Hemp is used in thousands of products, from clothing and food to beauty and health care. Its versatile uses and low costs make it an attractive crop for farmers looking for a new opportunity to grow and create jobs in their community. However, as with any other farm crop, hemp must be marketed to meet its potential. Hemp marketing starts with selecting the right varieties for a particular end use. Then a producer must sign reliable contracts and grow the hemp to the contract specifications.
The variety of hemp for a specific end use determines important attributes like height, maturity, seed size and oil content and composition. For example, varieties selected for grain production may have different days to maturity (latitudinal adaptation), whereas fibre markets will require plants with desirable bast fibers and high protein and oil content. As market demand develops and varietal descriptions expand, farmers will need to identify their target markets and select the most suitable varieties.
A variety of pests can damage hemp. Hemp is susceptible to aphids and nematodes. Its dense leaves also provide a natural soil cover, reducing weed growth and erosion. Deer, groundhogs and birds often target hemp seed for its tasty morsels. Farmers can protect their crops by using hoop nets or other protective structures.
Fertilizer requirements vary depending on the type of production and the soil conditions. A soil test is necessary to determine optimum fertilizer rates. The Agricultural Analytical Services Laboratory at Penn State recommends 150 pounds of nitrogen (N), 30 pounds of phosphorus (P) and 20 pounds of potassium (K).
Hemp grows quickly, usually taking three Learn how to four weeks from planting to harvest. The fast growth and rapid maturation allow farmers to maximize production on the land they have available. This makes hemp an ideal rotation crop for other crops. It reduces weed pressure, breaks the cycle of diseases and insect infestations, and helps rebuild and condition the soil.
Once established, the hemp crop is very drought tolerant and can be planted in dry climates with low irrigation. The plant is also able to take up water from deep soil profiles, providing a source of moisture during dry periods.
Hemp’s fatty acids — especially linoleic acid and gamma linolenic acid — are essential for human and animal health. They help to maintain normal cholesterol, blood glucose and blood lipid levels. Hemp seeds are also a good source of protein. The increasing popularity of veganism has led to a demand for hemp protein in food and beverage products. Hemp proteins are regarded as more digestible than meat-based proteins. They are often found in foods such as nut milks, cereals and snacks. Hemp seed is also an excellent source of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins A, E, B1 and C as well as magnesium, calcium, potassium and zinc. It is also high in dietary fibre and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. In addition, it is a rich source of amino acids.