Project Overview
AST Genetics project "Determining Optimal Planting Density of Dual-Purpose Industrial Hemp with Cover Crop" was selected by the USDA North Central SARE for funding in 2024. The purpose of this research trial is to provide significant insight and knowledge into best practices in industrial hemp production with respect to field preparation and planting methodology of industrial hemp for fiber and grain production. The project began in January of 2024, and concluded at the end of 2024 with the completion of a project report and planting density recommendations for producers. The optimal planting density based on trial results is 25-lbs per acre for both fiber and grain production.
We are honored to have the privilege to serve the SARE community in this capacity.
A complete project report can be downloaded for free at the SARE project site here.
Trial Updates
May 30, 2024
June 21, 2024
June 21, 2024
Glyphosate and Sonalan were applied to field.
June 21, 2024
June 21, 2024
June 21, 2024
Emergence rates were determined 21 days after planting.
July 17, 2024
June 21, 2024
August 22, 2024
The trial fields reached canopy in early July.
August 22, 2024
September 24, 2024
August 22, 2024
Average plant height of 7 ft at each density
September 24, 2024
September 24, 2024
September 24, 2024
Fields are getting close to harvest point. This is the 15-lb per acre density plot.
September 24, 2024
September 24, 2024
September 24, 2024
Fields are getting close to harvest point. This is the 25-lb per acre density plot.
September 24, 2024
September 24, 2024
September 24, 2024
Fields are getting close to harvest point. This is the 50-lb per acre density plot.
October 15, 2024
September 24, 2024
September 24, 2024
15-lb per acre stalk density after grain harvest
October 15, 2024
September 24, 2024
October 15, 2024
25-lb per acre stalk density after grain harvest
October 15, 2024
October 15, 2024
October 15, 2024
50-lb per acre stalk density after grain harvest