Let’s make some dry sift hash and explore one of the oldest, purest forms of solventless cannabis extraction. In the remote valley of Covelo, Mendocino, legendary hashmaker Jerry Mun is keeping this tradition alive at First Cut Farms. A protégé of cannabis icon Dennis Peron and a collaborator of the late Frenchy Cannoli, Jerry has spent decades mastering the art of hash. Now, he’s passing that knowledge on—screen by screen, trichome by trichome.
What is dry sift hash?
Dry sift hash—sometimes called kief or dry sieve—is a solventless concentrate made by gently separating trichomes from cannabis flower using screens and manual tools. No water, no solvents, no pressure cookers—just screens, resin, and the right touch. When done correctly, dry sift offers a clean, full-spectrum experience that captures the essence of the plant, much like traditional hash from the Hindu Kush or Rif Mountains.
How First Cut Farms does it
The process begins by tumbling dried flower in a rotating drum made from a 150-micron mesh screen. As the drum turns, trichome heads fall away from the plant and collect as a sandy golden powder. But this is just the first pass.
Next, the resin is hand-sifted again through a flat screen—also 150 microns—using a paintbrush to gently remove any leftover plant matter or impurities. It’s a meticulous process. “You’re not just making hash,” Jerry says. “You’re sculpting it.”
The real artistry lies in refining the powder through multiple screens: first through a 125-micron mesh to remove oversized particles, then through a 63-micron mesh to push out the small contaminants like capitate stalks. What’s left behind is the gold: trichome heads in the ideal size range of 63 to 124 microns.
Bricking the hash
Once the resin is clean, it’s time to brick it up. At First Cut Farms, that means weighing it, warming it, and applying immense pressure to compact the powder into solid form. The result is a rich, dark, pliable block of dry sift hash—in this case, made from Black Cherry Gelato.
The brick has a smooth finish, with a bold, complex terpene profile that hits somewhere between cured flower and traditional hash. “It’s all there,” Jerry says, holding the finished piece in his hands. “The full expression of the plant.”
A lost art form
In a market dominated by rosin and live resin, dry sift hash is becoming a lost art form. But its clean, solventless nature—and its ability to preserve the plant’s full-spectrum profile—make it a favorite among purists and legacy heads alike.
It’s not just about getting high—it’s about honoring cannabis. The strain, the terps, the tradition. Dry sift hash delivers a potent, flavorful smoke that lands somewhere between the depth of traditional hash and the brightness of modern flower.
So next time you see a jar of dry sift on the shelf—grab it. And thank the hashmakers who still do it the hard way.
The latest addition to RCC’s Mood line melts stress & lifts your spirits
Rare Cannabinoid Company (RCC) takes your mood as seriously as you do. They’re constantly on the front lines of innovation, creating products using exciting blends of hemp cannabinoids that can help relieve stress and help you find your joy. The Hawaiian brand has received plenty of past acclaim for their beloved lineup of wellness-boosting products, but they just aren’t the type to rest on their laurels.
For a limited time, Rare Cannabinoid Company is offering three free gifts! You can try samples of their new THC+CBC Mood Oil as well as your choice of edibles with THC, THCV, CBN, CBG, CBC, and more, and their CBG+CBD+THC Rapid Relief gel. All free—just take their quick quiz to get your coupon code.
They also have a BOGO offer on their Mood Oil now, too!
RCC has recently launched their brand new Mood Oil, the latest addition to their Mood line that already features mints and gummies. This new tincture uses the same tried-and-tested formula of hemp-derived delta-9 THC, CBD, and CBC that made the Mood line famous, but in a sugar- and gluten-free, easily doseable form. They’re so proud of their new oil that they’re excited to share—for a limited time, Rare Cannabinoid Company is offering a free sample of their Mood Oil tincture with every order!
RCC even sent our team a bottle of their THC+CBC mood oil to judge for ourselves. We’ve spent the time putting the tincture through its paces, and we are happy to report that RCC’s winning streak remains unbroken. The virtually flavorless and odorless THC oil provides a mood boost that can provide a bit of bliss, whenever and wherever you need it.
The secret sauce
Image courtesy of Rare Cannabinoid Company.
Rare Cannabinoid Company has put years of effort and refinement into their Mood oil, with each cannabinoid chosen for its ability to raise moods and melt stress. RCC are of the opinion that cannabinoids are better as a team than solo acts—their products leverage the entourage effect, creating cannabinoid blends that are more than the sum of their parts.
The mood blend has three main components:
Delta-9 THC is the same, reliable THC that has been getting folks high for generations, and it’s a classic for a reason. There’s 75mg in each 30ml bottle of Rare Cannabinoid Company Mood Oil, just enough to ensure an uplifting, euphoric high that won’t leave you feeling groggy.
