Pumpkin is an important traditional crop in China, which is used for both vegetables and grains. With a long cultivation history and widespread distribution, achieving high yields in pumpkin cultivation requires proper attention to seedling cultivation. So what is the correct method for pumpkin seedling cultivation? Let's find out together.
Correct Method for Pumpkin Seedling Cultivation
-
Choose high-quality seeds: Select seeds that are plump, free from external injuries, pests, mold, and of excellent quality. Such seeds generally have higher germination rates. Regarding varieties, follow the principle of adapting to local conditions and choose the most suitable varieties for local growth.
-
Prepare the seedbed: The seedbed does not require high soil quality, but to cultivate strong seedlings, it is best to ensure rich organic matter, loose soil, good physical properties, good ventilation, water retention, and fertility. You can mix well-rotted farmyard manure with loose soil, spread it on the seedbed with a thickness of about 40-50 cm.
-
Seed treatment: Before sowing, sun-dry the seeds for 1-2 days, soak them in 50-60°C hot water for 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly. When the water temperature drops to 25-30°C, soak for another 6 hours, then drain and germinate at 20-30°C, ensuring good ventilation. Germination usually occurs in 2-3 days.
-
Sow at the right time:
-
Sowing time: Generally, the sowing period is from late February to early March in spring or from July to August in autumn.
-
Sowing method: Usually direct sowing (hole sowing) is adopted. Evenly sprinkle the seeds on the seedbed, with 2-3 seeds per hole, row spacing of 2 meters, and plant spacing of 50 cm. Cover with soil after sowing, about 2-3 cm thick.
-
Seedling management:
-
Temperature and light: After sowing, maintain daytime temperatures between 25°C and 30°C and nighttime temperatures at 18°C. When 60% of the seeds have sprouted, proper ventilation and cooling should be provided, remove the grass curtains in time, and increase sunlight exposure.
-
Watering: Water the seedbed sufficiently before sowing. After emergence, no additional watering is needed. If water deficiency occurs after sowing, use a spray bottle to apply a small amount of water. Do not water the seedbed.
-
Fertilization: Nitrogen fertilizer is mainly applied during the seedling stage to promote seedling growth. Generally, apply 5-8 kg of urea per mu.
-
Weeding: After pumpkin seedlings emerge, timely loosening of the soil promotes root growth. Weeding should also be done promptly. Manual weeding is recommended. For large-scale planting, choose low-toxic and efficient herbicides.
In conclusion, while the method of pumpkin seedling cultivation is not difficult to master, only by doing well in seedling cultivation can high-quality strong seedlings be cultivated, thereby achieving high yields and increasing profits.
