MontanaCannabis Growing Guide
Everything you need to grow cannabis at home in Montana. Laws, climate tips, recommended strains, and local resources.
Age Requirement
21+ years old
Mature Plants
2 per person
Seedlings
2 per person
Legal Since
January 1, 2021
Legal Overview
Montana legalized home cannabis cultivation through the I-190 (Montana Marijuana Legalization) on January 1, 2021.
What's Allowed
- •Growing up to 2 mature plants per person
- •Growing up to 2 seedlings per person
- •Medical patients: 4 mature + 4 seedlings per person
- •Possessing all cannabis produced by your plants
Not Allowed
- •Exceeding 2 mature plants per person (recreational)
- •Growing plants visible from public areas
- •Selling cannabis from your home grow
- •Growing if you're under 21 years old
Location Requirements
Where and how you can legally grow cannabis in Montana.
Enclosed Area
Plants must be grown in an enclosed area on property you own or rent with permission.
Not Publicly Visible
Cannabis plants cannot be visible from a public place.
Secure Location
Grow area should be secured to prevent access by minors.
Making Concentrates
Rules for making cannabis concentrates and extracts in Montana.
Allowed Methods
- •Rosin pressing
- •Ice water hash
- •Dry sift
- •Infusing with food-safe oils
Prohibited Methods
- •Butane (BHO extraction)
- •Propane
- •Other volatile solvents
Important: Volatile solvents (butane, propane, etc.) are prohibited for home extraction in Montana. Stick to solventless methods like rosin pressing and ice water hash.
Renting? Important Considerations
What renters in Montana need to know about home cultivation.
- ⚠️Landlords can prohibit cannabis cultivation
- ⚠️Review your lease for cannabis-related clauses
- ⚠️Many Montana rentals are on federal land or use federal programs
Compliance Tips
Best practices for staying compliant with Montana cannabis laws.
✓Limited Rec Limits
Montana has lower recreational limits (2 mature plants). Medical patients can grow 4 mature plants - consider getting a card.
✓Big Sky Country
Montana's cold winters and short growing season favor indoor growing, especially at higher elevations.
✓Rural Advantage
Montana's rural nature means more privacy for outdoor grows, but cold nights require cold-tolerant strains.
Climate & Growing Season
USDA Zone
USDA Zones 3a-6a
Outdoor Season
Late May - September
Last Frost
Late May - Early June
First Frost
Early September - Mid October
Challenging outdoor conditions. Indoor growing is recommended.
Montana's harsh winters, short growing season, and high elevation (3,000-6,000+ ft) make indoor growing preferable. If growing outdoors, choose fast-finishing, cold-tolerant strains. The low humidity is a plus for preventing mold.
Recommended Strains for Montana
These strains are particularly well-suited for growing in Montana's climate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cannabis plants can I grow in Montana?
Recreational users can grow 2 mature plants and 2 seedlings per person. Medical patients can grow 4 mature plants and 4 seedlings per person.
Can I grow cannabis outdoors in Montana?
Yes, outdoor growing is allowed as long as plants are not visible from public areas. Montana's short growing season and cold nights make strain selection critical.
When did Montana legalize cannabis?
Montana voters approved I-190 in November 2020, and the law took effect on January 1, 2021.
What's the difference between rec and medical growing in Montana?
Recreational users can grow 2 mature + 2 seedlings. Medical patients can grow 4 mature + 4 seedlings. Consider getting a medical card for expanded limits.
Community
Nearby Legal States
Compare laws in your region
Ready to Start Growing in Montana?
Check out our complete growing guide and equipment recommendations.