"For the first time, a crop has faced trouble: CSC in Salzgitter finally reveals its predicament"
In the heart of Germany, Salzgitter's Growers' Association 38 has made history by successfully organising its first cannabis distribution in July 2025. With over 200 members, this semi-professional setup marks a significant step forward for the communal cultivation of cannabis in the region.
The journey, however, was not without its hurdles. The association initially faced difficulties during their first cultivation attempts, a challenge common among Cannabis Social Clubs (CSC) in Germany and similar contexts.
Legal ambiguity and regulatory hurdles are a constant concern for CSCs, operating in a legal gray area where cannabis cultivation for social club distribution may not be fully legalised or regulated. The Growers' Association 38 received their cultivation license in January 2025, a crucial step towards legitimacy.
Financial constraints, due to limited access to banking services and capital, also pose a challenge. Despite these obstacles, the association managed to raise the substantial funds required for a semi-professional setup, estimated to cost around one to two million euros.
Supply chain and distribution logistics are another practical challenge. The Growers' Association 38 organises its cultivation in a tent, a setup that differs from professional operations. Ensuring secure, controlled, and efficient delivery of cannabis to members while preventing diversion to the black market is a priority.
Social acceptance and community relations are also crucial. Building trust among members and the wider community, facing stigma, and managing public perception are ongoing efforts for the association.
Technical knowledge and cultivation expertise are essential for producing quality cannabis within legal limits. The association used heat lamps to counteract the cold, but struggled with maintaining balance in humidity and temperature, especially during the winter months when it gets very cold at night.
Despite these challenges, the association persevered and was able to distribute cannabis to its members at the end of July 2025. With the next harvest in September, the association will be fully stocked again, ready to continue serving its members.
It's important to note that, under German law, cannabis can only be privately cultivated for personal consumption by adults and for medical purposes. Commercial distribution by CSCs is not allowed. A traditional store in Salzgitter that sold cannabis has closed forever, leaving the Growers' Association 38 as the only source of cannabis for many in the region.
As the Growers' Association 38 continues to navigate these challenges, it serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking alternatives to traditional cannabis distribution methods in Germany.
The Growers' Association 38, despite facing difficulties such as legal ambiguity, financial constraints, and challenges in cultivation techniques, managed to secure a cultivation license and raise substantial funds for a semi-professional home-and-garden setup. With a new lifestyle approach, they aim to provide quality cannabis to their members, while also working towards building trust within the community and ensuring secure distribution.
