:: Sask Hemp Assoc ::

Hemp is seeded differently for fibre or for seed: A hemp grain field, like this one in northern Alberta, is typically seeded at a density of 16-30 kg/h in rows between 6-15 cm apart. Fibre fields are planted about three times denser.
Photo credit: Kreg Alde, Alberta.

Hemp has been described as "Flax with attitude". It's quick growth -- germination to maturity takes between 80-120 days (depending on variety, latitude and field/climate factors)-- to reach heights of up to 15' is one of hemp's most impressive features. On a summer day, you can 'see' hemp growing.
Photo credit: Janice Palmer, Manitoba.

Females remain vigorous long after male plants die. Females in foreground -- males in background. Males are generally taller and skinnier than females and produce an abundance of yellow, drooping, pollen shedding flowers. Females produce thick, dense, sticky, smelly buds swollen with seeds.
Photo credit: Sasha Przytyk, Saskatchewan

Future Sask hemp growers Ezra and Mya sharing a moment in a baby hemp field.
Photo credit: Sasha Przytyk, Saskatchewan

With the heights hemp reaches, combining hemp can be quite challenging. For hemp grain production combine heads are raised as high as possible to cut only the heads. Precautions should be taken to protect moving parts from fibres wrapping, causing malfunction and even fire. Fibre is swathed separately afterwards.
Photo credit: Janice Palmer, Manitoba.

Specialised equipment for hemp fibre harvesting exists. This baler is the design of HempFlax B.V., a pioneering Dutch company. Adaptation and development on technology will help spur hemp's growth as an industry.
Photo credit: Sasha Przytyk, Saskatchewan.

Have a good hemp shot? Let us know! Email your picture to info@saskhemp.com

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