Welcome to part one of a large series of posts we’ve put together. By now, as a dispensary, cannabis business, or someone who just likes weed, you’re familiar with a lot of ways you can spend money to get more awareness, eyeballs, and sales… but what about the things you can do for free? Spark up, chill back with some atmospheric music, preferably without lyrics so you can really zone in, and learn the free ways you can build marketing channels for your cannabis business. Cannabis marketing isn’t really all that hard, it just takes some creativity and some effort. Let’s dive in.
The legal cannabis industry is booming and starting a cannabis blog can be a great way to establish yourself as an authority in this growing space. Here are some tips and insights on starting and growing a successful cannabis blog.
Why Start a Cannabis Blog?
There are several key reasons why now is a great time to launch a cannabis blog:
Why Start A Cannabis Blog?
Cannabis Industry Expansion Creates Growing Audience for Cannabis Blogs and Websites
- The cannabis industry is rapidly expanding as more states legalize both medical and recreational use. This means there is a growing audience interested in cannabis content.
The legal cannabis industry has absolutely exploded in recent years as more states choose to legalize both medical and recreational marijuana.
This expanding legalization is akin to what happened when Prohibition was repealed in 1933. Almost overnight, the production, transportation and sale of alcohol became legal enterprises across the country. Entrepreneurs swooped in to meet the sudden demand for beer, wine and spirits. Bars, restaurants, distilleries and bottle shops popped up everywhere.
The same green rush is happening today with cannabis. As laws relax around both medical and recreational use, new dispensaries and cultivation facilities are opening constantly. Established brands are expanding into new markets. Cannabis-related services like reviewing, growing and accessories are also booming.
As an analogy, imagine if coffee was prohibited for nearly a century, and then suddenly legalized. The pent-up consumer demand would lead to a surge in new coffee shops, roasters, farms, accessories and more. That’s the opportunity that legal cannabis presents today.
With all these new cannabis businesses comes a corresponding need for expertise, information and education. Consumers want to learn about the myriad cannabis products now available. Patients want insights on treating conditions with cannabis. Entrepreneurs need advice on starting a cannabis business.
That’s where cannabis blogs fit in. They provide a valuable resource as the industry expands. Interested consumers have an appetite for cannabis content that explains this now-legal world. From reviews to how-to’s, cannabis blogs can capitalize on this growing audience.
The time to start a cannabis blog is now, while the industry is still rapidly expanding. Being an early expert in this space allows you to build authority and readership over time. Then you can monetize through advertising, affiliate marketing and more as laws relax around cannabis promotions. It’s a very exciting time in the cannabis industry today. And starting an informational cannabis blog allows you to become a go-to resource for consumers and businesses alike. As more states legalize, the opportunities will only continue expanding.
Destigmatization Mainstreams Cannabis as Medical and Recreational Attitudes Evolve
- Cannabis is becoming more mainstream and less taboo. The stigma is fading as people recognize the medical benefits and recreational enjoyment.
For decades, cannabis carried a strong stigma and was associated with counterculture lifestyles. The stereotypical “stoner” image gave marijuana a bad reputation. But today, cannabis is quickly shedding that edgy, taboo image and entering the mainstream.
It’s similar to how tattoos and piercings used to be seen as just for bikers, punks and rebels. Now tattoos are sported by soccer moms and business professionals alike. Cannabis is undergoing a comparable shift in perception.
Several factors are driving this mainstream acceptance. One is simply generational change - as younger generations who grew up with cannabis enter the workforce and politics, societal perceptions shift. The legalization movement has also given cannabis more legitimacy and familiarity. As more states reform laws, marijuana becomes a normal, regulated industry. Dispensaries start feeling like pharmacies or liquor stores.
Of course, the biggest factor mainstreaming cannabis is the recognition of its medical benefits. CBD products are now everywhere for their therapeutic uses. And medical marijuana is proving effective for conditions like chronic pain, PTSD, seizures, and more.
It’s like how yoga was once seen as a hippie hobby but is now universally accepted for its health benefits. Yoga studios can be found in every suburb. Cannabis is undergoing the same health-centered rebranding.
As a result, everyday professionals, parents, and retirees are now comfortable using cannabis. Stigmas fade when people realize its medical efficacy and recreational enjoyment.
That presents a big opportunity for cannabis blogs to connect with this growing mainstream audience. Content that informs and educates cannabis newbies will find an interested readership. The topic is exciting to more than just the stereotypical stoners now.
The destigmatization and mainstreaming of cannabis opens up a much wider addressable market for cannabis blogs. It allows you to take an educational, welcoming tone without alienating more conservative readers. The more cannabis is accepted, the bigger your potential audience.
