Introduction to Hemp Farming: One-Hectare Cost & Revenue Overview
This report provides a basic operational and financial overview for cultivating hemp on one hectare of land. It is designed to help new farmers understand the input costs and potential revenue options from various hemp-derived products.
Operational Costs – Per Hectare, Per Season
| Operational Item | Quantity per Hectare | Cost (ZAR) |
| Seeds (10kg Idukki Gold) | 10kg | R18,200 |
| Compost | 4 tonnes | R2,640 |
| Fertilizer | 5 litres | R1,420 |
| Water (Irrigation) | 324,000 liters | R4,200 |
| Labour (2 staff) | Per season | R32,400 |
| Pesticide | 2 litres | R1,880 |
| Total Cost per Hectare | R60,740 |
Note: All inputs are based on seasonal use and may vary slightly depending on region, climate, and cultivation methods.
Hemp Product Options and Potential Revenue
Hemp cultivation offers diverse revenue streams, depending on the final product processed. Below are estimated sale prices and expected revenue per hectare for various hemp products:
| Hemp Product | Unit Measurement | Estimated Sale Price (ZAR) | Estimated Revenue per Hectare (ZAR) |
| CBD Oil | 1 Liter | R13,167 | R223,175 |
| CBD Isolate | 1 kg | R700 | R112,317 |
| Hemp Fibre | 1 sq. meter | R16.77 | R171,291 |
| Hemp Rope | 1m x 1cm | R126 | R194,544 |
| Hemp Protein Powder | 1 kg | R299 | R281,918 |
| Hemp Lotion | 100 grams | R990 | R192,522 |
| Hemp Biomass | 1 kg | R24.50 | R312,000 |
Note: Revenue is based on yield potential per hectare and prevailing market rates, which may fluctuate. Final income will also depend on post-harvest processing and market access.
Genetically Engineered Seeds
These seeds cost R3 each and produce 1 – 1,2kg of Flower per plant. The above calculations will increase (x3) when these seeds are used.
Best Compost Combination for Hemp
- Base Compost (Per Hectare):
- Well-aged animal manure (cow, sheep, or chicken) – rich in nitrogen and organic matter.
- Green waste compost – from plant materials, improves structure and water retention.
- Worm castings (vermicompost) – excellent microbial life and gentle nutrients.
Suggested Mix:
- 2 tonnes aged manure
- 1.5 tonnes green waste compost
- 500 kg worm castings
Mix evenly and incorporate into the topsoil before planting.
Best Fertilizer Strategy for Hemp
Hemp benefits from a 3-phase feeding schedule:
1. Vegetative Stage (first 6–8 weeks)
- N-P-K Ratio: High nitrogen (e.g., 4-2-3 or 5-2-1)
- Recommended Fertilizers:
- Fish emulsion or seaweed extract
- Organic nitrogen: Blood meal, bat guano, or alfalfa meal
2. Pre-Flowering Stage
- Transition to a balanced mix: (e.g., 3-3-3)
- Add calcium and magnesium supplements (CalMag) to support cell strength
3. Flowering Stage
- Low nitrogen, high phosphorus and potassium (e.g., 1-4-5 or 2-8-4)
- Fertilizers:
- Bone meal or rock phosphate
- Kelp meal
- Potassium sulfate
Micronutrients (Throughout):
- Zinc, boron, sulfur, iron – use trace mineral blend or foliar sprays like liquid kelp or compost tea.
Conclusion
The above data shows that with an initial investment of approximately R60,740 per hectare, a hemp farmer can generate multiple high-value products with significant return potential. Choosing the right hemp product to focus on will depend on available processing infrastructure, partnerships, and market demand.
We encourage new farmers to engage with agronomists, processing partners, and off-take buyers to develop the right strategy for their hemp farm.