Using Ground Kenaf Stem Core as a Major Component of Container Media

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Results of a series of experiments showed that the ground, noncomposted woody stem core of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) can be used successfully as a container medium amendment for producing potted tropical foliage and woody nursery crops. The growth of Brassaia actinophylla Endl., Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. `Jane Cowl', and Pittosporum tobira (Thunb.) Ait. `Wheeler's Dwarf' in 70% or 80% kenaf (by volume, the balance being peatmoss or perlite or vermiculite and other nutrients) was similar to or greater than growth in two popular commercial mixes. Undesirable shrinkage of certain kenaf-amended media during plant production was reduced greatly by mixing it with at least 30% peatmoss or by using a coarser kenaf grind. As the portion of peatmoss increased from 0% to 30%, noncapillary porosity and water-holding capacity per container increased. A medium consisting of 50% kenaf, 40% peatmoss, and 10% vermiculite held as much water as a commercial medium. However, plants in most kenaf-amended media required more-frequent irrigation than those in the commercial media.

This publication has 0 references indexed in Scilit: