2020 is the first year in which farmers have started legally growing hemp in Texas. With more and more farmers joining this exciting new industry, there are many things you’ll need to research and plan before getting started. While hemp has high lucrative potential, it does face obstacles that are unique to this industry. For farmers that are interested in planting CBD seed in Texas, one of the most important things you’ll need to consider is creating your hemp compliance testing plan.
In accordance with the USDA and the 2018 Farm Bill, all hemp crops must contain 0.3% THC in order to remain federally legal. Testing is required prior to harvest in a DEA-approved lab. For farmers that test over 0.3%, your crops are now considered as “hot” and will be treated as marijuana. For farmers that test over 0.5% THC, you’ll receive a Notice of Violation from the USDA. If you receive more than three notices over five years, you won’t be qualified to grow hemp for another five years. In order to avoid having to burn your entire crop, regular testing is required. You’ll want to find a reputable independent, third-party lab for running all of your samples. We recommend creating a compliance testing plan where you receive testing at least once a week. The closer you get to harvest though, the more frequent you should be having your crops tested. Remember, different states may have additional testing requirements. Make sure to research Texas law to ensure you’re both locally and federally compliant. Another word of advice is investing in compliant CBD seed with proven COAs for low THC and high CBD production. Having noncompliant seed will make it virtually impossible to ensure your harvest stays compliant with these restrictions.
CBD Seed Co. is honored to be the preferred CBD seed company serving the state of Texas. Our team has a longstanding history within our industry and has a comprehensive understanding when it comes to compliance. We’re happy to help you develop your compliance testing strategy. For more information regarding hemp compliance testing requirements, please contact us!