What is hemp: Everything you need to know about this plant

Hemp, scientifically Cannabis sativa, is one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world. People have valued it for thousands of years as a source of fibre, seeds and oil. In this guide, SmokyHUB explains what hemp is, how it is grown, what it is used for and how it is regulated in Slovenia.

What is hemp?

History and origin

Hemp is a plant that originates from Central Asia, where people cultivated it more than 10,000 years ago. The first evidence of its use can be found in ancient Chinese texts, where it was valued as a source of fiber, food and medicine. Hemp later spread throughout Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Europe, where it was used to make rope, cloth and paper.

Different types of hemp

Hemp is divided into three main types: Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica and Cannabis ruderalis. Each type has its own characteristics and use:

– Cannabis sativa: Known for its taller growth and long, narrow leaves.

– Cannabis indica: A smaller, bushy plant with broader leaves.

– Cannabis ruderalis: A lesser known species that grows wild and has a lower THC content. It is often used in crossbreeding to create hybrid species with different characteristics.

Cultivation of hemp

Selection of seeds

Successful cannabis cultivation starts with choosing the right seeds. There are different varieties of cannabis that have been specially bred for certain characteristics, such as high THC content, high CBD content or adaptability to certain climatic conditions. Seeds can be purchased from specialist vendors or seeds from previous plants can be used.

Soil and environment preparation

Hemp is a plant that is relatively undemanding to soil, but thrives best in well-drained, loose soil with a rich organic matter content. The pH value of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.0. It is also important to provide enough sunlight, as cannabis grows best with 12 to 18 hours of light per day.

Sowing and germination

Hemp seeds can be sown directly into the soil or germinated indoors first. Germinating seeds indoors allows better control over temperature and humidity, which increases the chances of successful germination. When the plants reach a height of about 10 cm, they can be transplanted outdoors.

Watering and fertilizing

Hemp needs regular watering, but be careful not to let water stagnate, as this can cause root rot. Fertilization is also important, as plants need different nutrients at different stages of growth. Nitrogen is important in the early stages of growth, while in the flowering stage plants need more phosphorus and potassium.

Growth stages

Hemp goes through several stages of growth:

1. Germination: From the moment the seed germinates to the first pair of true leaves.

2. Vegetative phase: The plant grows rapidly and develops leaves and stems.

3. Flowering Phase: The plant begins to develop flowers that are rich in cannabinoids.

4. Maturity: The flowers reach full maturity and are ready for harvest.

Harvesting and drying

When the cannabis flowers are fully ripe, it is time to harvest. Carefully cut the flowers and hang them to dry in a dark, well-ventilated area. Drying is an important step, as it allows maintaining the quality of the flowers and prevents the development of mold.

Hemp use

Medical use

Medical use of cannabis is a separate, strictly regulated field. In the EU there are registered cannabinoid-based medicines, available exclusively through the healthcare system and under a doctor’s supervision. Research on cannabinoids is active, but for most areas it has not yet produced definitive answers.

An important distinction: industrial hemp products, such as hemp flowers, are not medicines and are not intended to treat any disease — they are sold as aromatic products for adults. If you’re curious how cannabinoids differ from each other, read our guide on CBD, CBG and CBN.

Industrial use

Industrial hemp is a specially grown type of hemp with a low THC and high fiber content. It is used to manufacture many products including:

– Fibers: Hemp fibers are strong and durable, so they are used to make ropes, fabrics and paper.

– Oil: Hemp oil is rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and is used in nutrition and cosmetics.

– Building Materials: Hemp is used to make building materials, such as hemp concrete (hempcrete), which is light, durable and environmentally friendly.

Recreational use

Recreational use of cannabis has become increasingly popular due to its psychoactive effects. THC is the main compound that causes the feeling of intoxication. In countries where recreational use is legal, cannabis is available in a variety of forms, including flowers, oils, edibles and concentrates.

Cosmetic products

Hemp oil and extracts are a popular ingredient in cosmetic products — creams, lotions, shampoos and other skin and hair care products.

Legislation and regulation

Global situation

Hemp legislation varies around the world. Some countries have legalised the medical and/or recreational use of cannabis, while in others it is still strictly prohibited.

The situation in Slovenia

In Slovenia, industrial hemp with a low THC content is allowed for cultivation and processing, while recreational use of cannabis is prohibited. We explain the rules for CBD products in our guide Is CBD legal in Slovenia?

The future of hemp

Research and development

Research into hemp and cannabinoids has advanced greatly in recent years, but for most questions it has not yet produced definitive answers.

Innovation in the industry

The hemp industry is full of innovation, with new products and technologies constantly evolving. From new ways to extract cannabinoids to advanced cultivation methods that increase yield and plant quality, the hemp industry continues to grow and evolve.

Sustainability and the environment

Kindness

Hemp is a plant known for its sustainability and environmental friendliness. It grows quickly, requires few pesticides and herbicides and has a positive effect on the soil in which it grows. Industrial hemp is also an excellent source of biodegradable materials that can replace plastic and other environmentally harmful materials.

Frequently asked questions about hemp

What is hemp?

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is one of the oldest cultivated plants. It is used for fibre, seeds, oil and flowers; industrial hemp varieties are low in THC.

What is the difference between industrial hemp and marijuana?

They are the same plant species; the difference is the THC content. Industrial hemp is bred to be low in THC and does not get you high, while marijuana is high in THC.

What is the difference between CBD and THC?

THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis and causes a high, while CBD is not psychoactive. Read the full explanation in What is CBD and how does it differ from THC.

Is hemp legal in Slovenia?

Growing and processing industrial hemp with a low THC content is allowed, recreational use of cannabis is not. Read everything about CBD products in Is CBD legal in Slovenia?

What is industrial hemp used for?

For fibre (rope, textiles, paper), seeds and oil, building materials such as hempcrete, cosmetics, and flowers, which SmokyHUB sells as an aromatic product for adults.

Are hemp products medicines?

No. Industrial hemp products, such as hemp flowers, are not medicines and are not intended to treat any disease. Cannabinoid-based medicines are available only through the healthcare system.

Conclusion

Hemp is an extremely versatile plant with a rich history and a wide range of uses — from fibres and building materials to cosmetics and aromatic products. Despite the regulatory challenges, the future of hemp looks bright as research and innovation continue to reveal its potential.