Understanding the Interplay between Weeding Frequency, Weeding Cost, and Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) Yield in Southwest Nigeria.

Abstract

Kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) cultivation holds significant promise in Nigeria. However, there exists a gap in understanding the optimal weeding frequency for maximizing kenaf yields in this region. This study aimed to address this gap by investigating the impact of different weeding frequencies on kenaf crop productivity. A field experiment was conducted at two locations in Southwest Nigeria during the 2022 and 2023 rainy seasons. Three different hoe weeding frequencies were implemented as experimental treatments: weeding at 2 weeks after sowing (WAS), weeding at both 2 and 4 WAS, and weeding at 2, 3, and 6 WAS. The experiment also featured weed-free and weedy checks which were the control treatments. The experimental treatments were laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design, and replicated three times. Data on weed density, weed weight, kenaf growth parameters, biomass production, fibre yield, and economic variables were collected and analyzed. The results revealed a clear correlation between higher weeding frequency and reduced weed density and biomass, highlighting the effectiveness of frequent weeding in controlling weed proliferation and enhancing kenaf cultivation. Significant differences in kenaf growth metrics were observed in three or more hoe-weeding regimes compared to weedy check, emphasizing the adverse impact of weed competition on kenaf development. Moreover, biomass parameters of kenaf increased in response to increased weeding frequency, particularly thrice-weeded plots. Weeding at least twice a season is recommended for optimal kenaf growth and yield. Net income varied between locations, underscoring the importance of location-specific weeding strategies.

Keywords

• Hoe-weeding
• Income
• kenaf yield
• weeding frequency
• weeding cost

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