Using Supplemental Lighting to Grow Hemp in Florida

Hemp is Cannabis sativa with delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol that does not exceed 0.3% Hemp is a regulated agricultural commodity at state and federal level. Hemp in Florida is regulated by the FL Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Division of Plant Industries: Hemp Cultivation Licensing.

Have a hemp farm plan?

Hemp is predicted to have a high risk of invasion in natural areas according to the UF/IFAS Assessment of Non-Native Plants in Florida's Natural Areas and may be problematic as an agricultural weed. FDACS requires an Environmental Containment and Transportation Plan with licensing application, pre-harvest sampling, and notice of harvest.

UF/IFAS is working to identify varieties and planting recommendations that can be profitable for growers and environmentally responsible, with variety trials to find marketable hemp that grows well in Florida‹s diverse soils, climates, latitudes. Economic research is being conducted to find the input costs and expected market value. Additionally, we are conducting a study for risk of invasiveness.

UF/IFAS Web Resources

• UF/IFAS Industrial Hemp Pilot Project
• FAQs
• Resources

"Florida's agricultural industry generates more than $103 billion in annual economic impact and employs more than 500,000 people. Florida's farmers produce nearly 300 commodities, and winter vegetables and citrus consistently lead the national rankings. To meet the needs of this diverse industry, research and extension programs in the areas of fruit and vegetable production, postharvest technology and weed science are delivered on a county, regional and statewide basis using a variety of methods including field days, intensive hands-on training, and distance learning. Excellence in programming facilitates the exchange of information and technology and contributes to the professional development of extension faculty and the agricultural clientele they serve."
--- Extension Programs, Horticultural Sciences Department