Everybody Loves the Sunshine: The Advantages of Abundant Sunshine and Strong Solar Radiation in South Africa

Hemp is a versatile plant that has been used for thousands of years for a variety of purposes, including food, fiber, and medicine. As interest in hemp cultivation has increased in recent years, many farmers and researchers have begun to explore the potential of growing hemp in different regions of the world. In this discourse we will discuss the advantages of growing hemp in South Africa compared to Europe, specifically in terms of the amount of sunshine hours and strength of the sun.

One of the most significant advantages of growing hemp in South Africa is the abundance of sunshine hours. South Africa is located in the southern hemisphere, which means that it experiences longer days and more hours of sunlight than Europe during the growing season. According to data from the World Bank, South Africa receives an average of 9.5 hours of sunlight per day during the growing season, while Europe receives an average of 7.5 hours of sunlight per day. This additional 2 hours of sunlight per day can greatly benefit hemp plants, as they require a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth. Annually we see South Africa receiving around 2500 sunshine hours versus Europe reaching only 1000 hours.

This difference can see South Africa achieving two crop cycles in one season where we see crops reaching full maturity within 4 months, allowing an early summer crop as well as a late summer crop. Being able to double up on harvest in the agricultural year will allow for high levels of biomass from each farmer. We need to ascertain if we yield more attractive characteristics in a full season of growth (up to 6 months) and thick stems, or if it is better to try push in two crops yielding thinner stalks but eventually more biomass.

Another advantage of growing hemp in South Africa is the strength of the sun. The sun in South Africa is much stronger than the sun in Europe due to its closer proximity to the equator. This stronger solar radiation can be beneficial for hemp plants, as it can increase the rate of photosynthesis and promote faster growth. Additionally, the stronger sun in South Africa can also help to dry out the plants more quickly after rainfall, which can reduce the risk of mold and other fungal diseases.

In addition to the ample sunshine hours and strong solar radiation, South Africa also has other climatic and soil conditions that are favourable for hemp cultivation. The country has a diverse range of soil types and a moderate climate that allows for multiple planting cycles in a year. This is particularly beneficial as hemp is a fast-growing crop that can be harvested multiple times per year. The country also have a well-established agricultural industry that can provide easy access to necessary inputs and processing facilities.

In conclusion, growing hemp in South Africa offers many advantages over growing hemp in Europe, particularly in terms of the abundance of sunshine hours and strength of the sun, and lets face it, everybody loves the sunshine! These factors can greatly benefit hemp plants and promote faster growth, higher yields, and improved quality. Additionally, South Africa’s favourable climate, soil and established agricultural industry makes it an ideal location for hemp cultivation. As the demand for hemp products continues to grow, South Africa may become an increasingly attractive location for hemp farmers and researchers in the near future.

If you are a South African farmer looking to get into hemp farming, reach out to us at info@ogct.co.za.

Yours in hemp
Joshua Swart