Astragalus membranaceus is a highly valued medicinal plant, with a base that produces 5,000 kg of seeds annually and introduced new production in 2006. The germination rate is 80%, ensuring high-quality seed viability. The medicine is primarily derived from the root, yielding 200 kg per mu, with a market price of 13 yuan. Seed production stands at 40 kg per mu, fetching 60 yuan per kilogram. Approximately 20 tons of seedlings are cultivated across 50 acres. Astragalus is known for its ability to clear heat, reduce dampness, detoxify, stop bleeding, and ease labor pains. It is used to treat conditions such as fever, flu, red eyes, swelling, vomiting, blood stasis, cough, hepatitis, jaundice, hypertension, headaches, enteritis, dysentery, fetal movement, ulcers, burns, and scarlet fever prevention. Additionally, it serves as a key ingredient in pharmaceuticals like "Huang Qin Oral Liquid." Planting techniques are available, with customizable sizes and support for consignments.
Ecologically, Astragalus thrives in cool, semi-humid, and semi-arid mountainous or plateau grasslands, preferring sunny conditions and showing strong cold resistance. It often grows in symbiosis with grasses and Artemisia species. It is commonly found between 600-1500 meters above sea level on sunny slopes or grasslands, avoiding shaded and wet areas. Optimal climatic conditions include annual solar radiation of 110-135 kcal/cm², an average temperature range of -4 to 8°C, and annual precipitation of 400-600 mm. The soil should be neutral or slightly acidic with a humus layer, suitable for loamy or sandy soils with good drainage. Poorly drained soils are unsuitable for cultivation.
Propagation methods include sowing and rooting. For sowing, seeds are collected during July to October when fruits turn light brown. They are dried and cleaned before storage. Germination rates vary, but under optimal conditions (15–30°C), they perform well. Sowing can be done in spring or autumn, with spacing of 30–40 cm and seeding depth of 0.6–6 cm. A total of 1 kg per mu is recommended. After germination, thinning is necessary to maintain spacing of 8–12 cm. For small-scale farming, transplanting seedlings from nurseries can enhance yield and growth.
Root propagation is also effective, especially for shortening the growing cycle. Three-year-old roots can be divided into sections with buds and treated with rooting agents like ABT solutions. This method improves survival and growth, especially when applied in early April. Cuttings using stem tips show high survival rates (over 95%), while base cuttings have lower success. Hormone treatments significantly improve mid-stem cutting survival, with IAA at 100 μg/ml achieving the best results. Ideal cutting periods are before mid-June in Beijing, with tips 8–10 cm long, spaced 10×6 cm, and kept moist without excessive humidity to avoid rotting.
Field management includes keeping the soil moist during seedling stages, regular weeding, and proper spacing. Transplanting occurs when seedlings reach 6–8 cm, with planting distances of 25–30 cm by 12–15 cm. Topdressing with superphosphate and ammonium sulfate is recommended, or diluted human waste if unavailable. Weeding and soil loosening help maintain healthy growth. Fertilization before flowering promotes flower development, while removing pedicels after flowering enhances root growth and medicinal value.
Diseases like leaf blight and root rot require timely intervention. Bordeaux mixture or carbendazim sprays control leaf blight, while drainage and crop rotation prevent root rot. Pests like Prochoreutis sp. can be managed through garden cleanup and insecticide sprays. Harvesting typically occurs after 2–3 years, when stems and leaves turn yellow. Roots are carefully dug, cleaned, and dried, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent discoloration. Drying reduces fresh roots to about 1/3 of their original weight, with yields ranging from 150–280 kg per mu after processing.
Quality standards classify Astragalus into two grades: one with conical roots and distinct textures, and another with broken pieces. Both must be free from impurities, insects, and mildew. Improving yield through fertilization and asexual propagation has shown promising results, with higher active compound content compared to traditional methods. Harvest timing is critical, with optimal collection in late autumn or July–August to maximize flavonoid levels. Cultivating for three years ensures maximum yield and quality, making it a valuable crop for both medicinal and commercial purposes.
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