When I was 15 years old, people would ask me if I thought computers were here to stay. That’s where AI is now. AI has begun to touch nearly every aspect of business, and already works in the background of many tools professionals in the cannabis and CBD industries use daily without even realizing it, like Microsoft Word, Teams, and Google products.
AI is only going to become more important as time goes on, especially in the evolving cannabis and CBD industries, and companies that fail to keep abreast of these developments will lose their competitive edge. That’s why business leaders in these spaces should study this innovative technology’s potential and start implementing it as soon as possible.
In particular, AI promises many advances for cannabis and CBD packaging.
How AI assists packaging
Today’s AI can already be your graphic designer, painter, and illustrator. It can also be a fast, simple way to get ideas for a CBD or cannabis product’s packaging design, size, color scheme, styles, and more. For example, when I need to design a new package, I go to any of the free AI tools provided by Microsoft Edge, Google, or Stable Diffusion and ask the AI to send me ideas.
You don’t need to be a programmer or learn programming to use today’s AIs. All a designer, packaging designer, marketing manager, or art director needs to learn is prompting, which is also known as articulating in AI language. Basically, prompting means telling the AI what you want.
Learning to prompt the AI effectively is the largest challenge for newcomers, since it requires practice. In terms of CBD or cannabis packaging design specifically, the prompter should also have extensive knowledge of art, art styles, and even art history movements. That’s why, in my experience, it’s valuable to have artists, art professors, or art historians on your team who are familiar with the history of cannabis-inspired art.
Developing packaging with AI assistance
When I have an initial idea for a new CBD or cannabis product offering — complete with logo, packaging, and maybe even a counter display for convenience stores — I articulate my specifications to our software architect, who also happens to be a professional photographer. After running them through the AI image generator we’ve developed for packaging, he starts sending me ideas, and we rework the AI’s results until they are ready for my design team.
Next, my design team explores how these ideas would look for various kinds of products (such as CBD gummies, hemp papers, smokables, or vitamins) and fabricate mock-ups. Once we identify the most promising possibilities, we use AI to produce 3D renderings of the packaging that we can now use on websites, sell sheets, e-commerce platforms, social media, and more.
We then test these prototypes with automated posts created by AI to see what the CBD and cannabis market thinks of our new product. Indeed, our marketing department uses AI in multiple ways, from writing articles and video editing to creating social media posts, analyzing web traffic, and more.
Finally, we identify which option performs best and move forward into production. My companies also use AI to create manufacturing models. At the moment, hardware and equipment lag in incorporating AI, however, since it takes a long time to engineer and manufacture machines to produce packaging.
The future of AI for packaging
Currently, AI cannot identify Pantone colors nor outline the different items you would need for a dieline, but I foresee it learning this information in the next few months as the CBD and cannabis industries continue to grow.
Indeed, AI will continue to improve and make our work easier in the future. As it gets to know this industry better, it will learn how to speak our language, so that we no longer have to articulate everything like a machine. It will conduct CBD and cannabis package research based on real online searches, buying behavior, and more to help you create a package and test it with your target market until you arrive at the best-selling version. Yes, it sounds a bit like magic, but that’s the AI revolution!
How to start using AI
Rather than resisting change, businesses in the CBD and cannabis space need to become fluent in AI. An easy way to start is to incorporate AI into your marketing efforts. AI can write content for your target audience, as well as conduct research for existing and emerging CBD and cannabis markets, test new marketing materials, and optimize them for search engines. This will allow you to craft better messaging and connect with more people, which will grow your business.
— Jorge Olson is the co-founder and CMO of two publicly traded companies, Hempacco (ticker symbol HPCO) and Green Globe International (ticker GGII). He was born in Tijuana, Mexico, where he didn’t have running water or electricity and had to haul buckets of water across a block several times per day. Now he’s the author of business and inspirational books, as well as an authority on consumer packaged goods, beverages, and wholesale distribution. His partners are super-entrepreneur Sandro Piancone, Cheech and Chong, James Linsey, Rick Ross, and Snoop Dogg.
