The use of medical marijuana is becoming increasingly common among Floridians. However, as the popularity of Marijuana is increasing, so are the prices. It has become expensive to buy some Marijuana products, especially for patients who use them for chronic conditions. Hence, many are now asking, “Why can’t I grow my own plants at home?”
The answer to this question is no, you cannot grow marijuana at home because it is not legally allowed in Florida. As of November 2025, home cultivation is still illegal, even if you are a registered patient. A few new bills are being talked about that could change things, but for now, only licensed companies can legally grow cannabis.
In this article, we will go over the current rules, what the legislature is being debated on, and what you should know about growing cannabis in your backyard.
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What does the current Florida law say about home cultivation?
Medical marijuana was legalized in 2016 through Amendment 2. This amendment allowed people with specific conditions to buy medical marijuana legally. Although Floridians can buy cannabis, can they grow their own? That’s a completely different story.
According to Amendment 2, Floridians cannot grow their own cannabis. Only licensed companies, which we know as Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs), can grow and sell cannabis.
The Florida law leaves no room for confusion. 893.13(1)(a) section of the law states that growing cannabis without a license is a crime. And if you think that the penalties of not following the law will be minor, think again. Cultivation of cannabis is a third-degree felony.
It means you may end up in prison for five years, serve five years of probation, and pay a $5,000 fine.
So, that little plant sitting on your porch? It could be considered illegal cultivation under the law.
So if you’re asking in 2025, “Can I grow my own medical marijuana in Florida?” the answer remains a firm NO.
The 2025 Home Cultivation of Marijuana Bill
Earlier this year, Senator Joe Gruters introduced Senate Bill 546, a proposal that could allow qualified medical marijuana patients to grow a few plants at home. According to this bill:
- Each household can cultivate up to two plants.
- A cultivation certificate from FDACS would be required.
- Plants must remain out of public view and secured in a private space.
- Renters need their landlord’s written consent.
Supporters say that it’s a way to help patients who face lengthy trips to medical marijuana dispensaries or high costs, particularly in smaller towns.
Florida’s climate seems perfect for growing almost anything. And while cannabis requires a bit more attention than your average tomato plant, many patients see potential here.
That said, the bill hasn’t passed yet. Like other homegrown proposals before it, SB 546 is still sitting in committee. Until it’s approved and signed into law, growing at home remains illegal.
What Can Patients Legally Do Right Now?
For now, the only legal way to access medical marijuana in Florida is through the licensed medical marijuana dispensaries. And even for that, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must have a qualifying medical condition.
- You must be a Florida resident (or seasonal resident)
- You must meet age requirements.
- You must get a physician’s certification.
- You need a valid medical marijuana card.
- You must renew your certification every 7 months and your card annually.
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Until a new law passes, this remains the only legal option.
What “Growing at Home” Would Look Like If It Becomes Legal?
Let’s say lawmakers eventually approve home cultivation. What would that actually involve?
Growing marijuana outdoors in Florida isn’t easy or practical every time. The climate in Florida can be a problem. High humidity may cause molds on cannabis. Because of these and many other challenges, people prefer growing it indoors.
Learning how to grow marijuana indoors isn’t as simple as sticking a seed in some soil. You need to control the environment carefully. Light, temperature, airflow, nutrients, and ventilation, everything should be on point.
Many of you might be asking, “How long does it take to grow marijuana?” It is worth noting that the whole process is time-consuming. It may take three to six months, depending on the strain.
You must be knowledgeable about other plants that look like marijuana. Some ornamental species, including Japanese maple, cleome, or even okra leaves, can be mistaken for cannabis.
Why Patients Want the Law to Change
Talk to a few patients around Fort Myers or Gainesville, and you’ll hear a common frustration: cost. Dispensary prices in Florida can be high, and insurance doesn’t cover medical marijuana.
For chronic-pain patients or veterans using cannabis for PTSD, those costs add up. Home growing could offer some relief, both financial and personal.
Many patients say cultivating their own plants gives them a sense of control over what they’re consuming, much like growing their own herbs or vegetables.
Advocates also argue that limited home growing wouldn’t disrupt the market. With proper regulation and plant limits, it could complement Florida’s medical system rather than compete with it.
What can the future of home cultivation look like?
If home growing does become legal in the future, it won’t be a free-for-all. Expect strict conditions:
- You will need a cultivation permit.
- There will be a firm limit on the number of plants.
- Everything must stay out of public view.
- Law enforcement will likely have the authority to verify compliance.
Until that happens, your safest course of action is to stay within the system. Consult certified medical marijuana doctors, get your MMJ card, and purchase from licensed dispensaries.
Remain compliant with Florida Marijuana laws:
Changes are occurring in Florida’s Medical Marijuana law. However, as of Nov 2025, growing cannabis at home is illegal.
Proposals like SB 546 show that the government is listening to patients. This is a good thing. It is highly possible that the rules may change in the near future, and people will be able to grow their own cannabis.
You can learn how to grow marijuana at home or understand the differences between male and female cannabis plants, but none of that matters until Florida law allows growing cannabis at home.
Until then, the best course of action is to stay informed, follow the law, and be patient. That way, when Florida opens the door to home-growing weed, you won’t waste a moment getting started.
