Planting Ewedu (Jute): See How To Plant Ewedu

Ewedu, or jute, is a leafy green vegetable commonly used in Southwestern Nigeria.

Famous for its viscous texture, used to make a soup called ewedu soup, the plant is both nutritious and relatively easy to grow.

If you want to plant ewedu, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps, from understanding the plant to harvesting and pest management.

Description of Ewedu (Jute) Plant

Ewedu (Corchorus olitorius) is an herbaceous plant belonging to the Malvaceae family.

It is an annual leafy vegetable that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.

The plant has elongated, serrated leaves rich in vitamins A, C, and E, iron, calcium, and antioxidants.

The leaves are the primary part of the plant consumed.

They are known for their mucilaginous properties when cooked, providing a smooth texture to dishes.

Ewedu thrives in tropical climates and is well-suited to warm and humid environments.

Planting Season for Ewedu (Jute) in Nigeria

Ewedu can be planted at almost any time of the year due to its adaptability.

However, the best planting seasons are typically at the start of the rainy season, around April to June, when the soil is moist, and the conditions are ideal for germination.

This season provides the right balance of sunlight and rainfall, which promotes healthy plant growth.

While it can also be grown during the dry season, it will require irrigation to maintain soil moisture.

Planting Ewedu (Jute)

Step 1: Choose a Location

Selecting the right location is crucial for successful ewedu farming.

Jute thrives in well-drained, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter.

The area should receive plenty of sunlight, as the plant requires at least six hours of sunlight daily.

Choose a location that has good water retention capacity but avoid waterlogged areas, which can stunt growth or lead to root rot.

Step 2: Land Clearing and Preparation

The next step is to clear the land of weeds, shrubs, and debris.

Ewedu requires a clean, well-tilled field for optimal growth.

Depending on the size of your land, till the soil using a hoe, plough, or tractor.

Tilling loosens the soil, allowing better root penetration and aeration.

After clearing and tilling, make raised beds or rows to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging, especially during heavy rainfall.

Step 3: Means of Propagation

Ewedu is primarily propagated by seeds.

While it is possible to propagate through stem cuttings, this method is less common and less effective compared to seed propagation.

Therefore, for commercial or home-scale planting, it is advisable to use seeds.

Step 4: How to Plant Ewedu (Jute) from Seed

Planting ewedu from seeds is relatively easy. Follow these steps:

• Seed Preparation: Soak the ewedu seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting. This helps soften the seed coat, improving the chances of germination.
• Planting Depth: Sow the seeds about 1 to 2 centimetres deep in the soil. Do not plant them too deep, as this may affect germination.
• Spacing: Space the seeds about 30 centimetres apart in rows to allow enough room for each plant to grow without competing for nutrients.
• Watering After Planting: Immediately after planting, water the soil lightly to maintain moisture, aiding the germination process.

Step 5: Watering

Ewedu requires regular watering, especially in the early stages of growth when the plant is establishing its roots.

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.

During the rainy season, natural rainfall is usually sufficient, but supplemental irrigation may be necessary during dry spells or in dry-season planting.

Irrigation systems such as sprinklers or drip irrigation can help regulate water application.

Step 6: Apply Manure

Ewedu plants benefit from organic manure or compost.

Organic matter improves soil fertility and promotes healthy growth.

Before planting, mix well-rotted compost or animal manure into the soil to boost nutrient content.

You can also apply nitrogen-rich fertilizers such as urea or NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) during the growth phase to enhance leaf production.

Organic farming enthusiasts can rely entirely on compost or manure for nutrient supply.

Maturity and Harvest

Ewedu is a fast-growing crop that matures within 4 to 6 weeks after planting.

Once the plants are about 30 to 50 centimetres tall and ready for harvest.

You can begin by cutting off the young, tender leaves from the plant.

Avoid harvesting all the leaves at once to ensure continuous growth and multiple harvests over the growing season.

It’s advisable to harvest in the early morning or late evening when the weather is cool, as this helps to preserve the freshness and quality of the leaves.

Once harvested, ewedu leaves can be cooked fresh, stored in the refrigerator for a few days, or dried for later use.

Pests and Diseases

Ewedu plants, like other crops, can be affected by pests and diseases that hinder growth and reduce yield. Some common pests include:

• Aphids: These small insects suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth.
• Whiteflies: They feed on the plant’s sap, weakening the plant and leading to leaf drop.
• Caterpillars: These larvae of moths and butterflies can chew through ewedu leaves, causing severe damage.

Common diseases affecting ewedu include:

• Leaf Spot: Caused by fungal infections, it leads to the formation of brown or black spots on leaves.
• Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soils can lead to root rot, causing the plant to wilt and eventually die.

Pest and Disease Control

For pest control, you can employ the following methods:

• Organic Methods: Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to control aphids and whiteflies. Companion planting with pest-repelling plants like marigolds can also help.
• Chemical Control: Apply appropriate insecticides if the infestation becomes severe, but ensure to follow safety guidelines for food crops.

For diseases:

• Cultural Practices: Proper watering and spacing can prevent fungal diseases like root rot. Ensure good field hygiene by removing affected plants and weeds.
• Fungicides: For fungal infections, apply organic fungicides or chemical options as recommended.

How Many Ewedu (Jute) Plants Can I Grow on an Acre of Land, and What Quality of Ewedu (Jute) Can I Harvest?

On an acre of land, you can grow between 100,000 to 120,000 ewedu plants, depending on the spacing and planting method used.

Ewedu is a high-yielding crop if grown under the right conditions with adequate care.

From an acre of land, you can expect multiple harvests, especially if you stagger your planting and harvesting cycle.

The quality of your harvest will depend on the fertility of the soil, proper watering, pest control, and disease management.

Under optimal conditions, you can expect a bountiful harvest of fresh, tender leaves that are rich in nutrients and ready for the market or personal use.

By following the steps outlined above, you can successfully cultivate ewedu in Nigeria, ensuring healthy growth, a strong yield, and quality produce that will benefit your kitchen and your farm.