Cannabis Presents Hot Niche for Affiliate Marketing and Advertising as Laws Relax
- It’s a hot niche with lots of opportunities for affiliate marketing and display advertising as laws relax around cannabis advertising.
One major appeal of starting a cannabis blog is the huge monetization potential as laws gradually relax around marijuana promotions. While many platforms still prohibit cannabis ads, these policies are evolving. And affiliate programs offer a great alternative for monetization.
Think of how casino and gambling sites exploded once online advertising became allowed. The same green rush is happening with cannabis affiliate programs as the industry becomes legal and mainstream. There’s pent-up demand from brands who want to get the word out about their CBD oils, edibles, and more.
Affiliate marketing works by earning a commission when readers click through your content and make purchases. For cannabis, this includes things like CBD products, grow lights, seeds, bongs, and subscription boxes. When you join programs like ShareASale and VigLink, you can earn commissions from hundreds of cannabis merchants.
Display advertising is also a growth opportunity. Popular sites like Leafly and Weedmaps already show what’s possible. As cannabis becomes an accepted mainstream industry, expect major ad networks to relax prohibitions. Google and Facebook may still say no, but many others will say yes.
It’s like the gold rush of online gambling affiliates when those brands could finally advertise freely. The floodgates opened to promote online casinos, sportsbooks and poker sites. Now cannabis is having its own gold rush moment in affiliate marketing and advertising.
As a cannabis blog, you’ll want to take advantage of these opportunities. Become an affiliate for all major cannabis merchants. Seek out sponsorships and promotions from cannabis brands, accessories, events and more. But don’t sacrifice your integrity and recommendations. Only promote products you truly believe in and disclose all paid arrangements clearly. Don’t let the affiliate money influence your honesty.
Riding the wave of relaxing cannabis advertising provides a way to monetize your audience reach and influence. But it requires identifying the right programs and policies as this niche evolves. Keep learning which platforms allow cannabis to ensure you maximize your earning potential.
Become a Cannabis Expert with Value-Driven Content - Reviews, Tips, and News
- You can position yourself as an expert by providing value-driven content like reviews, growing tips, breaking industry news, etc.
One major benefit of launching a cannabis blog is the ability to establish yourself as an expert by providing useful, informative content. The cannabis space needs knowledgeable voices more than ever.
It’s like when cryptocurrency first emerged, and early bloggers who shared understandable information quickly became seen as experts. They educated newcomers and thus built loyalty and authority.
You can take the same approach with cannabis by providing “how-to” guides, insider news, product reviews, myth-busting, answers to common questions, and more. Offer actionable education that helps readers in their cannabis journeys.
For example, provide step-by-step growing tutorials for setting up the perfect hydroponics or soil environment. Give dosage tips for medical cannabis patients. Share recipes for tasty edibles anyone can make at home. Review new strains or products so readers know what’s worth trying.
Exclusive industry news and interviews also help build your expertise. Provide analysis on the latest legalization efforts, investments, and innovations. Profile rising stars and brands in the cannabis space. Break down complex research studies and trends.
Essentially, you want to become the knowledgeable friend and advisor around all things cannabis. Approach your content as if answering a close friend’s questions over drinks.
Avoid overly promotional or sales-focused content. Readers can detect self-serving affiliate recommendations. Instead, offer your honest take as someone “in the know.”
Over time, consistently providing valuable insider knowledge, education, and reviews establishes trust and authority. Readers see you as the cannabis expert to turn to whenever they have a question or need recommendations. That loyal audience becomes key for monetization down the road.
But it starts with consistently sharing quality cannabis content simply to help and inform people. By taking an educational, value-forced approach to content, you can position as a true industry expert.
Choosing a Blog Topic and Name
When deciding on a blog topic and name, consider:
Niche Blogs Rank Higher - Focus Cannabis Content on CBD, Growing, Culture
- Focus on a specific niche like CBD products, growing tips, cannabis culture, etc. A narrowed focus is easier to rank for.
When launching a cannabis blog, it’s smart to zero in on a specific niche rather than try to cover everything cannabis-related. A blog with a narrowed focus has an easier time attracting the right readers and ranking in search engines.
It’s like opening a specialized retail store rather than a general department store. For example, a mountain bike shop will attract serious cycling fans versus a sporting goods store that covers all sports.
Good cannabis niches could include focusing just on CBD products, grow tips, cannabis science,
, policy news, recipes, psychedelics, parenting, and more. Find an audience segment that interests you most then target content specifically for them.
A niche focus allows you to really understand those readers’ motivations, questions, and interests. You can provide deep value by addressing the topics and concerns most relevant to them.
In contrast, a general cannabis blog that tries to cover everything may struggle to gain loyal readers. Content becomes too broad and unfocused without a clear audience in mind.
