Optimizing Seed Rate and Integrated Weed Management for Enhanced Fibre Yield in Tossa Jute (Corchorus olitorius L.) under Diverse Agro-Climatic Conditions of Bangladesh

Abstract

The experiment was carried out at two locations during the kharif cropping season of 2023, Jute Research Regional Station (JRRS), Kishoreganj, and Jute Research Sub-Station (JRSS), Jashore, to identify the optimum seed rate and suitable weed management practices for Tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.). The experiment followed a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and six treatment combinations involving variable seed rates (3.0–5.5 kg ha⁻¹) with or without filler materials and herbicidal integrations. Results revealed significant variation among treatments for plant population, growth parameters, and yield components. The combination of 4.5 kg ha⁻¹ live seed + 1.5 kg ha⁻¹ filler (ash) + Pendimethalin 33% EC + one hand weeding at 25 DAS produced the highest fibre and stick yields (3.50–3.60 t ha⁻¹ and 6.64–6.72 t ha⁻¹, respectively) across both locations. The lowest yields were recorded under the lowest seed rate (3.0 kg ha⁻¹) due to inadequate stand establishment. Moderate seed density, coupled with integrated weed management, effectively balanced plant competition, enhanced morphological traits, and increased overall productivity. These findings suggest that using 4.5 kg ha⁻¹ seed along with Pendimethalin and one hand weeding is the most efficient and sustainable practice for achieving higher jute yield under varying agro-ecological conditions of Bangladesh.