MaineCannabis Growing Guide
Everything you need to grow cannabis at home in Maine. Laws, climate tips, recommended strains, and local resources.
Age Requirement
21+ years old
Mature Plants
3 per person
Immature Plants
12 per person
Legal Since
January 30, 2017
Legal Overview
Maine legalized home cannabis cultivation through the Question 1 (Maine Marijuana Legalization) on January 30, 2017.
What's Allowed
- •Growing up to 3 mature (flowering) plants per person
- •Growing up to 12 immature plants per person
- •Unlimited seedlings (under 24 inches tall)
- •Possessing all cannabis produced by your plants
Not Allowed
- •Exceeding 3 mature plants per person
- •Exceeding 12 immature plants per person
- •Growing plants visible from a public way
- •Selling cannabis from your home grow
Location Requirements
Where and how you can legally grow cannabis in Maine.
Private Location
Plants must be grown in a location not visible from a public way without the use of binoculars or aircraft.
Secure Area
Cultivation must take place in an area that is secure from unauthorized access.
Primary Residence
Plants should be grown at your primary residence on property you own or rent (with landlord permission).
Making Concentrates
Rules for making cannabis concentrates and extracts in Maine.
Allowed Methods
- •Rosin pressing
- •Ice water hash
- •Dry sift
- •Infusing with food-safe oils
Prohibited Methods
- •Butane (BHO extraction)
- •Propane
- •Other volatile or explosive gases
Important: Volatile solvents (butane, propane, etc.) are prohibited for home extraction in Maine. Stick to solventless methods like rosin pressing and ice water hash.
Renting? Important Considerations
What renters in Maine need to know about home cultivation.
- ⚠️Landlords can prohibit cannabis cultivation in lease agreements
- ⚠️Review your lease for cannabis-related clauses
- ⚠️Many rental properties prohibit growing
- ⚠️Consider odor control in shared housing
Compliance Tips
Best practices for staying compliant with Maine cannabis laws.
✓Generous Immature Limits
Maine has one of the most generous immature plant limits at 12 per person. This allows for planning multiple grow cycles.
✓Seedlings Don't Count
Plants under 24 inches tall are considered seedlings in Maine and don't count toward your plant limits.
✓Cold Climate
Maine's cold winters and short growing season make indoor growing the preferred method for most growers.
Climate & Growing Season
USDA Zone
USDA Zones 3b-6a
Outdoor Season
Late May - Early October
Last Frost
Mid May - Early June
First Frost
Late September - Mid October
Challenging outdoor conditions. Indoor growing is recommended.
Maine's short growing season and cold temperatures favor indoor growing or fast-finishing autoflowers outdoors. Coastal areas have slightly milder temperatures but more fog and humidity. Choose cold-tolerant, mold-resistant strains for outdoor grows.
Recommended Strains for Maine
These strains are particularly well-suited for growing in Maine's climate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cannabis plants can I grow in Maine?
Maine allows adults 21+ to grow up to 3 mature (flowering) plants and 12 immature plants per person. Seedlings under 24 inches don't count toward the limit.
Can I grow cannabis outdoors in Maine?
Yes, outdoor cultivation is allowed as long as plants are not visible from public ways. The short growing season (May-October) and potential for early frost make strain selection important.
When did Maine legalize cannabis?
Maine voters approved Question 1 on November 8, 2016, and the law took effect on January 30, 2017.
What's the difference between mature and immature plants in Maine?
Mature plants are flowering plants. Immature plants are vegetating plants over 24 inches tall. Seedlings under 24 inches are not counted in Maine.
Nearby Legal States
Compare laws in your region
Ready to Start Growing in Maine?
Check out our complete growing guide and equipment recommendations.