Method of Cultivating Lepidium virginicum
Cultivating edible medicinal plants on balconies is becoming a new trend in urban areas, among which Lepidium virginicum is highly favored for its unique flavor and medicinal value. This cruciferous plant is not only rich in vitamin C and glucosinolates but also popular among beginners due to its adaptability. Mastering the correct cultivation methods, you can also harvest green and healthy produce in a small space.
Environmental Control for Lepidium virginicum Cultivation
Soil Matrix Mixing Scheme
It is recommended to use a ratio of peat soil:perlite:ripe compost = 5:3:2, with a pH value controlled between 6.0-7.5. Before sowing, deeply turn the soil 30cm, mix in bone meal to supplement phosphorus, and adding 5kg of ripe sheep manure per square meter can significantly improve the survival rate of seedlings.
Light and Temperature Synergy Management
In spring, maintain 6 hours of scattered light daily, and in summer and autumn, set up a 50% shade net. Use a temperature gradient management method: maintain 15-18°C during the seedling stage and increase to 18-20°C during the growing stage, with a 5°C temperature difference at night to effectively prevent bolting.
Key Points for Daily Maintenance of Lepidium virginicum
Water-saving Irrigation Strategy
Use a pulsating micro-spray system, watering 3 minutes each in the morning and evening. Set the soil moisture sensor between 30%-50%, and during the rainy season, promptly dig drainage ditches to prevent waterlogging and root rot disease.
Nutrient Supply Cycle
Use slow-release organic fertilizer (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium ratio of 12:6:8) as the base fertilizer, and spray a diluted seaweed extract solution on the leaves every 15 days during the growing period. Stop fertilizing 20 days before harvesting to ensure food safety.
Details of Lepidium virginicum Cultivation Management
Land Preparation Techniques
Use the ridging cultivation method with ridges 25cm high and 40cm wide, and maintain a row spacing of 30cm. Before sowing, use a roller press to treat the soil to ensure that soil particle diameter is less than 0.5cm, which is beneficial for seed germination and root growth.
Ecological Pest Control
Hang yellow sticky traps (1 per square meter) to monitor aphids, and release ladybirds for biological control. During the peak period of striped stem borer, spray 500 times solution of Bacillus thuringiensis, once a week for 3 weeks to effectively control pest density.
From sowing to harvesting takes about 45-60 days, and the plants can be harvested in batches when they reach a height of 15cm. Retaining 2-3 true leaves at the base and combining with appropriate top dressing can achieve 3-4 cycles of harvesting. Mastering these key technical points, whether it's balcony potted plants or courtyard ground planting, Lepidium virginicum can become a staple healthy ingredient in your home.