1. Variety selection
When choosing a variety of Crotalaria vulgaris, the following factors must be taken into account:
- Purpose of cultivation: Crotalaria vulgaris can be used as an ornamental crop, a fodder crop or for the production of essential oil. For each purpose, there are different varieties of Crotalaria vulgaris, which have certain properties.
- Plant height: The height of Crotalaria vulgaris reaches 1.5-2 m.
2. Soil preparation
Crotalaria vulgaris is a light-loving plant, so for its cultivation it is necessary to choose sunny areas. Crotalaria vulgaris prefers fertile, loose and well-drained soils with a neutral or slightly alkaline reaction.
3. Landing
Crotalaria vulgaris can be grown by sowing seeds in open ground or seedlings.
When sowing seeds in open ground, Crotalaria vulgaris seeds are sown in the spring, when the soil temperature reaches +10 °C. The seeding depth is 2-3 cm. The seeding rate is 20-30 kg of seeds per 1 ha.
When growing seedlings, Crotalaria vulgaris seeds are sown in March-April in seedling boxes or containers. Shoots appear in 7-10 days. Seedlings are planted in separate pots or cups in the phase of 2-3 true leaves. Seedlings are planted in open ground in May-June, when the threat of frost has passed.
4. Plant care
Crotalaria vulgaris is an unpretentious plant, but to obtain good growth and development, the following measures must be taken:
- Watering: Crotalaria vulgaris is a moisture-loving plant, so during the growing season it is necessary to regularly water the plants, preventing the soil from drying out. In hot and dry weather, watering is carried out daily.
- Fertilizing: During the period of active plant growth, 2-3 fertilizing with mineral fertilizers is carried out. The first feeding is carried out in the phase of 3-4 true leaves, the second - in the budding phase, the third - in the flowering phase.
- Weeding: It is necessary to weed regularly so that they do not choke the plants.
5. Harvest
The stems of Crotalaria vulgaris can be collected throughout the season. The stems are cut with scissors or a sickle.
Additional Tips
- Crotalaria vulgaris prefers sunny places, but can also grow in partial shade.
- Crotalaria vulgaris is a moisture-loving plant, but regular watering promotes more intensive growth and development of plants.
- Crotalaria vulgaris does not require frequent feeding. It is enough to apply fertilizer 2-3 times a season.
Crotalaria vulgaris is a beautiful ornamental plant that can be used for landscaping gardens and parks.
Crotalaria vulgaris is a valuable forage crop that can be used to feed farm animals.
Essential oil is obtained from Crotalaria vulgaris, which is used in perfumery and medicine.