Overview
Corchorus pseudoolitorius Islam & Zaid is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is commonly known as “Adyodaya” or “Aduwa” in Ethiopia and can be found in various regions in Africa, particularly in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Uganda. This plant is also called “Nalta Jute” or “Tosha” in India.
Appearance
Corchorus pseudoolitorius can grow up to 2 meters in height and has robust bushy stems that are green in color. The leaves of this plant are bright green, oval-shaped, and can grow up to 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom in clusters and can be seen throughout the year in its native regions. The fruit of Corchorus pseudoolitorius is a capsule-like structure that is 1-2 cm long and contains several rounded seeds.
Uses
Corchorus pseudoolitorius is a multi-purpose plant that is used in various traditional medicine practices. In Ethiopia, it is used to treat coughs, dysentery, and intestinal parasites. The plant is also used to improve lactation in women and alleviate menstrual cramps. In India, the leaves of the plant are used to make a popular dish called "molokhiya" which is cooked with other vegetables and served over rice. The fiber derived from the stem of the plant is used to make rope, paper, and textiles.
Light Intensity Requirements
The Corchorus pseudoolitorius, commonly known as Nalta jute, requires full sunlight. It grows well in hot weather conditions with adequate sunlight exposure. The seedlings should be placed in a bright area that will get direct exposure to the sun. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it won't grow efficiently or produce good yields under inadequate light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
The Nalta jute plant grows best under hot tropical or subtropical climatic conditions. The temperatures should be between 25°C to 40°C. The plant can withstand a range of temperatures as low as 15°C, but it will grow at a slower rate, and the yields will be reduced. Hot weather is beneficial to the growth and development of the plant as it accelerates the germination and flowering process. The plant prefers high humidity levels, but it can withstand moderate drought conditions.
Soil Requirements
Nalta jute prefer well-drained soils, rich in organic matter with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should have good moisture retention capacity, and adequate aeration to provide vigorous root growth. The plant is tolerant to acid soils with pH levels of up to 5.5, but alkaline soils should be avoided as they hinder nutrient uptake by the plant. The soil should be fertile and should be amended with organic matter such as compost or manure to increase fertility levels.
Cultivation Methods
Corchorus pseudoolitorius Islam & Zaid, commonly known as Jute Mallow, is a fast-growing, herbaceous plant that is easy to cultivate. It is adaptable to a wide range of growing conditions, but it thrives in warm temperatures and a humid climate. The plant is best grown in well-draining soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It needs plenty of sunlight and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Watering Needs
Jute Mallow requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but it is crucial not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. The frequency of watering will vary depending on the climate, rainfall, and soil type. It is better to water the plant in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid evaporation and sunscald.
Fertilization
The Jute Mallow plant responds well to regular fertilization. It requires a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio of 2:1:2.5. During the initial growing stages, it's recommended to apply fertilizer every two weeks, then apply every four to six weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing the plant during winter or when it is dormant.
Pruning
Jute Mallow does not need extensive pruning, but it is essential to keep the plant's shape in check. Pruning the plant's tips encourages bushier, healthier growth and prevents it from becoming too leggy. It is best to prune the plant after flowering, and when performing this task, pay attention to the older, woody stems, and remove them to encourage newer, healthier growth.
Propagation Methods for Corchorus pseudoolitorius Islam & Zaid
Corchorus pseudoolitorius Islam & Zaid is a perennial plant typically propagated through seeds and stem cuttings. Each propagation method has its advantages and disadvantages, depending on the experience and desired outcome of the cultivator.
Propagation by Seeds
Corchorus pseudoolitorius Islam & Zaid produces a vast number of seeds throughout the year. Seeds harvested from mature plants after blooming and drying are perfect for propagation. The seeds need to be cleaned, dried, and stored in a dry place for later planting. Sow the seeds in fertile, sandy loam soil mixed with manure in a nursery bed or a seedling tray. Make sure to water the seeds regularly to prevent dryness and increase the germination success rate. Seedlings should be transplanted to the field after attaining four to six true leaves.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
As an alternative to propagation by seeds, stem cuttings can be used to grow Corchorus pseudoolitorius Islam & Zaid. Select healthy and mature stems with no disease symptoms, pest infestation, or damage and cut them into 20 to 30 cm lengths with a few leaves on top. The lower two-thirds of the cuttings need to be bound together with a moist cloth or polythene bag for about a week to maximize water uptake. The cuttings need to be planted vertically in soil or sand mixed with manure or compost in a nursery bed at a spacing of 10 cm by 10 cm until they develop roots. The rooted cuttings should then be transplanted to the field during the onset of the rainy season.
Disease and Pest Management for Corchorus pseudoolitorius
Corchorus pseudoolitorius is generally considered a relatively hardy crop, but like all plants, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Being proactive in managing these threats is essential to ensure a healthy crop, high yields, and good quality produce.
Common Diseases
The two most common diseases that can affect Corchorus pseudoolitorius are root rot and leaf spot.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can affect the roots of the plant, leading to yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To avoid root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil provides adequate drainage. If root rot is detected, treat the plants with a fungicide and remove any infected roots.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is another fungal disease that can manifest as brown or black spots on the leaves or stems of the plant. This disease can cause leaf loss and reduced yields. To prevent leaf spot from spreading, remove any infected plant parts, increase air circulation around the plants, and avoid overhead irrigation. If necessary, treat the plants with a fungicide.
Common Pests
The most common pests that can affect Corchorus pseudoolitorius are aphids and mealybugs.
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that can suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to the area.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are another common pest that can damage the plant by sucking the sap out of it. Mealybugs can be controlled by manually removing them from the plant using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Insecticidal soaps or oils can also be used to control mealybugs, as well as introducing natural predators.
By being vigilant in monitoring for signs of disease and pests and taking proactive measures to manage them, Corchorus pseudoolitorius can be a productive and rewarding crop to grow.
