Getting Started with Industrial Hemp Cultivation for Fibre
Introduction
This guide is designed to help new farmers understand the essential steps in cultivating industrial hemp for fibre/biomass production. Industrial hemp is a fast-growing, environmentally friendly crop that thrives under the right conditions with proper planning and care.
- Site Selection & Soil Preparation
Ideal Soil:
- Well-drained loamy soil with good fertility
- pH range between 6.0 and 7.5
- Avoid heavy clay or waterlogged soils
Preparation Steps:
- Clear the land of any weeds or previous crops.
- Plough the soil to a depth of 15–20 cm.
- Disc harrow or rotovate to break up clumps and level the surface.
- Test the soil using a basic soil test kit to check for nutrient levels and pH.
- Apply lime if the pH is below 6.0 to raise acidity to optimal levels.
- Compost and Organic Matter
Purpose:
Improve soil structure, microbial life, and water retention.
Recommended:
- Apply 4 tonnes of compost per hectare before planting.
- Use well-decomposed organic compost from plant or animal waste.
- Mix compost into the top 15–20 cm of soil during final tilling.
- Fertiliser Application
Hemp Fibre Needs:
- Moderate nitrogen
- High potassium
- Moderate phosphorus
General Guideline (per hectare):
- Nitrogen (N): 80–120 kg
- Phosphorus (P): 40–50 kg
- Potassium (K): 60–80 kg
Recommended Fertiliser:
- Use a balanced fertiliser mix (e.g. 5:10:10 NPK) before planting.
- Apply remaining nitrogen as a top dressing 3–4 weeks after emergence.
- Planting the Seeds
Seed Type:
Use certified industrial hemp seed for fibre with THC content <0.2%.
Planting Rate:
- 8 – 10 kg of seed per hectare
- Seed spacing: 15–20 cm within rows, with 30–40 cm between rows
- Bulk seeds can be sprayed using a seed distributor.
- For fibre: aim for dense planting to promote tall, slender stalks
Planting Method:
- Use a seed drill or hand broadcasting followed by light raking.
- Plant at 1.5–2 cm depth in moist soil.
- Best time to plant: After the last frost, when soil temperature is above 10°C
- Watering Requirements
Hemp needs:
- 300,000 to 500,000 litres of water per hectare per season
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root diseases
Irrigation Tips:
- Use drip irrigation or drip sprinklers if rainfall is insufficient.
- Water consistently, especially during the first 6 weeks of growth.
- Ensure good drainage to prevent standing water.
- Maintenance and Weed Control
- Hemp grows quickly and shades out most weeds.
- Weeding is most critical in the first 3–4 weeks.
- Avoid herbicides unless absolutely necessary and approved for hemp.
- Harvesting for Fibre
- Harvest 90 days after planting, when stalks begin to flower.
- Use a sickle mower or reaper binder for large areas.
- Stalks should be left in the field to ret (natural breakdown) for 3–4 weeks before baling.
Final Tips for Success
- Keep records of everything (costs, weather, growth rates)
- Network with other hemp farmers or co-ops
- Confirm all permits/licenses are in place before planting
- Consider your market and buyer before harvest time
Contact:
Ben Sassman – Hemp 4 Life – +27 72 918 8278