hemp
Scientific Name: Cannabis sativa
Flavour: Hemp has a mild, nutty flavor with a hint of earthiness. It offers a pleasant and versatile taste that complements a variety of dishes.
Growing Season: Hemp is typically grown during the warmer months of the year, from spring to autumn. The exact growing season may vary depending on the specific climate and region.
Native Region: Hemp is believed to have originated in Central Asia. It has been cultivated for thousands of years and is now grown worldwide, including in the British Isles.
Traditional Recipe: Hemp Seed Energy Balls
Ingredients:
1 cup hemp seeds
1/2 cup dates, pitted
1/4 cup nut butter (such as almond butter or peanut butter)
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for coating)
Instructions:
In a food processor, combine the hemp seeds, dates, nut butter, and honey or maple syrup. Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
Using your hands, roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
If desired, roll the energy balls in shredded coconut for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Place the energy balls on a baking sheet or plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Store the hemp seed energy balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Enjoy them as a nutritious and energizing snack.
Health Properties: Hemp seeds are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in protein, fiber, healthy fats (including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids), vitamins (such as vitamin E), and minerals (including magnesium and iron). Hemp seeds are also a good source of antioxidants and have been associated with various health benefits, including improved heart health, reduced inflammation, and enhanced digestion.
Growing Technique:
Location: Hemp thrives in well-drained soil and requires a sunny location with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Soil Preparation: Prepare the soil by removing weeds and incorporating organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure. Hemp prefers soil with a neutral pH level around 6.0 to 7.5.
Planting: Sow hemp seeds directly in the garden after the last frost date, once the soil has warmed up. Space the seeds about 1 inch deep and 4-6 inches apart.
Watering: Provide consistent moisture to the hemp plants, especially during dry periods. However, avoid overwatering, as hemp does not tolerate waterlogged conditions.
Weed Control: Keep the growing area free from weeds that can compete with the hemp plants for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Regularly inspect the crop and manually remove any weeds as necessary.
Fertilizing: Hemp has moderate fertility requirements. Conduct a soil test to determine if additional fertilization is necessary. Apply organic fertilizers or amendments according to the recommendations provided by the test results.
Disease and Pest Management: Hemp is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, monitor the plants for common issues such as aphids or powdery mildew. Use organic pest control methods or appropriate treatments if necessary.
Harvesting: Harvest hemp when the plants have reached the desired stage of maturity, usually when the flowers are fully developed but not yet shedding pollen. Cut the plants close to the ground and hang them upside down in a well-ventilated area to dry. Once dry, separate the seeds from the plant material using appropriate equipment.
Storage: Store the harvested hemp seeds in a cool, dry, and airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage. Use the seeds for culinary purposes or as a source of hemp oil or other hemp-based products.