Taro Planting Methods and Key Technical Points Explained
Taro is a perennial tuberous plant. It can be steamed, used in soups, stir-fried with meat, and so on. The nutrients it contains can protect teeth, promote digestion, and more. Moreover, taro is a crop with relatively high economic value. Many people want to grow it but do not know how, so today the editor brings you taro planting methods.
1. Site selection and land preparation
Taro is a warm-climate crop with poor cold and drought tolerance. Around 26 degrees is the optimal temperature for taro's growing period. If the temperature is below 12 or above 26, taro's growth and development will be hindered. Although taro is a water-loving crop, it should not be waterlogged, and even less should it be too dry. It cannot be grown continuously on the same land. Otherwise, taro's growth and development will be seriously poor. Taro is suitable for planting in relatively moist land with a good drainage system. Before sowing, the land should be plowed and sufficient base fertilizer applied. Per mu, ash and miscellaneous fertilizer mixed with a three-element compound fertilizer should be applied. Ash and miscellaneous fertilizer cannot be used if it is not fully decomposed.
2. Sowing and building frames
Taro is generally suitable for sowing in spring. If the local ground temperature is still relatively low, sowing can be postponed to Qingming Festival. If you decide to use film covering after sowing, you can begin sowing around the Start of Spring, with a dosage of about 200 jin per mu. Choose small taro with no value, no cracks, and no pests or diseases for sowing. When sowing, make the field beds well. The row spacing between ditches should be set at about 0.5 m, and the spacing between each plant should be about 0.25 m. Cover after sowing. After emergence, build frames. Every four or five frame poles should be tied tightly at the top with rope to prevent being blown down by strong winds.
3. Strengthen management
After emergence, apply farmyard manure about twice. In summer, depending on taro's growth trend, apply compound fertilizer appropriately. This can promote the growth of taro's root tubers. Loosen the soil and weed appropriately, remove side vines and heart leaves, ensure ventilation between taro plants, and improve quality and yield. What also needs attention are pests and diseases that commonly occur in daily life, such as aphids and grubs. In the middle and later stages, when the corms expand and the leaves grow, ensure the water needed for growth. In case of heavy rain, drain water promptly to prevent waterlogging damage.
4. Harvesting and storage
Taro's general harvest period is in autumn and winter. After taro matures, it can be pulled out directly. Store taro that is large and well developed, and use poorly developed ones as seed for the next sowing. If after harvesting you are not in a hurry to sell, you can put taro into a cellar for storage over winter. During storage, cover taro layer by layer with soil, not exceeding one meter, and pay attention to ventilation and maintaining moisture. As long as it does not dry out, taro can be stored for a long time without rotting.
The above is a simple introduction to taro planting. Everyone should note that taro has a relatively large demand for water. During taro's growth process, its water demand must be ensured. Lack of water will cause poor taro growth, affecting yield and quality. It will also directly affect everyone's economic benefits. To learn more agricultural knowledge, please continue to follow Qinnong Web!