Yield Potential of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Cultivars in Denmark

Abstract

Abstract In order to determine the yield potential of fibre hemp in Denmark, defined as seed yield, biomass, stem and fibre production, five cultivars were evaluated in field trials at two sites during 1998-2000. The total dry matter yield, stem yield, fibre yield, fibre percent, plant height, and seed yield were recorded at four seed rates: 8,16,32, and 64 kg ha-1 at the Flakkebjerg site. At the Ronhave site, four cultivars were examined at two row distances: 24 and 48 cm, and one cultivar (Futura) was examined at four seed rates (as above) in combination with 2 row distances: 24 and 48 cm. At Flakkebjerg, the total average dry matter yield of the cultivars Fedora, Fedrina, Felina, and Futura was approximately 13 tha-1 andforFasamo approximately 9 tha-1. The average fibre yields were 2.9 and 1.7 t ha-1, respectively. At Flakkebjerg, the average seed yield over a period of 3 years was approximately 500 kg ha-1. In general, fibre yields increased when seed rates of 16 kg ha-1 or more were used. At 32 kg seed ha-1 Futura gave higher fibre yields than at all other seed rates, and higher yields at 24 cm row distance than at 48 cm. Fasamo differed from the other cultivars by having a lower dry matter yield and a lower percentage of fibre but a higher seed yield.