How long is the growth cycle of Bletilla striata?

Introduction to the growth of Bletilla striata

Bletilla striata often grows in relatively moist moss layers, stone walls, or in grass, forest edges and other places with mountain springs. It is cultivated in Beijing and Tianjin, and is widely distributed throughout the Yangtze River Basin in my country. Its planting bases are mainly in Guizhou, Shaanxi, Gansu, Jiangsu, Anhui, Zhejiang, Jiangxi, Fujian, Hubei and other places.

Growth cycle of Bletilla striata

Bletilla striata prefers a warm, shady and humid environment. It is slightly cold-resistant and has strong shade tolerance. It avoids direct sunlight and is suitable for growing in well-drained sandy loam rich in humus.

The growth cycle of Bletilla striata is relatively long. The growth cycle in the wild is 3-4 years, while the artificially cultivated one is 5-6 years, or even longer. After the growth of Bletilla striata goes through spring, summer and autumn, its above-ground part will slowly die after the winter frost, and the dormant bulbs will sprout new buds next year.

Growth rate of Bletilla striata

Bletilla striata is generally intercropped and can only be harvested after four to five years. When harvesting, be careful not to damage the tubers. If the quality is not good, the selling price will be low. It grows slowly and can only grow two or three tubers in two years.

Bletilla striata growth cycle management

Large-scale planting of Bletilla striata should use the seedling cultivation method, with 100 kg of seedlings per mu. After 2-3 years of planting, it will be harvested in the autumn of September-October. Generally, about 800-1000 kg of Bletilla striata is harvested per mu, and 200-300 kg of finished products can be processed.

Temperature management: Bletilla striata likes light and shade and humidity, and is a wide-temperature plant. It can grow normally in temperatures ranging from 40 degrees to -3 degrees, but the best growth temperature is between 15-25°C.

Fertilization management: Bletilla striata likes fertilizer. Its tuber swelling period is from July to October in summer. At this time, it is necessary to apply fertilizer reasonably and make a good ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, because too high or too low application of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium is not conducive to the accumulation of polysaccharides.