CBC is a little-known compound that RCC uses as a secret ingredient to take their Mood Oil to the next level. CBC is a cannabinoid only found in small amounts in hemp plants, but when it teams up with THC, CBC helps boost euphoric feelings. Early research has shown that CBC can boost anandamide, the brain’s “bliss molecule” and some studies suggest that CBC may even have “antidepressant-like effects.” Each bottle of Mood Oil contains 75mg of CBC.
CBD is the glue that holds the group of cannabinoids together, and each bottle of Mood Oil is packed with 375mg of the cannabinoid. CBD can boost relaxation and help relieve stress, and also boosts other cannabinoids through the entourage effect. What a team player!
New format, same formula
The name of the game when it comes to tinctures is customizability. This format gives you unparalleled control over the dose you consume, letting you match your dose to your day and your needs at any given time.
Each bottle includes a 1ml dropper for precise measurements, meaning you’ll never take too much, leaving you spacey, or too little, leaving you bored. Our favorite part? Rare Cannabinoid Company’s tincture format means you can put your knife down; you’ll never have to slice a gummy into pieces again.
RCC’s Mood Oil has no taste and only a slight aroma, allowing it to be easily taken by itself or added to any number of foods and drinks without adding any unwanted flavors. The tincture is also sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan, and free from unnecessary additives, so it can slot into a wide variety of diets without issue.
We take Rare Cannabinoid Company’s Mood Oil for a spin
Image courtesy of Rare Cannabinoid Company.
Lucky for us, Rare Cannabinoid Company was able to send us a bottle of their THC+CBC Mood Oil nearly as soon the line finished production. I’ve had my bottle for a few weeks now, and I found that having RCC’s time-tested Mood formula and the tincture format is a match made in heaven. I have made a significant dent in their supply of the provided sample and can happily report that RCC’s Mood Oil is yet another fantastic addition to their Mood line.
A day with Rare Cannabinoid Company
How does all that science look in practice? I endeavored to spend a full day with the THC tincture to find out. My day started by adding a splash of the oil to my morning coffee, just about .5ml to a 12-ounce cappuccino. Each 1ml dropper contains 2.5mg THC, 2.5mg CBC, and 12.5mg CBD, so I figured that their morning dose was roughly 1.25mg of THC and CBC.
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We tried delta-9 THC + CBC Mood Gummies with Rare Cannabinoid Company
That’s not much for a seasoned cannabis consumer like me, and the combo of the light dose and the coffee’s caffeine led me to feel exceptionally bright and focused as I started my day. I didn’t notice any appreciable buzz, but merely a light sense of well-being and confidence.
My next dose came around lunchtime, when I added another .5ml to a bowl of couscous, feta, and cucumber salad. The scent of the oil completely disappeared when mixed into the dish, seamlessly melding with the light vinaigrette dressing, and keeping the flavor the same.
The salad in question.
This dose seemed to help with the midday doldrums, helping me rally through the rest of the day and approach my tasks with motivation, not resignation. That feeling endured for several hours, helping me power through until it was time to start winding down.
Next up, I added a full 4ml of RCC’s mood oil to a batch of spaghetti carbonara. That summed up to roughly 10mg of THC and CBC, the dose in a standard edible, and the ideal for the night in I had planned. I added the tincture while the pasta was still steaming, and even the larger dose of oil was completely invisible in the dish’s flavor. I can attest that the Mood Oil’s uplifting properties helped the stress of the day melt away, and made a great pairing for a cozy evening.
My green tea.
Finally, when I was ready to turn in for the night, I added a dose of Mood Oil to a cup of green tea. I was curious to see if the Mood Oil would disappear in an incredibly delicate flavor like green tea, so I added a significant dose of 2ml, 5mg of THC and CBC, to really put the oil to the test. Once again, the tincture completely disappeared, leaving the light green tea smelling and tasting just like it should. After about half an hour, I started feeling the effects and fell asleep with a smile on my face.
The verdict
The precision dosage allotted by the 1ml dropper let me precisely dial in my experience to always improve, never impede, what I was trying to do.
All in all, the versatility and portability of Rare Cannabinoid Company’s Mood Oil left me truly impressed. There really isn’t a time of day when the tincture isn’t useful; the precision dosage allotted by the 1ml dropper let me precisely dial in my experience to always improve, never impede, what I was trying to do. The mood-boosting effects just make everything a little bit more pleasurable, whether that’s focusing, relaxing, or going out on the town.
The lack of flavor is another huge plus for the Mood Oil. So many hemp beverages can taste artificial or leave a skunky aftertaste in your mouth, but this tincture isn’t like that at all. Whatever you add the oil to will still taste like it’s supposed to, just with an added bonus that always goes incognito. RCC’s Mood Oil makes everything into an edible; the only real limitation is your imagination.
The rest of the team
Image courtesy of Rare Cannabinoid Company.
