Patterns of cannabis cultivation, cannabis and other drug use and market participation among Georgian small-scale cannabis growers: Results of online cross-sectional survey.

Background: The study aims to assess the demographic characteristics, patterns of cannabis cultivation, use of cannabis and other drugs, and market participation of cannabis growers in Georgia.

Methods: We conducted an online survey of Georgian cannabis growers. The International Cannabis Cultivation Questionnaire (ICCQ 2) measured cultivation practices, and data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Out of 218 participants, the vast majority were males with a median age of 29 years. They grew a mean of 2.5 cannabis plants in the past year and grew it both in- and out-doors. 89 % reported growing cannabis for their personal use, among them 68 % grew for recreational use and 32 % grew it for medical use. Growers shared one-third of their cannabis, with little sold for profit. Despite high perceived legal risks, few faced legal issues, and involvement in other illegal activities was minimal. 54 % reported using chemical fertilizers, yet believe their cannabis is free of adulterants.

Conclusion: Georgian cannabis growers resemble those in the Global North, primarily cultivating for personal use and not engaging in other illegal activities, except that they are the least likely to grow cannabis commercially. Additionally, they use chemicals extensively, yet often believe this does not compromise the purity of the final product.