Harnessing L.A.B. (Lactic Acid Bacteria) for Living Soil Systems

By Tokalotapot

⸻

With the arrival of spring rains and the seasonal shift underway, now is the ideal time to inoculate your soil with beneficial microbes that actively work with your plants—not against them.

For growers focused on living soil and long-term plant health, this step isn’t optional. It’s foundational.

One of the most powerful and accessible tools in regenerative cultivation is L.A.B. — Lactic Acid Bacteria.

This is regenerative agriculture in action. These beneficial microbes help transform soil biology from the ground up.

⸻

🌿 Why L.A.B. Matters

Lactic Acid Bacteria contribute directly to soil vitality by:
    •    Breaking down organic matter more efficiently
    •    Outcompeting harmful pathogens
    •    Improving nutrient availability
    •    Supporting stronger root development
    •    Enhancing terpene expression and overall plant vigor

When applied correctly, L.A.B. helps create a thriving microbial ecosystem that supports healthier, more resilient plants.

And the best part? You can produce it yourself with simple, natural inputs.

⸻

💥 DIY L.A.B. Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Step 1 — Rice Wash
    •    Rinse uncooked rice in clean water
    •    Collect the cloudy runoff (this is your starting culture)
    •    Let it sit for 2–3 days in a loosely covered container

⸻

Step 2 — Milk Fermentation
    •    Strain the rice wash liquid
    •    Mix with milk at a 1:10 ratio (rice water : milk)
    •    Allow to ferment for 5–7 days

⸻

Step 3 — Separation
    •    A curd layer will form at the top
    •    Remove the curds carefully
    •    The liquid beneath is your L.A.B. serum

⸻

Step 4 — Stabilization
    •    Mix the L.A.B. serum 1:1 with molasses
    •    This stabilizes and preserves the microbial solution

⸻

⚡ Application Guidelines
    •    Dilution: 1:500 to 1:1000 with water
    •    Use as a soil drench
    •    Can be applied for compost activation
    •    Suitable for light foliar applications

⸻

🌍 Building Real Living Soil Systems

At Hepworth and throughout the Hudson Valley, this approach goes beyond cultivation—it’s ecosystem building.

We’re not just growing plants.

We’re building soil life, microbial networks, and regenerative cycles that strengthen every harvest.

⸻

🌱 Final Word

Transparency. Regeneration. Community.

This is the movement.

Stay tapped in—more coming soon.

Let’s grow!

Tok

By Seymour Buds

Let’s get something straight right away: the water in your bong isn’t just there for looks. It’s not decorative. It’s not optional. It’s the unsung workhorse of the entire smoking experience—cooling, filtering, and shaping every hit you take.

And yet, most people treat it like an afterthought.

Tap. Fill. Rip. Repeat.

But here’s the question that deserves more attention than it gets: Does the type of water actually matter?

Short answer? Yes.
Long answer? Let’s dig in.

⸻

What Water Actually Does in Your Bong

Before we compare types, it’s important to understand the role water plays.

Water in a bong or rig:
    •    Cools smoke, making it less harsh on your throat and lungs
    •    Filters out particulates, including ash and some heavier compounds
    •    Adds moisture, preventing that dry, scratchy inhale

What it doesn’t do is magically purify your smoke into something “healthy.” Let’s stay grounded here. But it does influence taste, smoothness, and cleanliness more than many realize.

So, with that foundation laid, let’s examine the contenders.

⸻

1. Tap Water: The Default Choice

Can you use it? Yes
Is it a good idea? Sometimes
Is it the best option? No

Tap water is the everyday, no-effort solution. It’s available, free, and convenient. That alone makes it the most commonly used option.

But here’s where things get interesting.

Tap water often contains:
    •    Chlorine or chloramine
    •    Minerals (calcium, magnesium)
    •    Trace impurities depending on your local supply

These elements don’t just sit quietly—they can subtly affect both flavor and residue buildup inside your piece.

Ever notice that faint “chemical” taste on a fresh fill? That’s not your strain. That’s your water.

Over time, mineral content can also contribute to:
    •    Hard water stains
    •    Cloudy glass
    •    More frequent deep cleaning

Verdict: Tap water works, but it’s the baseline—not the benchmark.

⸻

2. Spring Water: Nature’s Middle Ground

Can you use it? Yes
Is it a good idea? Yes
Is it the best option? Not quite

Spring water sits in an interesting lane. It’s often marketed as “pure” and “natural,” sourced from underground springs and filtered through rock.

That sounds great—and in many ways, it is.

Compared to tap water, spring water:
    •    Typically lacks chlorine taste
    •    Offers a cleaner flavor profile
    •    Contains natural minerals, which some users say enhances smoothness

But those same minerals can also:
    •    Leave behind residue
    •    Slightly alter the taste of terpene-rich strains

It’s a trade-off: cleaner than tap, but not completely neutral.

Verdict: A solid upgrade from tap water, especially for flavor-conscious smokers—but still not perfect.

⸻

3. Distilled Water: The Purist’s Choice

Can you use it? Absolutely
Is it a good idea? Yes
Is it the best option? Very likely

Distilled water is water stripped down to its bare essentials. No minerals. No chemicals. No additives. Just H₂O in its cleanest form.

