Inspired by Trailer Park Boys, the “Ricky Method” is a creative, unconventional approach to cultivating cannabis while living in your car. This guide will provide detailed instructions on setting up your grow space, choosing fun and resourceful pots, and utilizing friends’ cats as unique bodyguards.

1. Setting Up Your Growing Environment

Choosing the Right Vehicle

• Type of Car: Look for an older sedan, hatchback, or any vehicle that provides enough interior space. The beat-up look is essential to avoid drawing attention.

• Parking Location: Choose discreet, low-traffic areas to park overnight. Consider friends’ driveways or safe, quiet spots away from prying eyes.

Preparing the Interior

• Cleaning: Remove any garbage and clutter. A clean environment will help keep pests away from your plants.

• Insulating Windows: Use cardboard, blankets, or reflective materials to insulate the windows. This not only blocks light from escaping but also helps regulate temperature inside the car.

2. Creating Your Grow Space

Light Source

• Grow Lights: Use energy-efficient LED grow lights. They are low-heat, energy-efficient, and provide the necessary spectrum for plant growth.

• Power Source: Consider a small inverter connected to your car battery or a portable power bank to run the lights.

Fun and Resourceful Pots

Getting creative with pots can add personality and resourcefulness to your grow setup. Here are some fun ideas for pots that are accessible for someone living in their car:

1. Empty Food Containers: Use empty yogurt containers, coffee cans, or plastic takeout containers. Just ensure they have adequate drainage holes.

2. Old Shoes: Hollow out old sneakers or boots for a quirky and unique planting container. Make sure to add drainage holes at the bottom.

3. Repurposed Bottles: Cut the tops off plastic soda bottles or milk jugs. These can be great for small plants and are easily transportable.

4. Tin Cans: Use empty soup or vegetable cans. You can decorate them with paint or stickers to make them visually appealing.

5. Egg Cartons: For starting seedlings, egg cartons are perfect. They are biodegradable and can be planted directly in the ground when the plants are ready.

3. The Growing Process

Plant Selection

• Strains: Opt for fast-growing, resilient strains. Autoflowering strains like Northern Lights or Lowryder can thrive in less-than-ideal conditions and flower based on age.

Daily Care Routine

• Light Schedule: Keep lights on for about 18 hours per day. When you are parked and awake, run the lights to give plants adequate light.

• Temperature Management: Regularly check the car’s temperature. If it gets too hot, crack a window for ventilation or use a small battery-powered fan if possible.

Watering

• Manual Watering: Use a small container to water your plants daily, ensuring the soil stays moist but not soggy. Consider using empty water bottles for easy pouring.

• Water Collection: When it rains, set out containers to collect rainwater for free and natural watering.

4. Using Friends’ Cats as Bodyguards

The Cat Bodyguard Strategy

• Choosing Cats: Use alert, territorial cats from friends who are comfortable with you and the car setup.

• Introducing the Cat: When parked, allow the cat to explore the car. Create a cozy space for the cat with a blanket or small bed, so they feel comfortable.

• Behavioral Benefits: Cats’ natural instincts can deter unwanted visitors due to their curiosity and territorial nature.

• Creative Fun: Set up a small “cat tower” using a cardboard box with openings cut out, providing a lookout spot for the cat while also entertaining them.

5. Harvesting Your Cannabis

Signs of Readiness

• Trichome Check: Use a magnifying glass to monitor the trichomes. Harvest when they are mostly milky with some amber for optimal potency.

Harvest Process

• Timing: Plan to harvest early in the morning or late at night to avoid drawing attention.

• Stealth Techniques: Use a backpack to discreetly transport your harvested buds to a safe area for drying.

Drying and Curing

• Drying Method: Hang the buds using string or lay them out on paper inside the car, ensuring good airflow.

• Curing Jars: Store the dried buds in small jars or containers to cure properly. Keep them in a cool, dark place to enhance flavor and potency.

6. Final Tips for Success

• Stealthy Operations: Always be discreet about your growing activities. Avoid loud noises and keep the car organized to prevent any unwanted attention.

• Networking: If you’re part of a community, connect with others who may have experience with unconventional growing methods. Sharing tips can help you improve your setup.

• Legal Considerations: Ensure you understand the local laws regarding cannabis cultivation. Stay within legal limits to avoid any issues.

Conclusion

The Ricky Method is not just about growing cannabis in a beat-down car; it’s a testament to ingenuity and resilience in challenging situations. By setting up an effective grow space, utilizing fun and resourceful pots, and employing friends’ cats as unconventional bodyguards, you can cultivate cannabis while embracing the spirit of creativity and self-sufficiency. Whether you’re facing challenges or just looking for an adventurous way to grow, the Ricky Method combines the thrill of cultivation with a unique lifestyle, offering both fun and fruitful results.