Ingrained in the Culture

Mendo Dope persists in nurturing the tradition of cannabis cultivation in the Emerald Triangle.

In the ever-evolving landscape of cannabis culture, the contributions of Daniel and Bryan Eatmon, popularly known as Old E and Bleezy of Mendo Dope, stand out as a remarkable chronicle of transformation and creativity. Their journey offers a unique narrative that intertwines the growth of cannabis with the rhythms of music, providing an authentic glimpse into the life and culture of the Emerald Triangle, particularly during a time when cannabis was emerging from the shadows.

Early Forays into Cannabis Cultivation

Old E and Bleezy embarked on their cannabis cultivation journey in the valleys of Mendocino County, California, in 2006. This period, marked by the Bush administration’s stringent policies, represented the twilight of the cannabis “dark ages.” However, the brothers’ initial foray into cannabis growing, starting with a single plant in their mother’s backyard, was relatively undisturbed, given the broader context of their neighborhood.

Their humble beginnings involved nurturing a few more plants each subsequent year, gradually expanding their cultivation as they gained more experience and confidence. This incremental approach allowed them to develop their skills and understanding of the plant, setting the stage for more significant endeavors in the future.

Development of Cultivation Techniques and Notable Achievements

As they honed their cultivation techniques, Old E and Bleezy began focusing on increasing the size of their plants before expanding the number of plants. This strategy, considered safer and more prudent during those times, eventually led to the cultivation of the large, impressive plants that Mendo Dope would become renowned for. By 2012, their cultivation practices had evolved significantly, marking the beginning of a period where they grew some of the most notable cannabis plants in their career.

Musical Endeavors and Cultural Expression

Parallel to their development in cannabis cultivation, the brothers were also making strides in their musical journey. Old E’s interest in music, particularly freestyling with friends during his high school years, laid the foundation for their musical pursuits. In 2007, Mendo Dope released their first underground album, “NOYB Boys,” which featured photos of their inaugural cannabis grow, symbolizing the deep connection between their music and cannabis cultivation.

This album was a creative expression of their experiences and the culture they were immersed in. The duo fondly recalls the origins of their first plants, grown from seeds of an unknown strain that produced a strikingly dark purple cannabis. This particular strain, fondly known as “Backyard Purp,” serves as a prime illustration of the experimental and exploratory essence that characterized their initial forays into the world of cannabis.

The journey of Old E and Bleezy, Mendo Dope, is a testament to the intertwined evolution of cannabis culture and music. From their initial steps in a modest backyard to becoming icons in the cannabis community, their story reflects the broader narrative of cannabis’s emergence into mainstream acceptance. Through their cultivation achievements and musical creations, they have not only contributed significantly to the cannabis culture but have also documented and shared the essence of their experiences during a transformative era in cannabis history. Their enduring legacy continues to serve as a source of inspiration and resonance within both the cannabis and music communities, epitomizing the essence of innovation and authenticity.

The Raid

Mendo Dope’s journey in cannabis cultivation, spearheaded by brothers Daniel and Bryan Eatmon, aka Old E and Bleezy, represents a narrative of significant growth, both in the literal and figurative sense. From their humble beginnings with a single plant, their operation evolved dramatically, but not without facing substantial challenges, particularly a raid in 2013 which marked a pivotal moment in their cultivation history.

Exponential Growth and Regulatory Compliance

By 2012, Mendo Dope had notably progressed from cultivating a single plant to managing a garden of 25 cannabis plants, the maximum count allowed under Mendocino County’s medical cannabis regulations at the time. This limit was considered optimal for cultivators who preferred a more cautious approach compared to larger operations that spanned multiple gardens. Their cultivation strategy focused not only on maximizing the plant count but also on enhancing the size and quality of each plant.

2013: A Year of Triumph and Tribulation

The year 2013 was both monumental and challenging for Mendo Dope. While they continued their cultivation with the same 25-plant limit, focusing on growing even larger plants, they experienced a significant setback. Their largest garden to date, which had become a source of immense pride and joy, was raided by state agencies. Old E recalls the disheartening experience of losing their meticulously nurtured garden, a culmination of years of dedication and hard work.

Legal Grounds and Unexpected Raid

The garden that was subject to the raid was operated under the belief that it was fully compliant with Senate Bill 420 and the Attorney General guidelines established in 2008. These legislative and regulatory frameworks guided medical cannabis growers in California during that period. Despite their efforts to adhere to these laws, the location of their garden, situated near a residential area and close to a freeway, might have contributed to the challenges they faced.

Community Support and Resilience

In the face of this adversity, the strength and solidarity of the cannabis community became evident. Mendo Dope, having already established a significant presence in the cannabis world, received overwhelming support from fellow enthusiasts and cultivators. This support, which included care packages and offers of assistance, was crucial in helping them recover from the loss and continue their passion for cannabis cultivation.

