Identifying Ditch Weed: The Features You Should Know
Generally found growing in deserted fields, along the roads, and even in one’s backyard, wild weed, also recognized as ditch weed, possesses certain distinguishing features that set it apart from its more refined relative – cultivated weed. A robust, fibrous plant, ditch weed often reach heights of up to 16 feet. Their foliage is characterized by narrow serrated leaves which appear lighter in color than the lush, broad leaves of cultivated cannabis. The buds on a ditch weed plant – if present – are usually small, scattered, and contain scant seeds. The seeds of this wild cannabis variant have a hard coat, enabling it to endure harsh weather conditions, including freezing winters.
Contrary to popular belief, the growth of ditch weed is not the result of unlawful disposals by cultivators or users; instead, it traces back to the industrial hemp farming that happened before and during the initial decades of the 20th century. The industrial hemp escaped into the wild, thereby marking the beginning of where cannabis grows wild. It’s important to note that although ditch weed is from the cannabis genus, its psychoactive properties are practically nil, due to negligible THC levels.
Legality Concerns: Is the Possession of Ditch Weed Permissible?
The legalities associated with ditch weed are both convoluted and location-specific. Generally, in regions where the production and consumption of cannabis are légal, you’re less likely to face dilemmas surrounding its wild variant. However, the perception of law enforcement towards ditch weed frequently mirrors their policies on marijuana in general. In areas where the possession, usage, or cultivation of cannabis is illegal, being found with ditch weed could result in similar consequences.
It’s also interesting to note that several jurisdictions classify ditch weed under the Controlled Substances Act because it’s a cannabis variant, regardless of its THC levels. Consequently, this raises the chances of penal actions. Therefore it’s important to acquaint oneself with the local laws regarding cannabis, including ditch weed, beforehand.
Comparing Ditch Weed and Cultivated Cannabis
The distinction between ditch weed and cultivated cannabis is as stark as the dissimilarities between any wild and commercially grown plant. Cultivated cannabis is selectively bred and carefully nurtured to maximize THC and other cannabinoids, which are responsible for the euphoria and other therapeutic effects associated with marijuana. Nurseries and caregivers often use cutting-edge hydroponics technology, carefully control the growing environment, and make use of quality nutrients to ensure optimal growth and fruiting of the plants.
On the other hand, ditchweed grows wild and is left unattended. Unlike its cultivated counterpart, it hasn’t been selectively bred for higher THC or other beneficial cannabinoids levels. Instead, ditch weed has a higher CBD to THC ratio, which makes it undesirable to recreational users or those seeking psychoactive effects.
Should You Use Wild Weed for Smoking?
Smoking ditch weed is not commonly recommended, and for several legitimate reasons. The primary factor is its dearth of cannabinoids, particularly THC. This means that smoking ditch weed is unlikely to induce the desired ‘high.’ Moreover, since it grows uncontrollably in the outdoors, ditch weed gets exposed to numerous pollutants, pests, and mold, which makes it unsafe for consumption.
Besides these factors, ditch weed is typically bitter in taste and is notorious for causing harsher, more unpleasant smoking experiences. The plant’s natural resistance to pests and herbicides goes to show the prevalence of defensive chemical compounds that could cause discomfort when inhaled.
Unseen Dangers of Utilizing Ditch Weed
Ditch weed may seem harmless and even appealing to some due to it being freely available and easy to procure. However, its use may present various risks. As mentioned previously, wild weed is often tainted with contaminants and chemicals, making it potentially harmful if ingested or smoked.
Furthermore, the purity and strength of ditch weed are unpredictable and vary widely with each plant. Therefore, users may not be sure of what they’re taking in – which poses an additional risk. In uncertain situations like these, it’s always advisable to opt for alternatives provided by regulated and certified producers, ensuring both safety and effectiveness.
In closing, while it may be intriguing to dig into the world of ditch weed, understanding where weed grows wild and its assorted hazards may not be worth the adventure for some. Remember the saying ‘Not all that glitters is gold’; similarly, not every green, leafy plant is worth the gamble. Safe and regulated alternatives are always a safer bet. Those who require legal and medically-safe cannabis can visit MMJ, a trusted platform that provides new patient and renewal processes for medical marijuana cards in the USA.
