German Farmer Cultivates Hemp for Textiles in Historic Shift
In a historic shift, Jan Winkelmann, a 32-year-old farmer from the small German community of Grops, is cultivating Cannabis Sativa for the first time this year. Partnering with a Dutch company, he aims to produce textile fibers from the hemp plants, marking a return to the crop's past significance.
Hemp, once a vital raw material in the 17th and 18th centuries, is making a comeback. Winkelmann's venture comes after Germany legalized small-scale hemp cultivation in 2017, reversing a ban that dated back to 1982. The crop is known for its low THC content and high fiber quality.
Winkelmann is growing the hemp as a catch crop after the grain harvest on county road 33 between Schneverdingen and Wolterdingen. The harvest is expected in winter, with frost playing a crucial role in 'roasting' the plants. Hemp's deep root system and ability to absorb organic fertilizers make it an eco-friendly choice, requiring no plant protection.
Winkelmann's hemp cultivation is not only a personal venture but also a step towards developing a new economic pillar for his operation in Grops. The harvested hemp stalks, rich in fibers, will be used by the Dutch company to produce textiles, contributing to a more sustainable and diverse agricultural landscape.
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