CBD is the fastest-growing industry in the world, and an increasing number of farmers are beginning to see the benefits of growing hemp—both from an economic perspective and for its numerous health benefits. Now that you’ve decided to be a part of this exciting world, there are a few key steps to consider before starting. Here’s your step-by-step guide on how to get started.
Step 1: Know Your Regulations
The first step is understanding the laws and regulations in the jurisdiction where you want to grow hemp. This may include obtaining a license to grow. For example, in Italy, no license is required, but you must register with local authorities (La Forestale). In Bulgaria, however, you must submit a sample form application to the Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry (MAFF), which, once approved, is valid for three years. It’s essential to know the specific requirements in your country.
You must also be aware of the permissible THC content in your plants. The European Parliament recently passed the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Reforms, allowing THC content up to 0.3%, which is the permissible limit in most member states. However, laws may vary across countries. For example, in the Czech Republic, THC levels can go up to 1%, while in Italy, it is set at 0.6%.
Make sure to stay updated on regulations by following our news feed, as we will monitor and provide updates on any changes throughout Europe.
Step 2: Have a Suitable Place to Grow
Whether you plan to grow in greenhouses or outdoors, there are several factors to ensure a successful grow, both in terms of convenience and the quality of your plants. First, decide how many plants you’d like to grow. For first-time farmers, we recommend starting with no more than 5,000 plants, equivalent to 1 hectare. Once you’re confident, you can scale up.
Additionally, it’s crucial to take soil samples for testing to determine the pH, minerals, and nutrients present. This helps tailor the necessary treatments and fertilization to maximize growth.
Next, ensure you have a reliable water supply. Hemp requires daily watering, so your water pump must be powerful enough to irrigate your entire crop. Whether growing indoors, outdoors, or in a greenhouse, an efficient water delivery system is essential to ensure that each plant receives the necessary water.
These steps are essential before planting any seeds. By working with CBD Seed Europe, you’ll receive personalized support to help you determine what’s best for your grow and achieve the best possible results.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Seed
The seed you choose can significantly impact your ability to find buyers and secure premium pricing. However, there are additional considerations. The EU Commission maintains a catalogue of approved seed genetics for growing in Europe. Seeds not included in the catalogue or lacking legal authorization for sale in your country may be seized by authorities. Therefore, when purchasing seeds, ensure that your seed supplier provides the necessary documentation.
At CBD Seed Europe, our genetics will soon be featured on the EU Commission catalogue starting in 2022, along with specific authorization from over 20 EU Member countries. This means buying from us is the safest legal option and also offers the most competitive strains available on the market. Additionally, you’ll receive a germination and fertilization guide to help you achieve the best possible results.
Now that you know the key considerations for growing hemp, you’re ready to start. For more information, feel free to contact us and stay updated with our news feed to follow any changes in regulations as the market evolves.
