Police stumbled across more than 200 cannabis plants at a house in Brightlingsea.
Officers were called to a burglary in progress at the property in George Avenue.
They could not find the alleged offender and entered the house themselves, which was when they discovered a hydroponics set-up and 234 cannabis plants.
An Essex Police spokesman said: "We were originally called to the property on Sunday at 10.15pm following reports of someone breaking in.
"When we arrived there was no-one at the property, but when we gained entry to the house we discovered a large hydroponics system and the plants. These plants have been seized."
No-one has been arrested in connection with the find.
Police are appealing for information about anyone seen entering or leaving the home.
- Anyone who can help should call PC Andy Hughes on 01206 302515 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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