Best of times? Worst of times? … Why not both at once?
The year 2025 will be good for consumers in terms of pricing, stores, selection, home growing, and hash. Prices will be low, more stores will open with more options, cool seeds will flourish, and hash will be everywhere.
But it’s going to be another bear of a year for growers, sellers, and activists. Both Republicans and Democrats love soaking the pot industry with taxes and regulations. America’s 40 million or so past-month smokers have yet to find their voice and push back.
The wheel of time is set to turn once again. So let’s punch up our annual predictions in the style of asking questions to a Magic 8 Ball. We’ll let you make the pot puns.
Big legislative moves
Will Congress legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will the federal government reschedule marijuana? Outlook not so good.
Will Congress further regulate hemp-derived products? Most likely.
Will the States further regulate hemp-derived products? It is decidedly so.
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State legalization in 2025
Will Pennsylvania legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will Oklahoma legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will Hawaii legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will New Hampshire legalize marijuana? Very doubtful.
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Will Florida legalize marijuana? My reply is no.
Will more local, state, and federal expungement efforts continue? Outlook good.
Will more local cities and counties decriminalize cannabis? Yes.
Retail
Will more than 100 new dispensaries open in legal US states? It is certain.
Will more delivery, pickup, and drive-through options open up in legal US states? You may rely on it.
Will more lounges open up in legal US states? It is certain.
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Will the East Coast states gain stores, farms, and clout in the legal market? Signs point to yes.
Will California cannabis cafe culture hit new heights? As I see it, yes.
Strains & Products
New strain for 2025: Ridgeline’s Blueberry Caviar perfumes the room. (David Downs/Leafly)
Will blueberry be a hype flavor of 2024? Most likely.
Will even more of cannabis culture become about hash? As I see it, yes.
Will cannabis prices find their bottom? Don’t count on it.
Will cannabis prices find their bottom? Don’t count on it.
Will value-added cannabis products like live rosin reach new price heights? Signs point to yes.
Will the home grow movement get bigger? Signs point to yes.
More legislation
Will more cities or states debate and pass THC caps? Most likely.
Will cannabis face continued censorship on social platforms? Better not tell you now.
Will the US government legalize cannabis banking? Unclear, ask again later.
Will cannabis taxes and regulations go up? Signs point to yes.
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Will more states try ‘social equity’ laws? Yes.
Will more legal challenges narrow or nullify ‘social equity’ laws? Most likely.
Will consumers form a big association and find their political voice? Concentrate and try again.
Will Canadian cannabis remain stagnant and over-regulated? Better not tell you now.
See how easy that was? If you don’t like our Predictions, leave one of your own in our survey below. Afterward, get out there and prove us wrong. The future is unwritten. Our fates are what we make it, so go make yours a good one. See you in 2025.
Ah, the age-old debate—right up there with pineapple on pizza or whether hot dogs are sandwiches.
Is it better to light up before you step into the shower or after you’ve dried off?
Now, there’s no wrong answer here. As they say, your high, your rules. But let’s weigh the pros and cons of each approach so you can make an informed decision—or at least sound smart when debating it with your stoner buddies.
The case for a pre-shower blaze
First off, there’s something magical about hitting your favorite strain before you turn on the water. The steam from the shower can intensify the high, making every drop of water feel like a mini massage. It’s like turning your bathroom into a personal spa without the hefty price tag. Imagine this: you spark up, the warm water hits, and suddenly, you’re not just washing off the day’s grime, you’re also washing away the stress. The high can make the experience more sensory–the soap smells better, the water feels warmer, and your mind starts to float away from any hustle.
Creative sparks: For the artists and philosophers out there, this combo often sparks some shower thoughts that are as brilliant as they are fleeting. Who needs a whiteboard when you’ve got condensation on glass?
