Description of Corchorus Capsularis
Corchorus Capsularis also known as white jute, is a herbaceous annual plant from the family Tiliaceae, native to the Indian subcontinent and southeastern Asia and also cultivated in Africa, South America, and Australia. The plant grows up to 4 meters tall and has yellow flowers.
Common Names
Corchorus Capsularis is commonly known as white jute, tossa jute, and mesta jute.
Uses
Corchorus Capsularis has been used for centuries for various purposes. The plant is primarily cultivated for its fibres, which are mainly used for making rope, twine, and other textiles. The fibres of Corchorus Capsularis are softer and more lustrous than those of Corchorus olitorius, which is also known as Tossa jute. The leaves, seeds, and young shoots of the plant are also edible and used in various cuisines. The leaves of the plant are used in soups, stews, and curries, while the seeds are often roasted and eaten as a snack. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive problems and fever.
General Appearance
Corchorus Capsularis is a tall, herbaceous plant with a slender stem and few branches. The leaves are oval-shaped, and about 2-10 centimeters long and have a toothed margin. The flowers of the plant are small and yellow, and the fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small, black seeds. The fibres of Corchorus Capsularis are long, smooth, and creamy white in color.
Overall, Corchorus Capsularis is a versatile and useful plant with various uses and properties that make it an essential part of many cultures and industries.Light Requirements
Corchorus capsularis, commonly known as Jute, requires full sunlight to grow. Therefore, it is essential to plant it at a location where it can receive adequate sunlight throughout the day, which is typically six hours or more. Insufficient sunlight can hinder plant growth and reduce fiber quality.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Corchorus capsularis growth is between 20°C to 35°C. It is a subtropical plant that cannot tolerate frost or extremely cold conditions and grows best in warm and humid environments. Besides, it can also adapt to different soil temperatures and can grow on soils with temperatures ranging between 15°C to 40°C.
Soil Requirements
Corchorus capsularis can grow in a wide range of soil types. However, the ideal soil for its growth should be well-drained with a pH ranging between 4.5 to 8.0. It thrives best in fertile soils with high organic matter content, adequate moisture, and good aeration. Jute is susceptible to damage by waterlogging, so it is essential to plant it in a well-drained soil to avoid root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Corchorus capsularis, commonly known as jute, is usually grown in tropical and subtropical regions. The best time to plant jute is during the rainy season. Jute can be grown in different types of soils, but the ideal is well-drained sandy soil. The soil should also be loamy with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. Jute cultivation requires a lot of sunlight, and the plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 25 to 35?.
Watering Needs
Jute plants require adequate water supply for proper growth and development. Irrigation is necessary during the early stages of growth and the blooming stage. The plant should be watered once a week, or more often during the dry season. To avoid waterlogging, it is recommended to ensure proper drainage of the soil. Mature jute plants do not require much water once they are established.
Fertilization
Jute cultivation requires an ample supply of nutrients to support growth and development. The soil should be enriched with organic matter such as compost or manure before planting. During the early stages of growth, a balanced fertilizer can be applied at a rate of 50 to 100 kg per hectare. The fertilizer should have a nitrogen-phosphate-potassium (NPK) ratio of 10:10:10. Nitrogen is the most crucial nutrient required for jute cultivation, especially during the vegetative phase.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in jute cultivation to promote branching and to prevent the plant from becoming too tall and spindly. The first pruning should be done when the plants reach a height of 30 to 45 cm. Pruning should be done selectively, and only the top-third portion of the plant should be removed. Subsequent pruning can be done after 2 to 3 weeks. Pruning should not be done too early, as this will reduce the yield of fiber.
Propagation of Corchorus Capsularis
Corchorus capsularis, also known as jute, is a fiber crop that is primarily grown in tropical and subtropical regions. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods which include:
Seed Propagation
One of the most common ways to propagate jute plants is through seed. The plant produces numerous seeds in its pods, which can be collected and used for propagation. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they germinate. It takes about 1-2 weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagation is through stem cuttings. Select healthy stems from the plant and cut them into 10-15 cm long pieces. Remove all the leaves except for the top two and insert the cuttings into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade to prevent the cuttings from drying out.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method of propagation that can be used for jute plants. This method involves creating a small wound in the stem and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss or cocopeat. The wound will grow roots, and once enough roots have developed, the stem can be cut and planted in a pot or in the ground.
Tissue Culture
Tissue culture is a relatively new method of propagation that is being used for jute plants. This method involves taking small pieces of plant tissue and growing them in a sterile, nutrient-rich medium. Once the tissue has grown into a small plant, it can be transferred to soil.
Overall, several propagation methods can be utilized for Corchorus capsularis. However, the seed propagation method is the most commonly used method. Careful selection of the propagation method is important to ensure a high success rate and to maintain the genetic diversity of the plant population.
Disease and Pest Management for Corchorus Capsularis
Corchorus capsularis, also known as jute, is a popular plant used for making textiles and other products. Like any other crop, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common ones and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose – This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gleosporioides. Symptoms include circular spots on the leaves, stems, and pods. The spots may have a red or brown border, and the center may appear sunken. To manage this disease, remove diseased plant parts and treat with a copper-based fungicide.
Rhizoctonia root rot – This disease is caused by the fungus Rhizoctonia solani. It causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To manage this disease, plant resistant varieties, practice crop rotation, and maintain good soil drainage.
Mosaic virus – This virus is spread by aphids and causes yellow or white streaks on the leaves. The leaves may also be distorted or curled. To manage this disease, remove infected plants, control aphids, and avoid planting jute near other virus-prone crops like tomatoes.
Pests
Jute beetle – This beetle feeds on the foliage, causing holes and defoliation. To manage this pest, handpick the beetles and destroy them, use sticky traps, and apply insecticides specifically formulated for beetles.
Jute hairy caterpillar – This caterpillar feeds on the leaves, leading to defoliation. They are covered in hair, which can cause skin irritation. To manage this pest, handpick the caterpillars and destroy them, use pheromone traps, and apply insecticides specifically formulated for caterpillars.
Jute semilooper – This pest feeds on the leaves, similar to the jute beetle and hairy caterpillar. To manage this pest, handpick the semiloopers and destroy them, use sticky traps, and apply insecticides specifically formulated for caterpillars.
By implementing these disease and pest management strategies, you can help ensure a healthy and productive jute crop.
