About the project

As part of Work Package 1, the LTZ is documenting the current state of the hemp industry in Baden-Württemberg. Through interviews with stakeholders from the agriculture and processing sectors and analysis of available cultivation data, the LTZ is identifying structures, development potential, and existing obstacles. This assessment will form the basis for all subsequent work packages.

Work Package 2 is being implemented by the LSA. It includes testing different hemp varieties at three locations. The goal is to identify varieties suited to each location and derive scientifically sound cultivation recommendations. Results thus far highlight the need for a long-term breeding program, as developing new varieties takes an average of ten years. Additionally, fiber quality and quantity will be evaluated to meet the specific needs of the construction and textile industries.

To increase breeding efficiency, we are developing a plot harvesting technique because no suitable technique is currently available for harvesting hemp, and harvesting in breeding programs must be done manually.

A central element of knowledge transfer is the LSA's annual field day, where trial results, varieties, and new technologies are presented. Presentations by specialists from different areas of the value chain promote interdisciplinary exchange and networking between relevant stakeholders.