When is the best time to plant Isatis indigotica (woad)?

Isatis indigotica is not only the abbreviated name of a common cold medicine in our daily life, it is also a plant. If you want to grow Isatis indigotica, when is the best time? What are its planting methods?

1. Planting time of Isatis indigotica

Isatis indigotica can be planted in early spring, spring, summer and autumn. But the planting situation differs in different periods. Isatis indigotica used as medicine is mainly planted in spring, and in the plum rain season in the south it can be postponed to summer sowing. Isatis indigotica planted in early spring, summer and autumn is mostly used for collecting seeds.

2. Planting methods of Isatis indigotica

1. Selection of planting land. Isatis indigotica has strong adaptability and is very cold-resistant. When choosing planting land, we generally require soft and fertile soil, flat terrain and good drainage. Before sowing, the land needs to be ploughed and base fertilizer applied.

2. Germination. Soak plump seeds free of insect damage in warm water for several hours, and dry them after their outer shells become soft.

3. Sowing. Evenly scatter the prepared seeds in the soil, then cover with a thin layer of soil. Water appropriately, do not let water accumulate.

4. Thinning. When the Isatis indigotica seedlings grow to about 6cm after emergence, thin them to a spacing of about 4cm. In the early stage the soil should not be too wet; after rooting, keep the soil moist, and pay attention to drainage in the rainy season.

5. Loosening soil and weeding. During the growth period of Isatis indigotica, loosen the soil to keep it loose and help deep roots and lush leaves. There are three loosenings in total: once at the seedling stage, once after one month of growth, and once before harvest. Weed in time to prevent nutrients from being diverted. If there are too many weeds, herbicides can be chosen to remove them.

6. Topdressing. When the plant seedlings grow to 15cm high, topdressing can be carried out, generally applying fermented manure or urea to help the seedlings grow. After harvesting the leaves, topdressing should also be carried out in time.

7. Prevention and control of pests and diseases. The main diseases of Isatis indigotica are downy mildew and powdery mildew; the main pests are cabbage caterpillars and peach aphids, etc., harming the seedlings. When pests and diseases appear, spray pesticides in time to deal with them.

The planting time and methods of Isatis indigotica are briefly introduced here. We hope it is helpful to friends in need.