Project Number: 5344-21410-004-01
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Sep 15, 2000
End Date: Aug 31, 2005

Objective:
(1) Demonstrate the most effective post-harvest management and handling technique of guayule shrub to maximize extractable latex yield; (2) develop management techniques to incorporate guayule production into existing cropping systems; and (3) determine the most effective management practices to maximize extractable latex yield and the effects of these practices on latex quality. Formerly 5344-21410-002-11T (1/01).

Approach:
(1) Shrubs will be harvested and plant parts segregated by canopy position, age, and stem size. Latex yield and quality will be determined. Different storage methods will be used to compare dry vs. moist storage conditions. Optimum harvest dates will be determined. (2) Proposed management practices needed to commercially grow guayule, such as fertility levels, irrigation scheduling, herbicides, seeding methods, seed harvesting schedules, and seed treatment will be determined and demonstrated. Data will be collected from herbicide tests to provide information for herbicide registrations. (3) Plants will be grown at two different population levels to determine the optimum planting density to generate the most profitable combination of latex yield and quality. Other factors to be studied include harvesting methods such as defoliated vs. non-defoliated shrubs. Latex produced from these objectives will be used for formulation development, product testing, and prototype manufacture by the commercial cooperator (Yulex Corp.).Documents Trust with U of Arizona (IFAFS)Log 18615

Project Team

Coffelt, Terry

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002   FY 2001

Related National Programs

Crop Production (305)