In addition to Rare Cannabinoid Company’s Mood Oil, they also offer two other standout products with the same winning THC, CBC, and CBD formula:
Mood Gummies: The ones that started it all. RCC’s Mood Gummies were the first products to feature the formula, and their success inspired the team to further expand the product into a whole line. Each gummy has 5mg delta-9 THC, 5mg CBC, and 25mg CBD, all wrapped up in a delicious not-too-sweet lime & mint package. We had the good fortune to take these gummies for a spin as well, and you can read all about it right here!
For a limited time, Rare Cannabinoid Company is offering three free gifts! You can try samples of their new THC+CBC Mood Oil as well as your choice of edibles with THC, THCV, CBN, CBG, CBC, and more, and their CBG+CBD+THC Rapid Relief gel. All free—just take their quick quiz to get your coupon code.
They also have a BOGO offer on their Mood Oil now, too!
Mood Mints: RCC’s fast-acting, mood-boosting THC Mints have a half-sized dose when compared to the Mood Gummies, with only 2.5mg THC, 2.5mg CBC and CBC, and 12.5mg of CBD, and they’re also half the price. You won’t be waiting long to start feeling a bit better with, these fresh, slightly sweet bites either—they make use of nanoemulsified cannabinoids for a lightning-fast onset of effects. With two options – a 50-minute packet and 120-mint jar, you’ll have plenty to share or find your optimal dose. Check out what we thought of RCC’s Mood Mints right here.
If any of Rare Cannabinoid Company’s Mood products strike your fancy, then make sure to explore their other offerings. They’ve got a have a THC-free CBC oil as well as a’ve got a huge lineup featuring cannabinoids like THCV, CBN, and CBG, all available in a variety of formats. Plus, for a limited time, you’ll receive a sample packet one 30ml bottle of their brand new Mood Oil with every purchase. Take advantage of this can’t-miss offer and start enhancing your mood and finding more joy with Rare Cannabinoid Company.
Do not drive or operate machinery while taking this product. You must be 21 years or older to purchase THC + CBC Mood Oil and must keep them out of children’s reach. Although these edibles are derived from hemp, they contain THC and you could therefore possibly test positive for THC on a cannabis drug test. Mood Oil cannot be shipped internationally. Availability subject to law.
Welcome to August, Stargazers. This month brings a mellow energy that encourages reflection, grounding, and slow growth. With Virgo season in full swing, it’s a good time to focus on the small things that bring peace: your daily rituals, mindful choices, and time spent in nature or in your favorite haze. Virgo’s practical energy blends well with cannabis for those seeking clarity, healing, or just a sense of routine that feels nourishing rather than restrictive.
As the month rolls forward, the skies hint at shifts on the horizon. Saturn is retrograde and prepares to re-enter Pisces on September 1st, marking the start of a deeper emotional journey that may already be stirring by late August. This shift can feel like a soft reminder to slow down and tune into your inner world. It’s okay if things don’t make immediate sense. Pisces energy invites patience and openness, not answers.
Though most of the heavy astrology lands in early September, it casts a long shadow through August. Uranus goes retrograde on September 6th, followed by a powerful Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th. These bring emotional and energetic tides that may already be felt as early as late August.
Expect dreams to be more vivid, intuition sharper, and social energies more fluid. Then, on September 21st, the New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo offers a clean slate—perfect for setting grounded intentions. August is best spent staying present, quietly preparing for what’s to come.
Jump to your horoscope
Your August horoscope
Aries: SFV OG
August encourages Aries to slow the pace a little and listen more closely to what’s going on beneath the surface. With Virgo season guiding the month, this is a time to get organized and handle the details you’ve been avoiding. Whether it’s your health, your habits, or your inbox, getting your everyday world in order can actually feel grounding right now. Cannabis may help you settle into this slower, more intentional rhythm without feeling boxed in.
The skies are also hinting at deeper emotional shifts ahead. Saturn retrograde re-enters Pisces on September 1st, and even before then, you might start to feel more sensitive or introspective. This energy deepens with Uranus turning retrograde on September 6th, and the powerful Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th. These moments stir your inner world—dreams, intuition, and the stuff that doesn’t always make sense. Then, on September 21st, a New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo offers a fresh start, especially in your daily life and routines. August is a good month to rest, reflect, and quietly prepare for those shifts.
Dreaming big and breaking through blocks is totally on the agenda for Aries this August, with the sky saying you’ll be uncovering what’s been holding you back and planning your next moves. SFV OG is like your cosmic sidekick—it’s energizing, focus-enhancing buzz helps you dig into personal development without crashing into couch-lock territory. So when you need that extra mental clarity to turn ideas into action (or just vibe out with purpose), SFV OG’s got your back.
Taurus: GMO Cookies
August offers Taurus a chance to reconnect with what feels steady and fulfilling. With Virgo season in the spotlight, it’s a good time to lean into routines, hobbies, or people that make you feel calm and supported. There’s also creative energy available this month, so if you’ve been thinking about starting something new, especially something hands-on or heart-centered, this is a great time to ease into it. Let cannabis help you soften your mind and stay present without rushing the process.
