The hemp industry is one that exists upon a very exciting frontier. With the recent legalization of hemp production methods, the demand for hemp flower, genetics and seeds are skyrocketing.
Hemp can be used for industrial, agricultural, and personal wellness purposes (as well as many others). If you are hoping to become a hemp farmer, you will need to decide the type of hemp you are trying to grow and, ultimately, develop an effective strategy for growing it.
One part of the hemp industry where it seems there is always consistent demand for more production is the hemp that is used for personal wellness purposes. Some evidence suggests that hemp that is high in CBD content may help treat a variety of different conditions.
If you are hoping to grow hemp that is to be used for personal wellness purposes, you are going to want to find the strains that have the highest level of CBD (cannabidiol). These are the high CBD strains that will provide you with the happiest customers:
- Berry Blossom
Berry Blossom was originally developed in the state of Colorado and has become an increasingly popular option for hemp farmers. The strain is known for having almost no THC and a yield of over 13% CBD per crop. It has also been praised by many farmers because it is notably easy to grow, produces impressive yields, and is easy to market to a wide variety of different individuals (particularly those in the wellness community).
- R4
R4 is a CBD-dominant strain of hemp that is well recognized for its 40:1 CBD: THC ratio. This particular strain (also referred to as Cindy’s Solution) is considered to be a possible treatment option for customers who suffer from nausea, muscle spasms, chronic pain, and other issues. Many individuals who have consumed R4 in the past describe it is a strain that is uplifting, relaxing, and mellow.
- Sweet and Sour Widow
Sweet and Sour Widow is a little bit different than many of the names on this list because it still has a notable amount of THC present. But because the CBD: THC ratio is 1: 1, this strain is widely praised for its unique ability to balance the different effects of the cannabis plant. If you are looking to produce a relaxing strain with mild THC levels (often low enough to prevent you from feeling too foggy), this may be an excellent option.
- Charlotte’s Web
Charlotte’s Web is another strain that was developed in Colorado. The strain’s namesake comes from the fact that a 5-year-old girl names Charlotte was able to use it to minimize her daily seizures caused by Dravet Syndrome. An extensive breeding process conducted by the Stanley has produced a strain that is not only remarkably low in levels of THC—it produces one of the most impressive CBD levels in the industry. At 20% CBD per volume, this is not a strain you want to willingly overlook.
- ACDC
ACDC is one of the most popular strains in the state of Colorado and also has won multiple different awards at the Cannabis Cup. It has a CBD: THC ratio of 20: 1, meaning it still might be useful for certain medical treatment options. Many individuals with anxiety particularly enjoy consuming ACDC because it helps them calm down without feeling paranoid. This is an excellent strain to experiment with if you are relatively new to the hemp growing industry.
- Harlequin
Harlequin is particularly popular among those who are looking to combine the effects of both CBD and THC. The strain is one of the most valuable on the market because over 21% of its content is chemically useful (15% CBD and 6% THC). Unlike many comparable strains, Harlequin’s genetics are sativa-dominant. It can trace its roots to the highlands of Colombia, Nepal, and Switzerland—naturally, it is found its way to the mountains of North America as well.
- Sour Tsunami
One of the reasons Sour Tsunami is so distinctively popular is the fact that it is a combination of four unique ancestor strains. NYC Diesel, Sour Diesel, Double Diesel, and Ferrari were all involved in Sour Tsunami’s extensive (and scientifically supported) breeding process. Though each individual is likely to react to this strain differently, many of those who are suffering from chronic pain, insomnia, depression, and anxiety have reported Sour Tsunami to be distinctively helpful.
- Cannatonic
Cannatonic is another Colorado-based strain that is thoroughly appreciated for its combination of high CBD and low THC content. Usually, the CBD: THC ratio of this particular strain will be somewhere in the neighborhood of 5: 1 (though it can sometimes be lower). The strain has been claimed to offer both mental and physical types of relief. It has also been widely characterized by its distinctive (and pleasing) sweet and citrusy taste.
Things you should think about before you start growing
Before you begin the formal growing process, there are a lot of different things you need to do in preparation. Though hemp farming presents many lucrative opportunities, success in this competitive industry is far from guaranteed. If you are hoping to be a successful hemp grower, you are going to need to begin by understanding the art behind the product.
Begin by researching the various seed types. You are going to want to understand the different strains of hemp available, their potential uses, and the nuances that are involved in growing. Learn about the pros and cons of each strain. Find a source of hemp that is most compatible with your specific plot of land and in line with what the market is demanding.
- What is the ideal THC: CBD ratio?
- What kind of properties should I focus my crop around?
- What will this specific strain of hemp be used for? Personal wellness? Medicine?
- What kind of yield can I hope to achieve with this crop? Where can I potentially make the most amount of money?
Once you can honestly answer these questions, you will be better prepared to enter this growing and dynamic industry. The market is thoroughly demanding different kinds of hemp—each of the strains mentioned above are perfectly viable options.