Hemp News18 Jul, 2025
Australian Researchers Aim to Boost Hempseed Yields by 50%
Hempco Admin3 Mins. Read
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Hempco Admin
Southern Cross University leads groundbreaking genetic research promising significant benefits for Australia’s hemp and agricultural sectors.
Southern Cross University (SCU) has launched an innovative research project that could increase hempseed yields by as much as 50%, significantly boosting profitability and productivity in Australia’s hemp industry. Funded by a $561,000 Australian Research Council Linkage grant in partnership with Kavasil Pty Ltd, the project explores genetic manipulation to promote female flower development in industrial hemp, a critical factor in seed production.
Southern Cross University Research Announcement
Industrial hemp (low-THC Cannabis sativa) is dioecious, meaning plants are distinctly male or female. Female plants are essential for seed production, while males produce only pollen. The presence of non-seed-producing male plants often reduces potential yield significantly.
While growers currently use chemical regulators like ethephon to induce female flowers in male plants, such methods are costly, labour-intensive, and incompatible with sustainable, organic farming principles.
Mirage News Coverage on Hempseed Yield Research
Led by Professor Tobias Kretzschmar, SCU researchers have identified natural genetic factors that control sex expression in hemp plants. Their project, titled “Swinging Both Ways – The Genetic Control of Sex Expression in Hemp”, aims to genetically enable male plants to also produce seed-bearing flowers, effectively making every plant productive.
Professor Kretzschmar explained the research goals: “If we can boost seed production, this will significantly enhance profitability for farmers and lower costs for consumers, ultimately benefiting the entire industry.”
Recent findings indicate that chemically induced female flowers cause specific genetic changes, offering critical insights into developing natural, stable genetic solutions for future hempseed production.
The initiative has strong industry backing from Kavasil Pty Ltd, a major Northern Rivers-based hemp company. Founder and CEO Andrew Kavasilas emphasised the strategic value of this research for Australia’s hemp market:
“Increasing yields and consistency will substantially boost our ability to supply high-quality Australian-grown hempseed to domestic markets,” Kavasilas said. “It’s crucial research that benefits both farmers and consumers.”
This project expands upon SCU’s ongoing hemp research initiatives, including an earlier $530,000 ARC Linkage grant awarded in 2022 for advancing hempseed development and exploring its nutritional properties. SCU also leads the national Australian Industrial Hemp Program of Research, funded by AgriFutures Australia, highlighting the university’s extensive experience in hemp science and sustainability.
Beyond economic advantages, the research aligns with Australia’s goals for regenerative agriculture and environmental stewardship. Hemp is recognised for its ability to sequester carbon efficiently, improve soil structure, suppress weeds, and provide habitats for beneficial insects.
Developing high-yielding hemp varieties without chemical treatments further boosts hemp’s appeal as a sustainable, climate-smart crop.
SCU researchers and industry stakeholders are optimistic that this genetic innovation will enhance Australia’s hempseed production capabilities, providing substantial economic and environmental benefits while reinforcing hemp’s status as a key sustainable crop in Australian agriculture.
