Corchorus Capsularis Plant Information and Details

Corchorus Capsularis, also popular as the White Jute, is one of the chief sources of fiber in India. Let’s have a look at its details.

Corchorus Capsularis belongs to the family Malvaceae and is one of the two primary species of jute. In this article, we are going to have a look at its details and growing requirements.

---

Corchorus Capsularis Information

Corchorus Capsularis is a species of shrub or small tree in the family Malvaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands, and it is widely cultivated for its edible leaves, which are used in traditional cuisines. The plant is also known as white jute, jute mallow, or bush okra.

Its leaves are high in nutrients, including protein, calcium, and vitamins A, C and K. They are often cooked as a vegetable or made into a soup. The leaves can also be used to make tea or to wrap around food as a cooking method. Corchorus Capsularis also produces yellow flowers, and the fibers from the stems can be used to make fabric.

Corchorus Capsularis is widely cultivated in India, Bangladesh, and China and is also grown in some parts of Africa and South America. It is an important cash crop in these regions and employs millions of people. In some countries, the plant is also used for medicinal purposes in traditional medicine systems.

Check Out How to Grow Corchorus Aestuans in India here

---

How to Grow Corchorus Capsularis?

Following these steps should help you successfully grow Corchorus Capsularis from seeds for your landscape. 

• Choose high-quality seeds from a reputable source. Corchorus Capsularis thrives in well-draining loamy soil. Prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris, and loosen the soil to a depth of at least 15cm.
• Sow the seeds directly into the soil, about 2-3cm deep and about 15cm apart.
• Water the seeds immediately after sowing and keep the soil moist throughout germination. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
• The seeds should germinate in 5-10 days, depending on the temperature and moisture level. The ideal temperature for germination is between 25-30°C.
• Once the seedlings are about 5-7cm tall, thin them out to leave the strongest plants about 30cm apart. This will give each plant enough space to grow and develop.

Check Out How to Grow Elephant Foot Yam in India here

---

Requirements to Grow Corchorus Capsularis

 

Sunlight

Corchorus Capsularis grows best in full sun exposure, requiring at least 5-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Soil

White jute prefers well-drained loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. It is best to avoid heavy clay soils that hold water for a long time, as this can lead to root rot.

Water

Corchorus Capsularis requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. Water the plant deeply once a week or more frequently if the weather is hot and dry. The best method to follow is to water the plant only when the topsoil feels a little dry to the touch.

Temperature

The plant thrives in warm, humid climates. The ideal temperature for growing Corchorus Capsularis is between 25-34°C. Temperatures below 15°C can slow down the growth of the plant.

Check Out How to Grow Millingtonia Hortensis in India here

---

Corchorus Capsularis Care

Fertilizer

Corchorus Capsularis can benefit from regular fertilization, which can promote its growth. Use a balanced liquid feed, after diluting it to 1/2 of its strength, once a month. This will be more than enough to give the plant the boost its needs in the growing months.

Pruning

Pruning Corchorus Capsularis is an important part of maintaining healthy plants. It encourages strong, bushy growth and keeps plants from becoming too leggy and unruly. It also helps to promote better flowering and fruit production.

Corchorus Capsularis can be pruned in early spring or late winter to remove any dead or damaged branches. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time, as this can cause shock and stunt growth. It is also important to ensure that all pruned branches are removed from the garden to prevent disease and pest infestations.

Pests and Diseases

Corchorus Capsularis can be susceptible to aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. Regular monitoring and early detection can help prevent infestations. To control pests, you can use organic pest control methods such as neem oil or insecticidal soap.

White jute is susceptible to fungal diseases such as anthracnose and stem rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and keep the soil well-drained.

Remove any infected plants and avoid planting White Jute in the exact location for at least 2-3 years. You can also use fungicides to control fungal diseases.

Check out How to Grow Vitex Glabrata in India here

---

Advantages of Corchorus Capsularis

• Corchorus Capsularis is primarily grown for its high-quality fiber, used to make various products, including bags, ropes, carpets, and textiles. The fiber is eco-friendly, biodegradable, and sustainable, making it an attractive alternative to synthetic materials.
• The plant is a good soil improver as it can grow in poor soil conditions and requires minimal fertilizers. Corchorus Capsularis has deep roots that help loosen compacted soil, improve soil structure, and increase water and nutrient retention. After harvesting, the remaining plant material can be used as mulch or added to compost, enriching the soil with organic matter.
• Corchorus Capsularis is a vital cash crop in several countries, particularly India and Bangladesh. The plant provides livelihoods for millions of farmers and workers in the jute industry. White Jute cultivation creates employment opportunities at various stages of production, from farming to processing and manufacturing.
• White Jute is an effective carbon sink as it absorbs atmospheric carbon dioxide during its growth cycle. Corchorus Capsularis’s deep roots also help prevent soil erosion and improve soil quality, making it an essential tool in mitigating the effects of climate change.
• The plant has several medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine systems to treat various ailments such as fever, constipation, and inflammation. Corchorus Capsularis contains several bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins, which have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Check Out How to Grow Bougainvillea Glabra in India here