You may be familiar with CBD and other cannabinoids, but how much do you really know about hemp? This plant with its many uses, particularly in textiles and industry, is the origin of cannabinoids. Find out more about its age-old cultivation, its applications up to the present day, its varieties and the stages of cultivation.
An ancient plant
The long history of hemp
Did you know that hemp, or Cannabis sativa L., has been cultivated by man for thousands of years? Yes, archaeological evidence of its use dates back to 6000 BC, in China and Central Asia! Admittedly, it has some interesting advantages in agriculture : it's highly adaptable to different climates, grows quickly, requires no processing, and virtually all its parts can be used.
History has shown that hemp was grown mainly for its fibers, which were used to make clothing, paper and rope. Hemp is not greedy and can be grown in rotation without impoverishing the soil.
For centuries, it was grown, particularly in Europe, as an essential raw material. We're thinking of boat sails, but also military uniforms, for example. Robust and easy to grow, it was the plant to grow;
Today, it is still grown for its fibers. But also, as you know, for its seeds and flowers. The latter are the source of cannabinoids such as CBD, HHC, THC, ETC; which you'll find on the Puffy boutique.
Hemp varieties
The confusion between hemp and cannabis has persisted, as we thought we were dealing with two distinct plants, whereas these two plants both belong to the same species: Cannabis sativa . There are 4 subspecies of hemp:
- Cannabis sativa sativa: cultivated hemp,
- Cannabis sativa indica: Indian hemp,
- Cannabis sativa spontanea(Cannabis ruderalis): wild hemp,
- Cannabis sativa kafiristanica(Cannabis afghanica): Afghan hemp.
In addition to these cannabis subspecies, there are many varieties that are bred for their CBD, CBG or THC content.
The different stages of hemp cultivation
Growing hemp on an industrial or large-scale agricultural scale requires a few key steps.
Ideal growing conditions
Hemp thrives in light, nutrient-rich soil with a neutral pH, not too compact and not too acidic. Fairly resistant to various climatic conditions, it needs no chemical treatment. What's more, its roots seek water deep down, so there's no need for regular irrigation. It's an ideal plant for sustainable agriculture.
Sowing
Hemp is sown between April and May, depending on the region. It's best to sow in soil that has begun to warm up (at least 10°C). The seeds are planted 2 to 3 cm deep, at a distance of 15 to 20 cm between rows. Hemp will reach its adult height (up to 3 meters) in less than 4 months.
Harvesting
Hemp fibers are cut before the flowers appear (if grown for fiber), while we wait for the flowers to ripen before harvesting them, usually between August and September. The flowers are dried to preserve the cannabinoids, which are then extracted.
Why is hemp still grown today?
As you can see, cannabis or hemp has always been cultivated and has therefore never never disappeared. Today, it's part of an agricultural, industrial and sustainable dimension. It really is a plant with impressive potential!
Hemp helps regenerate soils, capturing CO₂, structuring the soil, it plays a strategic role in organic and regenerative agriculture. What's more, it provides a versatile raw material:
- bio-based plastics ;
- animal litter ;
- edible oils ;
- supplements rich in omega-3 ;
- textile fibers ;
- building materials ;
- cannabinoids.
With Puffy, you'll discover cannabinoids derived from controlled hemp cultivation, for the very best flowers!