Ramie Fiber Production

Report Introduction: Ramie is the name used to designate a stingless nettle plant and also the textile bast fiber obtained from the plant. This fiber plant has attracted an unusual amount of attention and financial exploitation. The interest in ramie has resulted because of the beautiful luster possessed by the fiber and its reported durability and great strength. It probably ranks first among all vegetable fibers in respect strength. The interest in this fiber was initiated when prizes were offered in India for improvements in methods of processing and has been great during the past 70 years. However, ramie is utilized little more today than it was 50 years ago. What obstacles prevent this fiber from being more extensively used, and why is it still a relatively unimportant or minor fiber? An effort will be made in this circular, while discussing some of the agricultural problems connected with the successful growing of the crop, to point out some of the obstacles that have impeded the production of this fiber and that must be overcome if, under present economic conditions and competition from other plant fibers, a ramie industry is to be established in this country. A number of problems should be carefully considered by investors before the expenditure of capital. The purpose of this circular is to answer numerous general inquiries for information about ramie. The discussion on the agricultural problems involved in producing the crop is not intended to advocate its commercial culture but is intended to serve as information for persons interested in experimental plantings and those who may be considering the possibilities of establishing this crop in the United States.