How to grow Taxus chinensis? A detailed guide to the latest cultivation methods
Taxus chinensis is a tree species endemic to China. It is recognized worldwide as a rare natural anti-cancer plant on the verge of extinction. It has high requirements for growing conditions, grows slowly, and has poor regeneration capacity, so even today there are no large-scale cultivation bases. Because of its precious price, it is sought after by many people who begin to grow it, but they do not know how to start. Let us learn about it together below.
1. Suitable soil
Taxus chinensis is a shallow-rooted plant with an inconspicuous main root and poorly developed lateral roots, so its absorption capacity is relatively weak, which means it has high requirements for soil. If the soil is poor, its growth will be affected. Good soil is what promotes rapid growth. It is best to choose loose, fertile, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil, with a pH value preferably between 5 and 6.
2. Light
Taxus chinensis is a light-loving plant that prefers an environment with ample light; a shady environment is unfavorable for its growth, so when growing it, it is recommended to grow it outdoors. You can also build a greenhouse and use facilities for lighting, which is good for its growth, because although Taxus chinensis loves light, it dislikes intense direct sunlight; exposure to strong sun will cause it to lose water and wilt, and in severe cases the leaves will wither and fall off. So when growing it, you only need to provide scattered light, and using facilities such as a greenhouse can perfectly meet its light needs.
3. Fertilizer and water management
If you want Taxus chinensis to grow quickly and well, fertilizer is indispensable. Fertilizing is generally done three months after planting, because at this time the fertilizer in the soil can still supply what the plant needs for growth; fertilizing at this point may cause fertilizer burn, leading to excessive vegetative growth. In the early stage of fertilizing, it is recommended to make the fertilizer into a solution and apply it by watering, which can improve the fertilizer utilization rate, let the plant absorb it quickly, and also control the fertilizer strength and moisture. In the later stage of growth, you can apply fertilizer directly, mainly organic fertilizer.
4. Pest and disease control
During cultivation, it often suffers from pests and diseases, which have a relatively large impact on the plant's growth rate. The more common one is root rot. When it occurs, nothing can be seen from the outside of the plant. In the later stage of the disease, the plant's leaves wither and turn yellow, and only when the root system is dug up do you find that the roots have already rotted; by then it is too late to save it. Therefore, pest and disease control should focus on prevention. When the seasons change, you can spray Bordeaux mixture, which is very effective for disease prevention. If pest or disease damage is found, it should also be dealt with promptly so as not to miss the best time for control.
The above is an introduction to how to grow Taxus chinensis. We hope it can help you. To learn more related knowledge, please stay tuned to us.