The surge in cannabidiol (CBD) popularity means more farmers are growing non-intoxicating strains of cannabis, or hemp, for CBD production. This new market has led to commercial genetic tests for early determination of hemp plant sex. However, a new study has found that these tests may not all produce accurate results.
CBD is used as an alternative treatment for pain and anxiety and various medical conditions. Unfertilized female cannabis plants produce high amounts of the CBD precursor in their flowers, making it important to identify and eliminate male plants at the seedling stage.
“The results from our undergraduate-led project can help hemp growers make accurate sex determination of seedlings,” says Allison Nalesnik, senior undergraduate student at Salisbury University. “This could help increase the yield of CBD, which should reduce prices for the public.”
Read more at seedworld.com
