The Rise of CBD Growing: An Emerging Industry
The popularity of cannabidiol, or CBD, has skyrocketed in recent years. The compound derived from the cannabis plant has shown promise in treating a range of health conditions, including chronic pain, anxiety, and depression. As a result, the market for CBD products has exploded, with everything from oils and tinctures to edibles and topicals now available. But the real boom may be yet to come, as the industry of CBD growing takes off in earnest.
What is CBD, and how is it grown?
CBD is one of over 100 compounds, or cannabinoids, found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its cousin tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects commonly associated with marijuana. Instead, it has been found to have therapeutic properties, making it a popular choice for those who want the health benefits of cannabis without the high.
As for how CBD is grown, it all starts with the cannabis plant. There are two primary types of cannabis plants: marijuana and hemp. Marijuana plants are bred to have high levels of THC, while hemp plants are bred to have low levels of THC and high levels of CBD. After the plants are grown and harvested, the CBD is extracted from the plant material, typically using methods such as CO2 extraction, which is considered the safest and most effective.
The potential for CBD growing
The demand for CBD products has already made it a billion-dollar industry, and it is only expected to grow in the coming years. In fact, some estimates predict that the CBD market could reach $22 billion by 2022. With this kind of growth potential, it’s no wonder that entrepreneurs and investors are jumping on the bandwagon, eager to get in on the ground floor of this burgeoning industry.
The challenges of CBD growing
Despite the promise of the CBD industry, there are also some challenges to growing and cultivating hemp plants. One of the biggest issues is legal uncertainty. While the 2018 Farm Bill legalized the cultivation of hemp at the federal level, there are still gray areas when it comes to state and local regulations. There is also the challenge of finding reliable seed sources, as well as navigating the complex regulations around CBD extraction and distribution.
The future of CBD growing
Despite the challenges, many are still bullish on the future of the CBD industry. As more and more people turn to natural remedies for their health concerns, the demand for CBD products is only expected to increase. And with the continued push for legalization of cannabis at the federal level, the industry for CBD growing could take off in a major way, creating new opportunities for farmers, entrepreneurs, and investors alike.
If you’re interested in finding out more about this emerging industry, check out the links below:
- Why CBD Farming Is Set To Become A Thriving Industry
- CBD Is the Future of Farming If the Feds Don’t Mess It Up
- USDA Hemp Resources
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