Population density and row spacing effects on dry matter yield and bark content of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.)

Efforts to bring kenaf from experimental crop status to an accepted alternative in established cropping systems have been ongoing for years. To compete with existing crops and maximize monetary returns, the effects of agronomic practices on yield and crop quality must be better understood. Row spacing and population density are implicated in dry matter yield, and therefore, bast fiber production. Four row spacings, four population densities, and two cultivars were examined to determine these effects on dry matter accumulation and bark content. Of all factors evaluated, only row spacing significantly affected dry matter yield. Yield was greatest at the 35.5-cm row spacing, and lowest at the 71- and 101.6-cm row spacings. With regard to bast yield, calculated as a percentage of total sample dry weight, a significant cultivar x row spacing interaction occurred. However, data indicate that manipulating row spacing to maximize total stalk yield per hectare resulted in the highest bast fiber yield for the two cultivars tested. The narrowest row spacing of 35.5 cm, gave the greatest biomass yield as well as the highest bark yield per hectare. (C) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.