ST. PAUL — Farmers, pharmacists and entrepreneurs are gathering to learn more about what it takes to grow marijuana for Minnesota’s new medical marijuana program.

The state is holding a meeting today for parties interested in growing and cultivating the drug. The meeting will give potential producers information on the program’s rules and regulations, and it will allow the state to better gauge interest in participation.

The meeting starts at 9 a.m. today in a ballroom at the Minnesota History Center.

Minnesota’s law calls for two manufacturers to be chosen for the state’s program. Applications open in September, and the state hopes to select producers by Dec. 1.

Patients are expected to be able to get medical marijuana starting July 1, 2015.