Geographical and Soil-Based Assessment of Yield and Fiber Quality in Two Flax Varieties in 0Central-Eastern Poland Using the Flax Value Chain Approach

Flax cultivation is influenced by geographical conditions and soil properties, affecting yield and fiber quality. This study examines the performance of two fiber flax varieties, 'Artemida' and 'Hermes,' in central-eastern Poland's agro-climatic and soil conditions using a value chain approach. Field trials were conducted in soils of varying fertility under a continental climate, employing a randomized block design with four replica-tions. Flax straw underwent dew-retting, and long fibers were extracted through la-boratory scutching. Results showed significant differences between varieties. 'Arte-mida' achieved higher straw yields, particularly in moderately fertile soils, while 'Hermes' produced a higher proportion of long fibers and adapted better to less fertile soils. 'Hermes' fibers were thinner and more delicate, whereas 'Artemida' fibers were coarser and stronger. Environmental factors, including soil fertility and climate, sig-nificantly influenced fiber yield and quality, with genotype-environment interactions playing a key role. These findings provide valuable insights for farmers and stakehold-ers in selecting suitable flax varieties for different soil and climatic conditions in cen-tral-eastern Poland. The value chain approach also supports optimizing cultivation practices and improving the economic sustainability of flax production.