Ambiguous amendment
Dara Kam’s article in the Naples Daily News raises concerns about whether Amendment 3 will permit Florida voters to cultivate marijuana plants at home or restrict this activity to cannabis corporations. While discussions surrounding marijuana often center on its medical and recreational applications, they frequently overlook its potential as a horticultural element in landscape gardening. Marijuana can be an appealing addition to gardens, yet many other plants in Florida, such as the striking angel’s trumpet (Brugmansia spp.), possess greater potency. Although Amendment 3 grants cannabis corporations the right to cultivate marijuana, it does not clarify whether individual Floridians can grow it for ornamental purposes. In Ohio, the initial marijuana amendment failed for this reason. This ambiguity regarding equitable access for Florida voters needs to be addressed, and until it is, a vote against Amendment 3 is advisable.
David Driapsa, FASLA, Landscape Architect, Naples