Fiber hemp is optimally sown from April to May, contingent on the climatic zone and prevailing meteorological conditions. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that climate change is reshaping planting practices for various crops, including hemp. Farmers’ ability to predict climatic conditions, discern natural indicators, and evaluate circumstances significantly enhances the prospects for a bountiful harvest.
Preparation for Hemp Sowing
Soil Analysis and Research Before planting, it is recommended to conduct a soil test. This analysis identifies nutrient deficiencies and pH levels. The ideal pH for hemp soil ranges between 6.0 and 7.5. Based on the findings, necessary adjustments to the soil should be made.
Soil Cultivation and Pre-Sowing Preparation Tilling the soil introduces oxygen, thus aerating it and controlling weed proliferation. Before sowing, the soil should be loose and adequately moist. Loose soil with sufficient moisture facilitates faster seed germination.
Natural Organic Fertilization Eco-farming mandates strict adherence to ensuring hemp is grown without chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides.
Selection of Cannabis Seeds Selecting the appropriate seeds is pivotal for a successful hemp harvest. Key parameters to consider include:
- Suitability of seeds to the local climate and soil conditions.
- Selection based on cultivation purpose:
- Hemp fiber
- Hemp flowers and leaves for CBD oil production
- Hemp seeds and hemp seed oil
- Procuring seeds from certified vendors.
Hemp Growth Duration
Hemp is a rapidly growing plant with a growth cycle of 90-120 days, depending on the variety and growing conditions. Hence, sowing hemp in late spring allows for a harvest in early autumn. The primary stages of hemp growth include:
Seed Germination
Takes up to 10 days.
Vegetative Phase
Spans 10 to 60 days. This period, between germination and flowering, is marked by rapid development as the plant prepares to flower. The plant focuses on building a robust structure—stems, leaves, and especially the root system, which absorbs soil nutrients. The plant generates large, fan-shaped leaves essential for photosynthesis, converting light into energy stored in plant tissues for growth and development. During this phase, cannabis plants require ample light.
The Flowering Period
Lasts 60 to 90 days. During this time, the cannabis plant starts forming flowers (buds). Triggered by changes in the light cycle, particularly shorter daylight hours, the plant concentrates on reproductive growth. Cannabis flowers develop trichomes, tiny glandular structures that produce resin containing cannabinoids (like CBD), terpenes, and other compounds. Cannabis plants can be male, female, or hermaphroditic. Female plants produce the desired flowers, while male plants produce pollen. To maximize CBD extraction, male plants are typically removed to prevent pollination and seed formation in female plants. Nowadays, female seeds are available, minimizing the likelihood of encountering male or hermaphroditic plants.
Harvest times vary based on hemp usage. For fiber, hemp is usually harvested 70-90 days after planting. For seeds, it takes approximately 100-120 days, and for CBD, it takes 90-120 days.
Environmental Benefits of Hemp Cultivation
Carbon Dioxide Absorption Hemp plants are highly efficient at sequestering carbon dioxide, absorbing more CO2 per hectare than most trees. This makes hemp farming a potent tool in combating climate change. Hemp can absorb up to 15 tons of CO2 per hectare, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of agricultural activities. Thus, cultivating hemp is beneficial not only for its properties but also as a means to mitigate global warming and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Soil Condition Improvement Hemp’s deep root system helps aerate the soil and prevent erosion. It also aids in removing toxins from the soil through phytoremediation, a process where plants decompose pollutants or accumulate them in their roots, stems, or leaves, stimulating microorganisms to break down substances. Additionally, hemp produces natural pesticides, protecting the plant from pests without synthetic agents, leading to healthier soil and plants, and better-quality products.
Water Conservation Hemp requires significantly less water compared to other industrial crops like cotton. This water efficiency makes hemp cultivation suitable for arid regions, minimizing the use of freshwater resources.
Biodiversity Promotion Hemp cultivation fosters biodiversity among various insect and bird species. Its dense foliage creates a natural habitat conducive to wildlife thriving and surviving.