Having a descriptive, keyword-rich name like “CBDReviews.com” also helps readers immediately understand your niche. This allows your content to rank for those specific terms as an authority site.
Over time, you can expand into additional cannabis sub-niches by launching sites like “WeedRecipes.com” or “CannabisScienceBlog.com.” But start with one focused niche until you gain an audience.
While a niche cannabis blog may have a smaller potential audience at first, it allows you to provide the targeted value that audience craves. And that loyalty sets the stage for expanding your cannabis authority to more sites and subjects down the road.
Focusing your cannabis blog is the recipe for growth. Find your special strain of knowledge and help it flourish with a committed community.
Boost Cannabis Blog SEO with Keyword-Rich Names: Cannabis, Marijuana, Weed
Include keywords in the name like “cannabis,” “marijuana,” “weed,” etc. But make sure it still sounds catchy.
- Include keywords in the name like “cannabis,” “marijuana,” “weed,” etc. But make sure it still sounds catchy.
When naming your cannabis blog, you want to optimize for SEO by including relevant keywords right in the title. This helps signal to search engines what your blog focuses on. But you also want the name to still be catchy and memorable.
Think of popular blog names like “Budget Travel Blog” or “Nom Nom Paleo.” They contain keywords while still having a unique personality. The cannabis niche is no different.
Good names could include “The Cannabis Daily,” “Mary Jane Magazine,” “CBD Central,” “The Marijuana Maven,” “Weed Reads,” “High Times Hub,” “Green Gloss,” “Dope Blog,” etc.
These names clearly indicate they cover cannabis while also being creative and catchy. They use terms like “cannabis,” “marijuana,” “weed,” “CBD,” or “high” that prospects commonly search for.
In comparison, vague blog names like “Green World” or “Plant Power” could apply to anything garden-related. You want keywords directly in the name so readers and search engines instantly understand the topic.
But avoid getting too spammy or promotional. “Buy Weed Here” or “Cannabis Oil Store” push it over the line. Find the right balance of keywords and creativity.
Check availability by searching if your desired domain name is registered. Find something still available that contains keywords but has its own brand identity.
Having a cannabis-focused keyword domain like “TheCannabisDaily.com” sends strong signals about relevancy. But combine those terms creatively so it’s catchy and memorable too.
Your blog name and domain set first impressions. Find the right mix of descriptive keywords and catchy branding to draw in cannabis fans. The name should clearly convey what you offer while maintaining a unique style.
Memorable, Short Cannabis Blog Names Win - Check Domain Availability
- Brainstorm names that are short, memorable, and available as a domain name.
Selecting the right blog name involves brainstorming options that are short, easy to remember, and can be registered as an available domain. Long, complex names don’t work as well online.
Think of popular short blog and website names like Lifehacker, Engadget, Buzzfeed, and more. Their names stick in your head while being concise and descriptive.
For a cannabis blog, you want a name that says what you cover while being snappy. Some ideas could be “HiFiveCBD,” “CannaInsider,” “The Daily Dose,” “WeedWorld,” “GreenRush,” etc.
Keep your name to 1-3 words or a short phrase. If it’s much longer than that, it likely won’t stick in readers’ minds or fit nicely into a domain URL. Avoid long multi-word names that are confusing.
Also check domain availability before getting too attached to a name. Search sites like GoDaddy or Bluehost to see if your desired “.com” is registered. If not, you can quickly buy it.
Compare "CannabisTidbits.com" versus "TheCannabisTidbitInsidersMagazineChronicle.com” - the shorter one is clearly more memorable and domain-friendly.
Ideally, you want readers to instantly recognize and recall your cannabis blog name. It should be associated with your brand on first glance. A shorter, catchier name makes that possible.
So be sure to brainstorm lots of punchy, descriptive options for your blog’s name. Test them out loud and with friends. Then check if the domain is available before selecting the winner.
Your blog’s name and domain are crucial first impressions. Take the time to craft something memorable, descriptive and snappy that fits perfectly into a domain URL
Launch New Niche Cannabis Blogs Once the First Takes Off
- You can always start more niche cannabis blogs once the first takes off.
When launching your first cannabis blog, it’s smart to start with one focused niche that you can really dominate. But once you’ve built an audience and achieved success, you can expand by launching additional niche cannabis blogs.
It’s like having one popular restaurant that diners love for the burgers. Once established, you open another restaurant next door focused on pizza. Now you capture more customers with specialized offerings.
A blog on growing tips could spawn a new site for cannabis recipes. One focused on CBD products could expand into a blog covering psychedelics. Build new properties around new niches while cross-promoting them. This strategy leverages your existing audience and credentials to expand your empire. Readers who already trust you on one site will be eager to follow you to new niche sites.
Make sure the content differs substantially so you don’t cannibalize yourself. Offer in-depth value that caters to each niche’s distinct interests and questions.
