Ginger rhizomes have a relatively low uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium during the seedling stage. However, as the plant enters the vigorous growth phase, phosphorus absorption gradually increases, while the demand for nitrogen and potassium rises significantly, especially in the early growth stages. During the middle and late stages of vigorous growth, nitrogen uptake exceeds that of potassium, but potassium remains more important than phosphorus in overall nutrient requirements. Therefore, applying fertilizers according to the specific needs of ginger at each growth stage is essential for maximizing yield. Timely application of nitrogen fertilizer can greatly enhance production.
Fertilization for ginger typically includes both base fertilizer and top dressing. The base fertilizer consists of organic manure, cake fertilizer, and chemical fertilizers. Organic manure is usually applied during soil preparation before planting. For example, 5 to 8 cubic meters of well-decomposed chicken manure per acre are commonly used, mixed thoroughly into the soil. Cake fertilizer and chemical fertilizers are also applied directly into the furrow before sowing. A typical application might include 75–100 kg of cake fertilizer per acre, along with 50 kg of compound fertilizer (containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) or 25 kg of urea, superphosphate, and potassium sulfate.
In addition to the base fertilizer, three main top dressings are usually applied. The first one, known as the "strong seedling fertilizer," is done when the seedlings reach about 30 cm in height and develop 1–2 branches. At this stage, although the plants are still small, they require additional nutrients to promote strong and healthy growth. This top dressing mainly consists of nitrogen-rich fertilizers such as ammonium sulfate or diammonium phosphate, with about 20 kg per acre. If the planting date is too early and the seedling period is extended, two or three applications can be made with irrigation, using the same amount of fertilizer each time.
The second top dressing, called the "turning fertilizer," is applied just before and after the start of autumn, which marks a critical period for ginger growth. During this time, the plant's growth accelerates, and a large amount of nutrients are directed toward rhizome development. To support this, the second top dressing is usually combined with weeding. It typically includes a mix of long-lasting and quick-acting fertilizers, such as 70–80 kg of crushed cake fertilizer, 3–4 cubic meters of decomposed chicken manure, and 50–100 kg of compound fertilizer or 20 kg of urea, 30 kg of diammonium phosphate, and 50 kg of potassium sulfate. A ditch is dug around the base of the plants, about 15 cm deep, and the fertilizer is placed inside, mixed with the soil, and then covered.
The third top dressing, referred to as the "Zhuang Jiang Fei" (literally "Ginger Strengthening Fertilizer"), is applied in early September when the seedlings have 6–8 branches and enter a rapid growth phase. This is a crucial time for root and stem expansion. Depending on the growth condition, this top dressing may include fast-acting fertilizers like compound fertilizer, ammonium sulfate, and potassium sulfate. A general recommendation is 25–30 kg of compound fertilizer per acre, or 2.5 kg of ammonium sulfate and potassium sulfate. However, in fields with high fertility and vigorous growth, it's best to limit or avoid nitrogen fertilizer to prevent excessive foliage growth that could interfere with rhizome development.
Zinc and boron fertilizers are often used either as base fertilizers or during top dressing. When deficiencies are detected, 1–2 kg of zinc sulfate and 0.5–1 kg of borax per mu are typically applied, mixed with fine soil or organic matter. These can be applied directly into the furrow during sowing. For foliar application, a solution of 0.05–0.1% borax (50–70 liters per acre) can be sprayed three times—at the seedling stage, leaf growth stage, and rhizome expansion stage—to ensure adequate micronutrient supply.
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