Did you know that burlap sacks/gunny sacks have originated for centuries? The name "burlap" has no direct connotation. But the word "boeren" in Dutch and "burel" in French both define as "coarse" or "coarse cloth". In 17th century Middle English, the word "borel" connotes "coarse cloth". Burlap is also referred to as "hessian" or "hessian burlap". The term "hessian" derives from Germany in the Landgraviate of Hesse dated from 1264 to 1567. The Hessian soldiers wore the fabric hessian as part of their acoutrement/uniforms. Like unto European languages, the word "gunny" in Indo-Aryan language means "coarse fabric". Hence "gunny sack" and "burlap sack"
Burlap is made predominately from the jute plant. Jute fibers are extracted to make burlap sacks, rugs, linens, ropes, etc. Jute is immensely strong and biodegradable (earth friendly!). Jute can be found being harvested all over the world from India, China, Brazil, Nepal, and many other countries.
Hessian sacks/gunny sacks have been used to transport and conglomerate potatoes and other agricultural products for hundreds of years. A gunny sacks holds around 110 pounds (50kg) of potatoes. Today gunny sacks are no longer the main use for transport of potatoes. But the term "sack" is still used by Idaho potato farmers as a measurement of 110 pounds.
For the DIY gardners, one can even grow potatoes in gunny sacks above ground. The process is quite simple by adding compost and multiple layers of soil as the plant develops. For more information in growing your own burlap sack potato plant, click on this link.
Whether you're an avid potato eater, potato grower, or just love our Mystery Potato creations its history is remarkable. What sublime material used for such an awesome vegetable!!
Add some pizzazz to your Mystery Potato add on a burlap sack!
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