In the commercial production of hemp, growers need to be sure that the set-up, equipment, and environment is suitable for their crops for the ultimate yield. Anything that plants lack even for a short amount of time will overall affect the growth and production of the plant. Temperature, water, plant nutrients, and grow lighting must be held at adequate amounts to promote the best growth. When the commercial nursery or greenhouse makes the switch to commercial hemp production, the process may seem daunting. Hemp production is similar to many other industry crops, so the switch can be quite easy.
When planning out a greenhouse, nursery, or farm for hemp it is important to always plan for expansion from the start. If the grower is already producing crops of different varieties in the greenhouse, sometimes all focus goes to production and not the new avenues opened by hemp production. It is important for a producer to plan for future demand, within reason, and to accommodate long term goals for the business. It is better to have more than needed space than not enough in the long run. The plans should encompass a multi-level approach for expansion and thinking ahead to the future. Overall the greenhouse should have multiple areas set aside specifically for stages of the hemp production process. These rooms serve the purpose needed in the different stages of hemp production.
Having these areas separated and labeled, will help with the growing process and organization of the commercial producer’s endeavors. A greenhouse producer should balance the production efficiencies within their grow area. Modern technology and structures offer unbelievable production opportunities in comparison to traditional techniques of hemp growing. In the grow area, zone segmentation should be achieved to divide sections for specific needs. In these zones, proper heating and cooling systems need to be in place, as well as lighting and irrigation.
Traditional vs hydroponic hemp production
When a commercial producer makes the decision to either start a new operation or convert their operation to hemp production, there are two main options for the setup. The top two methods for hemp production are traditional/conventional and hydroponic systems. Although the choice of the system is up to grower preference, these systems each have positives and a few drawbacks that set them apart from each other.
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