Optimizing Planting Date and Spacing for Enhanced Yield and Oil Production of Kaempferia galanga L.: A Field Experiement

Abstract

Kaempferia galanga L., a rhizomatous plant species, is highly valued for its medicinal and culinary properties. Studying the effects of planting dates and spacing is crucial for optimizing the cultivation of K. galanga, as it can help farmers and cultivators maximize yields, improve resource allocation, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. This study investigated the impact of planting date and spacing on the growth and yield of K. galanga. The experiment was conducted over three consecutive years, with three planting dates (April 15, April 30, and May 15) and four spacing treatments (20 cm x 20 cm, 30 cm x 30 cm, 40 cm x 40 cm, and 50 cm x 50 cm). The results showed that planting date and spacing significantly affected canopy diameter, yield per plant, rhizome yield per hectare, and oil yield per hectare. The optimal planting window for maximizing yield and oil production was April 15-30, with a spacing of 20 cm x 20 cm. Wider spacing resulted in higher yield per plant, while closer spacing led to higher rhizome yields per hectare.