As the month winds down, you may start to feel some energetic shifts coming in. Saturn retrograde slips back into Pisces on September 1st, nudging you to reflect on your social circles and your role in the bigger picture. Then, with Uranus (your modern co-ruler) going retrograde on September 6th and a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th, emotions could feel a bit more fluid or nostalgic. These are gentle cosmic cues to check in with your dreams, both literal and long-term. The month closes with a New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo on September 21st, offering a grounded reset—especially in the areas of love, creativity, and personal joy.
Taurus, August is rolling in with passion, new connections, and a surge of creative confidence—your steady, grounded energy is magnetic right now. GMO Cookies brings that perfect balance: mellow euphoria for your heart’s new adventures, plus creative fuel so you can flow with work decisions patiently and calmly. Kick back with GMO Cookies this month—the stress-relief and chill focus it offers lines up beautifully with your August horoscope, helping you savor serenity while embracing growth.
Gemini: Gelonade
August invites Gemini to find balance between curiosity and quiet. Virgo season brings attention to your home life, habits, and how you care for yourself day-to-day. You may feel called to simplify or organize your space, or just carve out more time to unwind. Slowing down doesn’t mean getting bored—it means creating space to think clearly, especially when paired with a little cannabis and some grounding rituals.
Toward the end of the month, the energy starts to shift in subtle but meaningful ways. Saturn retrograde re-enters Pisces on September 1st, highlighting your career path and long-term goals. This might stir questions about direction or purpose, and with Uranus going retrograde on September 6th and a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th, emotions tied to work, status, or pressure could surface. Don’t rush answers—these are moments for reflection. A New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo arrives on September 21st, offering a refreshing restart for your foundation—home, body, or mental clarity.
Gemini, August is shaking things up and pushing you toward big decisions, creating a perfect opportunity to embrace bold change and claim your next chapter. Gelonade’s energizing, talkative, and focused buzz (thanks to its citrusy limonene and uplifting sativa‑leaning hybrid profile) gives you the creative pep and clarity to ride that unpredictable wave without losing your cool. So when those full‑moon revelations hit or your mind’s racing with new ideas, Gelonade helps you stay grounded, but go big in true Gemini style.
Cancer: White Widow
August brings a gentle pace that suits Cancer well. With Virgo season in full swing, your focus turns to communication, planning, and staying connected in simple, meaningful ways. It’s a good month to clear out mental clutter—respond to messages, organize your thoughts, or even journal after a good session with your favorite strain. Conversations can feel more grounded now, and that helps you stay centered as the energy around you starts to shift.
As the month winds down, emotional undercurrents begin to rise. Saturn retrograde enters fellow water sign Pisces on September 1st, bringing a thoughtful, spiritual tone to your perspective. Then, with Uranus turning retrograde on September 6th and a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th, your intuition and emotions may deepen. This can stir up old beliefs or dreams—don’t be afraid to sit with the feelings. The month ends with a New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo on September 21st, giving you a clear space to set fresh intentions around how you think, speak, and share.
Cancer, August looks like a tough month—reactionary emotions, needing to retreat, and time to process a betrayal—so your horoscope suggests closing off and reconnecting with what truly nurtures you. White Widow’s balanced hybrid buzz brings uplifted, talkative energy without couch‑lock, helping you gently break free from isolation and reconnect at your own pace while easing stress and anxiety. Glow up your inner world this August—roll one and let White Widow spark that calm focus and help you open back up on your terms.
Leo: OG Kush
August carries a steady, grounding energy for Leo, especially after the intensity of your birthday season. With the Sun now in Virgo, your attention may shift toward money matters, personal values, and how you care for your resources—both physical and emotional. It’s a good time to reflect on your habits, spend mindfully, and check in with what truly brings you a sense of security. A relaxed mindset and your favorite herb can help you tune in without overthinking.
As the month closes, deeper themes begin to surface. Saturn retrograde enters Pisces on September 1st, encouraging you to take a softer look at shared responsibilities, trust, and long-term emotional healing. This is followed by Uranus retrograde on September 6th and a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th—both of which may stir up feelings that have been just under the surface. Give yourself room to feel without needing to fix everything. On September 21st, the New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo offers a quiet but powerful reset around your daily routine and priorities.
Leo, August is shaping up as your power month—full of success at work and social events, with people admiring your confidence and energy. OG Kush brings that same bold yet grounded energy—its uplifting head high keeps your charisma shining, while mellow body calm helps you stay cool under the spotlight. Light up some OG Kush this August, and ride that Leo spotlight with laser focus, social ease, and just enough chill to let people see the real you.
Virgo: King Louis
Happy Birthday, Virgo! It’s your season, and the spotlight is on you in a calm, clear kind of way. This month brings a chance to focus on yourself—your well-being, your goals, and how you want to move forward. It’s a great time to fine-tune your routines or start a new habit that supports your body or mind. If cannabis is part of your self-care, let it help you slow down and enjoy the process rather than aiming for perfection.
