Growing hemp in 5 major stages

Hemp cultivation is as much an art as a science. This emblematic plant of the 70s and California, which we honor on Cali Weed, can offer quality fibers, seeds and CBD if the right cultivation steps are followed.

Things to remember

• The quality of the soil and seeds determines the yield and health of the plants.
• Regular maintenance and monitoring of plants helps prevent disease and pests.
• Harvesting and processing determine the final quality of the fibers, seeds or flowers.

1. Site selection and soil preparation

Successful hemp-growing begins with the choice of land and soil preparation. 

Hemp prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter and slightly sandy to loamy. Optimum sun exposure is also a key factor in plant development. 

Soil preparation involves cleaning, aerating and enriching the soil with natural soil improvers such as compost or decomposed manure. 

The ideal pH is between 6 and 7.5, enabling plants to absorb nutrients properly. Well-prepared soil ensures solid rooting and lays the foundations for healthy CBD cultivation, whether for CBD fiber, seeds or flowers.

2. Selection of varieties and seedlings

Hemp seed selection depends on the intended end use. Varieties can be oriented towards the production of long, resistant fibers, edible seeds or flowers rich in cannabinoids such as CBD. 

Seed genetics play a major role in vigor, disease resistance and yield.

Sowing can be done in rows or in bunches, depending on the desired density and intended use. Sowing depth and spacing influence stem growth and flower or seed formation. The seedlings are positioned to optimize light, air and nutrient resources, essential elements for homogeneous, high-quality development.

3. Maintenance and irrigation

Hemp is a robust plant, but the quality of the crop depends on regular maintenance. Irrigation must be sufficient to support growth without creating excess humidity, which encourages root disease.

Nutrition plays a central role in development. Balanced supplies of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium support vegetative growth and flowering. Micronutrients such as magnesium and calcium contribute to stem strength and overall plant health.

Pest and disease prevention is also very important. Hemp can be affected by aphids, red spiders or fungi. 

Natural methods, such as mulching, crop rotation and the introduction of beneficial insects, help limit the risks. Spacing and air circulation help reduce humidity and prevent the development of fungal diseases.

4. Growth and maturation

Hemp growth is divided into several phases: 

1. vegetative ;
2. pre-flowering ;
3. flowering. 

Each phase has specific characteristics that influence the quality of the fibers, seeds and flowers.

During the vegetative phase, plants develop their structure and leaves, laying the foundations for future production. Flowering concentrates plant energy on buds and seeds. Maturation is decisive, as the moment of harvest determines the cannabinoid content of the flowers, the quality of the seeds and the length of the fibers.

By observing growth stages, we can plan interventions such as pruning, spacing and optimal harvesting times to maximize yield and quality.

5. Harvesting and processing hemp

Hemp harvesting must take into account the end use. 

For example, in the case of fibers, this is done before they are fully ripe, to preserve the length and strength of the stems. 

For seeds, the ideal moment is when the shell is hard and well formed. 

CBD flowers are harvested when the trichomes have reached optimum color and density.

Post-harvest treatment is essential to preserve the plant's qualities. Drying must be carried out under controlled conditions, with good ventilation and away from direct light. Flowers can be curried to stabilize aromas and cannabinoids, while fibers are shelled and stored for industrial or textile use. Seeds require cool, dry storage to avoid rancidity or mould.

Proper processing and storage ensure that hemp retains its original qualities right through to its final use.

🍃 Here is our summary of the essential steps:

• Choosing a suitable site and preparing the soil.
• Selection of varieties according to use and appropriate sowing.
• Regular maintenance: irrigation, nutrition, pest control.
• Observation of growth phases and management of ripening.
• Harvesting at the optimum time and appropriate product processing.