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The case for a post-shower toke
Now, for the post-shower aficionados, there’s a different kind of pleasure. After you’ve cleaned up, hitting that bowl or joint can feel like the perfect cap to your routine. It’s the cherry on top of your self-care sundae. The high then becomes part of your chill-out session, making everything from watching your favorite show to just lounging around feel like a luxury. You’re already refreshed, relaxed, and clean from the shower, so that first hit feels like an extra layer of bliss.
Distracted thinking is for sure a risk with a pre-shower toke.
There’s also the pragmatic part. Ever washed your hair and immediately forget you washed your hair? Distracted thinking is for sure a risk with a pre-shower toke.
And let’s talk about sleep. If you’re aiming to drift off into dreamland, a post-shower toke can be your ticket to a deeper, more restful sleep, especially if you choose an indica strain.
One more thing, many stoners have found that a shower actually makes you come down from a high. So if you want to save money and not ‘waste’ a bowl—it might be best to wait until after you rinse off.
The verdict?
You the audience decides in the December poll above. And leave arguments or tips in the comments below.
Happy December, Stargazers! The final month of the year harkens Sagittarius season and lights up the cosmos, bringing an adventurous and optimistic energy to guide us. The stars are full of celestial activity this month—let yourself reflect on the past year and dream big about the future. Lest we forget, we’re still in Mercury Retrograde until December 15. Try to focus on tying up loose ends rather than starting anything brand-new until then. Mid-month, communication and travel plans should begin to smooth out, so prepare to move forward with anything that felt stalled earlier.
On December 6, Mars shifts into retrograde to slow us down and urge us to re-evaluate our goals. Use this time to recharge your energy rather than pushing ahead with full force. On December 7, Venus enters free-spirited Aquarius, so don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to love and social connections. Neptune also goes direct on December 7. Dreams and intuition may feel clearer as Neptune’s forward motion helps untangle any recent confusion or uncertainty. Let your imagination flow freely.
As 2024 wraps up, the healing energy of Chiron direct on December 29 helps us process emotional wounds and end the year with self-acceptance and growth. These retrogrades may make you feel like life is moving at a slower pace, but that’s okay; they give us opportunity to pause, reflect, and realign. Lean into the adventurous Sagittarius energy to embrace the unexpected and keep your spirits high. As the year closes, Chiron’s direct motion brings a gentle nudge to celebrate how far you’ve come and welcome 2025 with a fresh, hopeful mindset.
Your December horoscope
Sagittarius
(Leafly)
Happy Birthday, Sag! December brings a mix of introspection and excitement as the year comes to a close. Until Mercury’s retrograde ends on December 15, you may find yourself reflecting on personal goals and relationships, giving you a chance to address lingering issues or refine your plans. Patience is key during this time, especially when communicating with others. Once Mercury turns direct mid-month, you’ll feel a renewed sense of clarity and momentum, perfect for making progress on your ambitions.
Venus, traveling through your sign for much of the month, adds (even more) charm and confidence to your interactions, making it an excellent time to focus on self-expression and meaningful connections. The new moon in Capricorn on December 30 shifts your attention to finances and personal values, encouraging you to set practical goals for the new year. By embracing both the reflective and forward-looking energy of the month, you can end 2024 feeling balanced and optimistic about what lies ahead.
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December strain: We know you can’t stand something one-note, Sag. So as your restless energy drives you to seek new adventures, Sweet and Sour Widow’s balanced THC/CBD ratio offers relaxation without overwhelming effects, helping you unwind after your active pursuits. You also get a uniquely umami flavor profile.
Capricorn
(Leafly)
December invites Capricorns to reflect and prepare for new beginnings as your season approaches. Mercury retrograde until December 15 presents a great time to revisit old projects, organize your priorities, and snip loose ends. Communication may feel a bit off during this period, so patience and clarity are essential, especially in personal and professional discussions. After Mercury turns direct mid-month, a renewed sense of focus and determination makes it easier to take action on your plans.
