A study launched by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, MWRD, and Flura, Inc. is investigating the use of nutrient-rich biosolids from wastewater treatment as a fertilizer for industrial hemp, focusing on improving fiber yield, soil health, and environmental impact. Initial observations from the first harvest indicated that hemp grown with biosolids appeared taller and had thicker stalks than control plots, supporting the goal of developing environmentally responsible farming models.

Researchers Launch U.S. Trials Testing Biosolid Fertilizers on Hemp

Dec 3, 2025

Graham Abbott

Ganjapreneur

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A team of crop science researchers at the University of Illinois
Urbana-Champaign has launched the first U.S.-based study of biosolids as a
fertilizer for industrial hemp. Biosolids are the nutrient-rich organic
material resulting from wastewater treatment from homes, businesses, and
even industrial sources.

The researchers are partnering with the Metropolitan Water Reclamation
District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) and Flura, Inc., a hemp genetics and
technology firm working to develop soil restoration strategies and enhance
hemp crop productivity, to help conduct the study. The trial will assess
the potential benefits of biosolid fertilizer for hemp crops, including
improvements in fiber yield, soil health, and environmental impact.

The team conducted its first hemp harvest and analysis last month on
1/8-acre plots, using proprietary Flura hemp seeds and Class A biosolids,
with a standard urea fertilizer as a control for the experiment. The team’s
initial observations indicated that “hemp grown with biosolids appears
taller with thicker stalks compared to control plots,” according to a press
release. The researchers will replant in 2026 to validate the results and
support future publication.

“Even though hemp does not require heavy inputs of fertilizers compared to
other row crops, hemp still needs nutrients depending on the end products,
whether fiber, grain, or both, and sustainable nutrient management is
essential for both yield and environmental health,” Dr. D.K. Lee, who heads
the plant breeding and genetics program at the University of Illinois, said
in a press release. “Our study is examining how biosolids can provide the
nutrients needed to support robust fiber and grain production while
improving soil health over time.”

Jeffrey Yarosz, the founder of Flura, said the trial is exploring
“innovative ways to use Class A biosolids to support sustainable
agriculture.”

“The goal is to understand how these nutrient-rich, EPA-approved materials
can enhance soil health, improve crop productivity, and provide a model for
environmentally responsible farming practices that other regions across the
U.S. can follow.” — Yarosz, in a statement