, Montana appeared first on Cannabis Now.