Our goal is not to be a major seed production center, but to have the ability to manipulate the genetics of the crop should the need arise. The weather patterns of the Southeast and much of the Midwest result in heavy rains during the winter months. Several selections from the determinant stock senesce and die as early as the last week in September, however, yield is severely compromised. Evaluations are now being made to find lines that senesce closer to the frost date, so that dry-down time will be decreased and fall harvest may be possible. Indeed, cultivars show differential rate of dry-down after kill.
Investigations are under way to determine which cultivars reliably desiccate rapidly.
Forage applications of kenaf, as a high protein summer feed. Determination of potential alleleopathic effects of kenaf on subsequent crops.