Chris, the force behind The Mechanics Farm, doesn’t just talk cannabis—he embodies it. A born-and-bred Long Islander, though his shift from mechanic to cultivator was a career gear change; they each reflect the precision, patience, and skill found in both trades.

Chris, of The Mechanics Farm at Torches, NYC

In 2022, Chris’s life took a pivotal turn when he met Ryan Bartholomew, co-founder of Doja, a revered California brand known for its elite genetics and award-winning strains. Their partnership, built on mutual respect for quality and craftsmanship, would become a game-changer. Together, they had the vision to elevate cannabis cultivation beyond California’s borders and bring excellence to the East Coast.

From Side Hustle to Full Throttle

Chris’s cannabis journey started in the hustle of New York streets, where he first made a name selling high-quality flower. But even then, he had an inkling that there was something more he could offer—something beyond simply selling the plant. Transitioning from his “Stone Mechanic” days to cultivating premium cannabis at The Mechanics Farm was a natural evolution, fueled by a desire to craft something uniquely his own, from seed to flower.

In 2018, he formed a cultivation lab, experimenting with growing techniques. However, it wasn’t until 2022 that his work began to truly stand out. A chance encounter at Washington Square Park with Ryan Bartholomew, where Chris shared some of his early creations, set the stage for what would become a groundbreaking partnership.

“I brought him some of my stuff—Ice Cream Cake crossed with Sher BX1 and White Truffle,” Chris recalls. “Ryan liked the Ice Cream Cake cross—it had a vibe similar to his current drops. We exchanged contacts and kept in touch.”

As their collaboration flourished, Ryan sent Chris an assortment of genetics to grow, including renowned strains like Runtz bx1 / Ozk x SZ / The Soap x Blueberry mimosa. It was the beginning of a deep and fruitful partnership.

A Historic Drop: The Cherry Runtz Pheno

One of the standout moments in Chris’s journey was the Cherry Runs drop in 2023. After months of meticulous cultivation, he and Ryan released their Cherry Runtz strain at Higher Empire in New York. The response was nothing short of overwhelming.

“We sold out in three hours,” Chris says, his pride unmistakable. “It was a moment of validation—people were really feeling it. We had just a few units left, and they were gone in an instant. It proved to me that we were on the right path.”

This drop marked a cultural turning point, bridging the gap between California’s legendary cannabis scene and New York’s emerging market. As demand surged, so did Chris’s commitment to discovering new, exceptional phenos, like the much-sought-after Zelium strain, born from Doja’s exclusive genetics.

“We hunted through the Cherry Runtz and found a keeper that became the cornerstone of our line,” says Chris. “We also created ‘Zelium,’ which is now one of New York’s most requested strains.”

Refining the Craft: From Peach Tree to Perfection

For Chris, cultivating cannabis isn’t just about finding great genetics—it’s about pushing boundaries and continuously refining his craft. His work with Doja’s Rusty, a revered breeder, led to the creation of the Peach Tree strain, an intricate blend of pineapple-like sweetness.

“Peachtree was a tricky one,” Chris explains. “She’s a picky plant—delicate and temperamental. We had to take extra care, lowering the lights and adjusting our approach. But when it came together, it was spectacular. Even Rusty was impressed.”

Shaping the Future of New York Cannabis

Despite his success, Chris remains focused on a singular goal: reshaping the perception of New York cannabis. He believes that the state has what it takes to produce world-class cannabis, challenging the notion that you have to go to California for the best strains.

“We’re working with some of the finest genetics here in New York,” Chris says. “People need to know that we can grow this here, and it can be just as good as anything out West. It’s all about pushing the culture forward.”

Looking to the future, Chris plans to expand The Mechanics Farm’s reach. For the upcoming 4/20 drop, he’s gearing up to release a blend of genetics from Doja, SherbMoney, Be Easy, and Fire Farmer, marking a monumental event that will showcase the best of New York cannabis.

Building a Legacy, Not Just a Business

“I’m in it for the long haul,” he says. “It’s about building something that endures.”

Chris and The Mechanics Farm are setting a standard in cannabis cultivation. In an industry driven by trends, Chris’s commitment to authenticity will continue to resonate .

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