What are the key points to note when growing chayote?

Chayote originated in Mexico and was introduced to China in the early 19th century. It is grown most widely in southern China. You may not have heard of chayote, but most people have eaten it. The flesh of chayote is very tender, has high nutritional value, and has a good effect on strengthening the body's resistance. So what should be noted when growing chayote? Today, the editor brings you the key points to note when growing chayote. Let's take a look!

1. Temperature

Chayote is fairly tolerant of high temperatures. The temperature for normal growth and development must not be lower than 20°C. The most suitable temperature for chayote growth is around 25°C. If the ground temperature is lower than 5°C, chayote will be unable to grow and will die. However, the temperature should not be too high either. If it exceeds the suitable temperature range for chayote, its growth rate will slow down noticeably, affecting its growth.

2. Light

Chayote does not have a great demand for light. It is a short-day vegetable, but it still needs a certain amount of light. If even a few hours of light are not provided, its growth rate will gradually slow down, and photosynthesis will also decrease, making it unable to produce enough nutrients, so its growth and development will be hindered.

3. Water

The growth of chayote requires a large amount of water, especially in summer each year. If there is not enough water to meet its needs, its growth and development will also be affected. Ensure the relative humidity in the air and that the soil is sufficiently moist. If these are not satisfied, the stems and vines of chayote will stop growing and the leaves will change color. Also, if there is not enough water during the flowering and fruiting stage, the flowering and fruiting rate will be affected.

4. Soil

Chayote cultivation does not have very strict requirements for soil, but fertile soil that is deep and loose is more suitable for its growth. Therefore, when choosing soil to establish a plantation, try as much as possible to choose conditions that meet the above requirements. The nitrogen content in the soil should not be too high, to avoid excessive vegetative growth of the plants. The same applies when fertilizing: pay attention to balanced nutrition.

5. Seedling raising

Each chayote fruit contains only one seed, and the germination rate is not high, because the seed coat and the flesh are very difficult to separate, so we should use multiple seeds for sprouting and sowing at the same time. Before sowing, do the work of soaking seeds and raising seedlings well. Slightly open the seed coat with a small knife, which helps germination. Place it into the planting hole, cover with about 3 cm of soil, bury about 1/3 of the fruit in the soil, and sprout it.

6. Water and fertilizer

Before June, the amount of watering for chayote should be well controlled. After June, chayote enters its rapid growth stage, and at this time the soil must be kept moist at all times. Generally, fertilizer should be applied once after planting. Chayote has a very large fertilizer demand, and topdressing is needed almost every month. When topdressing, generally dig a trench 50-70 cm away from the plant and apply fertilizer. Farmyard manure or compound fertilizer can be used. The distance needs to be increased as it grows over time.

All right, the above are the points to note when growing chayote. Although the current market demand for chayote is not yet very clear, after all, China is a "country of gourmet food," and the market for chayote will gradually expand. The editor believes it still has very good prospects for cultivation, so those who have the conditions can consider it! That is all for today's introduction. I hope this article can help everyone.