Promote your new properties through your first blog, social media, email lists and more. Let your cannabis community know about the expanded offerings. Make it easy to subscribe to all your blogs.
Following the initial effort of launching one successful cannabis site, expanding to additional niche sites is easier. You already have the audience, expertise, and processes.
So
consider your first cannabis blog a platform you can grow from. Conquer
one niche at a time, building your authority before expanding the
brand. Soon you'll have a thriving network of niche cannabis blogs
fueling one another's success.
Important Pages to Include
Be sure to create these key pages that establish credibility and organization:
Share Cannabis Credentials on the About Page to Build Trust
- About - Share your backstory and credentials around cannabis.
Having an “About” page that shares your backstory and credentials is crucial for establishing trust with readers of a cannabis blog. This page allows you to explain what makes you a reliable expert in the space.
It’s like when you first meet someone and get to know their background. If they say “I spent 10 years working in cannabis cultivation,” you’ll instantly view them as knowledgeable. An About page serves that purpose.
Share personal stories of what first sparked your interest in cannabis. Describe past jobs, education or life experiences that allow you to provide insider expertise. Being open builds a connection.
If you don’t have directly relevant credentials, focus on what motivates you to educate and inform. Convey your curiosity, passion and drive to help others navigate the cannabis world.
Also share any publications, media coverage, events or associations that demonstrate your immersion in this space. Photos, videos and quotes add a personal touch.
Don’t exaggerate claims or pretend to be overly qualified. Readers will see through that. Honesty and authenticity are key to developing relationships with readers.
Make your About page descriptive but easy to digest. Use section headings, lists and graphics to break up long blocks of text. Write conversationally to connect.
Your About page essentially says “Here’s who I am and why you can trust me.” It shows you have real skin in the cannabis game and the knowledge readers crave. Take the time to provide that background.
List Contact Options for Cannabis Blog Readers - Email, Social Media
- Contact - List email and social media contact options.
Having a “Contact” page with your email and social media info allows readers to get in touch and follow you. This builds relationships and community around your cannabis blog.
It’s like attending a networking event and exchanging business cards with new connections. A Contact page serves that purpose online for readers who want to engage further.
List your professional email address so readers can reach out with questions, comments or partnership proposals. An email newsletter sign-up form also allows you to build your subscriber list.
Link to all your social profiles like Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, etc. so readers can follow you on their preferred platforms. Consistently post updates to keep them engaged.
You can also include a simple contact form that asks for name, email and message. This makes it easy for readers to directly send feedback or questions.
For privacy, only share business-related contact info, not personal numbers and addresses. Get a PO box or virtual address if needed.
Monitor all listed contact channels consistently to maintain open communication. Set up alerts so you never miss an important message from a reader.
A Contact page facilities ongoing discussion with your audience. Use it to build real relationships with cannabis fans who care about your content and insights.
Welcome New Cannabis Blog Visitors with a Start Here Page
A “Start Here” page that introduces new visitors to your cannabis blog and its offerings provides helpful orientation. Think of it like a lobby directory when entering a large building.
Without guidance, new visitors may feel overwhelmed by all the content options. But a Start Here page points them to key destinations so they can find your most valuable content.
Give an overview of your blog’s mission, topics covered, and who it’s aimed at. Help readers confirm they’re in the right place to get their cannabis questions answered.
Link to popular evergreen posts that are gateways to important topics. For example, link beginner growing guides, dosage advice, and product comparisons.
Create a simple site map visually showing the layout of your content.
- Categorize sections like News, Reviews, Recipes, Education, etc. so visitors know where to go.
Offer options to subscribe or follow your blog so newcomers can stay up to date. Point them to your email newsletter sign-up, social profiles, RSS feed, etc.
If you have premium memberships or access, explain those offerings and their value. Give readers a reason to convert to loyal followers.
A Start Here page is like putting out a welcome mat and pointers for visitors. It allows your cannabis blog to put its best foot forward with new readers.
Cannabis Blogs Need Proper Disclaimers and Legal Pages
- Disclaimers - Legal pages like terms of use and privacy policy.
Having proper disclaimers and legal pages like Terms of Use and Privacy Policy protects you and establishes credibility for your cannabis blog. These standard policies show you are running a professional operation.
It’s like how retail stores have fine print signs sharing rules and rights. Online blogs need the same types of disclosures to cover your liability.
A disclaimer page explains any risks associated with cannabis use and clarifies your content is for entertainment and education only. Always advise following local laws.
Privacy policies detail how you handle data collection, analytics, affiliates, and advertising. Assure you respect privacy and don’t sell user data.
