4.1 Soil

Hemp can grow well on different types of soil: loam, sandy loam, sand, peat, and clay, provided that some attention is paid to water management (i.e., drainage). Hemp grows best on loose, deep, well-permeable soils with good water retention capacity that are rich in organic matter, with good structure, without deterioration generated by heavy machinery, and with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Good drainage is key: wet soils can restrict root and shoot growth in the early stage of cultivation and consequently reduce fibre quality. Wet spots result in uneven plant heights that cause problems at harvest. Limited root growth in early growth also leads to the plant experiencing difficulties during eventual dry periods later on.