Efficiency of Some Natural Plant Leaves in Improving Storage Stability of Okra Pods

Background and Objective: Okra’s high moisture content makes it susceptible to swift decay and fungal invasion, reducing its shelf life. This study investigates the efficacy of six plant leaves (Thaumatococcus daniellii, Alchornea laxiflora, Xanthosoma sagittifolium, Musa paradisiaca, Colocasia esculenta and Artocarpus heterophyllus) in improving okra storage stability. Materials and Methods: Freshly harvested okra pods were wrapped in sterilized plant leaves, with a control kept separately and monitored daily for fungal infections. Fungi from infected pods were cultured on PDA media at 25 °C for 5-7 days, subcultured for pure colonies and identified morphologically using a binocular microscope (X40). Fungal characteristics were compared to pictorial guidance and data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA to determine leaf performance at a 0.05 significance level. Results: At the end of the 21 days, the results obtained showed that M. paradisiacahad 28.75, T. daniellii18.75, C. esculenta 11.25, A. heterophyllus 8.75,X. sagittifolium 7.50, A. laxiflorahad 0% and control 0% survival rate. These findings show that the leaf of M. paradisiacaenhanced the shelf life of okra pods and reduced storage rot. Conclusion: Musa paradisiaca leaves significantly enhanced okra shelf life and reduced storage rot. This natural, eco-friendly method can support local farmers’ traditional practices, provide alternative storage techniques during power outages and promote good health and environmental sustainability.