Can a Pot Plant Change to Hemp

The terms “pot plant” and “hemp” are sometimes used interchangeably, but they are actually two different things. Pot plants or marijuana refer to the plant species Cannabis sativa, which contains high levels of the psychoactive compound tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). On the other hand, hemp or industrial hemp refer to the same species, but it contains a much lower level of THC.

Given that pot plant and hemp are the same species, some people might wonder if a pot plant can be changed to hemp or vice versa. The answer is both yes and no.

No, a pot plant cannot be changed to hemp

The difference between a pot plant and hemp lies in their genetics. Pot plants have been selectively bred to contain higher levels of THC, while hemp has been selectively bred for its fiber, seeds, and low THC content. This means that even if you try to grow a pot plant in the same way as a hemp plant, it will still contain high levels of THC and cannot be classified as hemp.

Moreover, pot plants and hemp have different growth requirements. Pot plants prefer warm and humid environments, while hemp grows best in cooler temperatures and can tolerate dry conditions. This means that if you try to grow a pot plant like a hemp plant, it will likely not thrive and produce the fiber, seeds, and low THC levels that characterize hemp.

Yes, a pot plant can be bred to produce low THC and qualify as hemp

While a pot plant cannot be changed to hemp through cultivation alone, it can be bred to produce low THC levels and qualify as hemp. This process is called hybridization, which involves selectively crossing different strains of cannabis to achieve desired traits.

Hybridization has already been used to produce high-CBD strains of cannabis, which have low THC content and are used for medicinal purposes. In the same way, pot plants can be bred to produce high levels of fiber and seeds and low levels of THC to qualify as hemp.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a pot plant cannot be changed to hemp through cultivation alone. However, through hybridization, it is possible to breed pot plants to produce low THC levels and qualify as hemp.

It is important to note that the legality of growing and selling cannabis, both pot plants and hemp, varies depending on location. It is always important to check with local laws and regulations before engaging in any cannabis-related activities.