Fenugreek, also known as Lubaozi, is a versatile plant commonly used in traditional medicine and food industries. Its seeds are valued for their kidney-nourishing properties, ability to dispel cold, and pain-relieving effects. Additionally, due to its high gum content, it serves as a key ingredient in the production of vegetable gums. However, after a period of declining market demand and falling prices in previous years, fenugreek cultivation was significantly reduced. Over time, stockpiles were depleted, leading to a shift from oversupply to scarcity. According to some estimates, current stocks are only sufficient for about six months. As a result, prices have steadily risen—from 1.5 yuan per kilogram to around 2 yuan, and now reaching 3 yuan. The upward trend continues, making the proper development of fenugreek production more important than ever.
The main techniques for high-yield fenugreek cultivation include the following:
First, understanding the plant's morphology: Fenugreek is an annual herb, typically growing between 30 to 80 cm tall. It has a fragrant aroma, with upright stems and hollow branches. The leaves are alternate, three-pinnate compound leaves, and the stipules are connected to the petiole. Flowers are small, yellow-white or white, with a tubular shape and butterfly-like corolla. There are ten stamens and one pistil. The pods are slender, slightly cylindrical, and curved, with a tail-like tip. The seeds are oblong, light in color, and have a deep groove on each side, along with a navel. Flowering occurs from April to July, and fruiting takes place from July to September.
Second, growth habits: Fenugreek prefers warm, slightly dry climates. It is drought-tolerant but not suitable for high humidity or extreme heat. It thrives in sunny conditions and is sensitive to shade. The soil should be well-drained, loose, and rich in organic matter, with deep loamy soil being ideal.
Third, soil preparation and fertilization: Choose fields that are loose, fertile, and rich in organic material. Before planting, apply adequate base fertilizer—such as 2000 kg of well-rotted manure per mu, 20 kg of urea, and 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 times for sowing are autumn and spring, with autumn being the most common. Autumn sowing should take place just before or after the first frost, while spring sowing is done around the Qingming festival. Seeds are evenly scattered across the field using a hoe or seeder at a rate of 2 kg per acre.
Fifth, field management: After germination, regular weeding and soil cultivation are essential. Water should be provided promptly during dry periods, and drainage must be ensured during rainy seasons. Pests and diseases should be managed using conventional methods.
Sixth, harvesting and processing: Fenugreek is harvested when the leaves and stems begin to wither. The mature plants are cut, dried, and then threshed to extract the seeds. Once fully dried, the seeds can be sold as medicinal ingredients. A typical yield is around 300 kg per mu.
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