Collection: Wholesale CBD Tea Flowers

When a hemp seed is sown in favourable conditions, germination begins. This phase typically spans 3 to 7 days, a period during which the seed absorbs water and swells, resulting in the splitting of the seed coat. The embryonic root, or radicle, then protrudes, anchoring the seed to the ground and initiating the plant's journey of growth. This is a delicate phase, where the seeds are vulnerable and need specific conditions – temperature ranges of 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, adequate moisture, and a loose, well-draining soil – to thrive.

Following germination, the hemp plant enters the seedling stage, which typically lasts for 1 to 3 weeks. Here, the plant develops its first set of leaves, known as cotyledons, which initially provide the plant with the energy required for further growth. Subsequently, the plant grows true leaves that possess the characteristic serrated edges of cannabis leaves. These leaves are the solar panels of the plant, capturing sunlight and converting it into energy through photosynthesis. In this phase, the plant also develops its first roots, which explore the soil for nutrients and water. Providing an optimal pH range of 6 to 7.5 in the soil ensures the plant can absorb necessary nutrients efficiently.

As the hemp plant grows and matures, it enters the vegetative stage, a period of rapid growth and development. This phase can last anywhere between 3 and 16 weeks, depending on the specific hemp variety and the environmental conditions. During this stage, the plant invests its energy in creating a robust structure, consisting of a sturdy stem and a dense network of roots. The leaves proliferate, thereby increasing the plant's photosynthetic capacity and consequently, its growth rate. Understanding the plant's nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) needs and ensuring the availability of these nutrients in the soil can make a significant difference in this phase.

As the plant approaches maturity, its focus shifts from vegetative growth to reproductive growth, marking the onset of the pre-flowering phase. This change is typically triggered by the decrease in daylight hours as the summer wanes. In this stage, the plant starts to develop calyxes, which are the building blocks of the hemp flowers. The plant also shows the first signs of its gender, with male plants developing pollen sacs and female plants producing pistils. In hemp farming, female plants are typically favoured as they produce the cannabinoid-rich flowers sought after for various uses.

With the full onset of the flowering stage, the hemp plant directs its energy towards the production of flowers or buds. This stage, lasting from 8 to 11 weeks, is of primary interest to hemp growers, especially those interested in extracting cannabinoids like CBD. During this phase, the plant's calyxes continue to develop and form clusters known as colas. Each cola is covered in tiny crystal-like structures called trichomes, which are the plant's resin glands. These trichomes house the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, which give hemp its therapeutic properties and unique aroma.

During the flowering stage, the plant’s demand for phosphorus and potassium increases to support bud development. At the same time, the nitrogen requirement decreases. Hemp growers thus need to adapt their fertilisation strategies accordingly to support flower development optimally. Furthermore, managing the photoperiod by controlling light exposure can influence the quality and quantity of the hemp flower produced.

Towards the end of the flowering stage, the hemp flowers reach their peak maturity. The pistils darken, and the trichomes become milky white, indicating that the flowers are ready for harvest. After harvesting, the flowers are typically dried and cured, which helps preserve the cannabinoids and terpenes and enhance the overall quality of the final product.

In conclusion, the growth and development of the hemp flower is a complex process that requires an understanding of the plant’s needs at various stages of its life cycle. From germination to harvest, the hemp plant's journey is a study in adaptation and survival. The hemp flower's growth is not just about the biological process; it is also about the meticulous care and attention provided by the cultivator. Through optimising environmental factors like light, temperature, and nutrient supply and closely monitoring the plant's progress, hemp growers can guide their plants towards successful flowering and harvest, reaping the rewards of their hard work and dedication.