Terms of Use pages define what readers can and can’t do on your site, like avoiding harassing comments. And they grant you rights to block violators. These are standard on all blogs but especially important for cannabis which involves complex laws. Consult an attorney to ensure your disclaimers fully protect you.
Clearly written disclaimers and policies also indicate your blog is acting responsibly. Readers will gain confidence you’re covering all bases. No one enjoys reading legal pages but they’re required. Take the time to craft ones tailored specifically to operating a cannabis site.
Curate Cannabis Product and Resource Links for Readers
- Resources - Link lists of top products, services, sites, etc.
A “Resources” page that links to top cannabis products, services, sites and more provides real utility for your readers. It serves as an ongoing reference for recommendations.
Like a contacts list on your phone, it compiles all the best cannabis resources in one easy place. Readers can return whenever they need to find a link rather than dig through your site.
Curate lists of your favorite CBD brands, dispensaries, grow equipment providers, blogs, podcasts, events and more.
Organize recommendation lists by category, location, or other parameters that fit your niche. Break down each list into subsections so they’re easy to skim.
Focus on including resources you genuinely recommend based on real experience. Avoid anything questionable or listing only for affiliate commissions.
Briefly describe each recommendation so readers understand why it made your lists. Go beyond just linking - provide context. Make sure to keep your Resources page updated. Revisit it regularly to add new quality finds and remove any outdated or dead links.
A well-maintained Resources page becomes a go-to reference for both existing readers and new visitors. Take the time to compile all your top cannabis picks in one place.
Use Category and Tag Archives for Easy Cannabis Blog Navigation
- Category or Tag Archives - Easy navigation by post topic.
Having category and tag archives pages allows readers to easily navigate your cannabis blog content by topics they’re most interested in. This improves site organization.
It’s like the section signs in a bookstore that group titles into Fiction, Cooking, Self-Help, etc. Archives serve a similar purpose online, clustering posts by common themes.
Set up logical main categories for your cannabis content like News, Reviews, Education, Recipes, etc. Create archive pages for each one readers can browse.
More specific tag archives also help such as beginner guides, policy changes, sativa strains, CBD benefits, and so on based on your niche.
Make category and tag names descriptive and keyword-rich. For example “High CBD Strains” is better than just “CBD.” Optimize names for SEO.
Link category/tag names prominently in your main nav menu for easy discovery. Also include links on relevant posts so readers dig deeper.
With quality organization and navigation, readers can self-serve the most relevant cannabis content for their needs. Archives facilitate this. Clear site architecture through categorized content clusters will keep readers engaged. Make it easy for them to find more of what they want.
Content Tips and Ideas
Follow these tips for creating engaging cannabis content:
Cannabis Blogs Succeed with Consistent 2-3X per Week Posting
- Blog 2-3X per week minimum, consistency is key.
To build an audience and authority, it’s crucial to blog consistently, ideally 2-3X per week minimum. Frequent new content keeps readers engaged and coming back. Posting regularly shows readers you’re actively updating with fresh insights and info. Inconsistent blogs feel stale and risk losing followers.
Think of it like a restaurant - diners want to see busy foot traffic and turnover, not empty tables. The same applies to active blogs attracting more visitors. Readers can tell when a blog is updated frequently versus sporadically.
Consistency indicates an active, thriving site worth returning to. Make a content calendar to map out blog post topics and timing in advance. This ensures you maintain a steady publishing schedule without scrambling last minute. Having a plan makes it easier to stick to posting goals and keep content flowing.
Identify evergreen topics that rise above short-lived news. Evergreen education and advice withstands the test of time even as new trends come and go. Combine those recurring pillars of evergreen content with posts tied to timely news or events.
Schedule some recurring pieces like a “This Week in Cannabis” recap each Monday or a “Strain of the Week” review every Friday. These predictable segments get readers tuning in on certain days just like morning shows on radio or TV.
Crafting quality cannabis content takes time and effort. Set realistic goals for your schedule and don’t sacrifice quality for quantity. Rushing out sloppy posts just to hit a number does more harm than good. Find a cadence you can sustain.
Consistent publishing fosters organic growth and loyalty. Make it a priority to blog frequently and provide reasons for readers to keep coming back. Think about how you engage with favorite media - usually the ones producing content consistently.
Aim for a publishing schedule you can stick to long term. Consistency pays off exponentially over time as your cannabis site gains authority. Don’t burn yourself out but do make persistent content a priority.
In-Depth Long-Form Content Establishes Cannabis Blogs as Authorities
- Focus on in-depth long-form articles 1,500+ words.
Focus on in-depth long-form articles 1,500+ words to provide comprehensive value around cannabis topics. Longer posts stand out and satisfy reader intent better than short snippets.
Crafting longer posts allows you to explore topics more fully, include actionable advice, get personal, and back up claims. Readers get more value from the time invested reading.
