A detailed explanation of the latest key points for growing jicama

Jicama, also called yam bean, is generally planted in spring in the south and harvested in autumn. It is mainly eaten for its swollen fleshy root, and is the best fruit for cooling and relieving summer heat. Many cultivated varieties have now appeared as well. Some experience has been accumulated in growing it. But what should be noted in production and cultivation is also something everyone needs to understand; it may be something you had not thought of.

1. Site selection and land preparation

The root of jicama is swollen and rich in water, so when choosing a sowing site, the soil must be loose and deep, moist and close to a water source. Irrigation should be convenient, and it should generally be in a relatively sunny place. This is good for root growth and swelling and for absorbing water and nutrients; sun exposure can also increase photosynthesis and raise the sugar content of the root. Before planting, plow the land, carry out intertillage, level the land, water thoroughly, and spray a certain amount of pesticide to prevent root infection and disease.

2. Sowing and thinning seedlings

Jicama seeds have a relatively thick and hard seed coat. To promote early germination, the seeds can be soaked in warm water before sowing to speed up sprouting, so they grow faster after being planted in the ground. However, jicama itself is very tenacious, and in warm areas it can also be directly sown; direct sowing can enhance the adaptability and growth vigor of the seedlings. The sowing density must be reasonable, and the plants must not compete with each other for growing space. If raising seedlings, once the seedlings emerge evenly, pull out the weak, diseased, and yellowed seedlings, but if sowing directly in the field, you only need to first set the spacing between rows and plants and reseed where no seedlings have emerged.

3. Controlling fertilizer and water

Before emergence, water lightly once every three days to maintain 60% moisture. After emergence, apply a light fertilizer solution once to promote growth, and afterward apply fertilizer solution once a week until before flowering. Do not water during the flowering period; compound phosphorus and potassium fertilizer plus trace element fertilizer needs to be applied to assist the transition to reproductive growth. During the swelling period, a large amount of water is needed to maintain the water content of the root and transport the nutrients produced by the leaves, so water once every 5 days, but only when the soil appears dry; generally keep the soil below 2 cm from the surface moist. A dry surface makes it less prone to disease. Apply more compound fertilizer to balance leaf and root growth.

4. Trellising and pruning

When the seedlings are about to grow vines, begin trellising. Trellising is done to give the plants enough growing space, to receive enough sunlight, and to avoid crowding and shading. During the vigorous growth period in summer, keep the main flowering vines and prune off excess branches, which can reduce nutrient consumption.

In the process of growing jicama, many issues need attention, but we are mainly talking about the main points that should be noted. Doing the work that should be done as noted above will reduce many problems in management and lighten the burden on the manager.