A Detailed Guide to the Latest Planting Methods and Key Techniques for Water Dropwort
Many people are not very familiar with water dropwort, and some even think it is simply celery grown in water. In fact, water dropwort is a type of wild vegetable. Because its appearance is very similar to celery, in some places it is also called wild celery. It is a very healthful vegetable. Nowadays this wild vegetable, water dropwort, is also quite popular on the market, so how should water dropwort be planted? Below, the editor will give everyone a brief introduction.
1. Site selection and land preparation
Water dropwort can be planted in most regions of our country, with the main areas being the central and southern regions, where it is planted the most. Water dropwort is a plant that prefers cool, moist conditions and is not tolerant of drought or heat. The planting site is generally chosen as paddy fields or areas beside rivers with fertile soil, rich organic matter, and strong fertilizer and water retention. Among these, an abundant and pollution-free water source is a crucial condition. Land preparation should be carried out about one week before sowing, requiring multiple deep plowings, and sufficient organic fertilizer or cake fertilizer should be spread per mu. The deeper the plowing and the more times it is deep-plowed, the higher the yield of water dropwort will be.
2. Seed selection and sprouting
Before sowing, we need to select good seed stems and carry out sprouting treatment on the seed stems. For the seed stems, we generally choose relatively robust stems without pests or diseases and with relatively vigorous vitality as the seed stems. Then tie the selected seed stems together in bundles, each bundle about 20 to 30 cm thick. After tying them, pile them in a place without sunlight and cover them with a layer of straw. Finally, water them once each in the morning and evening every day. Generally, roots will form in about one week, and the seed stems that have rooted can then be used for planting.
3. Timely planting
Water dropwort is generally planted in early September each year, and planting too early or too late will affect the yield of water dropwort. Before planting, we need to cut the seed stems into lengths of about 60 cm, then plant them with the buds facing upward. At the same time, when planting, we also need to pay attention to the planting density, which is generally about 6 to 10 cm. Next, the planting site should be relatively level, and the water in the field should not be too deep. Only after the water dropwort grows seedlings can the water level be gradually raised.
4. Field management
After the seedlings grow above the water surface, which is roughly when they have grown three to four true leaves, we need to apply fertilizer at this time to promote rapid plant growth. Later, fertilizer is generally applied once a week or every half month, mainly urea. Aphids persist throughout the entire growth period of water dropwort, so every time fertilizer is applied, the aphids should also be removed. After the water dropwort has basically taken root, we need to drain the water from the field, let it dry for a period, and then slowly refill the field with water. The water depth is determined according to the growth of the water dropwort, respectively 5 to 6 cm and 25 to 30 cm, and the water dropwort seedlings in the field should always be kept at a height of about 15 cm above the water surface.
5. Reasonable harvesting
The harvesting time for water dropwort is generally around November each year, but there is no specific standard, because there are certain differences in planting time and planting regions, so the harvesting time also differs. At the same time, harvesting can also be decided according to market prices and market demand. Harvesting when prices are high brings higher economic benefits. Finally, the most popular time for water dropwort is during New Year's Day and the Spring Festival.
The above is a relatively simple method for planting water dropwort. I believe everyone now has a certain understanding of water dropwort planting. If you have better planting methods, you are also welcome to recommend them to the editor. At the same time, if you encounter any problems you do not understand during planting, you can also consult and learn from us.