TSSP

The Afghan Rootfuel Project, carried out in Pakistan, identified some local dryland plant species that have potential to produce root biomass as an alternative cooking fuel in Afghanistan, which is in extremely short supply. Two species, Citrullus colocynthis and Cucurbita foetidissima, were tested in experimental plots. Even though these tests were conducted under less than ideal conditions due to external factors, they provided helpful agronomic information on the factors of soil, water, pests, and temperature (time of planting). One of the trial plots was planted in late October so the dry winter season affected it adversely, although some plants germinated and grew for a period. The plan to replant in March 1991 was frustrated by the Gulf War and by accidents like lost seed and mice attack on shipped seed. A second small trial was planted in April which gave insights into soil and water conditions. Experimental trial results are summarized and recommendations are offered in this report. Currently, new planting trials are underway in the Northwest Province and Balochistan, which will provide further knowledge in varied ecosystems. Seeds were also taken into Afghanistan fo

Source: DEC abstract, PN-ABK-287 (1991). The source's own text.