FAQs
Visit our comprehensive FAQs section, where you’ll find answers to commonly asked questions and helpful information to guide you. We’ve curated detailed responses to ensure you have quick access to essential information, making it easy to find solutions and support for your needs.
Cannabis, commonly known as marijuana or weed, is a plant belonging to the genus Cannabis, with three primary species: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis. It has various uses, including medicinal, recreational and industrial purposes.
Cannabinoids are chemical compounds found in cannabis. Notable examples include THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound and CBD (Cannabidiol), which is non-psychoactive and has potential therapeutic benefits.
Cannabis has been utilised for thousands of years in ancient civilisations and has recently seen a shift toward legalisation in various regions.
• Cannabis Sativa: Uplifting effects, often used during the day.
• Cannabis Indica: Calming, used in the evening for relaxation.
• Cannabis Ruderalis: Less psychoactive, often used in breeding.
Smoking (joints, pipes), vaporising, edibles (brownies, candies), topicals (creams, balms) and tinctures.
Used to alleviate symptoms of chronic pain, anxiety, depression, nausea, appetite loss and epilepsy.
Strains containing elevated levels of THC, sought for strong psychoactive experiences.
Sativa strains often have higher THC concentrations; hybrids can also vary.
Lemon Meringue (21% THC), Hawaiian (22% THC), Silver Hase (23% THC).
Kosher Kush (21% THC), Triangle Kush (23% THC), GMO Cookies (up to 24% THC).
Hybrids combine sativa and indica, with examples like Death Star (21% THC) and Bruce Banner (25% THC).
Potential side effects include increased heart rate, dry mouth, anxiety, paranoia and impaired coordination.
Start with low-THC strains, consider non-smoking methods, avoid driving after use and consult a doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound extracted from cannabis, available in various forms.
THC is the psychoactive component that produces a “high.”
Both have the same molecular formula but different atomic arrangements, leading to different effects.
They have different effects; CBD is often used for therapeutic purposes without the high.
Both may help with conditions like pain, nausea and anxiety. CBD is SAHPRA-approved for certain types of epilepsy.
Challenges include navigating complex regulations, ensuring public health and addressing potential risks like addiction.
The industry is growing, with ongoing research and discussions about expanding legal frameworks.
Products include CBD oils, edibles, topicals, vapes and pet products.
They rely on state-mandated testing and establish relationships with reputable suppliers.
Stages include cultivation, manufacturing, testing, distribution and retail.
Qure is a Cannabis analytical laboratory and is registered with the Department of Agriculture. Qure tests anything Cannabis-related, from simple potency, cannaboid and terpene profiling to residual solvents, microbial impurities, pesticides, heavy metals and mycotoxin testing to physical testing such as loss of drying, foreign matter inspection and total ash.
Five working days, with longer times for certain tests.
Varies by product type, e.g., 0.5g for flower, 2ml for tinctures.
Organic cannabis cultivation refers to growing cannabis using all-natural methods without synthetic fertilisers, pesticides, or chemicals. This method emphasises sustainability, soil health and producing a purer product that is potentially healthier for consumers.
• Reduced exposure to harmful chemicals and pesticides.
• Enhanced flavour and aroma due to natural growing conditions.
• Potentially higher cannabinoid and terpene profiles.
• Environmentally sustainable, promoting biodiversity and soil health.
• Lower water and carbon footprint compared to conventional methods.
To grow cannabis organically, you will need:
• Natural soil or growing medium
• Organic seeds or clones
• Compost and organic matter
• Natural fertilisers (e.g., fish emulsion, bone meal)
• Biological pest control methods
• Beneficial insects for pest management
• Organic pesticides and fungicides
• Rainwater or naturally sourced water
• Non-synthetic, biodegradable pots or containers
To prepare organic soil:
• Mix compost, worm castings and organic matter for a nutrient-rich base.
• Ensure good drainage and aeration for root health.
• Incorporate green manures and cover crops to improve soil fertility.
• Test soil pH and nutrient levels regularly to maintain an optimal growing environment.
For organic pest control, you can use:
• Neem oil, diatomaceous earth and beneficial insects like ladybugs and predatory mites.
• Companion planting (e.g., marigolds) to naturally repel pests.
• Crop rotation and maintaining a clean growing area to prevent pest build-up.
Use natural or filtered water, ensuring consistent moisture without overwatering. Tailor the watering schedule to the plant’s growth stages and environmental conditions. Rainwater harvesting or drip irrigation is a sustainable choice.
Avoid:
• Synthetic fertilisers and pesticides
• Overwatering
• Poor soil management that leads to nutrient imbalances
• Non-organic seeds or clones
• Disrupting the ecosystem in and around the growing area
The key steps include:
1. Select organic seeds or clones.
2. Prepare nutrient-rich organic soil.
3. Use natural fertilisers.
4. Implement sustainable watering practices.
5. Rely on organic pest control methods.
6. Use natural methods for plant growth management (e.g., topping, pruning).
7. Monitor soil health regularly.
8. Utilise companion planting.
9. Create a sustainable, eco-friendly growing environment.
Mycorrhizal fungi form a symbiotic relationship with cannabis plants, enhancing nutrient absorption and overall plant health. Integrating these beneficial fungi into your organic garden supports sustainable growth and a more robust cannabis crop.
To create your own compost:
• Start with layers of coarse material like straw for drainage.
• Add organic waste like food scraps and leaves in alternating layers.
• Turn and mix the compost regularly for aeration.
• Keep the compost moist but not too wet.
• After several weeks or months, the compost will become dark and crumbly, ready to enrich your soil.
• Organic Fertilisers: Slow, steady nutrient release; improves soil health and microbial activity; eco-friendly but requires knowledge and is initially costlier.
• Synthetic Fertilisers: Fast nutrient release for quick growth; easy to use but can lead to soil degradation and environmental harm over time.
Organic practices improve soil health, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water and promote biodiversity. By avoiding harmful pesticides and synthetic inputs, organic farming minimises chemical runoff and helps maintain balanced ecosystems.