Growing Hemp: Best Practices for Success – Episode 4: Planting Techniques

In “Episode 4” of our video series with Aligned Distributing LLC, we discuss planting techniques. The episode explains: regional planting times, selecting rooted cuttings vs. seeds, planting depth, planting by hand or machine, and proper watering strategy. Watch the full video to learn more about our recommendations and view key points from the video below.

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Key points regarding planting techniques:

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1. How should I determine my ideal planting time?

Planting time is dependent upon the region and climate of where your farm is located. Growers in northern climates should plant just after their final snow and frost dates. While, planting in the South is dependent upon daylength – those in this region should avoid planting too early as the days are shorter.

2. How should I identify whether to plant rooted cuttings or seeds?

Consider the size of your farm, number of plants you’d like to grow, the economy of scale, and overall costs involved. Cutting-grown liners will offer predictable performance and yield a consistent height at harvest for each variety you plant. While, a seed crop will display size and gender variation – although, our verification process produces a 99% female-to-male seed ratio.

3. How does planting depth impact plant health? 

If a plant is transplanted too shallow in the soil, the top-half of its root system may be exposed, causing the plant to dry out quickly, wilt, and struggle to establish. If you plant too deep, and you bury the crown of the plant by 1–1.5 inches, the plant will also fail to establish itself.

4. What factors impact whether I should plant by hand or by machine? 

Planting methods are dependent upon your operation’s scale and the quantity of plants you decide to grow. Planting by machine can be effective for planting thousands of plants per day on large-scale operations. Hand planting is also a great technique but is more labor-intensive and challenging for larger operations. 

5. How should I water my plants after transplant?

You don’t want your soil to be sopping wet when you transplant but also not completely dry. After transplanting, be sure to water-in well to remove air pockets that can be harmful to root growth. Once you water the transplant in, let it dry down between waterings to allow the root system to extend into the ground.

Watch the full video for more information regarding planting techniques and stay tuned for “Episode 5: Irrigation & Nutrition”!