When to Plant Bletilla striata? A Detailed Guide to the Best Planting Time

The planting time for Bletilla striata is early March, though a few regions choose to plant it in autumn. How do you grow Bletilla striata? What are the planting methods? See below for details.

1. Site selection: For growing Bletilla striata, choose loose, fertile sandy loam and humus loam, in a warm, slightly shady and damp environment; it is not cold-tolerant. When planting on well-drained hillsides, choose a shady slope of virgin land for planting.

2. Propagation methods: Bletilla striata is relatively difficult to grow from seed, while tuber division propagation is easier; for large-scale development, tissue-cultured seedlings can be used for propagation. For tuber propagation, generally from September to early November, dig up the Bletilla striata and select medium-sized tubers with many buds and no disease, each piece bearing 1-2 buds; dip them in plant ash and then plant.

3. Weeding: Field management of Bletilla striata has very strict weeding requirements. After planting, spray acetochlor for pre-emergence closure, once the Bletilla striata seedlings have emerged evenly. From May to June, Bletilla striata grows very vigorously and weeds also grow quickly, so weed it. Combine weeding with raking and loosening the bed surface; when weeding, hoe shallowly to avoid damaging the roots.

4. Topdressing: Bletilla striata is a fertilizer-loving plant; spray once a month with potassium dihydrogen phosphate or dilute human and livestock manure. From July to August it stops growing and enters dormancy, but prevent weeds from overgrowing.

5. Irrigation and drainage: Bletilla striata likes shade; keep it moist regularly. Water when dry, and in July to September water once each morning and evening. Bletilla striata also fears waterlogging, so drain promptly after heavy rain to avoid damaging the roots.

When growing Bletilla striata, pay attention to its growing environment; avoid strong light when planting, and it easily wilts under high temperatures, so special attention is needed.