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Asparagus seedling breeding method
Asparagus is commonly propagated through seeds, making the selection of high-quality seeds a crucial first step. Asparagus seeds can remain viable for 3 to 5 years if stored properly, but in practical agricultural use, their effective lifespan is typically 2 to 3 years. If kept in a humid or unsealed environment, the germination rate can decline rapidly. To ensure optimal seed quality, it's important to allow the seeds to fully mature, which takes over 80 days from pollination to harvest. Additionally, cold stratification at 0–5°C can be used to break dormancy and improve germination rates.
For nursery construction, especially in northern regions, two common methods are used. The first is the Yangshuo technique, which involves building a wind barrier with a wall, followed by a protective layer of film and grass. A night cover is also placed, and the film should be put on a week before sowing to warm the soil. Another option is the small arch shed, a simple structure made from bamboo or wooden sticks bent into an arch and covered with plastic film. The frame should be sturdy, with supports every 50–60 cm, and the edges fastened securely. The film should be pressed down with dirt to prevent it from being blown off. Adding a grass raft on top can further increase ground temperature.
Soil preparation is essential for growing strong asparagus seedlings. The nutrient soil should have good physical and chemical properties. A recommended mix includes 6 parts of sifted fertile soil, 4 parts of organic fertilizer (such as compost or manure), 15–25 kg of dry chicken manure or animal dung per cubic meter, and 1–1.5 kg of compound fertilizer. This mixture should be thoroughly blended and spread evenly to a depth of 14 cm in the nursery beds or arch sheds, then leveled for seeding.
Nutrient bags or pots are another useful tool in asparagus cultivation. These are cylindrical containers measuring 10–12 cm in height and 8–10 cm in diameter, with a 1 cm square hole in the center for planting. The nutrient soil is prepared by mixing 3 parts of decomposed cow or horse manure with 7 parts of fertile soil, then sieving and adjusting the moisture content. The soil should hold together when squeezed but not be too wet. Alternatively, nutrient bags can be made using waste paper tubes filled with the prepared soil.
Before sowing, asparagus seeds need proper treatment due to their thick, hard coats. One method is to sun-dry the seeds for 2–3 days, spreading them on a cloth and turning them 2–3 times daily. Another approach is to soak the seeds in warm water (45–50°C) for 2–3 days, changing the water 2–3 times daily. Seeds can also be stored in sand during winter to promote germination. A deep pit is dug in a sunny area, and the seeds are buried in moist sand at least 20 cm deep. In spring, they are retrieved, cleaned, and ready for planting.
After soaking, the seeds are wrapped in clean gauze and kept at 25–30°C for germination. They should be rinsed once or twice daily with warm water to remove any secretions and prevent mold. Once 10–15% of the seeds have cracked open, they are ready to be sown. If not planted immediately, the seeds should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated place to avoid excessive root growth that could damage them during transplanting.