New OGRAIN Factsheet: Organic Industrial Hemp
Interested in diversifying your rotation with organic industrial hemp? This fact sheet presents the results of two research trials on organic industrial hemp production for grain in Wisconsin.
Hemp used to be an important crop in Wisconsin in the early 20th century and recent legal changes mean farmers can once again grow industrial hemp. The preliminary results of our research trials are presented here to help guide future work. Some of the initial results include:
- Planting later (early June) may be beneficial for hemp production in Wisconsin.
- While planting on 30” rows may have a positive impact on stand counts and weed biomass, it is not yet clear if farmers should move away from the standard production guidelines of drilling on 7.5” rows.
- Methods for mechanical weed control may need to be adjusted based on planting depth.
- Planting deeper may allow for more mechanical weed control without impacting stand counts.