Continuous cultivation of leeks often leads to the heavy occurrence of leek maggots, but sand cultivation can effectively solve this problem. This technique is favored by many farmers due to its simplicity, low investment, quick results, and high yield. Let's learn about the key points of sand cultivation for leeks.
Key Points for Sand Cultivation of Leeks
1. Choosing the Sand
For cultivating leeks, follow these steps:
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Type: Use either water sand or dry sand.
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Grain Size: Ensure the grain size is 2-3 millimeters.
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Soil Content: The soil content should not exceed 1% to avoid affecting bed temperature and aeration, which can cause root rot.
2. Preparing the Sand Bed
Prepare the sand bed with these steps:
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Location: Choose an empty room or greenhouse.
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Layering: Spread a 15-centimeter-thick layer of fine sand on the ground.
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Leveling: Level the sand with a wooden board.
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Edges: Build the edges of the sand bed with bricks to a height of 20 centimeters.
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Production Scale: For large-scale production, fix the position of the cultivation beds. For home cultivation, use portable, movable beds.
3. Planting Method
Follow these steps for planting leeks:
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Selection: Choose leek roots that are at least 2 years old.
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Preparation: Remove soil from the roots and trim the leaves without cutting the roots.
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Bundling: Bundle 15-20 or 30-40 leek plants together.
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Spacing: Plant the leeks in the sand bed with a spacing of approximately 1.5 centimeters between plants and rows.
4. Water and Fertilizer Management
Manage water and fertilizer with these steps:
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Initial Watering: Water the leeks thoroughly immediately after planting.
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Watering Frequency: Water when the soil is dry and avoid overwatering. Generally, the ratio of watering to nutrient solution application is 2:1.
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Fertilizing: After the leeks have adapted, start fertilizing by diluting the nutrient solution and applying it through irrigation. Spray once every morning for best results.
5. Using Nutrient Solutions
Follow these steps for nutrient solutions:
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Initial Application: Start applying the nutrient solution once new roots appear.
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Specialized Solutions: Use leek-specific nutrient solutions, diluting them 5-10 times based on plant condition.
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Alternative Fertilizers: Biogas slurry can be used as an organic fertilizer, alternating with the nutrient solution.
Summary
By using scientific sand cultivation techniques and management methods, you can effectively increase the yield and quality of leeks. Although this soilless cultivation technique requires some expertise, it becomes a simple and practical method once mastered.