Ephedra cultivation technology
2025-09-13 02:01:29
Ephedra, a well-known traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has long been valued for its ability to induce sweating, relieve coughs, ease asthma, and promote diuresis. It is commonly used in treating conditions such as external colds, chronic coughs, and emphysema. Due to its high economic value, the demand for Ephedra has increased significantly in recent years. However, this has led to overexploitation of wild resources, causing serious depletion. In response, the government has strictly prohibited the harvesting of wild Ephedra to protect the species. As a result, artificial cultivation—whether ecological or commercial—has become essential for adjusting agricultural structures and boosting farmers’ income. The following are detailed planting techniques for cultivating Ephedra.
First, China has selected eleven high-quality varieties of medicinal Ephedra. In the northwest region, the main varieties include *Ephedra sinica*, *Ephedra equisetina*, *Ephedra intermedia*, *Ephedra przewalskii*, and *Ephedra gerardiana*. Among these, *Ephedra sinica*, *Ephedra equisetina*, and *Ephedra intermedia* have wide distribution and high quality, making them the primary sources for processing factories. These are also the main varieties cultivated for commercial purposes.
Second, when selecting land for planting, sandy soils, sand-covered lands, and calcareous beach-type soils are suitable. Among these, sand-covered land yields the best results. Before sowing, deep plowing and soil preparation should be carried out. Mix 5,000 kg of farmyard manure with the soil, along with 40 kg of standard nitrogen fertilizer and 30 kg of diammonium phosphate.
Third, seed treatment involves selecting full, healthy seeds. Soak them in 30°C warm water for half an hour, then place them in a germination environment at 20°C, keeping them moist. Sow once about 80% of the seeds have germinated.
Fourth, sowing should take place at the end of April. Seeds can be sown directly or transplanted. The sowing depth should be 1.5–2 cm, and after sowing, cover with 2 cm of river sand. The recommended seeding rate is 300 grams per mu, with spacing of 20 × 20 cm. Using mulching or transplanting methods is even more effective.
Fifth, field management is crucial. After planting, water the seedlings 1–2 times within 10–15 days, depending on the conditions. Try to limit irrigation and apply fertilizers in early July each year: 20 kg of ammonium nitrate, 2000 kg of farmyard manure, 15 kg of calcium peroxide, and 15 kg of superphosphate. Water deeply before winter ends in October. Since Ephedra is a perennial plant, it often faces competition from weeds that take up water and nutrients, which greatly affects both yield and alkaloid content. Therefore, regular weeding is necessary to ensure no weeds grow in the field.
Sixth, common pests that damage Ephedra include locusts. If infestation is detected, spray chrysanthemum oil diluted 1000 times.
Finally, harvest time varies depending on the type. Seed production should be harvested at the end of October in the third year, while regrown plants should be harvested by the end of the second year. When harvesting, leave a 3 cm portion of the reed head to allow for regeneration.
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