I asked ChatGPT to write an essay about why sun grown cannabis is a better choice than indoor, and here is what it told me (my own thoughts in italics at the end of each paragraph)
Cannabis has been growing in popularity in recent years as a result of its medicinal and recreational use. As such, the demand for cannabis has increased significantly, and so has the number of cultivators who have taken advantage of this. These cultivators use two primary methods for growing cannabis – indoor and outdoor cultivation. While both methods have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, many consumers are now opting to purchase cannabis grown outdoors as opposed to indoors. In this article, we’ll discuss why consumers should consider buying cannabis grown outdoors over cannabis grown indoors. Good start ChatGPT! Although I would challenge the statement that many consumers are now opting to buy sun grown, and that’s part of the problem! Read on to see why…
Firstly, cannabis grown outdoors is often much cheaper than cannabis grown indoors. This is because outdoor cultivation requires minimal investment compared to indoor cultivation. Indoor growers must purchase expensive equipment such as lights, air conditioning, heating, and other climate control devices to create the perfect growing environment. On the other hand, outdoor cultivators rely on natural sunlight and the natural elements to provide the optimal growing conditions for their crops. This allows outdoor growers to keep their costs low and, in turn, sell their products at a lower price point than indoor growers. Ah, the great price paradox of cannabis. Yes, sun grown is cheaper to produce, but as you will see below, has many qualities making it superior to indoor, which makes the cheaper price point for sun grown a great deal for consumers! At my local dispensary, indoor goes for about $50 an 1/8th pre tax and the gorgeous, small batch, organic bud from up the road sells for half the price.
Secondly, outdoor-grown cannabis is typically of higher quality than indoor-grown cannabis. Cannabis is a plant that thrives in natural sunlight, and outdoor cultivation allows the plant to receive optimal light levels. This results in cannabis that is rich in terpenes, flavonoids, and cannabinoids that contribute to the plant's flavor, aroma, and potency. On the other hand, indoor growers must rely on artificial lighting, which may not provide the same spectrum of light as natural sunlight. This can lead to cannabis that is less potent and may lack the full flavor profile of outdoor-grown cannabis. Sing it ChatGPT! A research article observing more diverse cannabinoids and intense terpene profiles in sun grown vs. indoor environments was recently published in the journal Molecules.
Thirdly, outdoor cultivation is much more sustainable than indoor cultivation. Indoor cultivation requires a significant amount of energy to power the lighting and other climate control devices, which can have a significant impact on the environment. In contrast, outdoor cultivation relies on natural resources such as sunlight and rainwater, which are renewable and sustainable. Outdoor growers also have the opportunity to use organic growing methods, which reduces the amount of harmful chemicals that are released into the environment. Now, while I HAVE heard about some organic and no-till methods being deployed within indoor and greenhouse environments, the overall footprint of a well run outdoor grow is substantially less that what can be achieved indoors. Of course, it is important to recognize that because cannabis cannot legally be shipped from state to state, states must contend with their environments and state laws around production. Outdoor growing seasons in states like Michigan are far shorter than California. So, until we have interstate commerce, states will have to do the best they can.
Fourthly, outdoor-grown cannabis is typically more resistant to pests and diseases. When cannabis is grown indoors, it is kept in a closed environment that is susceptible to the growth of pests and diseases. This can lead to the use of harmful pesticides and other chemicals to control these issues. Outdoor-grown cannabis, on the other hand, is exposed to natural predators that help to control the growth of pests and diseases. This results in cannabis that is healthier and safer for consumption. You are correct ChatGPT. Additionally, production techniques like companion planting and polyculture are more likely to occur in outdoor gardens, where the high costs of production indoors usually results in a mono crop. (Polyculture = growing different crops together in the same space vs. monoculture = growing only one).
Finally, buying outdoor-grown cannabis supports local farmers and the local economy. When you purchase cannabis that is grown outdoors, you are supporting local farmers who are committed to sustainable and organic growing methods. This helps to keep money in the local economy and supports small businesses in your community. By supporting outdoor growers, you are also helping to create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly cannabis industry. Why do you go to a farmer’s market? Or choose a locally owned restaurant or coffee shop vs. a national chain? It’s because you want to support local companies and because large scale chains often provide mass produced products with larger environmental impacts, greater worker exploitation and inferior products. Cannabis is no different. Buy Local.
In conclusion, there are several reasons why consumers should consider buying cannabis grown outdoors instead of cannabis grown indoors. Outdoor-grown cannabis is typically cheaper, of higher quality, more sustainable, more resistant to pests and diseases, and supports local farmers and the local economy. While indoor cultivation may have its advantages, the benefits of outdoor cultivation far outweigh them. If you are looking for high-quality cannabis that is affordable, sustainable, and supports local farmers, then outdoor-grown cannabis is the way to go. Listen to the A.I. Bot, it knows of which it speaks. Buy local, buy sun grown (if possible), ask where your cannabis comes from and treat your cannabis purchases with the same lens and concerns as food, coffee and other consumer packaged goods. Your local farmer, the earth and the plant will thank you.