That purity brings some clear advantages:
    •    Zero flavor interference
    •    No mineral buildup inside your glass
    •    Cleaner sessions over time

For those who care about tasting every terpene note—citrus, pine, diesel—this is where distilled water shines. It doesn’t compete with your flower or concentrate; it gets out of the way.

There’s also a maintenance bonus: your bong stays cleaner longer, and when it does need cleaning, it’s easier.

Some skeptics argue that mineral-free water feels “flat,” but in practice, most experienced users report the opposite: a smoother, more honest hit.

Verdict: If you’re chasing the cleanest flavor and easiest maintenance, distilled water is hard to beat.

⸻

4. Filtered Water (Brita, Reverse Osmosis, etc.)

Can you use it? Yes
Is it a good idea? Yes
Is it the best option? A strong contender

Filtered water sits right between tap and distilled. It removes many of the unwanted elements—like chlorine and some contaminants—while often leaving behind a small amount of minerals.

The result?
    •    Cleaner taste than tap water
    •    Less buildup than mineral-heavy water
    •    More accessible than distilled for daily use

For many smokers, this is the sweet spot: improved quality without needing to buy separate water.

Verdict: A practical, everyday upgrade that delivers noticeable improvement without extra effort.

⸻

5. Flavored or Enhanced Water (Yes, People Try This)

Can you use it? Technically
Is it a good idea? Not really
Is it the best option? Definitely not

Let’s address the curiosity factor.

Some people experiment with:
    •    Fruit-infused water
    •    Sparkling water
    •    Even sugary or flavored beverages

The idea is to enhance the smoking experience. In reality, it usually does the opposite.

Problems include:
    •    Sticky residue buildup
    •    Bacterial growth risks
    •    Altered, often unpleasant flavors
    •    Foaming or carbonation issues (in the case of sparkling water)

It might sound creative, but your bong is not a cocktail glass.

Verdict: Interesting in theory, messy in practice. Skip it.

⸻

So… Does It Actually Matter?

Yes—but maybe not in the way you think.

If you’re taking casual hits and cleaning your piece regularly, any clean water will technically do the job.

But if you care about:
    •    Flavor clarity
    •    Smoothness
    •    Long-term cleanliness
    •    The full expression of your flower or concentrate

Then the type of water becomes much more important.

⸻

Final Verdict: The Best Water for Your Bong

After weighing the pros, cons, and real-world experiences:

🥇 1st Place: Distilled Water

The cleanest, purest, and most consistent option. Ideal for flavor chasers and anyone who takes their sessions seriously.

🥈 2nd Place: Filtered Water

A highly practical alternative that improves on tap water without requiring extra effort.

🥉 3rd Place: Spring Water

Better taste than tap, but mineral content holds it back from the top spot.

Honorable Mention: Tap Water

It works—but it’s the bare minimum.

Disqualified: Flavored/Enhanced Water

Creative, but counterproductive.

⸻

Closing Thoughts

In a culture that obsesses over strains, terpene profiles, and glass design, it’s almost funny how little attention gets paid to the simplest ingredient in the mix.

Water.

But once you make the switch—especially to distilled—you’ll notice it. Cleaner taste. Smoother pull. Less grime staring back at you the next morning.

Sometimes, the smallest upgrade makes the biggest difference.

And in this case, it’s sitting right there in your sink—or better yet, in a gallon jug waiting to change your next session.

• Seymour Buds

By OG Strain

⸻

Let’s get one thing straight right out the gate—OG Strain does not play about his flower.

I’m not the guy grabbing mystery eighths from behind bulletproof glass while someone who’s never smoked a joint in their life reads me terpene notes off an iPad like they’re ordering wine at a five-star restaurant. Nah. If I’m spending my hard-earned money, I want quality, I want selection, and most importantly—I want that “open the jar and forget what you were saying mid-sentence” type of experience.

So if you’ve ever wondered where I actually shop in the 518… I’m about to put you on game. No gatekeeping. No fluff. Just the real spots that consistently deliver.

⸻

Legal Dispensaries: Where Compliance Meets Gas

1 – Stage One (Rensselaer)

If dispensaries were judged like the Olympics, Stage One already took gold, did a backflip, and lit a joint on the podium.

The owner, Mirk, isn’t chasing a bag—he’s chasing bragging rights. And let me tell you… mission accomplished. This place is easily one of the best dispensaries in the 518, and it’s not even close on some days.

The vibe? On point.
The selection? Dangerous.
The convenience? They deliver up to 25 miles—so yes, you can literally have fire pulled up to your doorstep like it’s Uber Eats for your soul.

And it’s not just a dispensary either—Stage One is really a full-on experience. They host legit concerts, run a studio/podcast setup, and have built something that feels more like a cannabis culture hub than just a place to buy bud.

If you live within an hour and haven’t been here yet, I don’t know what you’re doing… but stop doing it and go.

⸻

2 – Electric City Cannabis Co. (Schenectady)

Now THIS right here… this is how you sell weed.

