BCA Featured Grower - Tiffany C.

A lot of newer members may not realize this because you see my ugly mug plastered all over our Facebook page and Discord, but I am, in fact, not a founding member of the BCA. I joined shortly after recreational cannabis use was legalized in our lovely Commonwealth. Having moved here at the tail end of 2018, and, being as awkward as I am, I didn't know many people in this area pre-legalization. Tiffany is one of the first friends I made after joining the BCA. She has been a mainstay since the beginning on the Facebook page and at our events, and is among the nicest, friendliest, and coolest people I know.

Tiffany is awesome enough to agree to be the Brandermill Cannabis Association's very first Featured Grower of the Month. She took time out of her extremely busy schedule to answer some questions for me about her experiences growing cannabis and how cannabis has impacted her life in general.

The goal is to get these out like the name implies: monthly! If you would like to be our next Featured Grower of the Month, or you know someone who would be perfect for it, let me know! Shoot me a message on Facebook, Discord, or email me at brandermillcannabisassociation@gmail.com! Now, on to the interview...

Can you describe your growing philosophy and approach to cannabis cultivation?

As a home grower of four plants with a busy home life, I felt it was best to find a way that worked for me. So, I visited Joe and chatted with a few members. I also read some of The Grow Bible by Ed Rosenthal (and maybe retained a few things!). While organic cultivation is often praised for its sustainability and the quality of the final product, it can be more labor-intensive and requires more time to establish a healthy soil ecosystem. The three-part trio and a tent setup got me started.

Pictured: The first 4 plants given to Tiffany by Joe

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced as a grower, and how have you overcome them?

I have been fortunate enough to dedicate a locked room in my home to comply with Virginia law, so I am not worried about any legal issues. However, I still find it frustrating that I cannot leave an auto outside on my deck during the summer because I have children. Pests have definitely been a problem for me, and I have battled—and lost to—broad mites twice. The best solution I’ve found so far is to start from seed and keep the environment clean, although that can be challenging with pets coming in and out. I have also used OrganiShield in a sprayer, which seems to work well for everything except broad mites. If you encounter those, your best bet is a flamethrower!

What are your favorite cannabis strains to grow, and what makes them special to you?

My favorite strains to consume so far are Kushes, Mac 1, Trop Cherry, and Gold Leaf.

They are all fun to grow. My favorites, though, have been random bag seeds that come to fruition. One of my most fun grows was growing one plant out to fill a trellis in a 4x4 tent. Rooting my first clone felt like ASMR—it brought a sense of achievement. It then occurred to me that I had been propagating house plants for years!

What sparked your interest in cannabis cultivation and what are your goals and aspirations for the future of your growing operation? Additionally, what are you most excited about in the evolving cannabis industry?

I had used cannabis for years for mental health until I changed professions. Then, like many others, I think I switched to prescription meds because of legal concerns. Once we were able to grow in Virginia, I knew I wanted to grow my own medicine. Since 2021, I have met so many people who make their own medicinal remedies, and it's truly inspiring. I am thankful I have been able to incorporate some of their knowledge into my own journey. Being able to manage mental and physical pain myself is a game-changer.

How does cannabis fit into your daily routine and lifestyle, including any favorite activities or hobbies that pair well with it, preferred strains or consumption methods for different situations or moods, and its influence on your personal growth or perspective on life?

I enjoy using cannabis in the evenings and on weekends, primarily through smoking or edibles. It helps me relieve stress, relax, and manage pain. Whenever I can, I like to smoke near the reservoir because I find that nature is healing. Cannabis helps me slow down and truly engage in the moment. I'm also fascinated by the wide range of fun new gadgets available for various uses. This summer, I tried smoking out of an apple for the first time while at the reservoir, and it was surprisingly tasty! I would definitely do it again—10/10!

Do you have any funny or memorable stoner stories you'd be willing to share, favorite munchies or cannabis-infused recipes, go-to music, movies, or podcasts that enhance your cannabis experience, and thoughts on the evolving cannabis culture and its mainstream acceptance?

I have truly enjoyed meeting members of my community within the BCA. I've made lifelong friends who have helped me through some tough times, and I am grateful that cannabis has brought me to my people. I'm looking forward to future events (I was just talking about needing some more comedy in our lives with another member) and the opportunity to meet more members.

Pictured: One if Tiffany's plants getting closer to chop time

Pictured: A collage of the biggest plant Tiffany has grown to date.

Pictured: This plant as been afflicted with broad mites

Pictured: Tiffany claims this Magic Melon plant is the prettiest plant she's grown so far.

How do you stay up-to-date on the latest growing techniques and trends in the cannabis industry?

I enjoy following the group and chatting with friends and neighbors. I'm interested in all the news, but when it comes to growing, it's really just about making sure you have a sustainable plan and that you water them!

Pictured: Some seriously dank colas.

How has being part of our growers and enthusiasts group benefited your cultivation journey?

I have met some amazingly knowledgeable people—people who are willing to share their time, expertise, and knowledge. The BCA group is one of the most giving groups of folks I have ever met.

Pictured: One of Tiffany's harvests drying in a closet.

What advice would you give to someone who's just starting out with cannabis growing?

Sometimes the plants die. Just start some more. It's very easy to get overwhelmed with the information out there. So, you just need to pick a few basics, stick with them, and grow some weed. You can always refine techniques with the next grow. Time will pass regardless; might as well have a plant in the dirt.

Pictured: A plant whose colas are starting to get a little fuzzy.

What role do you think cannabis plays in the broader community, beyond its recreational and medicinal uses?

The United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world, with nearly half of all offenders serving time for drug offenses. Many advocates focused on combating institutional racism view the end of cannabis prohibition as a crucial step toward creating a new approach to the justice system. Despite cannabis use being roughly equal among Black and white individuals, African Americans are more than three times more likely to be arrested or cited for cannabis possession compared to their white counterparts. The origins of cannabis prohibition are rooted in racism. It began in the early 20th century, driven by racial biases rather than scientific evidence. Initially, these laws were used to target Latino communities and Black jazz musicians. This historical context continues to influence the current criminal justice system.