THE EFFECTS OF PLANT MATURITY ON KENAF YIELD COMPONENTS

Authors: BLEDSOE, VENITA; Webber Iii, Charles

Submitted to: Kenaf Association International Conference Abstracts
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/15/1997
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) bast and core fiber can be pulped separately or in combination to produce kenaf paper. It is often advantageous to harvest kenaf earlier than 150 days after planting (DAP). This research is the first phase of a three-part study to determine the effect of kenaf plant age on its yield components, plant composition, and paper quality. The objective of this research was to determine the effect of kenaf plant age on kenaf yield components. Kenaf variety 'SF459' was planted at Lane, OK on April 30, 1996 in 30 inch rows at 100,000 plants/acre. Kenaf plots were harvested at four harvest dates, 60 DAP, 90 DAP, 120 DAP, and 150 DAP. At each harvest date, a 10 ft length of plant row was cut at ground level and used to determine plant population, stalk height, percent stalk by weight, percent leaves by weight, and stalk yield. The experiment was a randomized complete block design with five replications. Harvest age (60, 90, 120, and 150 DAP) did not significantly affect plant populations, but did have a significant effect on all other yield parameters. Plant stalk height was the only yield parameter, besides plant population, which did not show a significant difference between the 120 and 150 DAP treatments. The rate of growth of kenaf, as indicated by plant height and stalk yield, increased up to 120 DAP and then leveled between 120 DAP to 150 DAP. Stalk yields ranged from 1.7 t/a for 60 DAP to 8.6 t/a for 150 DAP.