🌿 Bitter Leaf Seedlings (Vernonia amygdalina) – Growing Guide & Benefits
Bitter leaf, known locally as “awɔnwono” (Twi), is a powerful medicinal and edible plant widely used in African traditional medicine and cuisine. It is easy to grow, fast-maturing, and highly demanded for both home use and commercial sale.
✅ Key Features of Bitter Leaf Seedlings
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| 🌱 Plant Type | Shrub (evergreen) |
| 🌾 Height | 1.5 – 3 meters |
| 🌞 Sunlight | Full sun to partial shade |
| 🌧️ Water Needs | Moderate – regular watering when young |
| 🌿 Growth Speed | Fast – mature enough for first harvest in 3–4 months |
| 🔁 Harvest Cycle | Can be harvested continuously after maturity |
🌿 How to Grow Bitter Leaf Seedlings
🔹 1. Planting
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Choose loamy, well-drained soil with organic matter
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Plant spacing: 1–1.5 meters apart
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Mulch around the base to retain moisture
🔹 2. Watering
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Water seedlings 2–3 times per week until well established
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Mature plants are drought-tolerant
🔹 3. Fertilization
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Add compost or poultry manure at planting and every 2 months
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Avoid chemical fertilizers if growing for medicinal use
🔹 4. Pests & Diseases
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Rarely attacked but may get caterpillars or aphids
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Use neem oil spray or hand-picking for organic control
🌿 Uses & Benefits of Bitter Leaf
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| 🍵 Medicine | Used for treating malaria, typhoid, high blood pressure, diabetes, etc. |
| 🍲 Culinary | Key ingredient in bitter leaf soup and stews |
| 💪 Immunity Booster | Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds |
| 💧 Detoxifier | Supports liver and kidney function |
| ♀️ Women’s Health | Used for fertility and regulating menstruation in traditional medicine |
