Hemp

How Hemp is
Harvested~

Fiber hemp is ready to be

harvested around the time
that the plant is finished
producing pollen and the
first seeds start to grow
develop. However, this
varies with the variety and
maturity of the fiber. If left
beyond this stage, the fiber
becomes too coarse. It is
found that fiber from the
Processing After Harvesting is Done~ male plant dies very soon
after pollination.
Hemp is very sensitive to
Once the hemp is harvested, it must go through a very important process called light so early planting will
retting. Retting is the process of separating the fiber from the rest of the plant. produce taller crops and
This is not an easy process and can be accomplished through several methods therefore you will have more
where moisture, microorganisms, or chemistry break down the bark tissue that fiber grow. Stems must not
binds the fiber and non-fiber portions, making them easier to separate. be chopped or broken too
much in the harvesting
process because long fibers
* Water retting can take up to five weeks to process. are more desirable.
-- Water retting occurs when the stems are soaked in water. It takes 7-10
days and produces better quality fiber.
* Green retting is a mechanical process that separates the components to use
fiber products.
-- Chemical retting can take up to 48 hours until the next process can be
instigated.

* Hemp is grown in North America, Canada, and Asia.

* Hemp is used in different ways all over the world. China uses hemp in different bandages similar to gauze.
Japan uses the hemp seed as a condiment in many of their restaurants. Also in Europe hemp fibers are used
to strengthen cement.
* The source of our fiber comes from the hemp plant.

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