The new moon in your sign on December 30 marks a powerful moment to set intentions for the year ahead. This fresh energy encourages you to embrace your ambitions and take steps toward long-term goals. Meanwhile, Venus in Sagittarius throughout most of the month invites you to prioritize rest and self-care, helping you recharge before diving into 2025. By blending reflection with goal-setting, you’ll close the year feeling grounded and ready to make the most of what’s to come.
December strain: Sometimes a little pep can be good, Capricorn. Medihaze descends from two of the most beloved Haze strains of all time, Super Silver and Neville’s. These heady parents paired with a CBD-rich parent strain create a euphoric and creative experience without the risk of feeling overwhelmed. Enjoy its spicy terp palate while it soothes you into the new year.
Aquarius
(Leafly)
Aquarius gets a mix of introspection and connection as the year comes to a close. With Mercury retrograde until December 15, you might feel drawn to revisit past goals or rethink your approach to group dynamics and friendships. This is a good time to reflect on what truly supports your personal growth. Once Mercury turns direct mid-month, collaboration with others and moving forward on shared projects will go smoother, with clarity and confidence.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 highlights your daily routines and well-being, encouraging you to create balance in your work and self-care habits. Meanwhile, Venus moving in Sagittarius throughout most of the month brings opportunities for meaningful connections and social adventures, making it a great time to engage with your community or explore new ideas. By combining thoughtful reflection with meaningful action, you can end 2024 feeling connected and ready to embrace the possibilities of the new year.
December strain: Don’t let the name fool you—this strain is very much alive. Deadwood’s potent indica effects can help you unwind and find peace after a hectic season. These calming, kush-backed properties are perfect for indulging in some well-deserved self-care during the holiday season and preparing for the year ahead.
December brings a reflective yet optimistic energy for Pisces, encouraging you to focus on personal growth and meaningful connections. With Mercury retrograde until December 15, you may feel called to revisit old dreams or reassess your long-term goals. It’s also a good time to check in with loved ones and clear up any miscommunications. After Mercury turns direct mid-month, you’ll feel a renewed sense of clarity, making it easier to move forward with confidence and purpose.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 highlights your creative and emotional side, inspiring you to express yourself or engage in activities that bring you joy. As Venus moves through Sagittarius for much of the month, your professional life comes into focus, offering opportunities to shine and connect with others in meaningful ways. By blending introspection with action, you can end the year feeling inspired and ready for the fresh opportunities 2025 will bring.
December strain: Life’s a stage, isn’t it Pisces? And sometimes you need to let loose and dace. As you reflect on the past year and plan for the next, Dancehall’s uplifting effects can help you maintain a positive outlook. This strain’s unique blend of Afghani and Mexican landrace strains makes it a vibrant, suitable companion to twirl into 2025.
Aries
(Leafly)
A new beginning awaits you, Aries. Mars, your ruling planet, turns retrograde in Leo on December 6, urging you to reassess your creative and romantic pursuits. This might bring some delays to unfinished projects, especially in areas involving leadership or artistic expression. A new moon in Sagittarius on December 1 activates your higher learning and travel sector, making this a perfect time to explore educational opportunities or spiritual growth. However Mercury’s retrograde continues until December 15, advising caution in communication and decision-making during the first half of the month. Use this period to reflect and refine plans rather than initiating new ventures.
The second half of December, however, ushers in momentum. Mercury stations direct on December 15 and the Sun enters Capricorn on December 21, shifting focus to career and financial matters. This solar movement energizes your professional aspirations, potentially unlocking income opportunities through partnerships or innovative projects.
The month concludes with a new moon in Capricorn on December 30, ideal for setting resolutions and solidifying financial or professional goals. Watch for tensions around December 24 when Jupiter squares Saturn and tests your patience in financial or relationship dynamics. Balancing ambition with practicality will set the stage for a successful end to the year.
