A new Southern Cross University research project is aiming to increase the seed yields of hemp plants by up to fifty per cent, in what could be a game-changer for the industry’s productivity and profitability.

The project, looking at naturally occurring variations in the sex determination of hemp plants, has the backing of the Australian Research Council through a $561,251 Linkage grant, with Northern Rivers-based Kavasil Pty Ltd as the industry partner.

Researchers hope it will offer a significant and sustainable boost to the industry with better seed yields and less chemical intervention.

‘Swinging both ways – the genetic control of sex expression in hemp LP240200616’ will look at characterising the sex-determining genetic factors in low-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Cannabis genetics, with the aim of modifying male plants so they produce seed as well as pollen.

Hemp is an emerging high-value crop in Australia that produces high-quality edible oils and plant-based protein from seeds.

Typically, hemp has separate male and female plants. While male plants are important for pollination, they don’t produce seed, causing low and variable yields.

Low-THC Cannabis is also the natural source of the cannabinoid known as cannabidiol or CBD.

While agrochemicals, such as the plant growth regulator Ethephon can be used to induce female flowers on male plants, Southern Cross University researchers on Kavasil Pty Ltd projects have identified a genetic solution to favourably alter sex expression in plants.

Lead investigator Professor Tobias Kretzschmar said he hopes that this technology could be developed to increase hempseed yields by up to fifty per cent.

“If we can boost seed production, that in turn will boost profitability for farmers and ultimately lower the cost of hempseed products for consumers,” he said.

Industry partner Kavasil Pty Ltd focuses on high-value hempseed as a functional food. Founder and Chief Executive Andrew Kavasilas said he was pleased to see the endorsement of hempseed research through the latest grant.

“Increasing yields and predictability will help further develop our capacity to supply the domestic markets and supply chain with high-quality Australian-grown hempseed and related products. 

“It’s good to see recognition of this work as a crucial research endeavour that will help the broader Cannabis industries focused on superior nutritional value, industrial and medical uses. The benefits to farmers and consumers are clear,” he said.

The latest Linkage grant builds on a successful 2022 Linkage bid for a $530,543 grant to advance the University’s work on hempseed development with Mr Kavasilas, supporting research into hemp's nutritional and functional properties.

The University has decades of established expertise in hemp and medicinal cannabis science and is proud to be the research lead on the Australian Industrial Hemp Program of Research, a five-year initiative funded by AgriFutures Australia to assist with the growth of the industry.

Key research themes of the Australian Industrial Hemp Program of Research include enhancing hemp germplasm, optimizing agronomic techniques, exploring value adding of hemp seed products, and assessing sustainability criteria of hemp cultivation.

The goal is to support the growth of the Australian hemp industry guided by the Australian Industrial Hemp Strategic Research, Development and Extension Plan (2022–2027) and involves collaboration with various partners, including government departments, other universities, and private enterprises.

Collectively, these efforts aim to position hemp as a viable and environmentally beneficial crop in Australia.