A Detailed Guide to Potherb Mustard Cultivation Techniques and Management Methods
Potherb mustard is a relatively common vegetable in the north, and in the south it is generally a seasonal vegetable, but with the acceleration of north-south integration, potherb mustard is gradually appearing more and more frequently on southern dining tables. So how exactly should this vegetable be cultivated? Let's find out together with Qinnong Net below.
1. Seedling Raising
Seedling raising is an important step in potherb mustard cultivation. The soil for seedling raising must be very fertile, and it is best to compost with farmyard manure one month before seedling raising. Plow the soil well before seedling raising and use sunlight to achieve a certain disinfecting effect. Choose soil from a relatively fine area. The seeds do not need to be buried deep, 2-3 cm is fine, so that the seeds can absorb soil nutrients and breathe air well, which helps achieve faster and more successful seedling raising.
2. Land Preparation
The soil requirements after transplanting are not high; being somewhat fertile is enough. The land still needs composting, and the base amount should be a bit larger. Next, level the land into strips, and ensure good drainage. Keep each strip 1.5 m wide, and control the drainage ditches in between to a bit more than a foot wide, just enough to ensure convenient movement during daily management. The weeds and similar material cleared out must be taken away and must not be composted, otherwise pathogens are easily produced.
3. Planting Out
When planting out, the time should be a bit earlier. At this time potherb mustard has the best vitality and a high survival rate, so control the time around 8-10 o'clock. The seedlings for planting out should preferably have some soil on them, so that they can form effective protection for the young seedlings. It is recommended to transplant when they are about 12-15 cm, as the seedlings are just about to enter the growth period then, and being too dense is no longer good for growth. Control the spacing of transplanted seedlings at 20-30 cm, and be sure to water a certain amount after transplanting.
4. Fertilizer and Water
Fertilizer and water are the decisive factors for the later growth of potherb mustard, so fertilizer and water must be sufficient. For fertilization, generally nitrogen fertilizer is applied together with phosphorus and potassium fertilizers, with nitrogen fertilizer making up the majority. In the early stage, to ensure the growth of the seedlings, a certain amount of urea can also be applied. One week after planting out, fertilizer needs to be applied in a timely manner, in a small amount. The mid stage is when fertilization is most frequent, generally requiring 2-3 applications. Half a month before harvesting, there is no need to fertilize. After each fertilization, spray an appropriate amount of water according to the soil's dryness and moisture.
5. Pest Prevention
This is an area that requires attention in potherb mustard cultivation, as it can easily cause yield reduction. The main harm to potherb mustard is mostly concentrated in insect pests, with aphids and similar pests occurring especially frequently and being hard to spot. Generally, if you notice a tendency for the potherb mustard leaves to change color, you should promptly inspect the plants. Once the type of pest is identified, promptly remove it with pesticides, because it is very difficult to spot manually. Other diseases occur relatively rarely; as long as humidity and moisture are not too high, it is fine.
The market for potherb mustard is currently gradually expanding toward the south, and its taste is also relatively suited to southern tastes. Once it becomes widespread, it will certainly have a good market, so everyone must be attentive when growing this and secure a good harvest.