A Detailed Guide to Seed Selection and Seedling Raising Methods for Dianthus superbus
Dianthus superbus, also called wild wheat and Shizhu flower, is a perennial herbaceous plant, and it is widely known for the good properties of its whole plant being usable as medicine. At present, Dianthus superbus is one of the commonly used traditional Chinese medicine categories, with the functions of clearing heat and promoting urination, and breaking blood and treating strangury. Dianthus superbus is cultivated across the Eurasian continent, and at present, because the demand for some wild resources is growing, artificial cultivation has begun in many regions. So in the process of growing Dianthus superbus, how should its seeds be selected? What are the seedling raising methods? Let's learn about them together.
How are Dianthus superbus seeds selected?
For seed collection, it is best to choose individual plants that grow vigorously and are free of pests and diseases; at the end of August, when the seeds turn dark brown, cut them off together with the stems and leaves, dry them in the sun, thresh out the seeds, and remove all impurities. They can be sown immediately after collection, or the seeds can be put into cloth bags, hung in a cool and ventilated place for storage, and sown the following year.
What are the seedling raising methods?
1. Site selection and land preparation
Dianthus superbus has no strict requirements for soil, and it can be planted in general land, but well-drained, fertile sandy loam is best. Generally, for every 667 sq m, apply 1500-2000 kg of barnyard manure, 15-20 kg of superphosphate, and 50 kg of plant ash, then after deep ploughing and fine harrowing, level the land and make beds 1-1.3 m wide.
2. Sowing and seedling raising
Before sowing, mix the seeds with new high-fat film (it can be mixed with seed coating agents), to repel underground pests and diseases, isolate virus infection, strengthen respiration intensity, and increase the seed germination rate. Sowing can be divided into spring sowing and autumn sowing. Spring sowing is generally carried out around Qingming Festival in March to April each year, while autumn sowing is in July each year, and the method can be drilling or hole sowing.
3. Thinning and final singling of seedlings
When the seedlings grow to five cm, thinning must be carried out, and after final singling, carry out intertillage and weeding in time to ensure there are no weeds in the field and promote the absorption by its roots. If weeds appear, they must be pulled out as soon as they are seen.
4. Water and fertilizer management
After sowing, water frequently to keep the bed surface moist and ensure emergence. After emergence, if drought occurs, water in time; in the rainy season, drain accumulated water in time to prevent root rot. When the seedlings are 3-4 cun high, apply 30-50 jin of urea, and before flowering appropriately increase the number of waterings, and topdress some ammonium sulfate or urea. After the first cutting of seedlings and before the second crop of seedlings sprouts, for every 667 sq m, topdress 1000 kg of human manure and urine or 15-20 kg of ammonium bicarbonate to promote the growth and development of new seedlings.
Overall, Dianthus superbus is also very beautiful when it blooms, with flower colors mostly white and red, and a rich fragrance. Once the work of seed selection and seedling raising is done well, it can effectively promote its growth and flowering. It can also be used as medicine or to make some drinks, so you can also try growing it yourself.
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