Causes and Prevention of Early Withering of Lotus Leaves
In the process of growing lotus roots, the problem of withering of lotus leaves is often encountered. If it is a seasonal change withering, then it is normal. If it withers early, what could be the reason? Let's find out together. What Causes Early Withering of Lotus Leaves?
1. Lack of Fertilizer: Lotus leaves need sufficient fertilizer during their growth period. If fertilizer is not applied in a timely manner, the lack of nutrients can lead to poor leaf growth, resulting in wilting and yellowing. Nitrogen fertilizer can be applied to provide nutrition to lotus leaves and promote the formation of chlorophyll, making the leaves more vibrant.
2. Low Water Level: Early withering of lotus leaves may be caused by a low water level. The water level should be kept at a moderate level, with a water depth of 3-5 centimeters. When there is a shortage of water, water should be replenished regularly.
3. Disease: During the growth period, lotus leaves can be affected by pathogens, leading to dryness, yellowing, and wilting of the leaves. Common diseases include leaf blight and rot. Leaf blight is a common disease. What Causes Early Withering of Lotus Leaves?
How to Prevent Leaf Blight on Lotus Leaves?
1. Proper Crop Rotation: Rotating with crops such as rice and rapeseed for more than 3 years can control the occurrence of diseases. After continuous cultivation of lotus roots for 3 years, serious diseases should be rotated.
2. Winter Field Cleaning: Thoroughly remove diseased residues and dispose of them outside the field. Diseased leaves should be removed and buried or burned in the field.
3. Soaking and Disinfection: Use disease-free lotus roots for planting. Before planting, soak them in a solution of carbendazim, methyl thiophanate, or mancozeb for 15-20 minutes. Ventilation and light in the field should be improved to reduce humidity.
4. Chemical Control: In the early stages of leaf blight, spray 50% carbendazim, or 50% thiram wettable powder 800 times liquid, or 70% mancozeb wettable powder 500-600 times liquid, once every week or so, for 2-3 consecutive sprays.
Above are the causes and prevention measures for early withering of lotus leaves, which are usually caused by the above reasons. However, the probability of disease occurrence is high, so prevention measures must be taken.
How to Preserve Lotus Leaves
Lotus leaves are not only beautiful but also have many uses, such as wrapping food or making herbal tea. However, they can wilt and deteriorate quickly if not properly preserved. Here are some tips on how to preserve lotus leaves:
1. Harvesting
Harvest lotus leaves when they are mature but still fresh and green. Choose leaves that are free from damage or blemishes.
2. Cleaning
Wash the lotus leaves gently with clean water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a towel.
3. Preservation Methods
Refrigeration
Wrap the lotus leaves individually in paper towels and place them in a plastic bag. Store the bag in the vegetable crisper drawer of your refrigerator. The leaves can last for about a week this way.
Freezing
If you want to preserve lotus leaves for a longer period, you can freeze them. Wrap the leaves individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be kept in the freezer for up to six months.
4. Thawing
When you're ready to use the lotus leaves, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Do not thaw them at room temperature, as this can cause them to become mushy.
5. Uses
Preserved lotus leaves can be used for wrapping food, such as sticky rice, or for making herbal tea. They can also be used in crafts or as decorations.
By following these simple steps, you can preserve lotus leaves and enjoy their beauty and usefulness for a long time.
What Makes Lotus Leaves Resistant to Rot?
Lotus leaves are known for their unique ability to repel water and resist rotting. This remarkable quality is due to several factors that are present in the structure of the leaves:
1. Microscopic Structure
The surface of lotus leaves is covered with tiny bumps, called papillae, which are coated with wax. This structure creates a rough surface that allows water droplets to bead up and roll off the leaves, carrying away dirt and contaminants that could cause rot.
2. Hydrophobicity
Lotus leaves are highly hydrophobic, meaning they repel water. This is due to the combination of the rough surface texture and the wax coating. Water droplets that land on the leaves form spherical shapes and are easily shed, preventing the leaves from becoming waterlogged and rotting.
3. Self-cleaning Ability
The hydrophobic and rough surface of lotus leaves also allows them to self-clean. When water droplets roll off the leaves, they pick up dirt and debris, leaving the surface clean. This self-cleaning property helps prevent the buildup of organic material that could promote rotting.
4. Antimicrobial Properties
Lotus leaves contain compounds, such as alkaloids and flavonoids, that have antimicrobial properties. These compounds help protect the leaves from microbial attack, reducing the risk of rotting.
Overall, the unique structure and composition of lotus leaves make them highly resistant to rotting, allowing them to remain fresh and healthy even in wet and humid conditions.