As September approaches, the energy turns inward. Saturn retrograde enters Pisces on September 1st, highlighting your closest relationships and how you show up in them. Then, Uranus turns retrograde on September 6th, followed by a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th—both of which may bring emotional waves that push you to see things in a new light. It’s okay if some answers take time. On September 21st, a New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in your sign gives you a personal reset—an ideal time to start fresh with intention, clarity, and care.
Virgo, August brings mood swings, introspection, and a surge of ambition—your horoscope warns against big rational decisions but gives the green light to trust your gut on everyday things. King Louis (aka King Louis XIII) is the perfect chill‑boss for this month: its indica‑leaning, piney, limonene‑rich vibe calms nerves while offering a gentle creative spark—ideal when you’re juggling emotional ups and downs yet still crushing it at work. Kick off the month with a session with King Louis to mellow out mood swings, stay grounded through emotional waves, and tap into that quiet confidence Virgo is known for.
Libra: Gary Payton
August invites Libra to slow things down and recharge behind the scenes. With Virgo season lighting up your introspective zone, this month is about rest, reflection, and getting in tune with your inner world. You might feel a little more private than usual—and that’s okay. Whether it’s through quiet evenings, journaling, or mellow cannabis sessions, this is a great time to reset your mental space without pressure to do or be more.
As the month closes out, deeper energy shifts begin to unfold. Saturn retrograde enters Pisces on September 1st, encouraging a thoughtful look at your health and daily habits. Then comes Uranus retrograde on September 6th and a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th, which may bring emotional insights or shifts in how you manage your time and energy. Don’t rush to make sense of everything—just observe. On September 21st, a New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo sets the stage for a personal reset, helping you wrap up the old and gently prepare for what’s next.
Libra, August is all about connecting, mentoring, and deepening your social power—your empathy is on point, and friends are looking to you for chill guidance. Gary Payton, a balanced 50/50 hybrid with a crisp, sweet‑diesel punch, gives you euphoric clarity and relaxed energy—perfect for hosting big hangouts or dropping wisdom without getting overwhelmed. So spark up some Gary Payton this month—it keeps your vibe smooth, your focus easy, and your Libra charm fully lit.
Scorpio: Oreoz
August offers Scorpio a gentle push toward connection and creativity. With Virgo season in play, this month highlights friendships, community, and future goals. You might find yourself drawn to group settings or collaborative projects that feel meaningful—or you may simply crave time with people who truly get you. It’s also a good time to enjoy low-pressure fun, especially when paired with your favorite chill ritual to help you stay open and relaxed.
By the end of the month, energy begins to shift in a more emotional direction. Saturn retrograde moves back into fellow water sign Pisces on September 1st, opening up a period of reflection around love, creativity, and what truly inspires you. Uranus goes retrograde on September 6th, followed closely by a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th—both of which can stir up deeper feelings tied to your passions, art, or even old romantic dreams. On September 21st, the New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo offers a quiet reset in your social world, helping you re-align with the people and goals that actually support your growth.
Scorpio, August brings an unstoppable drive—you’re fiercely determined to hit your goals, but watch out for boundary-pushing vibes that could cause friction at work or in relationships. Oreoz, a potent indica-dominant hybrid with creamy vanilla, chocolate, and coffee notes, delivers a long-lasting, relaxing high that soothes stress and tempers intense focus—perfect for keeping your stubborn energy in check while you work toward success. Spark up some Oreoz this month—you’ll harness your drive without tipping into overwhelm, smoothing out mood swings so you can own your Scorpio power with balance.
Sagittarius: Sour Tangie
August invites Sagittarius to ground some of your big ideas into real-world steps. With Virgo season highlighting your career and public life, this is a good month to check in with your goals, polish your plans, and handle responsibilities that have been piling up. You don’t have to overdo it—just take steady steps toward what feels meaningful. A little cannabis downtime might even help you sort through mental clutter and find clarity without stress.
The end of August starts to bring a deeper emotional tone. Saturn retrograde moves back into Pisces on September 1st, drawing your attention to your home, roots, or inner emotional world. Then, Uranus turns retrograde on September 6th, and a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces arrives on September 7th, potentially stirring feelings around where—and with whom—you feel truly at ease. Don’t rush to fix or understand everything. On September 21st, a New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo offers a clean slate in your public life or career path, helping you focus on what’s next with more clarity.
Sagittarius, August brings out your deep desires for freedom, passion, and exploration—whether it’s a thrilling getaway or diving into creative adventures. Sour Tangie’s sunny, citrus-fueled sativa buzz keeps you energized, focused, and uplifted—ideal for fueling spontaneous trips, tapping into that fresh creativity, or just getting lost in something new without burning out. Light one up this month to match your wanderlust and wild energy—Sour Tangie helps you stay inspired, passionate, and ready to own every moment.
