How does lotus root disperse its seeds?

Lotus root is an edible underground stem with a slightly sweet and crisp taste, very popular among consumers, so how does lotus root disperse its seeds?

1. Basic introduction to lotus root

Lotus root is the underground stem of the lotus, possibly native to India or China. Lotus root is a light-loving plant that does not tolerate shade and requires sufficient light during its growth period, though it is not strict about day length. Lotus root cannot lack water throughout its entire growth period. The germination and growth stage requires shallow water, with a water level of 5-10cm being suitable. As the plant enters the vigorous growth stage, the water level should gradually deepen to 30-50cm.

Lotus root is suitable for growing in hot and rainy seasons. South of the Yangtze River, it is mostly planted from March to early April, while in the Beijing area it is mostly planted in early May. Lotus fields should be chosen with deep soil, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic or nearly neutral clay soil.

Lotus root seeds should be selected from mother lotus roots or fully mature daughter lotus roots that have the characteristics of the variety, plump lotus heads, intact terminal buds, thick lotus bodies, small lotus nodes, thick and strong rear sections, and bright color.

2. How does lotus root disperse its seeds?

Lotus root disperses its seeds by water. The seeds of lotus root grow in the lotus seed pod. After the lotus seed pod matures and ages, it falls into the water and drifts with the current to new areas. After the lotus seed pod rots, the lotus seeds remain in the mud to grow and develop.

Lotus root likes fertilizer and has a relatively high demand for it, but too much fertilizer can burn the seedlings, so fertilizer should be applied lightly and frequently. Spraying New High Lipid Film greatly improves the utilization rate of the effective components of the fertilizer, is not afraid of evaporation from sun exposure, and can regulate water absorption.

During the growth period, pest and disease control is needed. The main pests and diseases include aphids, cotton leafworms, and nettle caterpillars, which can be sprayed with 90% trichlorfon at 800-1000 times dilution or 40% dimethoate at 2000 times dilution.

Raw lotus root is cold in nature and has the effect of clearing heat and cooling blood, and can be used to treat heat-related conditions; lotus root is sweet and juicy, and is especially beneficial for those with thirst from febrile disease, nasal bleeding, coughing up blood, and bloody stool.