Pachira lucidum is commonly cultivated in open areas across tropical regions such as Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, and Hainan. The planting process typically begins with selecting loose, fertile sandy loam soil. Before planting, a sufficient amount of base fertilizer is applied to ensure nutrient-rich conditions. The land is then shaped into ridges based on sunlight exposure, wind direction, and topography, with a ridge width ranging from 1 to 1.2 meters.
Seeding is usually done twice a year—once in spring (February to March) and again in autumn (July to August). Once the seeds mature, they are harvested and prepared for sowing by removing the outer shell and soaking them. During planting, seeds are spaced 10 to 15 cm apart, with a row spacing of 20 to 30 cm depending on the planting method.
During the growing season, especially in high-temperature periods, irrigation is required daily or every other day, but care must be taken not to overwater, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. At the seedling stage, nitrogen-rich liquid fertilizer is applied once a week, while phosphorus and potassium are added in appropriate amounts. One month before transplanting, fertilization is stopped to allow the seedlings to harden slightly, making them easier to handle during weaving.
Common pests include cabbage caterpillars, ulnar spiders, and red spiders. To manage these, a 1000-times diluted solution of 40% omethoate or dichlorvos is sprayed regularly. The main disease affecting the plant is anthracnose, which can be controlled through proper water and fertilizer management, maintaining good ventilation, and applying fungicides like chlorothalonil and carbendazim.
In tropical climates, weeds grow rapidly, so regular weeding is essential. Seedlings can reach heights between 30 cm and 150 cm, with diameters ranging from 0.5 cm to 1 cm. A week before preparing the seedlings for sale, the leaves (including petioles) are removed to encourage aging and improve the quality of the final product. The day before transplanting, watering is done to help the seedlings adjust more easily.
After being transplanted, seedlings are sorted by height into categories such as 30 cm, 45 cm, 60 cm, 75 cm, 90 cm, 120 cm, and 150 cm. Those with similar thickness are then woven together, typically in groups of 3 to 8 (more than 5 for larger sizes). The weaving should be firm but not too tight, ensuring flexibility and strength.
Once the seedlings are ready, they are planted in well-prepared soil with adequate base fertilizer, and rows are spaced about 1 meter apart. After the weaving process, it’s important to monitor two key factors: preventing borer infestations and promptly addressing any necrotic areas. If necessary, affected parts should be pruned or replaced with stumps. Additionally, the binding straps should be checked and replaced regularly to maintain structure.
When the diameter of the woven trunk reaches more than 1.5 cm, the plant is considered ready for production. One month prior to harvesting, water and fertilizer are reduced to promote better growth and density. When cutting, branches and leaves are first removed, followed by careful excavation and weaving of the tree head. High-quality plants have no necrosis, uniform thickness, and a compact structure, making them easy to transport and highly sought after in the market.
For Pachira maxima that are not immediately sold, they are potted using a mix of coconut coir, river sand, and peat soil in a 1:1:1 ratio, with small amounts of slaked lime and magnesium oxide added to adjust the pH. After the initial watering, further irrigation should be limited to avoid overwatering.
D-delta Mixed Tocopherols,Spirulina Blue Powder Phycocyanin, Natural Matcha Powder, Organic Spirulina Powder
Xi'an Hersoncare Bio-Tech Co., Ltd , https://www.hersoncarebio.com