December strain: December is a cold month, Aries, and it may require something stronger than your usual cannabis routine. Remedy is a high-CBD strain with solid indica effects. Its mellow relaxation aligns perfectly with your need to unwind and find balance during this healing time, and its floral, minty flavors complement your unique tastes. Let it accompany you through the month’s planetary tribulations.
Taurus
(Leafly)
December brings a mix of introspection and opportunity for Taurus, with planetary alignments sparking growth in personal and practical matters. Mercury retrograde lasts until December 15, slowing progress in communication and planning in finances or shared responsibilities. This is a good time to reassess your budget and refine your strategies for achieving long-term stability. A Sagittarius new moon on December 1 highlights transformation and shared resources, encouraging you to explore new ways to strengthen your financial or emotional security. Take it slow during the first half of the month in order to yield clarity for the weeks ahead.
The second half of December feels lighter and more productive by comparison when Mercury turns direct mid-month and lingering delays make way for decision-making. Venus, your ruling planet, moves into Aquarius on December 7, energizing your career and public image. This is a favorable time for networking and professional pursuits with opportunities to shine in collaborative efforts. The Sun entering Capricorn on December 21 shifts focus to learning and long-term ambitions, making it an excellent period for setting achievable goals for the new year. As the year winds down, the new moon in Capricorn on December 30 provides the perfect backdrop to create a fresh, practical plan for your future.
December strain: December holds a lot of potential for you, Taurus, and we don’t want you overwhelmed. As you dive into the festive spirit and reconnect with old friends, Suzy Q’s high-CBD, low-THC profile offers relaxation without the high, helping you unwind. Its pine terpenes further help harmonize your thoughts for the new year.
Gemini
(Leafly)
December brings a reflective yet optimistic energy for Gemini, offering a mix of introspection and excitement as the year wraps up. With Mercury, your ruling planet, in retrograde until December 15, you might feel the need to slow down to better avoid unfinished tasks or misunderstandings in your relationships. This is a great time to reconnect with old friends or rethink your goals for the new year. Once Mercury turns direct mid-month, you’ll feel a surge of mental clarity and confidence, making it easier to plan ahead and tackle projects with renewed focus.
The new moon on December 30 in Capricorn highlights your financial and career sectors with realistic goals and strategies for the coming year. Meanwhile, Venus in Sagittarius for most of the month brings a playful energy to your partnerships, sparking moments of joy and deeper connection. Balance your curiosity with a bit of patience this month, and you’ll end the year feeling centered and ready for a fresh start.
December strain: You’re always on the move, Gemini, and you need a strain that keeps you even-keeled. CBD Shark’s balanced THC:CBD ratio offers relaxation without overwhelming effects, helping you spread joy to those around you. Its calming properties can also assist in maintaining your well-being during the festive season.
Cancer
(Leafly)
December offers Cancer a chance to focus on relationships and personal growth as the year winds down. Mercury in retrograde until December 15 makes time for reflecting on past connections or rethinking communication patterns in close relationships. It’s a good time to pause and ensure you’re expressing your feelings clearly. After Mercury turns direct, conversations and plans flow more smoothly, making the second half of the month ideal for strengthening bonds or resolving any lingering misunderstandings.
The full moon on December 15 in your sign marks a powerful moment for emotional clarity and self-discovery. You might feel called to release old habits and what no longer serves you, creating space for personal transformation. Meanwhile, Venus in Sagittarius encourages you to find joy in your daily routines, reminding you to balance work and play. Embrace the reflective energy of the month and trust the process—it’s setting the stage for an uplifting start to the new year.
December strain: As emotions run high, you need something to help you ride the waves , Cancer. Valentine X‘s calming effects can help you navigate the holiday season with ease while spreading joy. Its high CBD content offers relaxation without the high, keeping you balanced and ready to enjoy the festivities.
Leo
(Leafly)
December brings a blend of creativity and reflection for Leo to close out the year. Mercury’s retrograde until December 15 gives haste, urging you to revisit creative projects, tie up loose ends, and relish your personal achievements. Miscommunications can arise, so be patient and double-check important details. After Mercury turns direct mid-month, you’ll feel more confident moving forward with a clearer vision for the goals you want to pursue in 2025.
