Does Hemp Plant Need As Much Water as Marijuana?

As more and more countries legalize cannabis, the debate between hemp and marijuana often arises. Apart from their different uses, one of the significant differences between hemp and marijuana is their water requirements. Hemp plants, historically grown for their fiber and seeds, require less water than their more potent cousin, marijuana. While hemp and marijuana are both part of the Cannabis sativa species, their genetic makeup gives them different characteristics, one of which is their need for water.

The Differences Between Hemp and Marijuana

Hemp and marijuana display physical and chemical differences that set them apart from each other. The primary difference between the two varieties is the concentration of THC or tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is the compound responsible for the high associated with marijuana use. In contrast, hemp plants do not have as much THC; they contain a concentration of less than 0.3%, making it legally acceptable to grow them in some countries, whereas marijuana is illegal.

Another difference between the two strains is their genetic makeup. Hemp plants have long, fibrous stalks and few flowering buds. In contrast, marijuana plants have a bushy appearance with more leaves and flowering buds. Cannabis farmers typically grow marijuana for its high THC concentration and flowering buds. Hemp, on the other hand, is grown for its seeds and fibers used in the development of textiles, paper, and construction materials.

Water Requirements for Hemp Plants

The water requirements for hemp plants often depend on the stage of its growth. Like other plants, hemp plants require water for their growth, but their water needs are lower than other crops. In general, the first few weeks of its growth, hemp plants require more water, but as they near maturity, they require less water. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and air circulation can also affect a plant's water needs.

Compared to other crops, hemp plants have a shallow root system that enables them to absorb nutrients and water more efficiently. They can also adapt to different soil types, making them less water-dependent than other crops. Hemp plants can grow in areas with rainfall as low as 250mm, making them ideal for farmers in drought-prone areas.

Water Requirements for Marijuana Plants

Compared to hemp, marijuana plants require more water to grow. The large leaves and bushy appearance of marijuana plants make them relatively heavy water consumers. Additionally, marijuana plants require more frequent watering because they grow best in warm, humid temperatures. They also require a more balanced nutrient mix compared to hemp plants, making it more challenging to grow them depending on the location.

Outdoor cannabis growers pay close attention to the amount of rainfall and ensure their plants get enough water. Indoor growers, on the other hand, control the humidity levels and use watering techniques such as hydroponics to ensure their plants receive adequate water.

Conclusion

Hemp plants require less water than marijuana plants, mainly because of their genetic makeup and shallow root system. This makes them ideal for farmers in drought-prone regions. Marijuana plants, on the other hand, have a more significant water requirement due to their higher THC concentration and need for a more balanced nutrient mix. Understanding the water requirements of these plants is essential for growers to maximize yields and ensure that the plants receive the necessary nutrients to grow to full maturity.