Compare a 150-word recipe versus a 1,500-word guide on making cannabis edibles. The long post can include more context, step-by-step visuals, alternatives, troubleshooting and stories.
Long-form content also fuels more engagement through clicks, shares, comments and backlinks. Readers are more likely to promote and reference epic guides compared to brief takes.
Think of popular long-form outlets like Rolling Stone magazine articles versus TMZ blurbs. In-depth content holds more weight and authority. Producing long posts does require more work but pays off immensely in establishing expertise. Take your time crafting the comprehensive cannabis guides readers crave.
Balance long flagship guides with shorter news updates, reviews and quick tips to vary your content format and pace. Not everything must be long-form.
Optimize lengthy posts with subtitles, bullet points and graphics to ease reading. Tackle complex topics through strong organization and visuals.
Engage Readers with Photos, Videos and Graphics in Cannabis Posts
- Include photos, videos, infographics and visual elements.
Enhance your cannabis articles with photos, original videos, infographics, gifs, and other visual elements. This breaks up blocks of text and keeps readers engaged.
Compelling images allow you to showcase products, demonstrate techniques, and add some personality. Photography has power to tell stories beyond just words.
Short videos can bring how-to tutorials to life, like showing the intricacies of rolling a joint. Embed videos from YouTube or as hosted files for more dynamic content.
Infographics neatly organize complex information on things like state marijuana laws, dosing guides, cannabis family trees, etc. Graphic visuals simplify and clarify.
Memes, comics and gifs add some humor and entertainment between serious topics. Don’t be afraid to have some fun with visuals.
Provide value through original images and videos related to your niche, rather than generic stock visuals. Custom assets reinforce your expertise. Optimize visuals for mobile reading by keeping file sizes modest, enabling pinch-zoom, and having landscape orientation.
Balance text with proportionate relevant visuals. Images should supplement the content rather than act as filler. Keep the focus on quality writing enhanced by select graphics.
Cannabis Blogs Build Loyalty by Getting Personal
- Get personal and share stories and experiences.
Don’t be afraid to get personal and share cannabis stories, experiences and perspectives. This adds a human voice that readers can relate to.
Opening up builds trust and connection. It offers a peek behind the scenes versus just stating dry facts. Share what motivates your passion for cannabis.
Describe early memories of discovering cannabis, pivotal moments that shaped your opinions, or funny mishaps from novice days.
Relate how cannabis has impacted areas like your health, relationships, creativity or productivity. What lessons have you learned? While facts and data have a place, personal narratives better engage readers on an emotional level.
Be authentic without oversharing or being unprofessional. Find the right balance of being open while maintaining some privacy.
Use anecdotes and stories to personalize broader cannabis topics. Add your experiences as examples for readers.
Sharing personalized cannabis perspectives makes you more than just a faceless blogger. Readers get to know the real person behind the content.
Become the Resource for Answering Common Cannabis Questions Answer common questions people have around cannabis.
Create content that directly answers the questions cannabis consumers commonly have to provide maximum value. Tailor your posts to real searcher intent.
Ask yourself what details you would want to know before trying a new product, treatment, or activity. Address knowledge gaps for cannabis newcomers.
Explain the difference between indica and sativa strains. Compare ingestion methods like smoking, vaping, edibles. Clarify laws around possession. Demystify terminology and slang like kief, dabs, blunts, budtenders. Explain effects of THC versus CBD. Debunk myths.
Compare options for treating conditions like anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, PTSD. Guide readers to optimal products and usage.
Address safety concerns like impaired driving, child safety, addiction and withdrawal. Offer balanced perspectives.
Tap into search volume tools to identify most-searched cannabis questions. Let search data inform topics to prioritize.
Writing to directly answer reader questions builds trust quickly. It demonstrates you understand and can meet their cannabis information needs.
Cannabis Content Credibility Increased by Linking Relevant Studies
- Curate and link to studies and external expert sources.
Curating and linking to relevant cannabis studies, research, and authoritative external sources lends credibility to your content. Data and expert opinions validate your insights.
Rather than just stating claims, link to the published research and thought leaders that back up key points. This shows readers your knowledge is backed by science.
For example, when writing about CBD’s anxiety-relieving effects, link to clinical trial results demonstrating evidence. Hyperlink to related studies.
Quote and reference cannabis experts like researchers, policy analysts, breeders, doctors. Avoid overly relying on anonymous anecdotes.
Cite statistics on trends from trusted organizations like government agencies or nonprofits. Source every fact.
Linking out to credible external resources proves you did your homework. It strengthens arguments while providing value to readers.
Choose sources judiciously and explain relevance. Only link the most high-quality, unbiased supporting assets that relate clearly to your content. By taking care to select authoritative references, your cannabis guidance gains legitimacy. You move beyond opinions into fact-based writing.
