One of the most misunderstood herbs is the marijuana plant, better known as Ganja or cannabis, locally termed, weed. Naturally, a lack of knowledge often leads people to immediately associate cannabis solely with smoking, overlooking the health benefits carried by the plant itself. The plant becomes a medicine right after cultivation, and farmers and consumers a6thttest greatly to its benefits.
A farmer with twenty years of experience shared with K Writes that while the short crop season lasts until January, crops are unlikely to grow taller than 4 feet, although they typically reach heights of over 15 feet. He explained that the growth and lifespan of a ganja tree, like any other plant, depend on the care it receives.
The cultivation of the plant begins by planting seeds in small trays for germination—the process where a seed develops into a seedling. This stage usually takes 3-6 days and requires light watering and exposure to sunlight. “You can soak your seeds in rainwater before planting to quicken the process,” he advised. After two weeks, the seedling becomes a plant and can then be transplanted into a larger soil space. Preparation of the soil following the clearing of land includes the insertion of manure which often comprises rabbit and or goat faeces as well as dried or burnt grass. This is followed by digging a hole in the soil at least two feet deep and inserting and burying the plant’s root and lower stem.
Naturally, a tree will begin to produce buds within two weeks of transplanting, relying on natural nutrients like sunlight. However, to accelerate this process, supplemental lighting is recommended. Providing extra light ensures the tree receives sufficient energy for new growth, particularly if it’s planted in a shaded area.
During its growth, a farmer typically waters the plant daily with plain water or manure tea, which is made from the faeces of animals such as rabbits, goats, or cows. Planters are also encouraged to develop a connection with their plants, much like they would with any other living organism they care for. A local farmer happily conveyed his morning routine of visiting and watering his plants served with a small positive conversation. “When I speak to them, I feel they grow even better and faster because just like us, the plants feel energy and they are more comfortable blossoming in positive energy. Sometimes when I am farming, I would put some nice music to play and work in my garden, sing and talk and people may think I mad, but the end results make everybody smile, if you know what I mean. So, all of us mad together.”
Over the years mankind learned new ways of flavouring the cannabis, so much so that today there are hundreds of different flavours or strains. Some popular varieties include Black Sugar, Purple Haze, Blueberry Haze, and Blue Cheese. The flavour of these strains is named based on their aroma, which is influenced by the plant’s diet.
The taste and smell of the plant are often a reflection of what it is fed, and to enhance these characteristics, growers might use fruit-infused water or add specific treats to the manure water or directly to the soil. Leaves from the ganja tree are frequently used to make tea that offers several medical benefits, including relief from asthma, anxiety disorders, and glaucoma. Additionally, the plant’s oil is highly effective in alleviating chronic pain associated with arthritis and fibromyalgia, thanks to its tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. By applying the oil to any area of the body experiencing discomfort, it brings quick relief. This oil is commonly extracted from the cannabis plant using heat exposure. In drawing the leaves, it brews a tea that’s often ingested for herbal health treatment or simply to relax after a stressful day.
Once the tree has sprouted and the buds are fully formed, the hairs on the buds turn golden yellow, indicating that it’s time to harvest. This may be seen at least three months post transplanting during short crop season and at least six months within the long crop season
Harvesting involves either cutting off the stems with the buds or uprooting the entire tree. The branches with buds should then be placed in a cool, dry area to dry. To aid the drying process, cover the plant with a cotton cloth. After a minimum of two weeks of drying, the buds need to be cleaned to remove any dead leaves and hair follicles. Finally, the buds should be stored in a sealed glass container to preserve their potency and aroma. They are typically smoked in what is locally known as a joint, to help alleviate stress and anxiety, for muscle relaxation, a good sleep or for socializing.
Like any medication or wellness supplement, individuals are advised to consult their personal physician to determine whether their health condition can safely accommodate the ingestion of cannabis and its components.
In Dominica, the 2020 amendment to the legislation allows individuals to carry up to 28 grams of cannabis. However, smoking cannabis in public places remains illegal. This prohibition is outlined in subsection 7(a) of the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Amendment Act.
