Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) has been used by humankind for its various properties (fiber, hemp seed, and medicinal properties) for millennia. This plant has been propagated throughout the world through different human migrations. From the end of the Middle Ages until the beginning of the contemporary era, hemp was a highly strategic product for its fiber, especially for making the ropes and sails necessary for the ships that allowed the conquest of the oceans and new continents. From the 18th century, the appearance of new technologies (coal, cotton industry and then petrochemicals) led to the decline of the hemp industry. During the 20th century, hemp production has become illegal in most countries across the world.
Today, hemp is once again cultivated around the world for its fiber.
In addition, around 20 countries have legalized its use for medical purposes and two have legalized it for recreational purposes. This last use concerns cannabis high in THC, the psychotropic cannabinoid (molecule produced by the plant) found in hemp flowers.
Legalization for medicinal purposes made a new market appear from 2015 with the development of strains with a high CBD content (another NON-psychotropic cannabinoid) and low THC content. These plants have many medicinal properties but have no known psychoactive effects.
Switzerland is one of the major global players in this sector thanks to appropriate legislation allowing the cultivation of hemp containing up to 1% THC and unlimited CBD.
In the Plants & Pathogens laboratory, we are working on various projects dealing with these legal varieties in Switzerland.
We are working on the development of an in vitro method of explants multiplication. This method, commonly used in horticulture, produces identical young plants under sterile conditions free from any pathogens or pests (essential criteria for producers). Currently, this technology is not suitable for cannabis. Our research program is in the process of meeting this great expectation of the sector.
We are also working with one of the main European producer of cannabis fertilizers to develop microbial biostimulants. These bacteria improve yields and reduce the consumption of mineral fertilizers.
Finally, we are working on the selection and development of new varieties with a high CBD rate and low THC content. Our selection criteria are morphological, chemical (production of cannabinoids) and organoleptic.
Project partner(s)
Project leader - team
François Lefort
(HEPIA)