Impact of the Raid and Public Perception

The raid, conducted at the peak of the harvesting season in October, often termed ‘Croptober’ in the Emerald Triangle, had underlying implications. State agencies, in their enforcement actions, often targeted larger plants, which provided more impactful imagery for public dissemination. This aspect of the raid highlights the ongoing challenges and complexities faced by cannabis cultivators in navigating the legal and regulatory landscape, especially during a period of shifting public perception and policy regarding cannabis.

The experience of Mendo Dope, from their exponential growth in cannabis cultivation to the significant setback of the raid, encapsulates the highs and lows of the cannabis industry. Their journey is reflective of the broader narrative of cannabis cultivation in California – a story of passion, resilience, community support, and the continuous effort to align with evolving legal frameworks. The legacy of Old E and Bleezy in the cannabis community remains not only in their horticultural achievements but also in their enduring spirit and contribution to the culture surrounding cannabis cultivation.

Learning About Organic Culture

The consequences following the law enforcement operation on Mendo Dope’s cannabis garden represented a pivotal moment for the duo, Daniel and Bryan Eatmon, who are also recognized as Old E and Bleezy. This phase of adversity, followed by a period of reconstruction, initiated a transformation in their cultivation methods and sparked a passion for imparting knowledge and motivation to others in the realm of organic cannabis cultivation.

Rebuilding and Reshaping Goals

Following the raid, Old E and Bleezy found themselves compelled to start anew, returning to the familiar grounds of their family home to establish a small personal cannabis garden. This period of re-establishing their cultivation was not just about rebuilding what was lost but also redefining their objectives and aspirations in the cannabis cultivation realm.

Focus on Organic Cultivation and Education

In the process of reinvigorating their cultivation efforts, the duo realized their passion for organic gardening and the potential impact they could have in educating others. Their experience in growing large, “monster” trees organically had garnered considerable attention and admiration in the cannabis community. Recognizing this, they decided to focus on cultivating a limited number of plants, adhering to the legal limits, but maximizing the size and quality of each plant.

Launching the ‘How to Grow Mendo Dope’ Series

Driven by their newfound objective, Old E and Bleezy embarked on an ambitious project to document and share their knowledge and techniques. This led to the creation of the ‘How to Grow Mendo Dope’ series on YouTube, a comprehensive guide showcasing their methods and practices in cannabis cultivation. The series offered viewers an in-depth look into the nuances of growing large cannabis plants organically, covering everything from soil preparation to plant maintenance and harvesting.

Production of Educational DVDs

Their educational outreach extended beyond the digital realm with the production of a couple of ‘How to Grow’ DVDs. These DVDs served as a tangible resource for enthusiasts and cultivators, providing step-by-step guidance and practical insights into organic cannabis cultivation. The production of these DVDs marked a significant milestone in their journey, as they transitioned from cultivators to educators and mentors within the cannabis community.

Impact and Legacy

The educational initiatives undertaken by Mendo Dope in the wake of the raid have had a profound impact on the cannabis cultivation landscape. By sharing their knowledge and experiences, Old E and Bleezy have inspired a generation of cultivators to adopt organic practices and explore the potential of growing high-quality cannabis even in small gardens. Their approach demystifies the cultivation process and encourages a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to cannabis farming.

The journey of Mendo Dope, from recovering after a significant setback to becoming educators and influencers in the cannabis cultivation community, is a testament to their resilience, expertise, and commitment to the craft. Their readiness to disseminate their expertise and personal encounters has not merely enhanced the cannabis cultivation community but has also played a fundamental role in advancing organic methodologies and sustainable horticultural approaches. As they continue their endeavors in cannabis cultivation and education, Old E and Bleezy’s contributions remain invaluable to the evolving narrative of cannabis culture and horticulture.

Anticipating Legalization

The journey of Mendo Dope, led by Old E and Bleezy, has been one of adaptation and foresight, particularly in response to the imminent legalization of cannabis. This period of transition presented both challenges and opportunities for the duo, who were deeply ingrained in the traditional, small-scale cannabis cultivation community.

Anticipating the Impacts of Legalization

As the cannabis industry edged closer to legalization, Old E and Bleezy were acutely aware of the impending changes and the potential influx of large corporate entities into the market. This realization brought a sense of trepidation, understanding that the shift would bring significant competition, likely dominated by players with substantial financial resources.

Concern for Small-Scale Farmers

Old E expressed concern for small farmers like themselves, who, despite their deep-rooted passion for cannabis cultivation and contribution to the community, were not necessarily equipped with the financial means to compete in a rapidly commercializing industry. Their approach to cultivation, deeply connected to the ethos of living off the land and supporting the community, faced potential threats in the wake of legalization.

Skepticism About the Motives of Legalization

There was a shared sentiment among Mendo Dope and their peers that the move toward legalization was not entirely aimed at empowering traditional cannabis farmers or enhancing medicinal access. Instead, they perceived it as a pathway primarily geared towards commercial profit. This perspective shaped their approach to navigating the new legal landscape, as they strived to preserve the core values that had long defined their cultivation practices.

