A detailed introduction to the latest cultivation methods for bitter chicory
Bitter chicory, also known as bitter vegetable, is a kind of chrysanthemum in the genus bitter chicory. It is an annual or biennial herb, widely distributed, with many ways to eat it. It can be eaten raw, served as a cold salad, or used in soup, and is cultivated all over the world. In addition, it has certain medicinal value, with antibacterial, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and eyesight-improving effects, so how should bitter chicory be planted? Let's take a look together.
1. Land selection and soil preparation
Bitter chicory prefers a cool environment, likes moisture and is fond of fertilizer, is not tolerant of drought, is relatively cold-tolerant, and is suitable for planting on hillsides, under forests, in fields, or in areas near water sources at an altitude of 170-3200 m. When planting, choose loose-textured sandy loam or clay soil rich in organic matter and with good water and fertilizer retention. It can adapt to soil pH between 4.5-8.9, but grows best in slightly acidic soil. After selecting the land, rake the soil fine and level. Combined with soil preparation, according to the soil fertility conditions, apply 1000-2000 kg of decomposed farmyard manure per mu as base fertilizer, then make beds.
2. Sowing
It is suitable to plant in spring or autumn. Choose varieties with stable yield and strong disease resistance. Because bitter chicory seeds are relatively small, broadcast sowing is used for sowing. Open shallow furrows on the bed surface, evenly scatter the seeds in, then cover with a layer of fine soil. The soil cover should not be too deep and should be controlled between 0.5-1 cm to avoid affecting emergence. After sowing, water thoroughly once. Do not trample; slight compaction is enough to avoid affecting the germination rate. Use about 2 kg of seed per mu. Pay attention to sowing density to avoid affecting plant growth and the incidence of pests and diseases, thereby affecting yield and returns.
3. Field management
Generally, seedlings emerge 4-5 days after sowing. After the seedlings break through the soil, inspect the field promptly and water appropriately to keep the soil moist, so that overly dry soil does not affect seedling growth. The root system of bitter chicory seedlings is weak, so loosen the soil promptly to promote root growth. When loosening the soil, avoid damaging the root system. When the seedlings grow to a certain extent, thin and fill in seedlings promptly. Once diseased or weak seedlings are found, pull them out immediately. It is also necessary to clear weeds in the field. Weeds compete with seedlings for nutrients and can also induce [pests and diseases], so they should be removed promptly. After clearing, take them out of the field to reduce sources of pests and diseases.
4. Fertilizer and water management
In field management, water and fertilize reasonably according to the growth condition of the plants to ensure normal growth. At the seedling stage, it is appropriate to keep the soil alternating between dry and wet. Do not water too much, to avoid excessive seedling growth, and do not let it become too dry, which would cause the seedlings to age. During the peak growth period of the plants, also keep the soil moist. If water is insufficient, bitter chicory has a stronger bitter taste and poorer mouthfeel. In the late growth stage, when harvest is approaching, control water to ensure quality.
The above is an introduction to the cultivation methods of bitter chicory. We hope it can help you. To learn more cultivation knowledge, please stay tuned to us.