With the passage of last year’s Farm Bill, farmers across the country are looking to start growing hemp. The price of many crops has fallen in recent years, so they see hemp as a potential income source.
However, there are several challenges with growing hemp compared to other crops. When growing hemp, it's incredibly important to understand depending upon your end product goals - quality over quantity will always help you have a competitive edge within the hemp sales market.
Defining your end goal product will help you better align your hemp farming practices to help you succeed in your season's grow and minimize the challenges at hand.
Here are five things to be aware of if you are hoping to begin hemp farming.
First-Year Yields May Not Be Ideal
Some of the main challenges with hemp farming are delayed planting schedules or heavy rains that may create an initial harvest that is less profitable than expected. Like any other crop, successful growing is also a matter of trial and error. It may take a few years to find your sweet spot.
More Labor Is Required
Growing hemp is a labor-intensive process. It requires more manpower and hours compared to other crops. Certain types of hemp plants are also put into the ground as seedlings. This means much of the work producing it is done by hand.
It’s Expensive To Get Off The Ground
Growing hemp effectively on a mass scale will require machinery. This means purchasing modern equipment or retrofitting existing ones, which can cost tens of thousands of dollars. You will also likely need to hire additional workers for the harvest season.
Hemp Plants Could Be Stolen
Many hemp farmers are reporting their plants being stolen by people who mistake them for marijuana. Not only is this frustrating, but it can be financially damaging. Some farmers are taking extra steps by hiring guards to watch their fields at night or installing security equipment.
There Are Limited Markets
A report from the Brightfield Group shows that 285,000 acres of hemp were grown in the U.S. this year. That’s a 72% increase from last year. However, some farmers struggle to find a market where they can sell it and must compete with established exchanges. There are also other financial issues such as difficulties in working with banks and obtaining crop insurance.
Contact Canvast Supply Co.
If you have any questions on any hemp farming related challenges or questions contact Canvast Supply Co. and we will be sure to give you the best possible guidance. Our team has extensive knowledge and experience with farming and hemp farming.
If you’re interested, we can give you a detailed rundown of our industry-tested farming equipment, planning resources, post-harvest solutions, and, of course, supplies that have left individuals and businesses alike more than satisfied.
