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High-yield method for greenhouse loofah
Greenhouse loofah cultivation requires careful attention to several key steps. First, selecting the right variety is essential. Opt for varieties that exhibit strong growth, cold tolerance, and adaptability, such as cylindrical loofah, which is well-suited for greenhouse conditions.
Next, land preparation and fertilization play a crucial role in ensuring healthy plant development. Before planting, plow the soil thoroughly and incorporate more than 5,000 kilograms of high-quality compost. Level the field and create furrows along the planting lines. Apply 50 kg of calcium phosphate and 25 kg of potassium sulfate per mu, or alternatively, use 100 kg of well-decomposed cake fertilizer to enrich the soil.
For planting time and methods, loofah can be sown directly in mid-October or transplanted. The recommended ridge size involves a large row spacing of 70 cm, a small row spacing of 60 cm, and a plant spacing of 30 cm, resulting in approximately 3,400 plants per mu. This layout ensures proper air circulation and sunlight exposure.
When it comes to sowing and seedling care, seeds should be soaked in hot water at 60°C for 10 minutes, then cooled for 24 hours. After soaking, mix the seeds with a clean cloth and keep them at 28–32°C for germination. Rinse the seeds once daily until most of them sprout. Water the seedbeds before sowing, and after planting, cover the soil with about 1.5 cm of soil. Seedlings typically emerge within 3–4 days. Once the seedlings have 1–2 true leaves, thinning can begin, leaving one seedling per hole.
Temperature and light management are critical during the growing season. Loofah thrives in temperatures between 20–24°C, with fruit development best at 24–28°C. If temperatures drop below 15°C, growth slows, and below 10°C, it may stop altogether. Maintain daytime temperatures between 25–30°C and nighttime temperatures around 18°C. During the early growth stage, control sunlight exposure to promote stem and leaf development and female flower differentiation. During flowering, ensure adequate sunlight by opening vents to increase temperature.
Watering and topdressing must be done carefully. Seedlings do not require frequent watering, but provide small amounts of water 1–2 times. When vines reach about 5 cm, hill up the soil and apply 30 kg of potassium dihydrogen phosphate per acre. After flowering, water every 7–8 days and apply 5 kg of urea per acre. Proper irrigation and fertilization support robust growth and fruit production.
Vine training and plant adjustment are necessary for optimal yield. When vines reach 25 cm, install supports such as wires or nylon ropes attached to the greenhouse frame. This creates a vertical structure that allows vines to grow upward without crossing. Tie the vines every 4–5 leaves using an "S" shaped method to maintain proper orientation and reduce space usage.
Preserving flowers and fruits is important for maximizing yield. Using 2.4–4D at a concentration of 20×10â»â¶ when temperatures are high, or 30×10â»â¶ when low, can help reduce flower drop and improve fruit set. Apply the solution to the female flower heads or dip the flowers directly in the liquid, ideally in the morning around 8 am.
Pest and disease control is also vital. Common diseases include anthracnose, blight, and gray mold, which can be managed with fungicides like carbendazim, chlorothalonil, and polymyxin. Insect pests such as aphids and whiteflies can be controlled using fish vine essence and broom spirit. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are essential to prevent damage.
By following these detailed steps, growers can ensure successful greenhouse loofah cultivation, leading to a bountiful harvest and high-quality produce.