A recent investigation into the microbes associated with hemp could pave the way for more eco-friendly farming techniques, leveraging natural resources to enhance plant growth. Hemp’s popularity has surged due to its diverse applications: CBD-rich strains are increasingly sought after for medicinal purposes, while those rich in fiber are prized for industrial uses such as textiles.
Hemp has steadily gained traction for its diverse applications. The demand for CBD-rich strains in the pharmaceutical sector is rising, while fiber-rich types are essential in industries like textiles. A fresh study from the University of Houston about hemp-associated microbes, featured in the journal Nature, aims to assist scientists in formulating specific mixtures of beneficial microbes that could help hemp plants yield more CBD or improve fiber quality.
The plant microbiome, which consists of a variety of tiny organisms including microbes, aids plants in nutrient absorption, stress management, and the production of valuable substances.
This study, spearheaded by Abdul Latif Khan, an assistant professor of biotechnology at the Cullen College of Engineering Technology Division, explored the microbial communities residing in the roots (rhizosphere) and on the leaves (phyllosphere) of four different varieties of hemp. Khan’s team also analyzed the variations in these microorganisms between hemp cultivated for fiber versus hemp grown for CBD.
“In the context of hemp, understanding the microbiome is crucial for optimizing CBD production and improving fiber quality. This research sheds light on how different hemp genotypes host unique microbial communities that contribute to these processes,” reported Khan. “We demonstrated that various hemp types possess distinct populations of tiny organisms that support their growth and health.”
“Gaining insights into these microorganisms could foster the development of more sustainable agricultural practices, utilizing natural methods to enhance plant growth rather than depending excessively on chemicals,” noted Waqar Ahmad, the primary author of the study and a doctoral student working with Khan.
Key findings include:
· Significant differences were observed in microbiome diversity across soil, roots, leaves, and stems, as well as between CBD and fiber genotypes.
· Roots and soil exhibited greater bacterial diversity.
· Leaves and stems displayed higher diversity of fungi.
· Microbial species such as Sphingomonas, Pseudomonas, and Bacillus were notably present in fiber-producing hemp.
· CBD-producing hemp showed higher prevalence of Microbacterium and Rhizobium, as well as fungi like Penicillium and Nigrospora, while fungi such as Alternaria and Gibberella were more common among fiber plants.
“Different hemp genotypes host distinct microbiomes that influence physiology, nutrient absorption, resilience to stress, and the production of secondary metabolites such as CBD. Our results indicate that these endophytic microorganisms play a significant role in boosting CBD production and enhancing fiber quality in hemp,” added Khan.
The research team also included Venkatesh Balan, an associate professor of biotechnology at the Cullen College of Engineering Technology Division; Aruna Weerasooriya, a professor of medicinal plants at Prairie View A&M University; and Ram Ray, a professor of agronomy at Prairie View A&M University.
