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Title: Kenaf: Production, potential, and promises

Author
item Webber Iii, Charles
item BLEDSOE, ROBERT - International Kenaf Association
item BLESDOE, VENITA - International Kenaf Association

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 5/15/2010
Publication Date: 8/11/2010
Citation: Webber III, C.L., Bledsoe, R.E., Blesdoe, V.K. 2010. Kenaf: Production, potential, and promises [abstract]. 2010 Symposium on Renewable Feedstock for Biofuel and Bio-based Products. August 11-13, 2010, Austin, Texas. p. 13.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L., Malvaceae) is a warm season annual fiber crop closely related to cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L., Malvaceae) and okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench, Malvaceae) that can be successfully produced in a large portion of the United States, particularly in the southern states. As the commercial use of kenaf continues to diversify from its historical role as a cordage crop (rope, twine, and sackcloth) to its various new applications including biofuel, biopolymer composites, paper products, building materials, absorbents, and livestock feed, choices within the decision matrix will continue to increase and involve issues ranging from basic agricultural production methods to marketing of kenaf products. These management decisions will require an understanding of the many different facets of kenaf production as a fiber, feed, and seed crop.