You Can Now Pick Your Own Hemp at This Farm in Whitefield

Here in Maine, it's a tradition to hit up the local farms for "U-Pick" strawberries and blueberries. Or visit the local orchards in the fall for apple picking or visiting the pumpkin patch. But now there's a new pick-your-own product in Maine, hemp!

The hemp industry has really gained traction nationally over the last few years. As of December of 2018, 48 states allow growing at some capacity according to Sun Journal.

The hemp plant has a similar look and smell to that of marijuana but without the chemicals that can get you high, according to Sun Journal. Medical Marijuana Inc. describes hemp as a cannabis plant used for its seeds and stalks and cannot contain more than 0.3% of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per dry weight.

Hemp is incredibly versatile and is often a preferred product for the environmentally-conscious for things like paper, fiberboard, and plastic substitute. According to Hemp Basics, another benefit to harvesting hemp and using hemp products is the elimination of forest erosion and water pollution by way of logging.

So what does one do with hemp other than paper, and plastic alternatives? According to Medium, you cook with it, eat it, make rope, add to your skincare routine, use it as insulation, and make CBD oil which is what 80% of hemp fields across the country are intended for, according to Sun Journal.

Sheepscot General Store & Farm in Whitefield is known for their fresh baked bread, various produce, breakfast and lunch, and Friday pizza nights. They feature U-Pick strawberries seasonally and now U-Pick hemp! They recently announced their hemp fields will be open for guests to pick their own hemp. You must be 18 years or older with a valid photo ID to purchase, but the whole family can visit the fields. They also require that you bring your own clippers. The cost is $35 per pound of branches including leaf, flower and stem, and $25 per pound of a whole plant. Seniors and veterans receive a 10% discount.

If you're looking to jump on the hemp train and aren't able to grow your own, add Sheepscot General Store and Farm to your fall bucket list! The fiels won't be open long!