Jute

Jute is the name of the plant or fibre used to make burlap, an earth-friendly, naturally organic material for bags, rugs and other products.

Jute is one of the most affordable natural fibres, the second most important in the world (only to cotton) based on the amount produced and variety of uses.

The entire plant is used and offers no waste, jute has low pesticide and fertilizer needs. It is a natural fibre with golden and silky shine, hence it is called the golden fibre. Jute reaches maturity quickly, making it an incredibly efficient source of renewable material, and therefore "sustainable".

Jute is safe for the environment; it’s renewable, recyclable and biodegradable. It also has good insulating and antistatic properties; low thermal conductivity and a moderate moisture regain. This is why there is no need to throw jute products in the trash bin. You can actually think of upcycling them!

Upcycling refers to converting old, recyclable materials into usable items.

Upcycling refers to the method of converting old recyclable materials into some new and usable items. You need to be creative to upcycle your old stuff. Besides using the same fibres of a product to build another one, you can grab your jute goods like mats, bags and rugs that are too old to use and turn them into compost for the garden, your plants will be really grateful! Jute can be used to keep plants snug through the winter. Pots sitting on the burlap will retain their moisture longer and are generally not over-saturated.

Fun Fact!

While the stem of jute plant is commonly spun into strong coarse threads; the leaves are highly nutritious and consumed in many parts of the world. Many believe jute leaves are native to Egypt and are thus referred to as Egyptian Spinach aka Molokhia!

Read more about Molokhia in Egyptian Cuisine blog.