The most common strain of hemp grown in Wisconsin is industrial hemp, specifically varieties high in CBD (cannabidiol) and low in THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), typically under the federally mandated limit of 0.3% THC. These strains are popular due to the state’s emphasis on hemp cultivation for non-intoxicating purposes, such as CBD extraction and fiber production, which align with Wisconsin’s agricultural history and economic goals.

Background of Hemp Cultivation in Wisconsin

Hemp has deep roots in Wisconsin’s agricultural history, particularly during World War II, when it was grown for its fiber to support the war effort. After being banned for decades, hemp cultivation was re-legalized under the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill, and Wisconsin promptly reintegrated it into the farming sector.

Farmers in Wisconsin often choose CBD-rich strains like Cherry Wine, Elektra, and Lifter, as these are well-suited for the production of CBD products such as oils, tinctures, and edibles. These strains have gained popularity due to their adaptability to Wisconsin’s climate, their low THC content (which is essential for compliance with federal laws), and their high CBD yield, which is a lucrative market driver.

Why High-CBD Strains Are Dominant

The main reason for the prevalence of high-CBD hemp strains in Wisconsin is economic. The demand for CBD products has skyrocketed nationwide, and these strains allow farmers to tap into this lucrative market. CBD is used for its purported therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, anxiety reduction, and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a highly sought-after compound.

CBD extraction presents an opportunity for higher profit margins compared to fiber or grain production. Farmers are able to sell hemp flowers or biomass to processing facilities, where the CBD is extracted and refined for use in consumer products. These strains also have a robust market due to the wellness and health industry’s interest in natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals, making it a strong choice for Wisconsin farmers.

Climate and Suitability

Wisconsin’s climate plays a key role in determining the types of hemp strains grown. The state experiences a relatively short growing season, with cold winters and a growing window from late spring to early fall. High-CBD hemp strains like Cherry Wine and Lifter are well-adapted to this climate, as they have shorter maturation periods compared to other hemp types.

Moreover, Wisconsin’s fertile soil, which has long supported a thriving agricultural sector, provides the right conditions for hemp cultivation. Hemp is a versatile plant that can thrive in a range of soils, but it performs best in well-drained, loamy soils, which are prevalent in many parts of the state.

Industrial Hemp for Fiber and Grain

While high-CBD strains dominate Wisconsin’s hemp landscape, there is also some interest in industrial hemp for fiber and grain. Strains such as Futura 75 and Anka, which are bred specifically for fiber and seed production, are also grown, albeit on a smaller scale. These strains grow tall and are optimized for stalk production, which is useful for manufacturing textiles, construction materials, and bioplastics.

However, the fiber market is less developed compared to CBD, and processing infrastructure for fiber hemp remains underdeveloped in the United States, including Wisconsin. This limits the scalability and profitability of growing hemp for fiber and grain at present, though it remains a potential growth area in the future.

Regulatory Considerations

The regulatory framework around hemp also influences the choice of strains. To be classified as hemp under federal and Wisconsin law, plants must contain less than 0.3% THC. Farmers growing hemp strains for CBD, like Suver Haze or Special Sauce, carefully select varieties that are known to reliably stay within these legal THC limits, while still producing high levels of CBD.

Hemp crops are regularly tested to ensure they meet these legal requirements, and if THC levels exceed 0.3%, the entire crop may need to be destroyed, representing a significant financial risk. Thus, Wisconsin farmers choose strains that have a proven track record of compliance to mitigate this risk.

Market and Economic Drivers

The growth of the hemp industry in Wisconsin is heavily driven by the demand for CBD products, and the most common strains are those that balance high CBD content with low THC levels. This trend mirrors broader national consumer preferences for wellness products that incorporate natural remedies. The economic potential of hemp, especially for small to mid-size farms looking to diversify, has made CBD-rich strains the most prevalent choice.

Furthermore, Wisconsin’s close proximity to major metropolitan areas, such as Chicago and Minneapolis, provides easy access to large markets where CBD products are in demand. This geographic advantage, coupled with the state’s agricultural tradition, makes hemp cultivation an attractive option for Wisconsin farmers.

Conclusion

In summary, the most common strain of hemp grown in Wisconsin is high-CBD, low-THC industrial hemp. This is primarily due to the profitability of the CBD market, the suitability of these strains for the state’s climate and soil, and the legal framework that incentivizes the cultivation of hemp with low THC content. While there is some interest in growing hemp for fiber and grain, the economic opportunity presented by CBD extraction makes strains like Cherry Wine and Lifter the most popular choices among Wisconsin farmers. As the hemp industry continues to evolve, these strains will likely remain central to the state’s agricultural strategy, barring significant changes in market demand or regulatory frameworks.

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