Redleg powder is the whole herb of the Polygonum hydropiperoides or Polygonum chinense, which belongs to the family Polygonaceae. It has high medicinal value and can treat various diseases. Its cultivation method is simple, and only a few points need to be noted.
1. Cultivation Techniques
Plant propagation can be done through division or seeds, with division being the main method. From late winter to early spring before the plants emerge, dig up the rhizomes and divide them into individual plants, leaving buds and roots on each plant.
When planting, plow the soil and create raised beds that are 1.3m wide. Dig holes with a spacing of about 33cm between rows and plants, and plant 2 plants per hole. Compact the soil in the planting area, apply manure and grass ash, and finally cover with fine soil to level with the bed surface.
2. Field Management
After planting the redleg powder, cultivate and weed the field once a year. Apply fertilizer three times: the first time right after the plants emerge in March, the second time in June or July, and the third time when the plants become dormant in winter. Cut off the withered stems and leaves before applying the third round of fertilizer, and cover the plants with soil for winter protection.
Use manure as the main fertilizer for the first and second rounds, and apply grass ash or compost for the third round.
3. Suitable Temperature
The optimal temperature is 15-25℃. For high temperatures in summer and autumn, shade and ventilation should be increased. The plants can also be moved to a shaded and well-ventilated area. In winter, place the plants in a well-lit room and reduce watering to avoid cold drafts.
4. Adequate Water Supply
Water the plants when the topsoil turns lighter in color and feels dry 1-2cm below the surface. During hot and dry periods in summer and autumn, spray water around the plants to increase humidity. Pay attention to ventilation and use water that is close to room temperature for spraying.
5. Lighting Environment
The redleg powder prefers light but dislikes direct strong sunlight or excessively shaded environments. It is suitable to place the plants in locations such as windowsills or balconies that receive a certain amount of daily sunlight.
During hot and sunny periods in summer and autumn, provide shade and increase ventilation to avoid exposure. In winter and spring, provide sufficient light. If the indoor environment is dim or there are several consecutive cloudy days, place the plants under bright lights for supplemental lighting.
6. Soil Requirements
The redleg powder is not demanding on soil conditions. You can choose universal nutrient-rich soil or prepare a mixture of peat moss, coconut fiber, and perlite in a ratio of 1:1:1, with the addition of a suitable amount of universal organic granular fertilizer.
Fertilization is generally not necessary, as a sufficient amount of light can provide all the necessary nutrients for growth without additional supplementation.
