Ziyunying, also known as Astragalus sinicus, is an annual leguminous crop that forms a symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing bacteria in its roots. These bacteria can convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that the plant can use, significantly reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. According to field studies, Ziyunying typically yields between 5 to 8 kilograms per mu (about 0.67 acres) at flowering time. When planted in rice fields during winter, it not only helps reduce fertilizer usage but also enhances rice yield.
Research has shown that every 2000 kg of fresh Ziyunying grass can produce approximately 10–12 kg of urea and increase rice production by 25–40 kg per mu. Additionally, this crop improves soil fertility by enriching the nutrient content of the soil, making it more suitable for subsequent crops. Another benefit is that Ziyunying silage can be used as green fodder during early spring when feed is scarce, and its young shoots are also edible and nutritious.
To ensure successful cultivation, several key steps should be followed:
First, timely sowing is essential. Ziyunying thrives in cooler conditions and can be planted about 25 days before the end of the late rice harvest, using around 1.5 kg of seed per acre. Before planting, the rice fields should be dried to prevent waterlogging, and if the soil is too dry, it should be lightly irrigated. The seeds must be sun-dried, rubbed to remove the waxy coating, and soaked to improve germination. Sun-drying helps activate enzymes in the seeds, increasing their germination rate. Rubbing the seeds with coarse sand or using a rice mill to gently polish them can enhance water absorption. Soaking the seeds for 12–24 hours before planting promotes faster and more uniform sprouting. However, avoid soaking the seeds in overly wet fields, as this may lead to poor shoot development after planting.
Second, rhizobia inoculation is crucial. Once the seeds have germinated, they should be coated with white rhizobial bacteria. A mixture of 0.5 kg of M. vulgaris rhizobia strain with 7.5 kg of Ziyunying seeds can cover up to 5 acres of land, ensuring effective nodulation and nitrogen fixation.
Third, proper fertilization is important. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers should be the main focus, while nitrogen should be applied sparingly. After the late rice harvest, apply 10–15 kg of superphosphate and 1,000 kg of manure to encourage early nodule formation and seedling growth. Before and after the Winter Solstice, apply 3–4 kg of potash or 50 kg of wood ash to improve seedling cold resistance. After the start of spring, apply 3–5 kg of urea to promote leaf growth and increase the yield of fresh forage.
Fourth, field management is critical. After the late rice harvest, open drainage ditches promptly and maintain moist but well-drained soil, especially in the early stages. Common diseases include powdery mildew, which can be controlled with a 0.05% solution of fungicides like polyoxin or carbendazim. Pests such as locusts and thrips can be managed using dimethoate. For Mythimna separata, mix 90% trichlorfon (100g), 150ml rice vinegar, and 5g saccharin in 75kg of water per acre. At the flowering stage, retain the field to prevent thrips damage and increase seed pod setting. Also, take measures to prevent livestock from damaging the crop.
Fifth, timely green harvesting is necessary. Usually, green harvesting is done 15–20 days before transplanting. When applying lime, use 25–40 kg per acre to help decompose Ziyunying and neutralize soil acidity.
Wuhua County Agricultural Disease and Pest Control Station
Gelatin Size 0 Empty Capsule,Empty Shell Gelatin Capsule,Empty Gelatin Color Hard Capsules,Colorful Capsule Empty Gelatin
Ningbo Jiangnan Capsule Co., Ltd. , https://www.jncapsule.com