Let’s talk hemp, one of our favorite crops to cultivate and process here at Green Fox. (And no, we’re not talking about marijuana – as hemp and marijuana are different plants.) Hemp is a favorite of ours because it is one of the most versatile and sustainable crops on the planet. Honestly, there’s so much to know about hemp that we had to put it in writing.
What is Hemp? Separating Fact from Fiction
Unlike its cousin, marijuana, industrial hemp is cultivated for its fibers, seeds, and oils. This key difference means that industrial hemp can be utilized for a variety of industrial applications, such as eco-friendly textiles, biodegradable plastics, and health supplements, without producing any mind-altering effects. Both plants share similar physical characteristics, but hemp often features tall stalks with fewer branches, which is ideal for fiber production.
The Legal Lowdown and THC Differences
Let’s clear the air (pun intended) about hemp’s legal status and THC content. Industrial hemp is a Cannabis sativa variety that’s basically the ultimate multi-tasker of the plant world. With very low THC levels (0.3% or less), industrial hemp is all about utility. In contrast, marijuana is bred to have much higher THC levels, typically ranging from 10% to 30%. Think of hemp like a non-alcoholic beer – same family, totally different purpose.
A Hint of History
Hemp is one of the planet’s oldest cultivated crops, dating back to 8,000 BC. China used hemp for food and textiles and even invented paper from it. In 1492, Christopher Columbus sailed to North America on his ships with sails and rigging made from hemp. Over time, however, hemp became heavily regulated, particularly in the United States. A significant turning point came with the 2014 Farm Bill, which distinguished industrial hemp from cannabis and allowed for research pilots in U.S. hemp farming. The 2018 Farm Bill further propelled hemp’s resurgence, legalizing it as an agricultural product and opening the door for farmers across America to grow it as a viable, eco-friendly crop with vast potential.
The Facts
Did you know that hemp can be used to create over 25,000 different products, from consumer goods and beauty products to building materials and pet products? Hemp grows four times faster than trees and produces more fiber per acre, yet it continues to be vastly underutilized as a resource. Hemp’s versatility goes beyond its speedy growing capabilities; every part of the plant, from root to leaf to stalk, plays a role in creating sustainable solutions for industries ranging from textiles to construction.
And this is just the tip of the iceberg! As we fully embrace the hemp-volution of growing what was illegal not long ago, we continue to discover more and more amazing qualities of our favorite super-plant—industrial hemp. Stay tuned for more!