Ecology Plants very adaptable to soil and climatic conditions. Hemp for fiber requires a mild temperate climate with at least 67 cm annual rainfall, with abundant rain while seeds are germinating and until young plants become established. Of the many types of hemp, some are adapted to most vegetated terrains and climates. Cultivation Propagation mainly by seed. Experimentally, drug plants have been propagated from cuttings but such plants do not come true as to drug content of parent.
Seeds stored in cool, dry place remain viable for up to two years.
Hemp seed sown as early in spring as possible. In spring the land is harrowed again and rolled, making a firm tilth over the entire surface. Generally sown in March, seeds germinate at low temperature, but not below 1deg. In many countries seed sown broadcast. Besides, they are more difficult to handle during harvesting, retting and scutching.