Method of cultivating wormwood
In the northern wetlands, common wormwood is not only a traditional medicinal and edible plant but has gradually become a new favorite in courtyard economics. Its unique fragrance and robust vitality make this asteraceae plant an ideal choice for home planting. Master these key elements, and you can also successfully cultivate high-quality wormwood with both medicinal and edible properties on your balcony or garden.
Environmental control essentials
Soil matrix configuration
Choose a slightly alkaline matrix with a pH of 7.3-7.8, and adjust the pH by mixing garden soil with wood ash (proportion 3:1). After sunning and disinfecting the soil around the swamp, adding 20% of decomposed sheep manure can significantly improve water retention and breathability.
Temperature and light协同 management
Build an adjustable shade shed to maintain a constant temperature of 25°C, use a 50% shade net during the summer noon, and use double-layer plastic film for insulation in winter. Ensuring 4 hours of direct sunlight and 6 hours of scattered light daily can promote the accumulation of aromatic substances on the leaf surface.
Nutrient supply plan
Organic fertilizer and water integration
Apply soybean cake fertilizer as a base fertilizer before planting, and water with diluted芝麻渣 extract (10 times) every week during the growing period. Spraying the leaves with EM bacteria-fermented rice washing water can enhance the plant's resistance.
Smart irrigation system
Install drip irrigation equipment to maintain soil moisture at 60%-70%, water thoroughly before sowing, and spray 3 times a day during the seedling stage. During the rainy season, set a 15° slope for the cultivation bed and configure a hidden drainage ditch to prevent waterlogging.
Full-cycle maintenance details
Biological control strategy
Interplanting mint to repel aphids, and hanging yellow sticky traps to monitor pest populations. If leaf miners are found, use a chili and garlic extract for biological control to maintain the characteristics of ecological planting.
Harvesting time window
Harvest in the early morning of the budding stage, leaving 3 functional leaves to ensure regenerative capacity. Harvest the seeds when the capsules turn brown and dry them in the shade before storing them in the refrigerator.
By simulating the light, temperature, water, and fertilizer conditions of the native environment and combining modern horticultural techniques, the annual cultivation of wormwood can be achieved. Regularly rotate green manure crops such as Chinese milk vetch, and combine deep tillage and sunning to continuously maintain soil vitality, allowing this gift from the wetlands to thrive in an artificial environment.