Fenugreek, also known as Lubaozi, is a versatile plant commonly used in traditional medicine and food industries. Its seeds are valued for their ability to nourish the kidneys, dispel cold, and relieve pain. In addition, fenugreek contains natural gums, making it a key ingredient in the production of vegetable gums. However, due to a market downturn in previous years, fenugreek cultivation declined significantly as prices fell. After several years of reduced planting and depleted stockpiles, the supply gradually became tighter, shifting from oversupply to a more balanced or even tight market situation. Some estimates suggest that current stocks are only sufficient for about six months. As a result, the price has steadily increased—from 1.5 yuan to around 2 yuan, and now reaching 3 yuan, with continued upward trends. Therefore, promoting the proper development of fenugreek farming has become a priority.
The main techniques for high-yield cultivation include:
First, understanding the plant's morphology: Fenugreek is an annual herb, growing between 30 to 80 cm tall. The entire plant emits a distinct aroma, with upright stems. The branches are hollow, and the leaves are alternate, trifoliate compound leaves, with stipules connected to the petiole. Flowers are typically 1–2 per cluster, without pedicels, with tubular corollas in yellow-white or white colors. There are 10 stamens and one pistil. The pods are slender, slightly cylindrical, curved at the tip, and contain numerous oblong, light-colored seeds with deep grooves and a navel-like structure. Flowering occurs from April to July, and fruiting from July to September.
Second, growth habits: Fenugreek prefers warm, slightly dry climates, tolerating drought and cold but not high humidity or extreme heat. It thrives in sunny conditions and can grow in various soils, although well-drained, loose, and fertile loamy soil rich in organic matter is ideal.
Third, soil preparation and fertilization: Choose fields that are loose and fertile with high organic content. Apply sufficient base fertilizer during site preparation—such as 2000 kg of farmyard manure per mu, 20 kg of urea, 50 kg of phosphate and potash fertilizer, or 50 kg of compound fertilizer containing 15% nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Fourth, sowing: Fenugreek is propagated through seeds. The best time for sowing is autumn, though spring sowing is also possible. Autumn sowing should be done before or after the first frost, while spring sowing is usually around the Qingming Festival. Seeds should be evenly scattered using a hoe or seeder at a rate of 2 kg per acre.
Fifth, field management: After germination, regular weeding and soil loosening are essential. Water promptly during dry periods and drain excess water during heavy rains. Pest and disease control should be handled using standard agricultural practices.
Sixth, harvesting and processing: Fenugreek is harvested when the leaves and stems begin to yellow and dry out. The mature plants are cut, dried, threshed, and further dried. Once the seeds are fully dried, they can be sold as medicinal ingredients. A typical yield is about 300 kg per mu.
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