The Month In... Plant Science and Genetics

Sexual confusion

Female cannabis plants can sometimes produce male flowers (known as “herming”), leading to pollination and drastically reduced yields. A new study reveals the genetic differences that predispose some plants to the phenomenon.

Make room

For hemp, lower sowing density leads to larger flowers, and earlier harvests yield more flavonoids and terpenes. Plus, researchers determine optimum nitrogen levels for healthy cannabis growth.

A new danger

Bad news for hemp farmers as Beet Curly Top Virus spreads to industrial hemp plants in Arizona (the first case in hemp was reported in Colorado in January 2020).

Wild genomics

Chinese researchers have released a reference genome for wild cannabis.