Growing CBD Seed in Kentucky Under the State’s Hemp Pilot Program

Historically, Kentucky has always been one of the largest producers of industrial hemp in the United States. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the state contributed to approximately three quarters of the country’s total hemp production. This all came to a glaring halt in the 70’s when hemp was banned by federal law.

But now Kentucky farmers are back at it. The state is poised to become one of the leading hemp producers once again. In 2014, Kentucky farmers immediately took advantage of the changes established by the Farm Bill. An industrial hemp research pilot program was set in place, allowing farmers to legally grow CBD seed and clones. Now, because of the Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018, the state is working to establish a permanent hemp program.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Kentucky’s laws for growing industrial hemp and CBD seed.

Is It Legal to Buy and Grow CBD Seed in Kentucky?

We have already addressed this concern somewhat, but we want to be entirely clear about the matter. Yes, it is legal to grow CBD seed in Kentucky. However, farmers must adhere to the rules and restrictions outlined in state and federal laws.

Kentucky’s Industrial Hemp Program

If you want to plant CBD seeds on your Kentucky farm, then you absolutely must be familiar with the requirements of the state’s hemp program. Kentucky has stated that 2020 is the last year for the state’s research pilot program. Moving forward, the Department of Agriculture will likely have new laws that outline regulations for hemp production. Here are some important facts about the current hemp program and licensing:

• All individuals, groups, and business entities that wish to handle, grow, process, or sell industrial hemp in Kentucky must have a license issued by the KDA (Kentucky Department of Agriculture).
• Growers may be able to include hemp in crop rotation or cultivate it as a replacement for their current crops, but the KDA encourages farmers to assess their financial situation first.
• To date, more than 200 licenses have been issued for hemp handling and production in Kentucky.
• In 2018, farmers earned over $17 million as a whole from selling hemp to processors in Kentucky.
• You can apply for a multi year license to grow/process hemp in Kentucky, but may have to pay renewal fees.
• All key participants must obtain a background check in order for a license to be approved.
• Colleges and universities in Kentucky are allowed to grow hemp for research purposes. However, these institutions must first apply with the KDA.
• Growers must generate a map of their farming location and provide GPS coordinates. The KDA gives guidance on how to do this online.

Specific rules on growing and handling industrial hemp can be found on the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s website. We recommend thoroughly reviewing all sections of the hemp page, especially “Hemp and the Law,” before applying for license or beginning cultivation.

Buy CBD Seeds for your Kentucky Hemp Farm

Buy high quality CBD seeds for your hemp farm in Kentucky. Call CBD Seed Co. today to speak to a representative about your farm’s needs or place an order for high CBD hemp seed and/or clones.