Cover Trending Cannabis Topics and Current Events
Cover trending topics and current events.
Stay on top of hot trends and current events happening in the cannabis industry to provide timely perspectives. Capitalize on reader interest around breaking developments.
Ride the wave of viral conversations, controversies, policy shifts, new research, product releases and more. Don’t let your content fall out of date.
For example, when a major celebrity launches a cannabis brand, share thoughts on how it affects mainstream appeal. Give takes on high-profile stories.
Analyze the potential impact of legislation proposals like national legalization or allowing banks to work with cannabis companies.
Compare and review just-released products that all the hype - new strains, vapes, edibles or consumption gadgets. Be timely.
Current event posts demonstrate you have your finger on the pulse. Readers turn to your cannabis blog as a source of insider context on what matters now.
Balance timely pieces with evergreen content. Evergreen guides and advice will also be useful long after trends fade.
Stay active on cannabis forums and social media to discover emerging topics. Don’t just recycle what’s already been reported - provide your unique take.
Cannabis Product and Service Reviews Drive SEO and Sales
- Write reviews of cannabis products and services.
Publish in-depth reviews of popular cannabis products and services to provide buyers guidance while monetizing through affiliate links. Reviews are valuable content.
Compare features and performance of top vaporizers or different strains of flower side-by-side. Give your honest take on up-and-coming CBD beauty products.
Describe product packaging, unboxing experience, ease of use, effects and longevity. List pros, cons and who you’d recommend it for. Use photos and videos.
Review delivery services on selection, prices, order experience and reliability. Cover dispensaries or cannabis-related apps and tools.
Back your analysis with real testing and usage. Don’t just rehash what the company claims - put products through their paces.
Include affiliate links tactfully so readers can purchase items you recommend, earning you commissions. Disclose if content is sponsored. Rather than one-off reviews, create recurring series like monthly roundups of new strain releases or summer accessory guides.
Consistently publishing cannabis product reviews builds trust while satisfying reader research needs around purchases.
Annual Cannabis Industry Predictions Engage Readers
Create annual forecasts and predictions for the cannabis industry.
Publish cannabis industry predictions and forecast content around major events like the new year or 4/20 to attract interest and demonstrate expertise.
Analyze expected policy changes, investment trends, product innovations, consumer behavior shifts and more to predict the year ahead.
Back up your prognostications with data and insights from cannabis insiders and credible sources you network with. Don’t just guess.
Frame predictions in an engaging manner, like a letter to future you. Have fun with the format while still offering sound analysis.
Revisit your forecasts at year end to score accuracy and account for unexpected developments. Admit flubs graciously.
Annual predictions get readers anticipating the future while reflecting on ongoing progress. Offer hope and insights around opportunities.
Time predictions around major cannabis events when interest is high, like new state legalization votes or harvest festivals.
Entertain and inform while establishing cannabis prescience. Let your annual forecasts showcase wisdom through well-reasoned speculation.
Grow Audience with Cannabis How-To’s: Dosing, Recipes, Growing
- Share tips and guides around growing, dosing, recipes, etc.
Create practical cannabis content like actionable growing tips, proper dosing guides, DIY project tutorials, recipes and more. How-to’s attract and help readers.
Explain step-by-step instructions for cloning plants, creating extractions or rolling joint varieties. Break down complex processes into simple chunks. For edibles, share your favorite infused recipes from cannabutter to entree recipes. Give precise ingredient amounts, prep steps and photos.
Advise proper dosing based on consumption method, experience level, and desired effects like pain relief or sleep. Guide safe usage.
Apply your insider knowledge into digestible tips that improve the cannabis experience. Address common questions and frustrations.
Use visuals like infographics, diagrams, and video walkthroughs to demonstrate cannabis techniques beyond just text.
How-to cannabis content balances educational with entertaining. It lets your expertise shine in a practical context.
Tackle reader challenges by arming them with actionable cannabis know-how. Be the guide leading them through the maze.
Promoting and Monetizing Your Cannabis Blog
Once you’ve built an audience, here are tips for monetizing:
Monetize Cannabis Blog Traffic with Affiliate Programs
Join affiliate programs like Amazon Associates to earn commissions promoting relevant products.
Sign up for affiliate programs like Amazon Associates and ShareASale that offer commissions for promoting relevant products to monetize your blog traffic.
Find cannabis affiliate programs that pay you to recommend vaporizers, accessories, hydroponic gear, subscription boxes, CBD products, books and more.
Tactfully include affiliate links and banner ads directing readers to items mentioned in your content. But avoid being overly promotional - focus on providing value.
When writing product reviews or gift guides, use affiliate links so readers can easily purchase your recommendations and you earn a commission.
