Planting technology and management of star aniseed loofah

Star aniseed loofah , also known as eight-angled loofah, is a special variety of loofah. Its fruit is octagonal in shape, with tender flesh, fragrant flavor, and rich nutrition. It is deeply loved by consumers. So how to grow star anise loofah? Let’s take a look at the planting techniques and management of star anise loofah.

1. Planting site selection

The planting site should be selected in a ventilated and sunny place with an altitude of more than 500 meters and loose sandy loam with good drainage. This can avoid the influence of high temperature in summer on the flowering and fruiting of the eight-angled loofah and improve the quality and yield of the eight-angled loofah.

2. Land preparation and fertilization

Deep plowing should be carried out before planting, and 2000-3000 kg of farmyard manure, 50 kg of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium compound fertilizer , 30 kg of urea, 40 kg of superphosphate and 30 kg of cake fertilizer should be applied per mu. It is best to mix them together and then apply them as base fertilizer.

3. Planting method

Planting can usually be done by seedling transplanting or direct seeding. Usually, spring sowing can be chosen in February and March, which is suitable for seedling raising and transplanting; summer sowing can be chosen in April and May, and can be used for seedling raising and transplanting, or direct sowing; autumn sowing can be done in July and early August for direct sowing to extend the supply period. The seeds are usually soaked for germination before sowing, but can also be sown directly in the soil. When the seedlings have 3-4 true leaves, they can be transplanted.

4. Key points for planting

Generally, seedlings will emerge 3-5 days after sowing. After emergence, the plastic film should be removed in time to maintain suitable temperature and light to prevent the seedlings from pulling out. When the seedlings grow 3-4 true leaves, they should be transplanted. Choose a clear and windless day and transplant the seedlings with roots and soil to a high ridge. Plant 2 plants in each row with a row spacing of 80-100 cm and a plant spacing of 60-80 cm. After transplanting, water thoroughly to promote root growth.

5. Field management

The melon field should be kept moist at all times, and a shed should be built about one month after the seedlings are transplanted, with one melon planted per plant. When the main vine grows to the trellis, remove the top and trim excess male flowers and side branches. In the later stage of production, continue to do a good job in field fertilizer and water management, disease and pest control, pruning and emasculation. At the same time as harvesting and marketing, we must also focus on topdressing and drought resistance. Apply 30 kg of compound fertilizer or 2,000 kg of human feces and urine per mu, or while resisting drought, apply 5-10 kg of urea per mu with ditch water to supplement water and fertility.

Generally speaking, star anise loofah originated in India and is now cultivated in various parts of my country. Its taste is sweeter than ordinary loofah and is more popular in the market. Therefore, if you want to grow it profitably, you must master the planting techniques.