How to plant Ophiopogon japonicus for better results
This article introduces some small experiences of green plant maintenance about how to plant Ophiopogon japonicus well and understand the planting time and methods. Next, the editor will introduce.
Ophiopogon japonicus is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, mainly distributed in the southern regions, and is a highly efficient economic crop. In recent years, with the change of market demand, the health benefits of Ophiopogon japonicus have also been developed, and it has great development potential. In addition to being used as medicine, Ophiopogon japonicus also has high greening value and a broad application prospect in landscape gardening. So how should Ophiopogon japonicus be planted? Next, the editor will guide you through the planting techniques of Ophiopogon japonicus.
1. Varieties
After years of cultivation, many varieties of Ophiopogon japonicus have emerged, but only two varieties are still planted the most, namely the erect Ophiopogon japonicus and the creeping Ophiopogon japonicus. The difference lies in the fact that the erect Ophiopogon japonicus produces larger and better-quality fruits but has a relatively low yield, while the creeping Ophiopogon japonicus has a high yield but the fruits are not very large. Therefore, we can plant both varieties together because the management and planting methods are the same, ensuring economic benefits.
2. Soil
The previous crop of the planting site for Ophiopogon japonicus should not be melons or fruits because such soil has more diseases and pests and is not fertile enough to support the normal growth of Ophiopogon japonicus. Moreover, the planting site should not be in an area with accumulated water and should not be continuously cropped. The soil pH should be moderate or slightly alkaline and not planted in acidic soil. Therefore, a pH test should be conducted when selecting the site, and the land should be levelled and a drainage system set up in advance for later irrigation.
3. Temperature
Ophiopogon japonicus is usually planted in April or May every year when the soil temperature has basically risen and the average temperature is around 18 to 20 degrees Celsius. It is best to plant in cloudy days to ensure the survival rate. Ophiopogon japonicus is a plant that likes warmth and humidity but cannot survive in environments with strong sunlight and high temperatures. Therefore, shading and cooling measures need to be taken in the summer. It has good cold resistance and can germinate and grow normally in low temperatures.
4. Method
The common planting method for Ophiopogon japonicus is to use the division and transplanting method. Many people have not planted fruit before, so they need to purchase seedlings from outside. Attention should be paid to selecting vigorous, disease-free, and strong seedlings for planting. Before planting, the corms and roots of the seedlings should be cut off, and then planted at a distance of 30 centimeters between rows and 20 centimeters between plants.
5. Water and Fertilization
After planting, water the Ophiopogon japonicus seedlings promptly to promote the growth of their roots and improve their survival rate. Since Ophiopogon japonicus is a moisture-loving plant, the soil moisture in the field should be maintained at over 70%. In winter, irrigation should be minimized, but the soil should be loosened appropriately to facilitate water absorption and storage. The fertilization management of Ophiopogon japonicus needs to be carried out scientifically according to its growth and development period. In addition to the base fertilizer, two applications of fertilizer are usually required each year. The first application is when the new roots of the Ophiopogon japonicus seedlings grow, mainly using urea, phosphate fertilizer, and potassium fertilizer for hole or furrow application. The second application is when the corms of Ophiopogon japonicus swell, adding an appropriate amount of calcium fertilizer on top of the first application.
6. Diseases and Pests
The main diseases of Ophiopogon japonicus are root rot and leaf spot, and the most common pests are nematodes. Root rot and leaf spot usually occur in the summer when it is hot and rainy. Prevention can be achieved by seed soaking with chemicals, scientific fertilization to improve soil structure, and strengthening water management in the field. Bordeaux mixture should be used for control when the disease occurs, and it needs to be sprayed at least two to three times to cure.
The above is a specific introduction to how to plant Ophiopogon japonicus well and understand its planting time and methods, for reference by netizens.