The new moon on December 30 in Capricorn emphasizes your health and daily routines, making it the perfect time to set intentions for better balance in your life. Venus in Sagittarius throughout most of the month enhances your social energy, inspiring fun interactions and moments of lighthearted connection with others. Let this month’s mix of productivity and joy carry you into the new year with optimism and focus.
December strain: The end of the year can be bittersweet, Cancer, so you need a strain that captures all of life’s highs and lows. Berry Punch blends the sweetness of blueberry with the beguiling effects of Romulan. Its fruity and spicy flavors add a delightful touch to your celebrations, making the season even more enjoyable.
Virgo
(Leafly)
December encourages Virgo to slow down and reflect as the year comes to a close. With Mercury, your ruling planet, in retrograde until December 15, old projects demand your attention, and they’ll compel you to reassess your goals, or reconnect with loved ones. This period is ideal for dealing with loose ends and finding closure in areas that feel unresolved. Once Mercury turns direct mid-month, your sense of organization and mental clarity returns, helping you set your sights on the year ahead with confidence.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 lights up your social life with friendships and community connections. This energy may inspire you to strengthen bonds or seek support from those you trust. As Venus moves through Sagittarius for much of the month, your focus on home and family brings moments of warmth and connection. Allow this reflective and grounding energy to guide you, and you’ll step into the new year feeling aligned and ready for fresh opportunities.
December strain: No one understood the stars quite like Stephen Hawking, but this strain can help. As December unfolds and you enjoy some peaceful, creative activities, Stephen Hawking Kush’s soothing effects can help you relax and express yourself fully. Enjoy its cherry and berry flavors with a minty note.
Libra
(Leafly)
December focuses on relationships and communication for Libras as the year comes to a close. Mercury stays in retrograde until December 15, so you may feel drawn to revisit important conversations or reassess the dynamics in your personal and professional partnerships. Use this time to resolve misunderstandings and clarify your intentions. Once Mercury moves direct mid-month, decision-making and planning become smoother, especially in areas involving shared goals or commitments.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 shines a spotlight on your career and long-term ambitions, offering a moment to reflect on your achievements or adjust your path forward. Venus, your ruling planet, travels through Sagittarius for much of the month, bringing a boost of enthusiasm and a desire for meaningful connections. It’s an excellent time to nurture relationships and enjoy uplifting interactions; by balancing reflection with action, you’ll end the year feeling clear and prepared for what’s to come.
December strain: Don’t just ride the wave, Libra, take charge of the storm. Sour Tsunami’s is the eye, as its high-CBD content offers relaxation without the high, helping you enjoy festive gatherings with a clear mind. Its calming effects can also assist in maintaining your well-being during the holiday season.
Scorpio
(Leafly)
December encourages Scorpio to focus on personal growth and meaningful connections as the year draws to a close. Mercury’s weekslong retrograde until December 15 compels you to reflect on your recent decisions, revisit old projects, or clarify miscommunications. This period is well-suited for taking stock of your emotional well-being until mid-month, when Mercury goes direct and you’ll feel more confident moving forward, especially when it comes to making plans or pursuing long-term goals.
The full moon in Cancer on December 15 highlights your sense of adventure and curiosity, potentially sparking a desire to expand your horizons or seek out new learning opportunities. Meanwhile, Venus in Sagittarius throughout most of the month brings a focus on finances and self-worth, encouraging you to align your spending habits with your values. By balancing reflection with action, you can close out the year feeling empowered and ready to embrace new opportunities in 2025.
December strain: This strain draws its healing potential from the infamous Ringo’s Gift. As you embrace your intellectual side, Pineberry’s calming effects can help you stay focused and relaxed during your deep dives into knowledge. Its sweet, fruity, and pine aromas add a delightful touch to your introspective moments.
