| Virginia
Journal of Science.
2005. Vol 56 (3) : 115-120 |
| Prospects
of Kenaf as an Alternative Field Crop in Virginia. Harbans L. Bhardwaj, Agricultural Research Station, Virginia State University, Petersburg, VA 23806 and Charles L. Webber III, USDA-ARS, Lane, OK 74555. ABSTRACT
Kenaf (Hibiscus
cannabinus L.), a warm-season annual
plant, has shown potential as an alternate source of fiber in the
United States. Although preliminary research has indicated
feasibility of kenaf production in Virginia, production details are
lacking. Field experiments were conducted during 1995 and 1996 to
determine optimal row spacing and fertilizer needs, and to compare
available kenaf cultivars. Although results indicated that
differences in dry matter yields from four row spacings (30, 60, 90,
and 120 cm) and four rates each of N, P, and K fertilizers (50, 100,
150, and 200 kg ha-1) were not statistically different, the
yields were
adequate ranging from 8.8 to 16.0 t ha-1 with an
average
yield of 12.5 t ha-1. Dry matter yields for
narrow-leaf cultivars
proved superior to broad-leaf, and the overall results demonstrate that
kenaf can be easily produced in Virginia. |