Research continues in effort to diversify Midwest crops

Phyllis Coulter
Jul 8, 2023
Jul 8, 2023

Crop scientist D.K. Lee checks hemp plants in the University of Illinois hemp nursery in Urbana. While cannabidiol (CBD) hemp — which was thought to be the next big thing a few years ago — isn’t taking off here, prospects for grain and fiber hemp are more promising.
Photo by Phyllis Coulter

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CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — While none of three recent next-big-thing crops have had runaway success, research continues with hopes their contributions to profitability, soil health, diversity and sustainability will benefit Midwest growers and consumers.

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