Proactive Brand Development and Adaptation

In anticipation of these sweeping changes, Old E and Bleezy proactively began building and reinforcing their brand, Mendo Dope. Their strategy was to showcase their authentic cultivation practices and dedication to the plant, ensuring that their unique identity and ethos were communicated to a broader audience. They aimed to remain true to their roots while adapting to the evolving market dynamics.

Cultural Integration and Public Outreach

Their efforts extended beyond cultivation, immersing themselves in the culture they represented and lived. They embarked on a mission to bring people into their world, sharing their lifestyle and the culture surrounding their cannabis cultivation. This approach was not just about brand building; it was a means of educating and connecting with a community that shared their love and respect for cannabis as a natural medicine.

Revival through Music and Live in the Garden Album

Despite these adversities, Mendo Dope’s musical pursuits continued to thrive. By 2015, they had firmly reestablished themselves, culminating in the launch of their “Live in the Garden” album. This exceptional album, recorded within the very garden where they nurtured their cannabis, exemplified the seamless fusion of their musical and cultivation odysseys. It stood as a testimony to their resilience and artistic ingenuity, encapsulating the core of their experiences and the synergy between their music and cannabis cultivation.

In conclusion, the period leading up to and following cannabis legalization was a defining era for Mendo Dope. Old E and Bleezy navigated these changes with strategic foresight, focusing on brand development, cultural integration, and staying true to their core values. Their journey through this transitional phase highlights the complexities faced by traditional cannabis cultivators in adapting to a legal, commercialized market. Mendo Dope’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to their craft, both in cultivation and music, resonating deeply within the cannabis and artistic communities.

Discovering Plant Varieties

The period between 2016 and 2017 marked a significant phase in Mendo Dope’s evolution, as the cannabis industry braced for the implementation of California’s Proposition 64. For Mendo Dope, led by Old E and Bleezy, this era was characterized by strategic adaptations, collaborative efforts, and innovative ventures in cannabis cultivation and breeding.

Reviving the Garden Amidst Legalization Changes

As the legal landscape evolved with Proposition 64, Mendo Dope endeavored to rebuild its cultivation operations, eventually managing to cultivate about 20 plants. This revival, however, was met with zoning challenges. The residential area where their property was located did not permit legal cannabis farming, presenting a significant obstacle to their aspirations of cultivating cannabis legally at their home.

Navigating Through Options

Confronted with this zoning predicament, Mendo Dope, like many other cultivators at the time, faced three primary options: relocating to a compliant property, continuing to operate in the underground market, or ceasing operations entirely. For Mendo Dope, giving up was not an option they considered.

Collaboration and Breeding Initiatives

Determined to continue their passion for cannabis, Mendo Dope collaborated with Greenshock Farms for a few years. This partnership marked a new chapter in their cultivation journey. Concurrently, in 2017, they embarked on a breeding program, catalyzed by a collaboration with renowned breeder Subcool. Their discussion with Subcool in 2016 about a Locomotion phenotype led to the creation of their first strain, Mendo Dope, using Subcool’s Querkle male. This venture into breeding was both exhilarating and enlightening for them, opening new avenues in their cannabis journey.

Overcoming Adversity and Renewed Efforts in Breeding

Tragically, the devastating wildfires of 2017 in Northern California resulted in the loss of much of their seed stockpile. Undeterred by this setback, Mendo Dope persevered, sourcing new Querkle seeds to continue their breeding efforts. Their resilience led to the creation of new strains, this time conducted in their indoor facility, marking another milestone in their cultivation and breeding endeavors.

Cultivation in Diverse Microclimates

Mendo Dope’s relocation to higher elevations in Mendocino offered a contrasting cultivation environment compared to the valley. Old E noted significant differences in temperature and microclimate, observing how these variations impacted the growth, characteristics, and terpene profiles of different strains. This experience underscored the intricate relationship between cannabis plants and their growing environment.

Looking Forward to a Monumental Year in 2023

As Mendo Dope looks to the future, 2023 is poised to be a landmark year for them. Building on the success of their 2022 phenomena, they aim to expand the reach of Mendo Dope flowers. This endeavor is buoyed by their recent terpene award at the 2023 Emerald Cup, a testament to the superior quality of their product. Additionally, the duo plans to release their next album, “Planters of The Trees 2,” on October 10, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the raid that significantly impacted their journey. This album symbolizes not only their resilience but also their enduring commitment to the cannabis culture and community.

The narrative of Mendo Dope from 2016 to the present day embodies characteristics of perseverance, inventive spirit, and an enduring ardor for cannabis. Their ability to navigate the complexities of legalization, zoning challenges, and natural disasters, while continuing to innovate and educate in the field of cannabis cultivation and breeding, speaks volumes about their dedication and expertise. As they move forward, Mendo Dope continues to be a significant influence in the cannabis community, inspiring cultivators and enthusiasts alike with their journey, music, and unwavering commitment to the cannabis plant.