Variation of secondary metabolites in Cannabis sativa L. inflorescences under applied agrotechnological measures

Industrial hemp is a multi-purpose plant which contains various biologically active compounds and has a broad application in numerous markets. The study aims to investigate industrial hemp variety Felina 32 growing potential in the Nordic-Baltic region, to assess the impact of fertilization by mineral, organic and combined fertilizers on plants secondary metabolites accumulation into their inflorescence. In addition, sowing density (15 and 35 kg/ha) influence on fatty acids methyl esters, cannabinoids, essential oil yield and composition were taken into the qualitative and quantitative evaluation. The results reveal that tested agronomical practice tested significantly affected fatty acids and essential oil yield. Increased sowing density 2.3 times from 15 kg/ha to 35 kg/ha slightly increased CBD content (+ similar to 23 %) in hemp inflorescence. 73 volatile compounds were found in the essential oil composition of which the highest amount showed sesquiterpenes: (E)-beta-caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide and humulene epoxide II. The research performed strengthens the hypothesis that industrial hemp could be cultivated in the North-Baltic climate as a multi-use crop through complete utilization of the plant material using inflorescences to produce essential oils as a source of natural antioxidants, flavour and fragrance additives.

Automated summary

This study investigates the potential of industrial hemp cultivation in the Nordic-Baltic region and the impact of fertilization and sowing density on the accumulation of secondary metabolites and essential oil yield. The research findings suggest that agronomical practices have a significant effect on fatty acids and essential oil production in industrial hemp. The study also identifies a variety of volatile compounds in the hemp inflorescence which can be used for the production of essential oils and additives.