Electric City Cannabis Company said, “What if customers actually see and smell what they’re buying?” Revolutionary concept, right? Apparently.

Their bud tables are A1. I’m talking magnified views, full aroma access—you can actually meet the strain before committing. It’s like speed dating, but instead of heartbreak, you leave with an eighth of something that changes your life.

No long lines.
No awkward waiting rooms.
No “uhhh let me ask my manager.”

And the staff? They actually know what they’re talking about. That alone deserves a round of applause.

⸻

3 – Upstate Canna Co. (Union Street, Schenectady)

Respect where it’s due—Upstate Canna has been doing this since before it was cool.

They’ve got experience, consistency, and that “we’ve seen it all” energy. When you walk in, you’re not dealing with rookies. These are vets. And in the cannabis game, that matters.

They didn’t just open—they set the tone.

⸻

The People’s Joint (State Street, Schenectady)

This spot feels exactly like the name suggests—for the people.

Super friendly staff, chill atmosphere, and it’s never overwhelmingly packed. It’s one of those places where you walk in stressed and leave like, “You know what… life ain’t that bad.”

Always a solid stop.

⸻

Cannabis City (Near the Casino, Schenectady)

Newer on the scene, but already making noise.

Good selection, clean setup, and I gotta give them props for their rewards system. Spend $200, get $20 back. It might not sound life-changing—but trust me, that adds up faster than your snack bill after a heavy indica.

Every little bit helps… especially in this economy.

⸻

Pop-Up Vendors: Where the Real Hustle Lives

Now let’s talk about the heartbeat of the culture—the pop-ups. This is where relationships matter, quality speaks loud, and reputation is everything.

⸻

1 – Higher Beings x Hudson Valley Green

This isn’t even a debate.

Whether you catch Higher Beings or Hudson Valley Green, just know you’re dealing with the same powerhouse energy. Danni Burns and Kevin Graham are basically the LeBron and D-Wade of this lane—different jerseys, same championship mindset.

The quality? Elite.
The selection? Crazy.
The prices? Arguably the best in the state.

You want top-tier flower without feeling like you just financed it? This is where you go.

They’ve mastered the balance of quality, quantity, and price—which, let’s be honest, is the holy trinity of cannabis shopping.

⸻

2 – Buddah Brothers

If you know, you know.

Buddah Brothers consistently brings top-shelf strains, and yeah—the prices can lean a little higher. But here’s the thing… they’re willing to work with you.

You buying bulk? They’ll talk.
You trying to build a relationship? They’ll remember you.

And let’s talk about that Halle Berry strain… purple, pretty, and had me feeling like I had my life together for a solid two hours. A rare experience.

This is quality with personality—and that goes a long way.

⸻

3 – The Gas Station (Not an Actual Gas Station… Relax)

Before y’all start in the comments—no, you are not pulling up next to pump 3 for an eighth.

“The Gas Station” is just the name. And the man behind it, Jmo? He’s pushing some of the highest quality flower in the state. Period.

Now… let’s address the elephant in the room.

$50 eighths.

Yeah… I said it. That’s premium pricing. That’s “special occasion” pricing. That’s “I just got paid and I’m feeling irresponsible” pricing.

BUT—and this is a big but—the quality backs it up.

This is the type of bud that doesn’t look crazy at first glance… but then you smoke it and suddenly you’re questioning reality, your plans for the day, and whether you’ve been underestimating this man your whole life.

If the prices ever come down?
This might be the #1 vendor in the state. No exaggeration.

⸻

Farms & Private Growers: The Hidden Gems

Lazy Day Farm

Outdoor done right.

Lazy Day Farm is proof that you don’t need fancy indoor setups to produce absolute heat. Their flower is clean, flavorful, and priced more than fairly.

This is that “back to the roots” cannabis—grown with care, not rushed for profit.

⸻

Johnny “Fed” Federighi (Private Grower)

Now this… this is one of those “if you know, you know” situations.

Johnny, aka Fed, isn’t out here vending or promoting. He’s not chasing attention—he’s perfecting his craft.

Small batches.
High quality.
No shortcuts.

If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on his flower—whether it’s gifted or purchased—you already know you’re smoking something special.

This is passion-grown cannabis. And it shows.

And while we’re talking about growers moving like that—respect also goes to John Gilboy of Gilly Greens. I haven’t had the chance to dive as deep into his catalog yet, but from what I’ve tried so far, it’s clear he’s cut from that same cloth. Small-batch quality, real attention to detail, and from what I’m hearing… he’s got some serious fire on deck that’s about to be ready. I’m definitely looking forward to getting my hands on more of his work soon.

⸻

Final Thoughts: No Gatekeeping, Just Gas

I’ve bought weed from just about everywhere you can think of—legal, underground, farms, pop-ups, you name it.

But as of right now, today, this is the list.

These are the names that consistently deliver quality, experience, and value. These are the spots I trust with my money—and more importantly, my high.

So whether you’re a dispensary shopper, a pop-up regular, or someone chasing that small-batch magic… you’ve now got the blueprint.

I’m OG Strain…
And these are the places I recommend.

Now go get yourself something that makes you forget why you walked into the kitchen in the first place.