With the beginning of 2018, marijuana also becomes legal in California for recreational use. Cannabis can now be purchased in stores in Oakland, Berkeley, San Jose, Santa Cruz, San Diego and other locations.

In San Francisco and Los Angeles, however, authorities have not yet begun issuing licenses to stores. In the latter city, the first licenses are expected to be issued on Wednesday.

Marijuana is already legal in seven other states, but California is the largest to make the move. Californians have been able to use marijuana for medical purposes since 1996, then approved recreational use in a 2016 referendum. Under the new law, people over 21 can possess, transport, buy and consume up to 28.5 grams of marijuana and up to 8 grams of concentrated marijuana. Adults can grow up to six marijuana plants per household, but out of public view.

According to Business Insider , the new law is expected to see California's marijuana market grow to $3.7 billion this year and more than $5 billion in 2019.

California is one of the most famous states in the world when it comes to cannabis and legal marijuana. Since legalization came into effect, “California Haze” and other strains have gained global fame, attracting both enthusiasts and the curious to the legal marijuana market. Let's explore together the various aspects of legalization, from cultivation to purchase, to the economic and social effects.

What is California Haze and Why is it So Popular?

California Haze is one of the most popular marijuana strains, known for its high-quality buds and distinctive aroma. This strain, which falls under the category of sativa cannabis, is prized for its energizing and uplifting effects, making it perfect for those seeking creativity and anxiety relief without the couch-lock effect that some indica strains can cause.

The reason is simple: California Haze is grown with a cultivation method that emphasizes the trichomes, resin and other active ingredients of the plant. This strain is a reference in the cannabis market, especially in the Bay Area, where the density of population passionate about marijuana is particularly high.

What Are the Rules for Recreational Marijuana Use in California?

Marijuana legalization occurred in California through the so-called Proposition 64, which made recreational use legal starting January 1, 2018. But what are the specific rules?

First of all, you must be an adult, that is, at least 21 years old, to purchase, possess, and consume cannabis. You can purchase a maximum of one ounce (about 28 grams) of marijuana or 8 grams of concentrate. You are also allowed to grow up to six plants for personal use, as long as the cultivation takes place indoors or in adequately protected areas.

What is the Role of CBD in the Legal Cannabis Market?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the most important and discussed cannabinoids in the cannabis plant. It is not psychoactive like THC, the active ingredient responsible for the “high,” but it offers significant therapeutic benefits. Many people in California use CBD to relieve pain , reduce anxiety , or improve sleep quality .

The legal cannabis market has quickly adapted to the growing demand for CBD products, creating a wide range of oils, capsules, edibles and topicals. The availability of these products is constantly increasing, both in physical stores and in specialized online shops.

What is the Emerald Triangle and Why is it Relevant?

The Emerald Triangle, which includes Humboldt, Mendocino, and Trinity counties in Northern California, is known as the heart of marijuana cultivation in the United States. It is home to some of the oldest and most renowned plantations in the country, where the cultivation method has been perfected over decades.

This region is characterized by ideal climatic conditions and fertile soil, which favor the thriving growth of cannabis plants. Local authorities carefully regulate cultivation to ensure the quality and safety of the products, making the Emerald Triangle a reference point for the legal cannabis market worldwide.

How Much Does Marijuana Cost in California? Does It Depend on the Quality?

The final price of marijuana in California depends on the quality and variety. For example, a gram of California Haze can cost significantly more than a less valuable variety. In addition, indoor cultivation, which requires complex infrastructure and specific fertilizers, increases production costs.

In general, the price of a gram of cannabis ranges between $10 and $20, while an eighth of an ounce (about 3.5 grams) can go up to $60 for the most sought-after marijuana strains. Quality, such as the number of trichomes, the density of the buds, and the flavor profile, plays a crucial role in determining the price.

How Does Indoor Growing Work and What Benefits Does It Offer?

Indoor growing is common in California, where many growers prefer a controlled environment to ensure a superior product. Using advanced lighting systems, precise watering techniques, and rigorous environmental controls, growers can manipulate growing conditions to produce buds rich in trichomes and resin.

The main advantage of indoor cultivation is the possibility of growing cannabis all year round, regardless of the external climatic conditions. This method also allows you to avoid pathogens and pests that could attack outdoor plants, ensuring a purer and safer final product for consumption.

How Has Marijuana Legalization Changed the California Economy?

Cannabis legalization has had a significant economic impact on the state of California. By some estimates, the marijuana industry generated over $7 billion in 2019 alone, creating thousands of jobs and increasing state tax revenues.

The cannabis market has fostered the development of new businesses, from e-commerce space srl selling light hemp products to physical dispensaries in the Bay Area. In addition, the demand for ancillary services, such as legal advice for regulatory compliance or the sale of specialized fertilizers, has increased significantly, further contributing to economic growth.

What Are the Differences Between Legal Marijuana in California and Other States?

While California is one of the most advanced states in regulating marijuana, it is not alone in the United States. States such as Colorado, Alaska, Oregon, and Nevada have also legalized recreational use, but laws and regulations can vary greatly.

For example, while California allows you to grow up to six plants for personal use, other states, such as Colorado, may allow different numbers of plants. California’s Bureau of Cannabis Control has also established unique rules for sales and distribution, making the state a pioneer in managing the legal cannabis market.

What Are the Requirements to Open a Marijuana Dispensary in California?

Opening a legal marijuana dispensary in California is not easy: it requires several permits and a legal location that complies with local regulations. Local authorities and the Bureau of Cannabis Control strictly regulate this industry to ensure that each dispensary follows safety and transparency guidelines.

One of the crucial aspects is compliance with the regulations on the cultivation, sale and distribution of cannabis. It is also essential to offer products tested for quality and safety, with a clear indication of the levels of THC, CBD and other cannabinoids.

Growing Marijuana at Home: Is It Legal and How to Do It?

Yes, growing marijuana at home is legal in California, but there are some restrictions. As mentioned, an adult of legal age can grow up to six plants for personal use. However, the plants must be grown indoors or in a protected area that is not visible to the public.

Anyone who wants to grow marijuana at home must consider several factors, such as the cultivation method, choosing the most suitable cannabis strains, and using appropriate fertilizers. To achieve optimal results, it is essential to invest in an efficient irrigation system and carefully monitor growing conditions.

The Effect of Marijuana Legalization on California Society

Marijuana legalization has had a complex social impact. On the one hand, it has helped reduce the number of marijuana-related arrests, freeing up the justice system and allowing for a more effective use of resources. On the other hand, it has raised concerns about public safety and marijuana use among young people.

However, recreational cannabis use is now more accepted in California society, with increased education on the benefits and risks of marijuana use. Organizations such as the Los Angeles Times regularly publish informative articles to raise awareness about the different aspects of cannabis legalization.