Two forms and attention points for the management of amaranth in Yangshuo

    Leek cultivation is commonly practiced by many farmers using a method known as "impotence." This technique involves creating raised beds or ridges, and there are two main variations. For instance, vegetable farmers in Shouguang often use impotences that are about 2 meters wide, while farmers in Jixian prefer ridges ranging from 4 to 6 meters wide. The management techniques for these methods differ slightly.

Yangshuo leek planting

    First, the management of leeks planted in 2 meter-wide ridges

    In winter, leek production focuses on temperature control. Farmers should build wind barriers around the planting area, hang reflective films, and cover the ridges with various materials to ensure the healthy growth of leeks. When hanging reflective films, it's important to consider the light reflected on the southern side of the ridge, which can help raise temperatures and promote even growth. Additionally, farmers can cover the southern side of the ridge with a layer of mulch approximately 0.5 meters wide to enhance heat retention. As the leeks grow, the mulch gradually moves toward the south, without affecting their development.

    Second, during the summer, leeks grown in Yangshuo have strong growth and high nutrient consumption. Therefore, farmers don't need to water frequently but should manage water and fertilizer carefully after controlling the leek growth to avoid excessive development.

    Third, pest and disease control is crucial. Since leeks are grown outdoors in Yangshuo, pests like red spiders and mites, along with diseases, tend to be more common between spring and autumn. During winter, farmers usually don't remove the film to protect against cold winds, so it's important to apply pesticides before mulching to prevent infestations.

    Second, the management focus for 4-6 meter-wide ridges

    First, when planting leeks, the spacing between the ridges should be increased. Due to the wider ridges, farmers find it difficult to operate after harvesting scallions in the summer, especially when performing tasks such as harvesting canola or managing pests and diseases. The bamboo rafts and steel wires in the ridges can hinder the farmers' work.

Second, harvest as soon as possible. In winter, the temperature control effect of wind barriers may not be sufficient due to the large width of the ridges. Before covering the film, farmers must use many bricks and bamboo supports to hold the film in place, which makes it hard to flatten. This can affect the reflectivity of the film, leading to lower temperatures inside the leek field and delaying growth. To make things easier, farmers can harvest when the leeks reach about 40 cm in height.