Best Time of Year to Harvest Dogbane for Cordage?

Choosing the Right Time

To harvest dogbane (Apocynum cannabinum) for cordage, you want to select stems that are mature and dry, but not yet brittle. This ensures the fibers are most robust and easiest to process. Late summer to early fall, around late August to early October, provides an ideal window for harvesting. During this period, the plant has had time to grow and mature, and the fibers have reached their peak strength.

Harvesting Techniques

When harvesting dogbane for cordage, it’s essential to cut the stems at the base, using scissors or a sharp knife to minimize damage to the plant. Cut as many stems as you need, leaving some intact to allow the plant to regrow. For optimal processing, collect stems with a diameter of about 1/4 inch (6 mm) or greater, as these will yield the longest and strongest fibers.

Processing and Preparing Fibers

To prepare the fibers for use in cordage, strip the outer bark and any remaining leaves from the harvested stems. Then, soak the cleaned stems in water for several hours or overnight to soften the pith and make it easier to remove. After soaking, use a blunt tool or your fingers to tease out the fibers, working from the center of the stem outwards. This will yield high-quality fibers suitable for cordage and other applications.