Contrary to public opinion, and according to science, it matters a great deal where hemp is grown. With today’s advancements, hemp farmers have the option to grow their crops indoors, outdoors, or in greenhouses. Laboratory tests have shown that hemp grown in each of these environments have different properties.
Indoor Hemp
Amateur hemp growers or small-scale growers that grow hemp for personal use prefer to cultivate their crops indoors. Home-grown, indoor hemp is easier to manage and tends to be less susceptible to common problems such as mildew, pests, and mold. Hemp grown indoors is also far easier to manage in adverse weather conditions.
Observers will also notice that indoor hemp tends to look cleaner and less weathered as compared to hemp grown outdoors and exposed to natural weather. In terms of aroma and taste, indoor hemp is usually milder, therefore ending up being a good choice for users with a low tolerance level.
On the flip side, the trichomes present in indoor hemp tend to be less prominent. This can dilute the aesthetics of indoor hemp.
Who is Indoor Hemp Best Suited For?
Indoor hemp is best suited for amateur or novice hemp growers with little or no prior practical experience or knowledge of growing hemp. Indoor hemp, with its reduced exposure to pests and adverse conditions, can prove to be an easy place to start.
Growing hemp indoors also requires a lesser degree of technical skill and can be a great way for novice growers to learn the ropes while perfecting techniques they are comfortable with.
Indoor hemp may also be preferable for growers that plan to harvest and use the crop for personal consumption.
Advantages of Indoor Hemp
- Adapt temperature and environment to meet specific needs.
- Less exposure to adverse conditions and pests.
- Can be cultivated irrespective of climate or time of year.
- Requires relatively low maintenance.
Disadvantages of Indoor Hemp
- The lack of natural conditions and sunlight hampers the complete genetic growth of the crop.
- The CBD products derived from indoor hemp has a milder flavor compared to the outdoor version of the crop.
- The effects on users are milder and last for a shorter duration.
Outdoor Hemp
Even though growing hemp outdoors is more challenging than growing hemp indoors, the extra effort of growing the crop in a natural environment leads to a fuller flavor, fragrance as well as a more fulfilling experience and sense of accomplishment.
The combination of natural fresh air, acres of open space, and natural sunlight allow the hemp plants to fully realize its potential and yield more wholesome produce.
Additionally, for growers looking to cut down on expenditure during the growing process, the outdoors are a perfect solution. There will be a minimal extra expenditure for artificial light, humidifiers, fans, etc. The natural environment takes care of all of this for you.
That said, so-called ‘perfect’ growing conditions are hard to come by. Hemp crops grown outdoors are vulnerable to pests and other factors that can hamper growth. Keep an eye out for these and taking timely action can be a bit more labor-intensive.
The weather also can play spoilsport at times and growers are almost sure to be restricted by the seasons.
Who is Outdoor Hemp Best Suited For?
Growing hemp in the outdoors is best suited for growers that have a fair amount of space and enjoy mild weather conditions that are usually dry and sunny. This would be an ideal, pocket-friendly option that can yield an impressive harvest.
Growing hemp outdoors would also be best for those who have the time, energy, and willingness to put in the added effort required to maintain a crop in the field. This is especially true for hemp as this crop requires regular pruning, is prone to insects, pests, and other threats.
Disclaimer
CBD products that are derived from Hemp and contain less than the prescribed .3 percent of THC are legal per federal law. However, certain state laws may still deem it illegal.
CBD products that are derived from Marijuana are illegal per federal law but remain legal under the laws of certain states.
It is advisable to check the appropriate state laws in case of travel. It is important to note that over-the-counter CBD products are not approved by the FDA.