DOWNS -- One McLean County hemp grower says it may be too late to plant corn crops, but the limit for growing hemp is sky high.



Chris Berry is a hemp farmer in Downs and vice chairman of the Illinois Hemp Growers Association. With an abnormally wet planting season, Berry said many farmers have opted not to plant their crops.

"Anybody out there who wants grow something this year, look into growing hemp fiber. It's a good experience to get ready for next year, because I think next year, the market's going to be huge," he said.

Chris Berry

Berry said growing hemp is similar to a hay operation, and the life cycle of the crop is only 60 days.

In April, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said he believes hemp could become a billion-dollar industry in Illinois.

Hemp fiber is used to create rope, canvas, paper, and cotton-like fabric.

Farmers can apply to grow industrial hemp on the Illinois Department of Agriculture website. Berry said some farmers have had their applications approved in a matter of hours.

