The Biology of Hemp

Hemp is a crop with a rich agricultural history that is under rapid development for broad adoption into modern agriculture. A wealth of research into the genetics, physiology, and development of this species is emerging that will inform breeding strategies and agricultural practices. This course will explore fundamental concepts in plant biology as applied to industrial hemp. It emphasizes hemp anatomy and development, energy and water usage, primary and secondary metabolism, stress responses, pathophysiology and reproduction. Other topics include basic hemp genetics, taxonomy, evolution, and ecology.

For successful completion of this course, it is recommended that students are familiar with introductory biology topics.