Chinese cabbage is one of the most widely cultivated and essential vegetables in China. With the use of proper agricultural facilities, farmers can grow this vegetable year-round, ensuring a continuous supply on the market. This not only enhances the availability of the crop but also significantly boosts farming efficiency.
**I. Variety Selection**
Chinese cabbage thrives in a warm and cool climate, but it has limited tolerance to extreme temperatures. Based on the growing season, varieties are typically categorized into three main types: spring-tolerant, summer heat-resistant, and autumn storage-resistant. Choosing the right variety for each season is crucial to ensure healthy growth and high yields.
**II. Sowing Techniques**
Timely sowing plays a vital role in the success of Chinese cabbage cultivation. Selecting the appropriate planting date and meeting the environmental needs of the plant at every stage are key to achieving a good harvest. There are two primary sowing methods: direct seeding and transplanting from a nursery.
1. **Direct Seeding (Live Broadcast):**
This is the most common method. Farmers prepare ridges or furrows, with a depth of about 1.5 cm. Seeds are sown along the furrows, covered with soil, and gently pressed. The recommended seed rate is 150–200 grams per acre.
2. **Nursery Raising:**
A well-drained, fertile, and elevated area is chosen for the nursery. Autumn sowing should be done 3–5 days earlier than direct sowing. Seedlings usually take 20–25 days to be ready for transplanting. In winter and early spring, when temperatures are low, the seedling period may extend to 40–50 days. During warmer seasons, such as late spring and early summer, seedlings can be ready in 25–30 days. Depending on the local climate, different protective structures like greenhouses, solar-heated houses, or plastic arch sheds may be used to protect young plants from temperature fluctuations.
It’s important to maintain optimal temperatures during sowing and transplanting. Chinese cabbage tends to flower between 10°C and 25°C, so spring planting should avoid temperatures below 15°C. After planting, keep the soil moist by watering regularly, especially during hot summer months. Avoid flooding, and ensure proper drainage during rainy periods to prevent diseases like soft rot.
**III. Fertilization Techniques**
1. **Base Fertilizer Application:**
Since Chinese cabbage has a long growing cycle, applying a large amount of high-quality organic fertilizer as a base is essential. It is recommended to use at least 5,000 kg of manure per acre, along with 30–50 kg of superphosphate or compound fertilizer.
2. **Seedling Fertilization:**
To support healthy seedling development, quick-acting fertilizers are necessary. Applying 4 kg of ammonium nitrate per acre before direct sowing helps provide immediate nutrients. Mix it well with the soil in the furrow and water the seeds afterward.
3. **Rosette Stage Fertilization:**
During the rosette stage, the leaves begin to grow rapidly, making this a critical time for nutrient uptake. A balanced mix of manure, ash, and nitrogen-based fertilizer is ideal. Apply 800–1500 kg of manure per mu, along with 50–100 kg of wood ash or 10–15 kg of ammonium nitrate, plus 7–10 kg of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer. Place the fertilizer near the base of the plant and cover it with soil.
4. **Head Formation Fertilization:**
During the head formation phase, the plant requires more nutrients and water. Apply a complete fertilizer 5–6 days before the head starts forming. Use 20 kg of ammonium nitrate, 10–15 kg of superphosphate, and 10–15 kg of potassium sulfate per acre, or 1600–2500 kg of well-decomposed manure combined with 50–100 kg of wood ash. Dig trenches between the rows and mix the fertilizer thoroughly with the soil.
**IV. Pest and Disease Control**
Pests and diseases can greatly affect the yield and quality of Chinese cabbage. Common diseases include viral infections, downy mildew, soft rot, black spot, black rot, and clubroot. The best prevention is to choose disease-resistant varieties and rotate crops regularly.
Common pests include aphids, cabbage worms, diamondback moths, flea beetles, cutworms, and small ground beetles. Farmers should implement preventive measures, such as regular monitoring, using organic pesticides, and maintaining field hygiene to reduce infestations.
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