7 Questions Hemp Farmers Should Bring to a Trade Show

As an industrial hemp farmer, asking good questions of trade show vendors and others who have experience in the business is one key to success. Since the industry is still newly developing, you want to find reliable providers and connect with vendors who can offer effective growing advice. Use this list of general questions to get important information at the next trade show you attend. 

1. Which are your best varieties?

Ask each vendor about the varieties of hemp they offer. They should be able to tell you about the differences between them and what each one has to offer. With a little information about the end product you’re growing for, the vendor should be able to recommend varieties that will suit your growing and producing needs. 

2. What are the differences between cannabinoids (CBD/CBG)?

As you get to know each vendor, this question will help you determine their knowledge of the industry and their plants. Company representatives should be able to talk intelligently about the cannabinoids in their varieties. A trade show is a great place to learn about the developing CBG industry and to ask follow-up questions as you learn about the various cannabinoid content of hemp plants.

3. In which states have the varieties you offer been grown?

Ask each vendor where their varieties have been grown. It’s much easier to know if you’ll be able to grow a variety in your greenhouse or field, maintaining THC compliance and maximizing CBD/CBG content, if others have successfully produced that variety in your state or geographic area. Different states also have different compliance rules, which affects each variety’s feasibility for various growers. 

4. What is your company’s history?

Learn about the history of each company represented at the trade show. Each vendor ought to be able to tell you about their history in the horticulture industry, how they got into growing hemp clones, and why they’re passionate about the business. Look for a provider who has long-term experience with plants. As you learn about each vendor’s history, you may also find an opportunity to learn from them about best practices for industrial hemp.

5. How do you root your clones?

Find out how each vendor roots their clones and how they’ll arrive for you to finish. They may offer Ellepots, Jiffy Pots, or loose-fill soil. Ask about the perks and downfalls of their method. At North Carolina Farms, we use Ellepots. And we bring them to trade shows so you can see how this method prevents a plant from becoming rootbound. 

6. Can we visit your facility?

Any good vendor or provider will encourage you to visit their facility and see their greenhouses and process for growing rooted clones. 

7. Do you offer ongoing coaching to hemp farmers?

Look for a provider who offers continued coaching and backs up their products. Ask vendors about their customer service and whether you can reach out with questions on an ongoing basis. 

For more information about finding a reliable hemp provider, check out our list of 10 ways to find an ethical company that won’t scam you.