Capricorn: Purple Punch
August brings Capricorn a thoughtful shift in perspective. With Virgo season highlighting your ninth house of learning, growth, and exploration, this month invites you to stretch your mind and revisit ideas or goals that inspire you. Whether through travel, study, or a deep conversation, there’s something valuable in seeing things from a new angle. Let your downtime be reflective—maybe with a calming smoke session and a good book or documentary.
As the month winds down, a more emotional tone begins to unfold. Saturn retrograde, your ruling planet, re-enters Pisces on September 1st, encouraging you to slow down and listen more deeply to how you communicate and process information. Uranus turns retrograde on September 6th, followed by a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th, which could stir feelings or insights related to your inner voice, dreams, or creative expression. Don’t overthink it—just observe. The month wraps with a New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo on September 21st, bringing a calm reset in your outlook and helping you realign with what feels true.
Capricorn, August is an emotional rollercoaster full of mood swings, jealousy, and urges—your horoscope says you could benefit from creative outlets like dance to channel those feelings constructively. Purple Punch’s indica‑leaning, grape‑berry goodness delivers calming, full‑body relaxation that eases tension and soothes the jitters—exactly what you need when the inner critic’s loud and your heart’s on guard. Spark some Purple Punch this month to smooth out emotional peaks, open up your creative flow, and let that Capricorn grit shine without the stress.
Aquarius: Zoap
August offers Aquarius a chance to check in with your deeper needs, both emotional and practical. Virgo season highlights themes around shared resources, boundaries, and transformation, so it’s a good time to take a closer look at what you’re giving and receiving. Whether it’s about money, energy, or trust, clarity matters. Slowing down through your cannabis ritual might help you feel more grounded as you sort through the details without pressure.
As the month winds down, the energy begins to shift inward. Saturn retrograde enters Pisces on September 1st, calling attention to your personal values and how you define stability. Then comes Uranus retrograde on September 6th—your modern ruling planet—which could stir up unexpected emotions, followed closely by the Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th. These events may trigger deeper reflections on security, worth, and what you’re truly building. On September 21st, the New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo offers a quiet but powerful reset, helping you shed what no longer works and recommit to what really matters.
Aquarius, August’s got you deep in your head—perfectionism’s peaking, and your usual chill is feeling a little too serious. Zoap brings a smooth, balanced high with creative lift and mellow clarity, perfect for dialing down the overthinking and tapping into your more playful, imaginative side. Light one up this month to let go of the pressure, laugh a little easier, and get back to flowing like your true weird-genius self.
Pisces: Permanent Marker
August invites Pisces to focus on relationships and how you connect with others. With Virgo season lighting up your partnership zone, this is a good time to reflect on how you show up in close bonds—romantic, friendly, or professional. Balance and communication matter, but don’t overanalyze. Let things flow, and if a little cannabis helps you relax into the moment, it may make space for more honest and meaningful exchanges.
The emotional tides rise as September approaches. Saturn retrograde moves back into your sign on September 1st, marking a return to personal growth lessons you’ve been working through. Then, Uranus goes retrograde on September 6th, followed by a Full Moon Total Lunar Eclipse in Pisces on September 7th—bringing powerful insights or shifts around your identity and inner world. You might feel more sensitive or reflective than usual, and that’s okay. On September 21st, a New Moon Partial Solar Eclipse in Virgo offers a reset in your relationships, helping you set healthier boundaries and intentions moving forward.
Pisces, August is set up for romance, social fun, and creative flow—you’ll feel confident, patient, and ready to shine in relationships and group hangouts. Permanent Marker—Leafly’s 2023 Strain of the Year—is a hybrid that blends calming, tingly vibes with uplifting euphoria, plus a unique soapy‑funk taste that sparks creativity and helps smooth social nerves. Light up some Permanent Marker this month to boost your playful, social energy, ease any self-doubt, and let your natural Pisces charm flow freely.
If your plants could talk, they’d ask for better lighting. Indoor growers in 2025 are spoiled with efficient, truly affordable LEDs that can crank out big yields without frying your power bill. We sifted through the blurple, the bloat, and the budget bangers to find the best grow lights for beginners and big harvest dreamers alike. Here’s what’s actually worth plugging in.
Buying a grow light in 2025 feels like buying an e-bike, a laptop, or instant ramen in an H Mart. There’s a dizzying number of options, the “specs” get weirdly technical, and everything looks kinda the same, all while the price tags for seemingly similar products fluctuate WILDLY. And if you’re growing weed indoors, whether it’s your first autoflower in a closet or a dialed-in 4×4 with a carbon filter that sounds like a never-ending rip off of a 4-foot bong, your light is the single most important decision you’ll make. No joke. And no pressure y’all.