Most programs pay affiliates on a revenue share model, between 4-20% per purchase depending on product category and sales volume.
Be transparent by disclosing affiliate relationships where applicable. Build trust by recommending only products you genuinely would anyways.
Take time nurturing relationships with affiliate managers for top cannabis brands. Ask about co-marketing opportunities and exclusive offers for your audience.
Leverage your audience reach and influence to earn passive income through affiliate partnerships. But provide value before hard selling.
Sell Ads and Sponsored Posts Directly to Cannabis Brands
- Sell ad space or sponsored posts directly to cannabis brands and services.
You can directly sell ad space or sponsored post opportunities to cannabis brands and services as a way to monetize your blog’s audience reach.
Display standard banner ads in sidebars or within content. Offer advertisers tiered impression packages across different time periods for maximum flexibility.
For sponsored posts, allow brands to pay for an article that highlights their products elegantly without overtly pitching. Maintain editorial control.
Create dedicated advertising and sponsorship rate cards detailing pricing for various options like social promotions, giveaways, product reviews, etc. Focus ad and sponsor sales on reputable cannabis brands that align with your blog’s niche and values. Avoid spammy ads.
Clearly label sponsored content as paid advertisements. Be fully transparent so readers trust recommendations. Consider working with a cannabis-focused ad network like Leaf Nation that specializes in compliant placements across cannabis sites.
Selling ad space provides recurring revenue and relationships with brands. But balance promotions with value so readers stay loyal.
Offer Exclusive Content and Perks with Paid Cannabis Blog Memberships
- Add premium membership options for special content and perks.
Consider premium membership options that provide exclusive content and perks for loyal cannabis blog readers willing to pay. This diversifies monetization.
Offer in-depth guides, industry analysis reports, discounts, access to experts, member-only forums, and early access to sales. Entice subscribers. Segment premium content across multiple membership tiers like basic, pro and elite. Make each level feel special.
Promote memberships through incentives like contests and giveaways for new subscribers. Offer time-limited free trials to hook readers. Provide teaser samples of premium content for non-members. Give them a free hit before asking them to commit long-term.
Focus on delivering premium value worth the price rather than locking away existing content. Produce specialized offerings. Integrate memberships seamlessly into your blog platform. Make signing up and managing subscriptions simple.
Loyal cannabis fans will pay for added value, closer access and exclusivity. But still nurture your free audience while tempting premium upgrades.
Sell Online Cannabis Courses, eBooks, and Digital Products
- Sell online courses, ebooks, and other digital products.
Look for opportunities to sell online courses, ebooks, calculators, spreadsheets and other digital products to cannabis blog followers seeking more in-depth guidance.
Bundle your expertise into specialized courses teaching growing methods, cooking recipes, starting a cannabis business and more. Offer text, video, worksheets and discussion forums.
Distill insider tips into downloadable ebook guides that address specific cannabis niches. Expand beyond what’s possible in posts.
For tools, provide calculators that help with things like dosing, harvest planning, building cost estimates and more. Offer useful apps.
Promote new product launches through your blog, social media, email lists and partners. Consider time-limited discounts to spur sales.
Focus on digital products that truly solve needs rather than recycled blog content. Add original value catered to purchasers.
Sell through your own website, online course marketplaces or ecommerce platforms. Send buyers to a landing page explaining the product’s value.
Put your cannabis knowledge into flexible digital formats fans can use on demand. Products provide passive income between ongoing content.
Promote Cannabis Blogs through SEO, Social Media, Email Marketing
- Use social media, SEO, email lists, and more to keep growing your reach and traffic.
Leverage social media, SEO, email lists, partnerships, and other promotion channels to keep expanding your cannabis blog’s reach and traffic. Promotion is key.
Share blog posts on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and other networks. Engage followers and communities related to your niche. Be helpful and sociable.
Optimize posts for organic search visibility through compelling SEO titles, meta descriptions, alt text, backlinks and keyword integration.
Send new content updates, exclusive deals and discussions through email newsletters. Offer incentives for subscribing. Segment lists for targeted messaging.
See if cannabis influencers or brands will share or guest post on your blog. Partner creatively. Organically grow your audience.
Take the time to build meaningful connections with readers and industry peers. Value engagement over mercenary self-promotion.
Track growth through analytics to optimize efforts. Define key metrics like pageviews, subscribers, and social reach. Set realistic goals.
Consistent, creative promotion and networking will organically expand your cannabis site’s sphere of influence. Stay patient and focused.
Conclusion
Launching a successful cannabis blog takes time, consistency and quality content. But the potential rewards are high in this rapidly growing industry. Use these tips to position yourself as a cannabis expert online. The opportunities to engage this passionate audience and monetize your influence are only increasing.