The Anatomy of Hemp Stalks

The hemp core

The woody core of the stalk (known as the herds or shives) is the bundle of cellulose-laden short fibres, which can be mixed with hydraulic lime to build walls and floors. Many modern car companies are already investing in and researching the viability of hemp components versus plastic and metal, in addition to the potential of hemp as a biomass crop. You can read in great detail about the many applications of the hemp stalk (source of the world’s strongest fibre) in this section.

The hemp stalk

The hemp stalk presents perhaps the most usable part of the plant. Primary fibres are much longer than those of other fibre crops and are often combined with those of other plants such as bamboo, soy and silk to make durable and attractive clothes and upholstery. The interior, or bast, fibres contain almost 80% cellulose and are perfect for paper production, making building materials and creating composite materials used in auto manufacturing and even bullet-proof vests.

Hemp textiles

Regarding textiles, whether the consumer needs heavy cordage or fine hemp silk fashions, the fibre from the hemp plant is enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Blended with bamboo, soy, organic cotton, or many other fibres, hemp allows durability and eco-consciousness to combine with comfort, distinctiveness and variety in clothing.

Far from the old scratchy burlap-type fabrics, hemp is now cosy and soft to wear while resisting both fire and mould, increasing air flow and lasting longer than other fabrics.

Due to the environmental concerns of the present day many fashion designers and clothing labels are exploring the hemp textile industry to create affordable, sustainable clothing that may be purchased with a clear conscience.

Hemp is here to stay

Since more and more industries are embracing the hemp plant, commercial fields around the world are becoming increasingly common. Before you steal a local farmer’s crop, remember that the fields of closely planted flowering tops are industrial raw materials, and have no psychoactive effect if consumed! Hemp is traditionally planted in a much denser ratio than Cannabis (usually around 200 plants per m2) in order to promote stretched stalks with minimal lateral branching. The taller the plant, the longer the fibres!