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The good news? LED tech has come a long way. Like, a long way. Today’s best grow lights are more efficient, run cooler, last longer, and use a fraction of the power of an old-school HPS setup. (I do miss, though, feeling like an honest-to-god Sun was living in my closet. RIP HPS). And nowadays, many (most, maybe?) are built for tents and tuned for full-spectrum growth, to give your gals exactly what they’ll need from sprout to finish.
What to consider when comparing grow lights
We sifted through hundreds of top-selling, highly rated, and actually-tested and reviewed lights to find the best of the best. We looked at true wattage (ignore fake “1000W” labels), photon efficiency (tl;dr you want ≥2.5 µmol/J), spectrum quality (look for full-spectrum white + red + far-red), build quality, warranty, price, and where the light’s actually assembled (if you care).
Whether you’re just dipping your green toe into tent life, scaling up your canopy, or trying to keep your autos from stretching like Pedro Pascal’s Mr. Fantastic (meow), we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find our top picks for:
Best for 2×2 tents
Best for 3×3 tents
Best for big yields
Best budget light
Best light for auto-flower plants
Best overall grow light
So let there be light! Then we can actually grow something worth trimming.
A quick note about “efficiency”
I mean, what does “efficiency” mean, anyway?
Efficiency in grow lights is measured in µmol/J (micromoles per joule). That’s how many useful plant photons your light spits out for every watt of electricity it eats. The higher the number, the more bang you get for your power bill.
Anything over 2.5 µmol/J is considered elite territory, so more buds, less waste, and a cooler tent (literally).
The best grow lights of 2025: Reviews and recommended products
If you’re running a small tent, you don’t need to (and please don’t) overdo it. You just need smart, reliable photons. The HLG 100 Rspec V2 delivers high-efficiency, full-spectrum light tuned for those photosynthetic sweet spots, all in a no-nonsense, ultra-quiet board. It’s ideal for 1 to 2 plants from seedling through flower and fits <chef’s kiss> in a 2×2 space. Plus, it’s assembled and shipped in the USA. No fans. No frills. Just pure, punchy performance. If I could go back and buy my first 2×2 light again, this HLG would be it.
More about HLG
Horticulture Lighting Group helped pioneer the quantum board revolution (spread-out diodes to reduce hotspots and the need for fans), and they’ve earned their reputation as a go-to brand for serious home growers. Their lights are assembled in Tennessee, their efficiency ratings are independently tested (and tight), and their Reddit cred is unmatched.
Pros
Cons
Extremely efficient and low-heat, for the price
No onboard dimmer (but can be wired manually)
Plug-and-play setup, great for beginners
Not ideal for more than 2 plants
Silent and sturdy (no moving parts)
Honorable mention
Mars Hydro TS 1000 | $88 ($110) | ~2.6 µmol/J Dimmable, full spectrum, daisy-chainable, and great value.
This light delivers pro-level output in a compact, beginner-friendly form. AC Infinity nailed the balance between power and usability here, with Samsung LM301H diodes and excellent passive cooling. The S33 thrives in 3×3 tents and pairs with their UIS controller system, letting you automate photoperiod schedules, if you rock like that.
More about AC Infinity
AC Infinity is best known for their fans (not fans “rah rah”, but fans “brrr brrr”). To be fair, they’re really good fans. And over the past couple years, they’ve quietly become a decent all-in-one grow gear brand.
The standout is their UIS™ platform, which lets you sync fans, lights, sensors, and their other gear to a central controller or app. We’ve heard it’s simple to set up and useful, if you’re the kind of person (like me) who can’t stop looking at the baby monitor. So scratch those itches, and check your humidity from your phone or automate a light schedule without fussing with timers.
AC Infinity is based in California, but, like most gear at this price point, the lights are made overseas.
Pros
Cons
Samsung LM301H LEDs (aka primo diodes)
2-year warranty is on the short side
Cross-compatibility with AC Infinity’s lights, fans, sensors and more
Frame isn’t modular or expandable
App-based control via UIS platform
A smidge pricey
Similar AC Infinity lights available to cover 2×2 ($119) and 2×4 ($249)
Honorable mention
Spider Farmer SF2000 Pro | $180 | 2.7 µmol/J Quiet EVO-board powerhouse with excellent 3×3 coverage.
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• Sastquatchian footprint and dense canopy coverage
This beast is made to push plants to their full potential. Whether you’re running a CO2-enriched 5×5 or dialing in a sea of green, the G8600 dishes out serious light with full-spectrum Samsung and Osram diodes. The eight-bar design delivers high PAR uniformity, and it is smart controller-compatible for full-cycle automation.
More about Spider Farmer
Spider Farmer is one of those brands that pops up early when you’re shopping for LEDs, usually because they strike a balance between affordability and performance. They’ve been steadily improving over the years, and their latest lights are far better than the blurple budget panels they started with.
The G8600 is a solid example: high-end diodes, and enough output to push serious flower in a 4×4 (ideally) or 5×5 space. It’s maybe a bit too much for casual or small-space growers, but for folks chasing yield, it’s a legit option.
