Detailed Explanation of Key Points for Intercropping Cultivation Techniques of Gastrodia elata

1. Intercropping time. Intercropping Gastrodia elata in tree peony root bark fields should be carried out from late autumn after the tree peony leaves fall to early spring of the following year. This is both the dormant period of the tree peony and the harvest period and optimal planting period of Gastrodia elata.

2. Intercropping method. For tree peony root bark plots used for intercropping Gastrodia elata, choose plots where tree peonies have been planted for more than 1 year. First, prepare Armillaria fungus wood and Gastrodia elata seeds, and also prepare enough leaves for use as filler and mulch, then plant according to the conventional planting method for Gastrodia elata. When planting, first spread a layer of leaves between the rows of the tree peony root bark field, with a thickness of 5 cm to 10 cm as suitable, then place the Armillaria fungus wood on the leaves, arranging the fungus wood in an "I" shape, and according to the length of the fungus wood, place one seed every 8 cm to 10 cm, with the seeds closely against the fish-scale openings, then fill the gaps between the fungus wood with leaves, and cover them with leaves to a thickness of 20 cm. According to the shading conditions of the tree peony leaves, cover and press with broadleaf tree branches on top, and water once, so that the covering leaves are closely compacted. Generally, only 1 layer can be planted. It should be noted that when covering with leaves, the tree peony plants must not be covered.

3. Strengthen management and protection. Once Gastrodia elata is intercropped, the surrounding area of the intercropped plot should be protected to prevent livestock and poultry from entering the field and causing damage. In seasons with little rain and high temperatures, water appropriately to prevent drought and lower temperature. After Gastrodia elata is harvested, the rotted leaves from the Gastrodia elata cultivation can be piled at the base of the tree peony plants. In this way, continuous intercropping can be carried out for 3 years to 4 years, until the tree peony root bark is dug and processed.