Recent research led by Allissa P. Halker from the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences at NC State University has shed light on the potential of Chinese fiber hemp varieties for cultivation in North Carolina. Published in the journal “Agrosystems, Geosciences & Environment,” the study evaluated how different planting dates and hemp varieties affect growth and yield, providing valuable insights for farmers and the textile industry.
Conducted over two years, the field trials assessed 11 fiber hemp varieties with less than 0.3% total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content. The trials took place in Goldsboro, Kinston, and Salisbury, North Carolina, with planting dates ranging from mid-March to mid-May. Halker and her team employed a split-plot randomized complete block design to ensure robust data collection, focusing on key metrics such as flowering time, stem height, diameter, and dry straw yield.
One significant finding was that all varieties flowered around late August to early September, indicating a long growing season that allows for substantial biomass production. Halker noted, “In general, the Chinese genetics yielded higher stem biomass compared to previously reported European genetics.” This could be particularly advantageous for farmers, as higher yields can translate into increased profitability.
The study also highlighted that the stem thickness of the varieties was greater than 7.5 mm, which is the maximum width typically suitable for textile-grade fiber production. To achieve thinner stems, farmers may need to harvest before male flowers initiate, a practice that could optimize fiber quality for textile applications.
Interestingly, the research demonstrated that these hemp varieties withstood below-freezing temperatures in both years without any signs of damage, suggesting resilience that could benefit growers in North Carolina’s variable climate.
For farmers considering fiber hemp cultivation, the findings indicate a flexible planting window from mid-March to mid-May, allowing them to adapt to local conditions. This flexibility, combined with the potential for higher yields from Chinese varieties, presents an appealing opportunity for expanding hemp production in the state.
As the textile industry increasingly seeks sustainable and versatile materials, the insights from this research could pave the way for a more robust domestic hemp market. The study serves as a critical step in understanding how to maximize the agricultural potential of fiber hemp, offering a promising avenue for farmers and manufacturers alike.
