Detailed Explanation of Key Points of Gastrodia elata Cultivation Technology, Teaching You to Grow Gastrodia elata Well

Gastrodia elata is a perennial parasitic herbaceous plant of the orchid family (Orchidaceae), and its growth and development cannot be separated from Armillaria mellea. This typical heterotrophic higher plant has its own unique set of technical requirements for Gastrodia elata cultivation. Because without Armillaria mellea providing nutrients, the Gastrodia elata tubers gradually shrivel and die out within 3 years. Below, let's look at what the key points of Gastrodia elata cultivation technology are:

1. Time requirements among the key points of Gastrodia elata cultivation technology:

Gastrodia elata cultivation should preferably be carried out from late October to April of the following year. It is divided into winter planting and spring planting. Winter planting is sown from late October to early December before the soil freezes, while spring planting is done in March-April after the soil thaws. In high-altitude mountain areas, sowing can be delayed until May.

2. Site selection for planting time among the key points of Gastrodia elata cultivation technology:

For the cultivation site, land plots such as wild hillside land, orchard land, and forest land can be selected. It is best to choose sandy loam soil with strong air permeability and water permeability, with a soil pH of 5-6.

3. Temperature requirements among the key points of Gastrodia elata cultivation technology:

Temperature control is an important task in the management of imitating wild cultivation of Gastrodia elata. The suitable germination temperature for Gastrodia elata seeds is 22°C-25°C. If the temperature is low in the early sowing period, plastic film or rice straw should be added to raise the ground temperature. The suitable temperature for Gastrodia elata production is 13-25°C (10 cm below the soil surface). In July-August, the temperature is relatively high, so attention should be paid to preventing high temperatures and drought. A shade shed can be built or water can be sprinkled around to cool the temperature. Watering should preferably be carried out after sunset and after the soil temperature drops. In winter, freezing should be prevented. In areas below 1000 m in altitude, covering with 10-20 cm thick branches, leaves, and weeds after planting is sufficient; in areas above 1000 m in altitude, the covering can be thickened to 30 cm.

4. Humidity requirements for planting time among the key points of Gastrodia elata cultivation technology:

Generally, the average relative humidity is required to be controlled at around 80%. From April to June, soil humidity should be controlled at around 60%. From June to August, Gastrodia elata enters the peak growth period. At this time, it is advisable to preserve water and lower temperature, preserve soil moisture and drain waterlogging, and carry out comprehensive management. If the humidity is less than 60%, it is not conducive to the growth of Gastrodia elata, and if it is greater than 80%, it is likely to cause tuber rot. Therefore, special attention should be paid to controlling humidity. At the same time, take care to keep the planting sand often moist, and achieve frequent sprinkling and light sprinkling, preferring drought over waterlogging. By September, nutrient accumulation in Gastrodia elata enters the late stage and reaches the physiological maturity stage. At this time, the soil humidity in the bed should be controlled below 40%. In late October, the soil temperature has dropped to 10°C, and Gastrodia elata enters the dormant period, at which point the soil can be uncovered for harvesting.

5. Pest and disease control among the key points of Gastrodia elata cultivation technology:

The main pests affecting the growth of Gastrodia elata include mole crickets, white grubs, and termites. When cultivating Gastrodia elata, 5% chlordane powder and "Termite Killer King" pesticide can be spread around the bed; or traps can be used to lure and kill termites.

At present, the main cultivated varieties of Gastrodia elata include red Gastrodia elata, black Gastrodia elata (forma), and black-red hybrid Gastrodia elata (forma). Only by adapting measures to local conditions, planting scientifically, grasping theGastrodia elata cultivation technologykey points, and strengthening management can high yield and high quality Gastrodia elata be achieved.

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