Climatic Requirements

Jute thrives in a warm and humid climate, with an ideal temperature range between 24°C and 37°C, the optimum being around 34°C. However, excessive rainfall and waterlogged conditions are detrimental to the crop. While white jute varieties can tolerate some degree of waterlogging during the later stages of growth, tossa jute varieties are more sensitive and cannot withstand such conditions.

Soils

The most suitable soil for jute cultivation is new, deep grey alluvial soil enriched annually by silt from floods – truly nature’s best gift for the crop. However, jute is also commonly grown in sandy loam and loam soils. Heavy clay soils are unsuitable due to poor drainage. Additionally, jute performs poorly in soils with low pH; the optimal pH level is around 6.4 for healthy growth and yield.

Sowing Time & Methods

This rainy season crop is sown between the months of February to June, according to rainfall and type of land.

Farmers typically broadcast jute seeds right after the pre-monsoon showers to make the most of the available soil moisture. The recommended seed rate for broadcasting is 4 to 6 kg per hectare for tossa jute and 6 to 8 kg per hectare for white jute.

Growing States

The cultivation of jute is primarily confined to the eastern and north-eastern States viz., West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya, Nagaland and Odisha. West Bengal accounts for nearly 50% of raw jute produced in India.

Varieties

White jute (Corchorus capsularis) and Tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius) are the two main species grown in India besides few other wild species.
White Jute (Corchorus capsularis):

• Traditionally the most widely cultivated jute variety in India.
• Known for its softer and shinier fiber, but comparatively lower in strength.
• Used for making items like gunny bags, ropes, and coarse fabrics.

Tossa Jute (Corchorus olitorius):

• Has stronger, finer, and more lustrous fibers.
• Preferred for high-grade jute fabrics and diversified jute products.

Water Management

Jute is predominantly cultivated as a rainfed crop in India, with nearly 80% of the total jute-growing area relying on pre-monsoon showers for sowing.

Weed Control

During the early stages of growth, the jute crop is highly susceptible to heavy weed infestation, which can significantly reduce fiber yield. Effective weed control can be achieved through pre-plant soil incorporation of Fluchloralin at 1.0 kg active ingredient per hectare (a.i./ha) or by applying S-Metolachlor as a pre-emergence herbicide at 0.5 kg a.i./ha, both of which have shown good efficacy in controlling sedges and improving crop performance.