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Jute Greens
Scientific Name: Corchorus Olitrius
Family: Tiliacea
Duration: Annual
Alternative Names: West Africa Sorrel, Krin-Krin
Jute is known for its fiber production, second only to cotton. This woody annual
is important in West Africa, not for its fiber production, but for its smooth
tasting greens. The plant grows up to 4 feet in hight. Jute is commonly grown
in back-yard gardens, interplanted with other vegetables. Its shiny leaves make
it easy to distinguish among other plants. If allowed to go to seed, the plant
will produce bright yellow flowers, which will form into elongated pods that
contain several small, dark green seeds.
Jute can tolerate a wide variety of climatic conditions, so it can be grown in
both the dry and rainy seasons in Sierra Leone. Plants may be grown in the dry
season on well drained swamp plots. Coastal West African countries with
moderately high rainfall and temperature ranges of 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit
provide ideal growing conditions for jute.
Growing Methods:
In the beginning of the rainy season, raised beds are prepared with adequate
composted animal manure. Seeds are then broadcast and thinned 6-8 inches apart.
Alternatively, seeds are grown in nursery beds and transplanted to rows 18
inches apart, with 8-10 inches between plants.
Harvest:
Leaves are harvested 40-60 days after planting, by clipping the heads to
encourage lateral branching. However, seedlings can also be harvested during
the thinning process.
Common Use:
Jute is cooked with other vegetables -- especially lima beans and okra -- to
create as smooth sauce, usually served over rice.
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