Agronomic practices for hemp
There is growing interest in the production of fibre hemp, says Stan Blade, plant breeder and agronomist at Alberta Agriculture’s northern crop diversification centre.
“Since 1995, fibre hemp research plots were grown in various parts of Alberta to evaluate the potential of this crop for both seed and fibre production,” he said.
Research shows fibre hemp can be successfully grown in western Canada. The crop responds to good soil and agronomic practices including proper fertilizing and weed control.
The major uses for fibre hemp are textiles, paper-making, hemp fibre board and the potential of hempseed oil.
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“We have observed good seed production at some of our research plots in Alberta, and we have several companies in the province capable of pressing this oil, which is high in unsaturated fats and anti-oxidants.”
Textiles from fiber hemp are now available in Alberta. The question is whether local production of these textiles can compete with imported products.
The cost of developing a fiber processing industry is high. Markets must be developed and the cost of hemp fiber for commercial use must be competitive with other fiber crops such as cotton, flax and cereals.
“There are still many production questions that need to be answered before commercial production can be optimized,” he says.
“The changes in regulations that allow producers to grow low-THC hemp is just a first step.”
A symposium on low-THC hemp will be held in Edmonton at the Northlands Agricom April 8. For more information call Wayne Goruk, program development co-ordinator with Alberta Agriculture at 403-427-3122.
– Alberta Agriculture
