Common Reasons for Hemp Crop Failure

Hemp farming may present growers with unique challenges. There are many common reasons for poor hemp crop performance. However, taking the proper steps can help prevent these common mistakes. Farmers who expect farming practices that work for corn and wheat to work for industrial hemp may be surprised. In addition, common hemp farming problems can be costly if not promptly addressed.

Here are some of the most common hemp farming problems and how you can avoid them.

1. Planting Late

For optimal performance and yield, Henola and Bialobrzeskie require a minimum of 45 days of vegetative growth before the summer solstice, which is June 21st in the Northern hemisphere. Planting too late may result in short plants, premature flowering, poor emergence, and lower yields. Growers should treat hemp as a first spring opener and plant as soon as planting conditions are favorable.

2. Using Grain as Sowing Seed

Please respect regulations for industrial crops. Saving and using grain as planting seed is not permitted. Not only does this violate our seed purchase agreement, but the resulting crop is not a certified variety. As a result, performance and yield will suffer and the next crop may test "hot"'

3. Planting in Clay, Heavy, or Poorly Drained Soils

Field selection is critical, high fertility, weed-free clean fields are essential to success. Planting hemp in heavy clay, and poorly drained soils or fields with rolling hills and low spots will most likely fail. Simply put, it’s not worth the risk.

4. No Fertilizer Program

Even if you have the optimal soil and field conditions, it is necessary to establish a fertility program. Hemp is planted at high populations and requires high fertility for good yields. Get a soil test and fertilize accordingly for a high yield goal in crops like corn and wheat.

5. Not Enough Water in First Two Weeks

Hemp should be planted into adequate moisture and not allowed to dry out. Irrigated fields are simple to plant into moisture or dry and immediately water up with adequate water for strong emergence without allowing the seed to sprout and dry out. Non irrigated fields should plant into moisture and in time with gentle spring rains for optimal emergence. Hemp does not like to sit in wet soils or have “wet feet.” However, in the first two weeks after planting in it is critical to have enough moisture to get healthy germination and vigorous emergence.

6. Planting seeds too shallow or too deep

Henola and Bialobrzeskie should be planted at a depth of around 1/2 - 1 inch deep into adequate moisture. If the seed is planted too shallow, there could be issues with drying out. If planted too deep, there could be issues with emergence. Know your soil types and plant accordingly.