How to Grow Centella asiatica? Detailed Guide to the Latest Cultivation Techniques and Methods
Centella asiatica is a perennial herb of the Apiaceae family, also known as Shiba Que, Bengda Wan, Mati Cao, Tongqian Cao, and so on. It often grows in damp, shaded wasteland, near villages, along roadsides, and by ditches. The whole plant of Centella asiatica can be used as medicine; it has the effects of clearing heat and draining dampness, reducing swelling and detoxifying, and can treat summer diarrhea, dysentery, bruises and injuries, and so on. So how should it be planted? Let's take a look together.
1. Soil
Before cultivating Centella asiatica, you must first choose the right soil. Centella asiatica has strong environmental adaptability and is not strict about soil requirements, but soft, well-drained soil is preferable. It is best to choose loose, fertile humus soil. This kind of humus soil has good drainage and air permeability, and is relatively high in nutrients, which can supply all kinds of nutrients needed for the growth of Centella asiatica and make it grow faster. You can also mix your own growing medium by combining leaf mold, river mud, and garden soil at a ratio of 0.5:2:2.
2. Temperature and Light
Centella asiatica likes a warm and humid environment and is strongly shade-tolerant, but it cannot be exposed to direct sunlight. However, during cultivation it also cannot lack light. When light is insufficient, its roots may rot, so during cultivation it should be placed in a semi-shaded environment. It should receive 4-6 hours of light each day, which is beneficial to its growth. At the same time, its temperature requirements are also very high. The suitable temperature for Centella asiatica is 10-25 degrees; in summer it should not exceed 32 degrees, and in winter the temperature should not be lower than 5 degrees.
3. Water
Centella asiatica is a plant that likes damp environments, so during cultivation it must be watered frequently to keep the soil moist and promote robust growth. But the amount of water must also be controlled. Watering too much can cause waterlogging in the soil, may damage its root system, and can easily lead to disease or fertilizer problems. Therefore, do not water too much at one time. You can adopt the method of watering frequently and lightly, and manage the soil moisture well.
4. Fertilizing
Centella asiatica needs a large amount of nutrients during its growth process, so fertilizing during cultivation is necessary, especially after entering the growing season, when its growth is extremely vigorous and its demand for fertilizer is also relatively high. On average, it should be fertilized 1-2 times per month. But when fertilizing, also pay attention: the fertilizer concentration should not be too strong. It is recommended to dilute the fertilizer with water before applying it. In this way, you can avoid damage to the root system from strong fertilizer and also improve the utilization rate of the fertilizer.
The above is an introduction to the cultivation techniques for Centella asiatica. We hope it can help you. If you want to learn more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.