Watercress is a nutritious vegetable with a sweet and flavorful taste and a variety of ways to eat it. In order to grow high-quality watercress, it is necessary to master the correct planting methods and fertilization techniques. Here's a detailed look at watercress planting methods and fertilization tips to help you grow delicious watercress successfully.
Soil preparation. Choose fertile, well-drained soil as the base for growing watercress. Before planting, the soil should be deeply cultivated and an appropriate amount of organic fertilizer should be added to increase the fertility and air permeability of the soil.
Sow. Choose healthy, plump watercress seeds for sowing. Before sowing, the seeds are soaked in water for a period of time to promote germination. When sowing, spread the seeds evenly over the surface of the soil and then lightly cover with a thin layer of soil.
Watering. Watercress needs plenty of water to grow, so it should be watered promptly. During the growing period, it is sufficient to keep the soil moist. In the summer heat, you can increase the number of waterings, but be careful to avoid standing water.
Illumination. Watercress needs plenty of light, so place it in a sunny place. In the summer heat, you can get proper shade to avoid sunburn.
Temperature. Watercress needs the right temperature to grow, so it is important to maintain a suitable temperature environment. In the summer when the temperature is high, pay attention to ventilation and cooling;In the winter when the temperature is low, pay attention to heat preservation and cold protection.
Basal fertilizer application. Before planting or when repotting, you can add the right amount of basal fertilizer to the soil to provide consistent nutrients**. The base fertilizer can be organic fertilizer or compound fertilizer.
Top dressing management. During the growing period, regular topdressing is required to provide adequate nutrients. Generally, a thin liquid fertilizer can be applied once every two weeks. You can choose compound fertilizers that contain nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and other elements to meet the nutrients needed for plant growth. At the same time, it is necessary to pay attention to controlling the amount of nitrogen fertilizer to avoid causing branches and leaves to grow.
Trace element supplementation.
In addition to major elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, watercress also needs some trace elements such as calcium, magnesium, iron, etc. These micronutrient fertilizers can be supplemented in appropriate quantities according to the growth of the plants and the condition of the soil.
When and how to apply fertilizer.
The time and method of fertilization are also important factors affecting the fertilization effect. In general, top dressing is appropriate during the growing period. The fertilizer can be dissolved in water and watered the plantsIt is also possible to sprinkle the fertilizer directly on the soil surface and gently mix it into the soil. Be careful not to contact the roots of the plant directly with the fertilizer to avoid root burning.
In conclusion, correct planting methods and fertilization techniques are the key to ensuring the healthy growth of watercress. With careful management and care, your watercress can thrive and blossom deliciously. Hopefully, this article will help you better understand and master watercress planting methods and fertilization techniques.
Watercress