Hemp Grower Spotlight: Mike and Leslie Halsema
Mike and Leslie Halsema are the owners of Halsema Hemp Farms in Clarks Hill, Indiana. Halsema Hemp Farms grows hemp from seed and uses it to produce CBD-infused products, like chocolates and pet treats.
Mike and Leslie became interested in hemp when Mike began using CBD for health-related reasons. “We started CBD wellness with other companies,” Leslie explained, “but we chose to create our business because we wanted a better and stronger CBD that helped heal Mike.” Mike and Leslie are now in their fourth year of growing CBD hemp. Each year, they plant 1 acre, which contains about 1,000 plants. The Halsemas use organic methods, such as applying soap and water and removing insects by hand, to control pests and disease on the plants.
“I’m excited to grow hemp because of its range of capabilities,” said Mike. “There are so many varieties that do different things. It’s a great thing to grow the plants and see what you get at the end of the season.”
Various products developed by Halsema Hemp Farms. Photo provided. The couple works together to get their products from seed to shelf to consumer. Mike takes the lead on growing and extracting while Leslie oversees managing, promoting and branding the business. The CBD wellness products Mike and Leslie create are sold at their farm and online.
Through their time in the industry, Mike and Leslie have learned a lot about what it takes to be successful hemp growers. “Do your research, and start small,” said Leslie. “It’s a very labor intense industry.” Mike also added that knowing your plant, the laws and your buyers are key to successful hemp production.
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