The difference between industrial hemp and marijuana

Contents

• What is industrial hemp and marijuana?
• Main differences: composition, appearance, and growing conditions
• Scope of application: where industrial hemp is used and why marijuana is grown

What is industrial hemp and marijuana?

At first glance, hemp and marijuana appear to be the same plant. However, upon closer examination, it becomes clear that marijuana is indeed different from hemp. The main difference lies in their chemical composition and intended use.

What is industrial hemp? It is a specially bred variety of the cannabis plant that contains virtually no psychoactive THC (its level is usually below 0.2%). However, it is rich in CBD, or cannabidiol, which has many beneficial properties and does not cause intoxication. Such industrial hemp is grown for industrial purposes: it is used to produce fabrics, building materials, oils, biodegradable packaging, and much more.

Marijuana, on the other hand, is grown with a different intention — to obtain a psychoactive effect. Its THC content reaches 15–25%, which is why it is used for recreational and medical purposes. It is this substance that is responsible for altered perception, euphoria, and other characteristic sensations.

Sometimes users ask: can industrial hemp be smoked? In theory, yes, but it will not have any effect. It is simply not intended for consumption in this form.

If a grower wants to achieve a truly pronounced effect, it is better to pay attention to varieties with a high THC content. For example, you can buy sativa seeds, a type of marijuana known for its invigorating, energetic effect. But it is important to remember that the cultivation and storage of such plants is regulated by law depending on the country.

Thus, the difference between hemp and marijuana lies not only in their content, but also in their purpose: one is for production, the other is for consumption. Therefore, if you are still wondering what the difference is between marijuana and hemp, the answer is obvious — it is in their composition, effect, and area of application.

Main differences: composition, appearance, and growing conditions

To understand the difference between marijuana and hemp, it is important to consider not only their chemical composition, but also their visual, agronomic, and legal characteristics. The difference between hemp and marijuana is a whole set of characteristics that clearly distinguish them from each other.

1. Chemical composition

• Marijuana contains high levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), a psychoactive substance that causes euphoria, altered perception, and relaxation. Depending on the strain, THC concentration can range from 10 to 25% or more.
• Industrial hemp, on the other hand, contains virtually no THC (less than 0.2–0.3%) and is rich in CBD (cannabidiol), a substance that does not cause intoxication but has relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties.

That is why, if a grower is looking for a plant for recreational or medical use, it is worth ordering Indica seeds — a type of marijuana with a high THC content and a pronounced sedative effect..

2. Appearance of plants

• Marijuana plants are usually more compact, with dense buds and a rich aroma. The leaves are broad, rich green, often with purple or bright green hues.
• Industrial hemp has a tall, slender stem with few side branches, narrow leaves, and less pronounced buds. It can reach a height of up to 4 meters, as it is cultivated primarily for its fibers and seeds.

3. Terms and objectives of groving

• Marijuana is grown indoors—in grow boxes or greenhouses—with controlled temperature, humidity, and lighting. This requires more care, but allows for high THC content.
• Industrial hemp is grown outdoors, often on large areas of land. It is not sprayed with chemicals, as it is resistant to pests and does not require special fertilizers.

Thus, the difference between industrial hemp and marijuana is already noticeable at the planting stage: one is for industrial use, the other is for personal use. Growers can easily order Indica seeds from our online store by selecting a hybrid with the appropriate characteristics.

Scope of application: where industrial hemp is used and why marijuana is grown

To fully understand the difference between marijuana and hemp, it is worth paying attention to their practical application. After all, the difference between hemp and marijuana lies not only in their composition, but also in their intended use.

The use of industrial hemp spans dozens of industries, from agriculture to cosmetology. It is widely used in construction (eco-friendly concrete), in the production of biodegradable packaging, fabrics, and even car panels. In addition, its seeds are a valuable source of plant protein and fatty acids.

Marijuana, on the other hand, is grown for its highly concentrated flowers and resin, rich in THC, and is used for medical purposes (e.g., for chronic pain, anxiety, insomnia) or recreationally to achieve a relaxing or euphoric effect. That is why, if a grower wants to harvest exclusively female, resinous bushes, it would be wise to buy feminized hemp seeds, which eliminate the possibility of male plants appearing.

Thus, the answer to the question “is marijuana different from hemp” is definitely yes. Not only do they have different chemical compositions, but they also have completely different uses. This is the key difference between hemp and marijuana..

Attention! Errors Seeds does not encourage you to grow cannabis and does not promote it in any way. Cultivation is prohibited by the legislation of Ukraine. The article is of scientific and introductory interest only.