hemp, like bamboo, is considered a sustainable crop. it requires little water to grow, and it is resistant to most pests and diseases. the hemp plant's broad leaves shade out weeds and other plant competitors, and its deep taproot system allows it to draw moisture deep in the soil. unlike cotton, many parts of the hemp plant have a use. hemp seeds, for example, are processed into oil or food. hemp fiber comes in two types: primary and secondary bast fibers. hemp fibers are durable and are considered strong enough for construction uses. compared to cotton fiber, hemp fiber is approximately 8 times the tensile strength and 4 times the durability.