Effects of agronomic factors on kenaf biomass yield and quality in North Italy for energy destination

Core yield resulted as a great percentage of the total biomass. Longer growing period showed significantly higher biomass and core yields. Harvest time did not affected core production, late harvest reduced significantly moisture content and that is important to reduce storage problems like fermentations. Variety, density and tested nitrogen levels did not affected significantly biomass and core yields. In average ash content was around 5 %, similar to the more commonly utilized herbaceous plants for energy production and factor effects were not important. Consistent yield level, low moisture content of late harvest and low ash content may stimulate further studies for the utilization of core kenaf portion for energy uses.