Detailed Explanation of the Planting Methods and Technical Key Points of Water Dropwort

Many people are not very familiar with water dropwort, and some even think it is simply celery grown in water. In fact, water dropwort is a type of wild vegetable. Because its appearance is very similar to celery, in some places it is also called wild celery. It is a very healthful vegetable. Nowadays this wild vegetable, water dropwort, is also quite popular on the market, so how do you grow water dropwort? Below, the editor will give everyone a simple introduction.

1. Site Selection and Land Preparation

Water dropwort can be grown in most areas of our country, with the largest cultivation in the central and southern regions. Water dropwort is a plant that prefers cool, moist conditions and is not tolerant of drought or heat. The planting site is generally chosen as paddy fields or areas beside rivers with fertile soil, rich organic matter, and strong fertilizer and water retention. Among these, an abundant and pollution-free water source is a crucial condition. Land preparation should be carried out about one week before sowing, requiring multiple deep ploughings, and sufficient organic fertilizer or cake fertilizer should be spread per mu. The deeper the ploughing and the more times it is ploughed, the higher the yield of water dropwort will be.

2. Seed Selection and Germination

Before sowing, we need to select good seed stems and carry out germination treatment on the seed stems. For seed stems, we generally choose relatively robust stems without pests or diseases and with relatively strong vitality as the seed stems. Then tie the selected seed stems together, each bundle about 20 to 30 cm thick. After tying them, pile them in a place without sunlight and cover with a layer of straw. Finally, water them once each morning and evening every day. Generally, roots will form in about one week, and the seed stems that have rooted can then be used for planting.

3. Timely Seed Stem Placement

Water dropwort seed stems are generally placed in early September each year. Too early or too late will affect the yield of water dropwort. Before placing the seed stems, we need to cut them into lengths of about 60 cm, then place them with the buds facing upward. At the same time, when placing the seed stems, we also need to pay attention to the density, generally about 6 to 10 cm. Next, the planting site should be relatively level, and the water in the field should not be too deep. Only after the water dropwort sprouts seedlings can the water level be gradually raised.

4. Field Management

Wait until the seedlings grow above the water surface, which is roughly when they have grown three to four true leaves. At this time, we need to apply fertilizer to promote rapid plant growth. Later, fertilizer is generally applied once every week or half a month, mainly urea. Aphids run through the entire growing period of water dropwort, so every time fertilizer is applied, the aphids should also be removed. After the water dropwort has basically taken root, we need to drain the water from the field, let it dry for a period, and then slowly refill the field with water. The water depth is determined according to the growth of the water dropwort, respectively 5 to 6 cm and 25 to 30 cm, and the water dropwort seedlings in the field should always be kept about 15 cm above the water surface.

5. Reasonable Harvesting

The harvesting time for water dropwort is generally around November each year, but there is no specific standard, because there are certain differences in planting time and planting regions, so the harvesting time also differs. At the same time, harvesting can also be decided according to market prices and market demand. Harvesting when prices are high gives higher economic benefits. Finally, the time when water dropwort is most popular is during New Year's Day and the Spring Festival.

The above is a relatively simple method for growing water dropwort. I believe everyone now has a certain understanding of growing water dropwort. If you have better growing methods, you can also recommend them to the editor. At the same time, if you encounter any problems you do not understand during planting, you can also consult and learn from us.