When is the best time to fertilize Bletilla striata? Detailed explanation of fertilizing times and methods
Bletilla striata is a very common Chinese medicinal herb, and its cultivation area in China is now relatively large. Because market demand has increased, the yield requirements for Bletilla striata will also grow larger and larger. If you want to increase the yield of Bletilla striata when growing it, fertilization work is very important. So how should Bletilla striata be fertilized when grown? When should it be fertilized? Below, the editor will introduce this to everyone. Let's take a look!
1. Fertilizing time
Bletilla striata has a relatively high demand for nutrients during growth, so fertilization work must be done well. Each growth stage of Bletilla striata has different nutrient requirements. Especially during the tuber enlargement period from August to September, nutrient demand will rise sharply. About two weeks after planting, Bletilla striata should be topdressed once, mainly with dilute manure or urine water. Each topdressing should have its amount carefully controlled to ensure that the nutrient needs for Bletilla striata growth are met. Then reasonably apply fertilizers such as superphosphate and liquid fertilizer, keep the soil moist, and water well during drought. Especially during the high-temperature period in summer, it is best to water twice a day.
2. Fertilizer requirements and characteristics
Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the three most basic elements in fertilization, and Bletilla striata has relatively high requirements for nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. None of these elements can be missing. If there is too little nitrogen fertilizer, it will affect the growth of branches and leaves, causing the Bletilla striata plant to become bare and unattractive, seriously affecting the growth of Bletilla striata, and causing yellowing of leaves and stems. If phosphorus fertilizer is lacking, it will inhibit root growth and hinder the development of new buds. The function of potassium fertilizer is to effectively improve the disease resistance of Bletilla striata, promote the growth of pseudobulbs and so on, and improve the yield and quality of Bletilla striata.
3. Fertilizing methods
Base fertilizer and topdressing
Base fertilizer is indispensable for growing Bletilla striata. Before planting Bletilla striata, we should apply sufficient base fertilizer into the soil to improve soil fertility and enhance the growth capacity of Bletilla striata. The base fertilizer should mainly be decomposed farmyard manure; undecomposed farmyard manure can burn Bletilla striata and reduce its yield and quality. Because Bletilla striata grows relatively slowly, topdressing should mainly be applied more often but in small amounts. During peak growth seasons such as spring and autumn, the topdressing frequency should be appropriately shortened; in spring, generally once every half month. In summer, it can be applied less, and if the base fertilizer is sufficient, it may even be unnecessary to fertilize.
Applying foliar fertilizer
The main purpose of topdressing with foliar fertilizer is to supplement the trace elements needed for the growth of Bletilla striata. It enhances leaf growth, improves photosynthetic capacity, and increases the accumulation of photosynthetic substances in Bletilla striata. Foliar fertilizer should be applied about once a week. When spraying foliar fertilizer, pay attention to making it comprehensive and even to ensure every leaf receives the solution. Then observe the leaves to control and adjust the spraying frequency. Bright and glossy leaves indicate sufficient nutrition; conversely, dull and lusterless leaves mean it should be sprayed promptly. When spraying, make sure both sides are sprayed thoroughly, adjust the spraying angle, and improve the effect of the foliar fertilizer.
The above is a brief introduction to the fertilizing time and methods for Bletilla striata. Both base fertilizer and topdressing methods can mainly use furrow application or band application, depending on your own fertilizing habits. That is all for today's introduction. This article is for reference only. Thank you for reading and supporting.