What is the best way to grow ice plant?

Ice plant, also known as crystal ice plant, ice grass , icicles or ice leaf sunflower, is a plant native to Africa. In recent years, it was introduced to China and quickly became popular for its high nutritional value and unique appearance and taste, becoming a popular ingredient on the dining table. So what is the best way to grow ice plant?

1. Soil preparation

The seeds of ice plant are very small and have a weak ability to grow in the soil. When they germinate, they are often unable to emerge from the soil because the soil is too hard, causing the seeds to rot. Therefore, before planting, you need to choose loose, breathable and moisturizing soil. You can also prepare the seedling medium indoors using a seedling tray.

2. Cultivation of ice plant seedlings

Before planting ice plant, you need to select seeds with full grains. Before sowing, soak the seeds in warm water at about 30℃ for 2-4 hours. When sowing, sow 2-3 seeds in each hole; if using a seedling tray, sow in units of 9 cm, also sow 2-3 seeds. After sowing, cover with 3-5 mm of fine soil, but avoid covering too deep to avoid affecting normal germination. Keep the temperature at around 20℃, avoid being too high or too low; if the temperature is too low, take measures to increase the temperature; if it is too high, increase ventilation to lower the ambient temperature. Generally, after 20-40 days, when the seedlings have grown 4-5 leaves, they can be transplanted and planted.

3. Transplanting and planting

Be careful when transplanting iceberg lettuce not to damage the roots. Transplanting should be avoided on rainy days or in high temperatures to avoid affecting the survival rate. Dig holes in the planting site and control the spacing between rows and plants at 20×30 cm. Cover with soil after transplanting and water once to help the seedlings grow. Do not water too much and keep the temperature at around 25℃.

4. Growth management

Ice plant grows well at temperatures between 20℃ and 30℃. During the high temperatures in summer, the plants have poor heat tolerance and should be shaded in time to prevent burns, and good ventilation should be maintained. In dry weather, water should be added appropriately to avoid root rot; when planting outdoors, drain the water in time when it rains. Ice plant grows rapidly in the middle and late stages. If managed properly, a large area can grow within a few days.

Under suitable temperatures, ice plant can be grown all year round. When planting outdoors, spring and autumn are the best seasons because the temperature does not change much at this time, which is conducive to germination. Ice plant grows fast. If it grows wildly, it should be picked in time to promote the growth of new seedlings.