Old Farmer's Almanac Includes Cannabis in Planting Guide, Signaling Cultural Shift
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has added cannabis to its planting guide, marking a cultural shift as the plant gains mainstream acceptance
Key Points
- 1Cannabis included in Old Farmer's Almanac planting guide for the first time
- 2Hemp has been part of the almanac since its inception in 1792
- 3Cannabis guidance contributed by experts Melissa Moore and Parker Curtis
- 4Some criticisms regarding the accuracy of gardening advice
- 5Inclusion marks a cultural milestone in cannabis normalization
The Old Farmer’s Almanac has made headlines by including cannabis in its planting and gardening guide for the first time, marking a significant cultural milestone. This inclusion, noted for its quiet yet impactful presence, reflects the growing normalization of cannabis in mainstream culture. The almanac's decision to feature cannabis gardening advice online is a testament to the plant's acceptance over the decades
Editor-in-Chief Carol Connare clarified that while cannabis is a new addition to the guide, hemp has been part of the almanac's coverage since its inception in 1792. Hemp was regularly mentioned throughout the 1800s but disappeared from the publication after 1920, only to reappear in 1967. Cannabis made its return to the almanac under Connare's leadership in 2023, responding to the increasing demand for comprehensive gardening information
The latest edition of the almanac includes detailed advice on growing cannabis, contributed by experts Melissa Moore and Parker Curtis. This guidance is part of a broader effort to cater to readers interested in herbal remedies and self-sufficiency. The almanac's decision to include cannabis content aligns with its readers' interests in holistic and sustainable living
Despite the positive reception, some experts have criticized the quality of the cannabis gardening advice. Oregon-based hemp farmer Emily Gogol pointed out several inaccuracies, such as the recommended timing for starting indoor plants and methods for germinating seeds. Gogol, however, appreciates the almanac's attempt to engage with home growers and sees it as a step in the right direction
The inclusion of cannabis in the Old Farmer’s Almanac is a symbolic victory for the normalization of the plant, despite some criticisms of the guidance provided. As cannabis continues to gain acceptance, publications like the almanac play a crucial role in educating and informing the public. Looking forward, there is potential for the almanac to refine its cannabis content, possibly with contributions from experienced growers like Gogol