What are the key points to note when growing chayote? A detailed explanation of the latest growing tips
Chayote is native to Mexico and was introduced to China in the early 19th century; it is grown most widely in southern China. You may not have heard of chayote, but most people have eaten it. Chayote has very tender flesh and is fairly nutritious, with a good effect on strengthening the body's resistance. So what should you pay attention to when growing chayote? Today the editor brings you the points to note when growing chayote. Let's take a look!
1. Temperature
Chayote is fairly tolerant of high temperatures; the temperature for normal growth and development must not be lower than 20°C, and the most suitable temperature for chayote growth is around 25°C. If the ground temperature is below 5°C, chayote will be unable to grow and will die. But the temperature should not be too high either; above chayote's suitable temperature range, its growth rate will slow down noticeably, affecting its growth.
2. Light
Chayote does not need much light; it is a short-day vegetable, but it still needs a certain amount of light. If even a few hours of light are not provided, its growth rate will gradually slow down, and photosynthesis will also decrease, making it unable to produce enough nutrients, so its growth and development will be hindered.
3. Water
Chayote growth requires a large amount of water, especially in summer each year; if there is not enough water to meet its needs, its growth and development will also be affected. Ensure the relative humidity in the air and that the soil is sufficiently moist; if this is not met, the stems and vines of chayote will stop growing and the leaves will change color. Also, if there is not enough water during the flowering and fruiting stage, the flowering and fruiting rate will be affected.
4. Soil
Chayote cultivation has no very strict requirements for soil, but fertile soil that is deep and loose is more suitable for its growth. So when choosing soil and building the plantation, try to choose conditions that meet the requirements above. The nitrogen content in the soil should not be too high, to avoid excessive vegetative growth of the plants. The same applies when fertilizing; pay attention to nutritional balance.
5. Raising seedlings
Each chayote fruit contains only one seed, and the germination rate is not high, because the seed coat is very difficult to separate from the flesh, so we should use multiple seeds to sprout and sow at the same time. Before sowing, do the work of soaking the seeds and raising seedlings well. Use a small knife to make a slight opening in the seed coat, which helps germination. Apply it into the planting hole, cover with about 3 cm of soil, bury the melon about 1/3 in the soil, and sprout it.
6. Water and fertilizer
Before June, chayote watering should be well controlled. After June, chayote enters its rapid growth stage, and at this time the soil must be kept moist at all times. Generally, after planting, apply fertilizer once. Chayote has a very high fertilizer requirement, and topdressing is needed almost every month. Usually when topdressing, dig a trench 50-70 cm away from the plant and apply fertilizer; farmyard manure or compound fertilizer can be used. The distance needs to be increased as growth time goes on.
Alright, the above are the points to note when growing chayote. Although the current market demand for chayote is not very clear, after all, China is a “country of gourmets”, and the market for chayote will gradually expand. The editor thinks it still has very good prospects for cultivation, so those who have the conditions can consider it! That is all for today's introduction. I hope this article can help everyone.