AUG 08, 2024 5:05 AM PDT

The Effects of Microbial Seed Inoculation on Hemp Plant Productivity

WRITTEN BY: Kerry Charron

A study published in the Journal of Agricultural Hemp Research examined the effect of microbial seed inoculation on cannabis plant production. In particular, the study investigated the impact on plant height, germination rate, cured flower weight, and cannabinoid content. 

The study included a control, and the treatments included seed inoculation of Great White â Premium Mycorrhizae (GW), seed inoculation of vermicompost (V), and seed inoculation of Great White Premium Mycorrhizae and vermicompost (GW+V). The findings indicated no significant differences in germination rate or plant height across treatments. The GW+V and V groups had increased cured flower weight by 29.0% and 43.0%, respectively. The GW treatment had 4.4% more weight than the control group. 

The findings also showed that the GW+V and V treatments had higher total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and CBD content than the control. THC content was 19% for GW+V treatments and 17.6% for V treatments. CBD content was 17.6% for GW+V treatments and 12.1% for V treatments 

The study found no significant differences between treatments for GR and plant height. However, it did indicate qualitative differences between treatments; the GW+V treatment had the highest cured flower weight, as well as total CBD and total THC content, over the control.

The research team advocates for further research investigation that quantifies the effect of hemp seed inoculants on cured flower weight and total cannabinoid content (specifically THC and CBD content). 

The study provides valuable knowledge for optimizing hemp production. The Murray State University’s Center for Agricultural Hemp will conduct future studies to determine how seed inoculation impacts hemp plant productivity, furthering the potential benefits of this innovative approach. 

Source: Journal of Agricultural Hemp Research

 

About the Author
Bachelor's (BA/BS/Other)
Kerry Charron writes about medical cannabis research. She has experience working in a Florida cultivation center and has participated in advocacy efforts for medical cannabis.
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