Field evaluation of planting pattern effects on performance of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) varieties in a maize intercropping system

Adaptability of kenaf variety with maize under intercropping can enhance its propagation by maize farmers, while strengthening the fibre industry. This study therefore evaluated three improved varieties of kenaf (ARTKEN 211, IFEKEN 400 and IFEKEN DI 400) sown using two spacing dimensions of 0.50 m × 0.15 m and 0.50 m × 0.25 m for growth and yield performance under maize intercropping system. Both crops were also sown in pure stands for comparison. The study was a 3×2×2 factorial experiment laid using randomized complete block design and replicated thrice. Data on plant height and stem diameter were collected at two weeks interval from 4 to 10 weeks after sowing (WAS), and yield components at harvest. All data were subjected to ANOVA at α_0.05. Variety, spacing and cropping system significantly influenced kenaf stem length and diameter while spacing varied statistically for bast and core yield. Variety ARTKEN 211 spaced 0.50 m × 0.15 m apart and intercropped with maize consistently had highest stem dimensions (except for its record of second broadest stem at 10 WAS). The narrower spacing significantly enhanced bast and core yields, and gave numerically higher maize yield. Meanwhile, maize grain yield from sole and intercrops were statistically similar, indicating stability in maize grain yield even in mixture with the kenaf varieties. Integration of the kenaf varieties into maize-based cropping system at spacing of 0.50 m × 0.15 m should therefore be encouraged. However, premium variety will be dependent on production aim.