How Microbes Can Increase CBD Yield and Fiber Quality in Hemp Plants

Hemp cultivation has been growing in popularity, thanks to its potential to produce cannabidiol (CBD) and fiber. Recent research by University of Houston reveals further insights into how microbial communities can be harnessed to increase the productivity of hemp plants. These findings have significant implications for the industrial and pharmaceutical applications of hemp.

Published in the prestigious journal Nature, the study explores how various hemp varieties interact with specific microbiomes—communities of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi—that significantly influence plant growth, nutrient uptake, and resistance to environmental stress.

“In hemp, the microbiome is critical to optimizing CBD production and improving fiber quality,” explained Abdul Latif Khan, assistant professor of biotechnology at Cullen College of Engineering Technology Division, from the University of Houston in Texas, and lead author of the study. The research sheds light on how different hemp genotypes host unique microbial communities that directly contribute to these processes.

Varietal differences in hemp microbiomes

The research team analyzed the microbiomes of four hemp varieties: two CBD-producing strains (Sweet Sensi and Cherry Wine) and two fiber-focused strains. However, the classification of these varieties raised some questions. For example, the American Victory-1 (AV-1) variety, identified as a fiber producer in the study, was originally developed for CBD production. Furthermore, a fiber-producing variety was not identified, which raised some debate about the applicability of the results to actual fiber production.

Despite these concerns, the study provided valuable insights into the differences in microbial populations between CBD-rich and fiber-rich hemp plants.

• Regarding fiber varieties: strains such as Sphingomonas, Pseudomonas and Bacillus were predominant in hemp focused on fiber production, aiding in structural integrity.
• Bacteria in CBD strains: microbes such as Microbacterium and Rhizobium were more abundant in CBD-rich plants, promoting the synthesis of compounds.
• Fungal associations: fungi such as Penicillium and Nigrospora were linked to CBD production, while Alternaria and Gibberella were more commonly found in fiber-producing plants.

Microbial distribution in plant tissues

The study revealed that different parts of the hemp plant, namely roots, stems and leaves, harbor distinct microbial communities.

• Roots and soil: bacterial diversity was highest in the roots and surrounding soil, playing a key role in nutrient uptake.
• Leaves and stems: fungal diversity was more pronounced in these tissues, influencing plant health and compound production.

These findings highlight the complex interplay between hemp plants and their microbiomes, highlighting how specific microbial communities can enhance productivity and resilience.

Sustainability and agricultural applications

The implications of this research extend beyond plant biology. “We have demonstrated that different hemp genotypes have unique microbial groups that contribute to their health and productivity,” Khan noted. “By harnessing these natural microbial benefits, farmers could reduce their reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides, paving the way for more sustainable agricultural practices.”

Furthermore, the study suggests that tailored microbial applications could further enhance the industrial and pharmaceutical value of hemp. For example, inoculating hemp plants with specific microbes could optimize CBD yield or improve fiber quality, benefiting a wide range of industries.

Collaborative efforts and future research

This study was a collaborative effort, with contributions from Waqar Ahmad, a PhD student and the paper's first author, as well as researchers from Prairie View A&M State University. The team emphasized the need to further explore plant-microbiome interactions to fully harness hemp's potential.

Main conclusions

• Hemp plants host unique microbial communities that influence CBD yield and fiber quality.
• Different varieties of hemp have distinct microbial populations in their roots, stems and leaves.
• Exploring these microbiomes could lead to sustainable agricultural practices and higher quality hemp products.
• Future research may focus on developing microbial applications tailored to specific hemp genotypes.

By understanding and manipulating the microbiome, growers can revolutionize hemp cultivation, maximizing its benefits for industries ranging from textiles to medicine. As research advances, the potential for improving the productivity and sustainability of hemp farming becomes increasingly clear.

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João Xabregas

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With a professional background in CAD technical drawing (2D and 3D), João Xabregas is an activist and advocate for all uses and applications of cannabis. He discovered and entered the world of cannabis during his youth, where he developed a special interest in the cultivation of the plant, which led him on a journey of self-learning through the world of cannabis that continues to this day. His adventures linked to cannabis cultivation began with the same goal as many others: to be able to guarantee the quality and eliminate any possible risks to his health of what he consumed, as well as to avoid any type of dependence on the illicit market. However, he quickly began to view the world of cannabis and everything related to it with a very different perspective. He admits the enormous passion he has for the most persecuted plant in the world and about which he is always willing to write and have a good conversation.

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