Bitter gourd is a common vegetable in summer in northern China, which is widely welcomed by consumers because of its various effects such as clearing heat and detoxifying, lowering blood sugar, etc. In order to meet the market demand, the northern region began to develop greenhouse bitter gourd planting technology. This article will introduce the planting technology of bitter gourd in northern greenhouses, including variety selection, sowing and seedling raising, planting management, pest control and other aspects.
First, the selection of varieties.
In the northern region to grow greenhouse bitter gourd, variety selection is the key. Varieties with wide adaptability, strong stress resistance, high yield and excellent quality should be selected, such as early spring bitter gourd, extra early spring bitter gourd, summer and autumn bitter gourd, etc. These varieties of bitter gourd are more popular in the market and are also able to adapt to the climate and soil conditions of the north.
2. Sowing seeds and raising seedlings.
The sowing and seedling raising of bitter gourd is an important part of the planting process. Generally speaking, the seedling time of bitter gourd in northern greenhouses is around February, when the temperature gradually rises, which is conducive to the growth of bitter gourd. In the process of raising seedlings, the following points need to be noted:
1.Preparation of nutrient soil. Nutrient soil is the basis for the growth of bitter gourd seedlings, and the soil should be selected to be fertile, loose and free of diseases and pests, add an appropriate amount of well-rotted organic fertilizer and chemical fertilizer, and fully mix it into the seedling tray.
2.Seed treatment. The seeds of bitter gourd have a hard seed coat on the surface, which needs to be soaked in warm water for a period of time, then removed to dry, and then put into nutrient soil for sowing.
3.Seedling management. In the process of growing bitter gourd seedlings, it is necessary to pay attention to the adjustment of environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and light, maintain a suitable seedbed environment, and promote the vigorous growth of seedlings.
3. Colonization management.
When bitter gourd seedlings grow to a certain extent, they can be colonized. Before planting, it is necessary to do a good job of soil preparation and fertilization in the greenhouse to ensure that the soil is loose and fertile. When planting, you need to pay attention to the following:
1.Reasonable dense planting. The planting density of bitter gourd needs to be determined according to the variety and soil conditions, and about 1500-2000 plants are generally planted per mu.
2.Fill the root water. After planting, it is necessary to water enough rooting water to promote the survival of seedlings.
3.Set up a frame to lead the vines. Bitter gourd is a creeping plant, which needs to be built to attract vines, so that the plant can climb and grow, and it is also conducive to improving the yield and quality of bitter gourd.
Fourth, pest control.
In the process of bitter gourd growth, the control of pests and diseases is also an important link. Common bitter gourd pests and diseases include powdery mildew, downy mildew, aphids, etc. For these pests and diseases, comprehensive control measures should be adopted, including the selection of disease-resistant varieties, strengthened field management, regular spraying of pesticides, etc. At the same time, it is also necessary to take targeted control measures according to the characteristics of different pests and diseases to ensure that the growth of bitter gourd is not affected.
5. Harvesting and storage.
The harvesting and storage of bitter gourd is also an important part of the planting process. Generally speaking, the harvest period of bitter gourd is about 15 days after flowering, when bitter gourd is ripe and of the best quality. During the harvesting process, care should be taken not to damage the skin of bitter gourd, so as not to affect its quality and storage time. When storing, it is necessary to keep the bitter gourd in a cool and ventilated place, avoiding direct sunlight and humid environments. During the storage process, it is also necessary to regularly check the condition of bitter gourd, and deal with it in time if there is any abnormality.
In short, the planting technology of bitter gourd in northern greenhouses needs to pay attention to many aspects such as variety selection, sowing and seedling raising, planting management, pest control, harvesting and storage. Only by mastering these technical points can we grow high-quality, high-yield bitter gourd, which can meet market demand and bring more benefits to farmers.