Lotus root planting season and method

The planting season for lotus roots is usually in spring, from March to May. The temperature during this period is suitable, which can increase the survival rate of lotus roots. Due to the warm climate in the south, planting can be carried out from February to March, while in the north it is recommended to plant from April to May. Below, I will introduce the planting season and methods of lotus roots. Let’s take a look.

1. Soil preparation

Lotus root prefers moist soil rich in organic matter, and the pH value is best kept between 5.5-7.0. Therefore, when choosing a planting site, you should select a fertile, deep, loose paddy field or pond with high organic matter content, and carry out deep plowing and careful cultivation, and apply sufficient organic fertilizer as base fertilizer.

2. Seed selection and germination

Select lotus roots with three or more nodes and intact as seed roots. Before planting, the seed lotus roots can be soaked in warm water for 46 hours, and then placed on moist gauze or cotton cloth to germinate. The seeds will begin to germinate after about 23 days.

3. Planting method

Plant the sprouted seed lotus roots evenly in the prepared soil, with the lotus head (the end where the lotus buds grow) tilted downward and the lotus tail (the end where the lotus node is connected) slightly tilted upward, and maintain appropriate plant spacing. The planting depth should be such that the soil covers the lotus root and lotus buds, but not too deep to avoid affecting the growth of the lotus buds.

4. Moisture management

Lotus root is an aquatic plant and has a high demand for water. After planting, keep the soil moist and water it in time according to the season and climatic conditions. During the peak growth period of lotus root, the amount of watering should be appropriately increased to meet its growth and development needs. At the same time, pay attention to drainage to avoid water accumulation that can cause root rot.

5. Fertilization management

During the growth of lotus root, fertilizer should be applied in time according to its growth conditions and soil fertility. Generally, organic fertilizer is used as the main fertilizer, with an appropriate amount of chemical fertilizer. In addition to applying base fertilizer before planting, you can apply quick-acting nitrogen fertilizer or compound fertilizer 1-2 times during the peak growth period of the lotus root to promote its rapid growth and development.

6. Pest and disease control

Lotus root is easily attacked by diseases and pests during its growth. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the prevention and control of diseases and pests, and adopt a comprehensive prevention and control method that combines agricultural prevention, biological prevention and chemical prevention. At the same time, we should pay attention to regular inspections of lotus fields to promptly detect and deal with pest and disease problems.

The above is the planting season and method of lotus roots. When planting lotus roots, it is necessary to apply fertilizer reasonably and strengthen disease and pest control. Lotus root likes fertilizer and requires a large amount of fertilizer during its growth period, but fertilization should be moderate to avoid burning the seedlings.