Sunn hemp grass is a warm-season grass that thrives in poor soils. When grown as a cover crop, it offers numerous advantages. Members of the legume family display bright green leaves and yellow flowers that soon turn into brown pods. Although the cannabis plant is relatively new to North America, it has been grown in India for centuries. Read on to learn more about the uses of hemp, along with helpful tips on growing hemp as a cover crop.
Cannabis plant information: Cannabis uses
Sunn hemp is a tropical or semi-tropical plant that requires at least 8 to 12 weeks of warm weather. It is a perennial native to Hawaii, southern Florida, and southern Texas but can be grown as a summer crop in most areas of North America. When grown as a cover crop (sometimes called “green manure”) it provides nitrogen, builds organic matter, improves soil health, reduces erosion, and conserves water. Provide
Hemp grass adapts to almost any type of soil, including sand. It is a fast-growing plant that develops a vigorous root system and reaches six feet (2 m) in height very quickly in warm climates. Don’t confuse hemp with industrial hemp. Both plants serve very different purposes. Unfortunately, hemp seeds can be difficult to find.
Sunn Hemp Cover Crop: Growing Instructions
Till the soil well, then plant the seeds 1–2.5 cm (1–2.5 cm) deep. Water the hemp whenever the soil is dry. Although sunn hemp is drought tolerant, it does best with at least an inch of moisture per week. So the plants return to the soil before the next planting season.
Sunm hemp Plant Information: Is Sunn hemp Weed Invasive?
Cannabis can be both weedy and aggressive in certain seasons. Before planting, check with your neighbourhood cooperative extension office.
