Vol. 13 No. 33-42 (2022): Evaluation of selected accessions of Jute mallow (Corchorus olitorius L.) for agro-morphological traits in Nigeria

Jute mallow (Corchorus olitorius) is an important leafy vegetable widely grown in tropical and subtropical regions around the globe. Despite its widespread consumption in Nigeria, improved varieties are in short supply. This study investigated some growth and yield parameters of 26 jute mallow accessions in Nigeria. The experiment was conducted in 2020 rainy season, using randomised complete block design with three replicates. The data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and means separated using Student-Newman-Keuls test at p≤0.05. The study revealed significant morphological and yield differences among the evaluated jute mallow accessions. The accession NGB_00197 combined desirable plant height (64 – 74 cm) and leaf length (12 – 16 cm), just as NGB_00200 combined excellent leaf length (13 17 cm) with leaf diameter (6 8.5 cm). Moreover, NGB_00192 (46 cm), NGB_00193 (46 cm) and NGB_00195 (45.7 cm) performed excellently for stem diameter, whereas NGB_00225 exhibited a remarkable combination of leaf length (15 19 cm), leaf diameter (6 8.5 cm) and fruit diameter (2.5 cm). These jute mallow accessions could be developed into superior cultivars. Also, multi-location trials are essential to identify those that will exhibit specific or widespread adaptation. In the meantime, NGB 00225, which showed the most superior performance, is recommended for jute mallow farmers in the study area.