Where best to grow jatropha?

Little scientific information is available regarding the agronomy requirements of jatropha when grown as a plantation crop. D1 is undertaking a systematic programme to select jatropha variants which are optimally suited for biodiesel production, are well adapted to different potential growing areas and which produce by-products with maximised economic value.

D1 team is undertaking a systematic analysis of different potential growing areas for jatropha based factors influencing cultivation including: latitude, day length, water availability by rainfall or irrigation, altitude, and land use by other crops (particularly food crops).

Based on this analysis, potential zones to grow Jatropha curcas are classified as green (optimal adaptation), yellow (some growing risks), orange (major growing risks) or red (unacceptable plantation). These "red to green" maps will be used to identify both future planting target areas and the potential for key strategic business partnerships.

D1 has already established Jatropha curcas plantations in a number of countries in Southern Africa and South East Asia, and in India. Our research programme has commenced testing factors such as land preparation, water and fertilizer use, pest and diseases, planting density, pruning regimes, intercropping and harvesting timing and techniques. The findings will be use to refine breeding and plant science objectives, develop training programmes for farmers and further refine "red to green map" parameters.