High-yield cultivation technology of bitter melon

Bitter melon, as a common vegetable , is rich in nutrients and has the effects of clearing away heat, relieving summer heat and reducing internal heat. Therefore, eating bitter melon in moderation in daily diet is of great benefit to health. As the number of farmers growing bitter melon increases, correct planting techniques become particularly important in order to cultivate bitter melon with good quality and high yield. Let’s learn about the high-yield cultivation technology of bitter melon.

1. Planting time

Autumn planting of bitter melon usually takes place from July to August each year, while winter planting takes place from November to December. These two periods are more suitable for the germination and growth of bitter melon seeds because of the suitable temperature, humidity and climatic conditions.

2. Variety selection

Selecting the right seeds is the key to achieving high yields. You should select seeds with obvious warts on the surface, white skin, and long cone shape. These seeds should be heat-resistant, fertilizer-resistant and high-yielding.

3. Seed treatment

The shell of bitter melon seeds is hard, so they need to be germinated before sowing to increase the survival rate. First, soak the seeds in hot water at about 55°C and stir. After the water temperature drops to room temperature, continue soaking for about 12 hours. Then, make a small cut in the seed to help it absorb water and germinate. Next, wrap the seeds with a wet cloth and place them in an incubator at about 30°C to germinate. Wash with clean water once a day and the seeds will germinate in about 4 to 6 days.

4. Planting technology

When the seedlings have about 3 leaves, they are ready for planting. Plant the seedlings in the prepared soil, making sure the spacing between plants is about 50 cm. Water immediately after planting, and then allow it to gradually acclimate to its new environment. After about half a month, the roots have basically adapted to the soil and routine maintenance can then be carried out. During the growth period, regular tillage and weeding should be carried out, and attention should be paid to protecting the root system of bitter melon.

5. Pest and disease control

Newly planted bitter melon is susceptible to insect pests, especially aphids. Once aphids are found, they should be treated with insecticides immediately, such as a 1500-fold aqueous solution of omethoate, sprayed on the leaves to quickly eliminate the pests.

6. Water and fertilizer management

Water and fertilizer management during bitter melon growth is crucial for high yield. Usually watering is needed every 7 to 10 days. Be careful to avoid water accumulation so as not to affect root breathing. After bitter gourd sprouts, it is necessary to apply fertilizer in time, and apply water and fertilizer frequently and thinly during the seedling stage to promote rapid growth. Top dressing is also required after harvest, with 400 to 700 kg of decomposed organic fertilizer and 3 to 4 kg of urea applied per mu.

7. Harvest time

To ensure high yield of bitter melon, the harvesting time must be properly grasped. Determine the degree of maturity of the bitter melon by observing whether the stripes and tumors on the surface are obviously raised. Harvesting too early or too late will affect yield, so accurate harvesting timing is crucial.

The above is an introduction to the key points of bitter melon cultivation . It is very important to start planting bitter melon by choosing the right variety. Do not choose varieties randomly for the sake of yield.