To ensure successful intercropping of cotton and ginger, it's essential to follow a well-structured approach that optimizes both crops' growth conditions. Here’s a detailed guide for effective intercropping practices.
First, prepare the field carefully. Choose a location with deep, fertile soil that allows for good drainage and irrigation. Avoid areas previously used for growing cotton, as this can lead to pest and disease buildup. Before winter, thoroughly till the soil and incorporate 1,000 kg of organic manure such as cow dung and crop straw per acre to enrich the soil. This helps improve fertility and ensures a strong start for both crops.
Next, plan the layout properly. Adjust the spacing between cotton rows to allow for proper sunlight and air circulation. Plant one row of cotton and one row of ginger alternately, with a total width of 70 cm including the ditch. This arrangement maximizes land use while reducing competition between the two crops.
For cotton management, select insect-resistant hybrid varieties. Deep plow the land to a depth of 25 cm before planting, and apply base fertilizer along with 2–3 kg of 5% phoxim granules to control underground pests. Sow cotton in early April, using double-layered film to protect seedlings on sunny days. Transplant about 3,400 plants per mu by mid-May. Regular care is required, but special attention should be given to spraying boron fertilizer and potassium dihydrogen phosphate solutions to enhance yield and quality.
When it comes to ginger cultivation, start with high-quality seeds. In early March, grow seedlings in pits and select healthy, non-diseased rhizomes that are firm, free from damage, and have no color changes. Dry the selected seeds in the sun for 2–3 days, then place them near a heat source (commonly called a "smoker’s eye") for about 20 days to promote germination and sterilization. Once the sprouts reach 4 cm, divide them into 3–5 pieces, each containing 1–2 buds and weighing 50–100 grams. Remove any damaged or diseased parts before transplanting.
Transplant ginger in late April. Dig trenches 25 cm wide and 9 cm deep, spacing the rhizomes 20–50 cm apart. Aim for a density of 3,500–4,000 plants per acre. Cover the rhizomes with soil and compact it to retain moisture and warmth.
In terms of management, both crops require regular attention. For ginger, apply topdressing when the seedlings reach 30 cm. Mix 25 kg of ammonium carbonate and 15 kg of cake fertilizer per acre, placing it 10 cm away from the plant in furrows 7–10 cm deep. Avoid using urea directly on the plants. Apply 25 kg of dried cake and 10 kg of urea per plant before and after the autumn season. Water and drain regularly—irrigate during dry periods and clear ditches during rainy seasons to prevent waterlogging. Prevent diseases like blight by soaking the rhizomes in a 1,000-fold solution of compound Bordeaux before planting, and spray a 500-fold solution every 7–10 days in June and July. If any diseased plants are found, remove them immediately and disinfect the surrounding area with lime to stop the spread.
Additionally, perform regular field maintenance such as loosening the soil, weeding, removing side shoots, and harvesting at the right time to ensure optimal growth and yield. With proper planning and consistent care, intercropping cotton and ginger can be both productive and sustainable.
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