Greenhouse Production of Jatropha Curcas L

Physic nut (Jatropha curcas L.) or simply “Jatropha” is a suitable non-food alternative species considered under-utilized and it has been identified as a major source for biodiesel production. Florida’s climate and soil characteristics are ideal for the introduction of this species as an alternative energy crop, with the potential for year-round production. However, research on Jatropha is limited and a thorough assessment is needed to understand its biology, cultural practices, and potential yields.  Greenhouse production experiments were initiated at the University of Florida-Fort Lauderdale REC to develop a cost effective greenhouse production protocol.  Jatropha seedlings were transplanted into 1 gallon containers filled with Promix, coir, or Atlas mix and irrigated every 2, 3, or 4 days with approximately 1 L of water.  Osmocote 15N-9P₂O₅-12K₂O was incorporated into each growing substrate prior to transplanting at rates of 471, 335, or 58 g of per cubic foot of substrate.  Preliminary results indicate that Jatropha seedlings grown in Promix , irrigated every 2 days and fertilized with the 471 g of fertilizer grew better than plants in any of the other treatment combinations. Although Jatropha is reported to grow on marginal soils and environments, this study indicates that it responds favorably to more frequent irrigation and higher fertilization rates.