Spider Farmer is a China-based brand with decent support and a big enough user base that you can find tips and tricks for these easily online.
Pros
Cons
Very high output and PPF
Way overpowered for small grows
Samsung + Osram diodes (best of the best, yo)
Bar layout may need extra hanging space
Smart controller ready
Honorable mention
HLG 750 Diablo X | $1000 | 2.95 µmol/J (super high efficiency!) Beefy pro-tier light with boosted reds for extra flower power.
If you’re brand new to growing or just need something simple for seedlings or clones, the VS1000 is an easy, wallet-friendly pick. It uses Samsung LM301 diodes, has a basic dimmer, and will easily cover a 2×2 space. No-frills and pretty effective.
Why isn’t this light better than the “Best for 2×2 – HLG”?
The efficiency rating is higher and this is cheaper. You scamming me, bro?
On paper, the VS1000 has a slightly higher efficiency rating than the HLG 100 Rspec, but it’s not quite a nugget-to-nugget comparison. VIVOSUN’s number typically reflects diode-level efficiency, while HLG shares full-fixture efficiency from third-party testing. And HLG’s build quality, thermal design (VIVOSUN’s tend to run hot), and long-term reliability are in a different league. So while the VS1000 is great for learning the ropes, many growers who stick with the hobby eventually upgrade from there.
Pros
Cons
Pretty much as cheap as it gets for a non-trivial light
Shorter warranty
Good enough for a first grow
Lower build quality
Lightweight and simple to hang
Honorable mention
ViparSpectra P700 | $59.99 | ~2.6 µmol/J Dimmable, full spectrum, daisy-chainable, and great value.
Autoflowers love light, and lots of it. The Mars Hydro FC4800 brings high-efficiency Samsung LM301H EVO diodes and a bar-style layout that evenly blankets your tent without frying your plants. It’s quiet, cool, and perfect for the longer 18–24 hour light schedules autos thrive on. This is a pro-level light that doesn’t feel like overkill for a homegrower.
More on autoflower lighting
Autoflowers thrive under longer light periods, often 20 hours on 4 off, with steady, full-spectrum LEDs . So we’re looking for a clean, even light with red and blue spectrum support (which this Mars light has in spades).
Pros
Cons
Excellent PAR map and uniformity
Not the smallest form factor
Runs cool during long auto cycles
Controller sold separately
Righteous value for the specs
• US-built with pro-grade components
• Seriously efficient and quietly powerful
• Spectrum, dimming, and performance all dialed in
If you’re after top-shelf za and want the gear to match, this is the light. The Tomahawk 720 is HLG’s answer to “What if we just made the best possible grow light for $1000?” It is overkill in the best way—massive output, full-spectrum tuning, and a thoughtful bar-style design that delivers uniform canopy coverage without cooking your tent. It’s built like a piece of industrial art, with reflectors and a remote driver that help keep temps and hotspots in check. If I had the space, the money, and enough time to trim all that gorgeous flower, I’d Instacart this beauty in an instant. I mean, maybe just one little treat for Justin, please?
Pros
Cons
Made in the USA
It’s, um, a thousand dollars
Massive efficiency and full canopy spread
Definitely too much for what most folks need. Treat yourself.
Pro level, high(est) efficiency, monster coverage (can do 4×4 up to 6×6), but, yeah, it’s $1300.
Final thoughts on the best grow lights
I’ve been growing for a while, and I can tell you there’s always a decent option for every budget and space. But I can also tell you that you’ll always wish you had better light.
When you’re growing, so many things can go wrong. Locking down the best grow light for your sitch gives you at least one thing you can absolutely count on to kick ass. Take out some of that guesswork! And give those plants what they crave—pure, unadulterated photons, from little ole adulterated you.
Why you can trust Leafly Product Picks
Leafly is the world’s leading cannabis discovery platform and provides a vast library of content from some of the most respected voices in cannabis. Leafly Product Picks prioritizes accuracy and integrity in our selections, working through mountains of research and testimonials to source products you can trust.
Justin Sund: Writer, Creative Producer, Home Grower
Justin Sund is a Creative Producer and experienced home grower. He’s helped create so many things, from board games to award-winning short films for a mélange of amazing folks, including Family Guy, Doctor Who, Marvel Studios, Red Bull, Microsoft, and Leafly. He is a born and raised Washingtonian, living in Seattle with his wife and chubby cat. Justin has a passion for cooking and can often be found making a huge-ass mess in the kitchen.
Anna Elliott: Senior Content Editor, Brands & Products
Anna Elliott is Leafly’s Senior Content Editor, Brands & Products. She’s been with Leafly since 2021, managing and editing content and bringing the best stories on the industry’s top products to life. With a decade of experience reviewing products, covering brands, and editing stories, Anna loves talking up the people & products that make a real difference in readers’ every day. She’s found that Space Mints makes the perfect pairing for enjoying her frankly irresponsible vinyl collection.
