RE:RE:RE:Harvesthttps://www.hemptrade.ca/eguide/production/impacts-of-severe-weather-events-on-hemp-production
Fall Frost
Early fall frost that frequently affects many areas of the Canadian Prairies could be beneficial for hemp growers. Below zero temperatures act as natural desiccant, facilitating maturation of the crop and permitting earlier and more effective combining. It is particularly advantageous in the case of late maturing, fibre type varieties where leaves and bracts can remain green and the seeds are mature. A killing frost causes leaf drop and desiccation of the seed head, leaving bare stems and reduced biomass volume to be combined.
Hemp fields affected by frost will dry down rapidly. Dependant on weather, the moisture content can drop 4% to 8% in 4 or 5 days. If harvest is delayed, the crop can become too dry and difficult to combine because the fibre will separate causing the fine fibres to wrap on the harvest equipment. Experienced producers will be prepared to start combining hemp about 4 days after a frost depending on the severity of the frost.