Hemp Seed
AFI have Plant Breeders Rights on a number of new sub-tropical varieties of Industrial Hemp. Some varieties are suitable for grain production, with high seed yield, high oil content and good ratios of omega 3, 6 and 9, essential fatty acids and very low THC content (one fifth of the legal limit). Other varieties are suited to fibre production with high bast fibre content (>25%), easily processed, and tall vigorous plants with high fibre yield potential and low THC content. Some varieties may be suited to a dual purpose role, giving both grain and fibre when planted at specific times in the season.
AFI contract growers to grow the seed for future plantings under close supervision to avoid contamination and ensure the highest seed quality. Growing practices such as irrigation, nutrition and pest management are very important in the production of quality seed with good germination, high vigour and yield potential of the following crop.
Commercial seed sales will be a long term part of the AFI business model, providing quality seed under license to other Industrial Hemp producers around Australia.
AFI's sub-tropical grain variety Ruby yielded 2.4 t/ha in this research trial.