How long is the growth cycle of Maca?

Maca Growth Introduction

Maca is native to the Andes Mountains in South America. It is suitable for planting in plateau mountainous areas with an altitude of more than 3,000 meters. It requires a temperature difference between day and night of more than 30°C, abundant rainfall, and freshwater lakes around it. In China, it is mainly distributed in Lijiang, Shangri-La, and Jiuzhaigou. These places have complex terrain and three-dimensional climatic conditions.

Maca growth cycle

Maca's growth habits, size and proportions are very similar to radish. It has green oval leaves with a fragrance and grows in a creeping state on the ground. Generally, there are 30-50 leaves, which are 8-12 cm long and 0.4-0.8 cm wide.

Maca has a relatively long growth cycle. It undergoes vegetative growth in the first year and blooms and bears seeds in the second year. The flowering period is from March to June.

Maca Growth Rate

Under suitable conditions, the growth cycle of Maca takes eight months to a year. However, in many cases, it is subject to practical conditions, such as the influence of precipitation. When it grows to a certain stage, people will dig it up, dry it, and store it for a period of time. After waiting for a period of time, the roots will germinate again, and it will produce seeds after 5 to 6 months of growth. In this way, it takes two years to complete a growth cycle.

Maca Growth Cycle Management

If well maintained, the yield of maca per acre is more than 200 kilograms. Normally, the yield is 50 kilograms.

Temperature management: Maca is sensitive to temperature and prefers an environment with a large temperature difference between day and night. The greater the temperature difference, the better it will grow. A temperature difference of more than 20-30℃ can meet its growth needs.

Fertilization management: When applying topdressing, you can determine the amount and frequency of fertilizer according to the condition of the seedlings. It is best to use well-rotted farmyard manure, and pay attention to applying small amounts and frequently. In addition, you also need to be prepared to loosen the soil and remove weeds, which can also promote it to absorb more nutrients.