Agricultural Best Practices

This document outlines the essential best practices for cultivating industrial hemp, covering planting, soil health, pest management, and harvesting.

I. Planning and Preparation

Successful hemp cultivation begins with thorough planning and preparation.

1. Site Selection and Soil Testing

Selecting the right site is crucial for maximizing yield and managing risks.

• Soil Type: Hemp thrives in well-drained, loamy soils with a high organic matter content. Avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
• pH Level: Optimal soil pH for hemp is between 6.0 and 7.5.
• Contaminants: Hemp is a known bio-accumulator. Test soil for heavy metals and pesticides to ensure the final product is safe, especially for consumable or medicinal purposes.
• Water Source: Ensure a reliable and clean water source for irrigation, if necessary.

2. Regulatory Compliance

Compliance with all state and federal regulations is mandatory.

• Licensing: Obtain all required grower licenses from the relevant agricultural department.
• Testing: Be prepared for mandatory testing for THC levels to ensure compliance with the legal limit (typically 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis).
• Record Keeping: Maintain meticulous records of planting, testing, harvesting, and disposal (if necessary) of non-compliant crops.II. Planting and Establishment

1. Seed Selection

Choose seeds or clones appropriate for the intended end product (e.g., fiber, grain, or high-CBD flower).

Product Goal	Recommended Variety	Planting Density
Fiber	Tall, stalky varieties	High density (50-100 lbs/acre)
Grain	Early-maturing varieties	Medium density (25-40 lbs/acre)
Cannabinoids (CBD/CBG)	Feminized clones or seeds	Low density (1,500-3,000 plants/acre)

2. Planting

• Timing: Plant after the last expected frost when soil temperatures are consistently above 50°F (10°C).
• Depth: Plant seeds at a depth of 0.5 to 0.75 inches.

III. Nutrient and Water Management1. Fertilization

Hemp is a heavy feeder, especially of Nitrogen (N) and Potassium (K). Base fertilizer application on soil test results.

• Nitrogen (N): Essential for vegetative growth. Over-application can delay maturity.
• Phosphorus (P): Crucial for root development and flowering.
• Potassium (K): Important for overall plant health and stress tolerance.

2. Irrigation

While hemp is drought-tolerant, supplemental irrigation may be necessary during dry periods, especially during the first six weeks of growth and the flowering stage.

• Watering Technique: Drip irrigation is often the most efficient method for cannabinoid crops.

IV. Pest and Disease Management

Adopt an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach to minimize chemical use.

1. Weed Control

Effective early-stage weed control is vital as hemp grows slowly initially.

• Cultural Methods: Tillage, cover crops, and high-density planting (for fiber/grain) are the primary tools.
• Herbicides: Few herbicides are approved for use on hemp; consult local regulations.

2. Pests

Common pests include:

• Insects: Hemp borers, grasshoppers, and aphids. Introduce beneficial insects (e.g., ladybugs) as a biological control method.

3. Diseases

• Fungal: Botrytis (gray mold) and powdery mildew are common, especially in humid conditions. Ensure adequate air circulation.

V. Harvesting and Post-Harvest Handling

The timing of the harvest depends entirely on the end-use product.

1. Grain and Fiber Harvest

Harvesting for grain and fiber is typically mechanized.

• Grain: Harvest when 60-70% of the seeds have ripened and the moisture content is below 12%.
• Fiber: Harvest when the male plants have shed pollen and the lower leaves begin to drop.

2. Cannabinoid Flower Harvest

• Timing: Harvest when trichomes are mostly cloudy, with some amber, indicating peak cannabinoid content. This usually occurs around 10-12 weeks after flowering begins.
• Drying: Slow drying in a controlled environment (60°F and 60% humidity) is essential to preserve quality and prevent mold.
• Curing: Store dried flower in airtight containers for a curing process to enhance flavor and smoothness.