Plant Density Matters

Plant density matters a lot when growing hemp, and it varies significantly depending on what you're cultivating it for: fiber, grain, or CBD/flower. Here's a breakdown:

• High-density planting:
  400,000–1,000,000 plants per acre (about 40–60 seeds per square foot).
• Why?
  • Promotes tall, straight stalks with minimal branching.
  • Reduces weed pressure naturally by creating a thick canopy.
• Spacing:
  Drill-seeded in rows as close as 4–6 inches apart.

• Moderate-density planting:
  250,000–350,000 plants per acre (10–15 seeds per square foot).
• Why?
  • Allows more light and airflow for seed production in flower heads.
  • Prevents lodging (plants falling over) due to too much vertical growth.
• Spacing:
  Rows 6–10 inches apart.

• Low-density planting:
  1,000–2,500 plants per acre (about 3–6 feet apart per plant).
• Why?
  • Encourages bushier growth and better flower development.
  • Allows easier access for pruning, maintenance, and hand-harvesting.
• Spacing:
  Rows 4–6 feet apart, plants 3–5 feet apart within rows.

Don't mix up seed types—fiber/grain varieties are genetically and structurally different from CBD cultivars. Choose certified seed from a reputable supplier and plant according to your production goals.