Boutique Genetics

Industrial Hemp Farming 101

Field Selection

Hemp is robust, but to attain the highest yield it grows best on a loose, well-aerated loamy soil with high fertility and abundant organic matter, with a pH of 6.0-7.5. Good drainage is preferred as seedling or plants standing in water may create challenges such as damping off. As always, consult your State Department of Agriculture concerning timeout period and chemical applications

Planting Date

Soil temperatures of 460-500F are preferable. Generally hemp should be planted after danger of hard freezes. Soil moisture is necessary for seed germination in the first six weeks. Subsequent to that, rainfall or irrigation in the amount of approximately 1 inch per week is recommended in order to attain an optimal yield.

Fertilizer

Hemp production typically requires inputs in the range of 100-130 lb. of nitrogen per acre, 45-70 lb. per acre phosphorus, and up to 80 lb. per acre of potash. For grain production, hemp requires adequate nitrogen fertilization.

Harvest

Industrial hemp varieties vary in height, maturity, and seed size. The time of harvest will depend on the variety you’re growing and geography.
Hemp grown for textile applications should be cut prior to shedding of pollen, typically 70-75 days from planting.

Hemp grown for grain is best harvested when 70-80% of seeds are ripe and moisture content is in the 10-20% range.

Rotation

Hemp is an adequate and successful rotational crop, especially with beans, wheat, and alfalfa. Approved pesticides and herbicides for hemp can be found on the EPA’s website here. Proper care should be taken to minimize the risk of pests.

Licensing and Sales

Ingredient Alliance varieties, Bialobrezskie and Henola were bred and exclusively licensed by the Institute of Natural Fibers and Medicinal Plants in Poznan, Poland. Seed is sold on a first come, first served, case-by-case basis. Orders are taken year-round.