Sprout vegetable cultivation is an innovative and intensive method of growing vegetables that has gained popularity in recent years. This technique enables the year-round production of sprouts, offering a consistent supply for the market. Among the various sprout options, live citron buds stand out due to their soft texture and concentrated flavor, making them ideal for consumption once rooted. With increasing demand, the cultivation of live citron buds has become a promising agricultural practice. Below is a detailed guide on how to grow these nutritious sprouts.
First, the production of live buds begins with creating the right environment. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 15°C and 25°C, typically during Winter and Spring when indoor or greenhouse conditions are more controlled. To maximize space, a tiered planting system is recommended. Wooden boards or bricks can be used to build shelves, while lightweight plastic trays with mesh at the bottom are ideal for seedling. Each tray should measure approximately 50 cm in length, 25 cm in width, and 5 cm in height. A small hole at the bottom ensures proper drainage.
Next, seed treatment plays a crucial role in ensuring high germination rates. Seeds collected in the same year must be cleaned thoroughly to remove impurities, as their germination rate tends to decrease every other year. Soak the seeds in warm water at 55°C while continuously stirring. Once cooled, let them soak for 10 to 15 hours before sowing. Maintain a germination temperature of 20°C to 25°C, and check the seeds at least twice daily to encourage even sprouting. After about four days, when the seeds turn white, they are ready for planting.
To begin planting, line the bottom of the tray with a layer of white paper, followed by a 2 to 2.5 cm thick layer of damp sand. Evenly spread the seeds over the sand, aiming for a density of 500 grams per square meter. Cover the seeds with another 1.5 cm layer of fine sand and gently pour 20°C water over the top to keep the substrate moist. This setup creates an ideal environment for the sprouts to develop.
During the management phase, it's important to maintain consistent moisture without overwatering. Five days after sowing, the seeds will start to emerge from the substrate. At this point, thoroughly water the trays with fresh 20°C water. Regular misting using a handheld sprayer or watering can is recommended—two to three times a day. Keep the daytime temperature around 25°C and the nighttime temperature around 10°C. After five to six days, the citron buds will begin to swell. When the shoots reach about 10 cm in height and the cotyledons are fully expanded, they are ready for harvest. However, if the temperature is too high, axillary buds may develop into true leaves, reducing the product's market value. To prevent this, a roughening agent can be applied to the top of the buds, maintaining a distance of 1 to 1.2 cm from the sand layer.
Harvesting occurs when the buds reach 8 to 9 cm in height but have not yet lignified. Initially, the sprouts need to be shaded to promote healthy growth. Once they reach the desired size, they are exposed to light and dried for one or two days before being harvested. On average, 3 to 4 kilograms of fresh sprouts can be harvested per square meter. This efficient and sustainable method of sprout cultivation offers a valuable option for both home growers and commercial producers alike.
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