Planting method of polygonum capitatum interplanted with maize

Abstract

The present application provides a planting method of planting Polygonum capitatum in corn. Specifically, the method for planting Polygonum capitatum by interplanting corn comprises the following steps: site selection of planting ground, seedling of Polygonum capitatum, land preparation, corn planting, transplanting of Polygonum capitatum seedling, field management, and harvesting. The present application also provides a Polygonum capitatum obtained by the method for planting Polygonum capitatum by interplanting corn. The method of the present application has excellent effects as described in the specification.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of plant cultivation technology, and relates to a method for planting Polygonum capitatum, and in particular to a method for increasing the yield and income of Polygonum capitatum by intercropping it with corn. Background Technology

[0002] Miao medicinal Polygonum capitulatum Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don is the dried whole herb or above-ground parts of the plant Polygonum capitulatum Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don. It possesses the effects of clearing heat and dampness, detoxifying and relieving pain, promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis, and promoting urination. It is recorded in the 2019 edition of the "Quality Standards for Traditional Chinese and Ethnic Medicinal Materials of Guizhou Province". With the development of the market, the supply of Polygonum capitulatum exceeds the demand. Guizhou Province is making great use of its environmental and land resources to vigorously develop intercropping of Polygonum capitulatum and corn, which is of great significance to the development of Polygonum capitulatum.

[0003] Currently, the main cultivation model for Polygonum capitatum is through individual farmers. Because Polygonum capitatum is a creeping plant, its land utilization rate is low. Corn, on the other hand, not only has a high yield per unit area, good yield-increasing effect, wide adaptability, and low planting cost, but also offers numerous varieties suitable for different production environments and cultivation conditions. It can be planted monoculture or intercropped with various crops, greatly increasing the total yield per unit area. Intercropping Polygonum capitatum with corn not only improves land utilization efficiency and the quality of the medicinal material, but also increases the economic benefits for growers, further promoting the development of Polygonum capitatum cultivation.

[0004] The applicant's research team has made long-term and unremitting efforts in the cultivation technology of Polygonum capitatum. For example, Chinese Patent ZL2013104067082 discloses a method for selecting and cultivating a planting base for Polygonum capitatum, a medicinal herb used in Relinqing granules; Chinese Patent ZL2013104071497 discloses a seed treatment method for the cultivation and propagation of Polygonum capitatum, a medicinal herb used in Relinqing granules; Chinese Patent ZL2013104071317 discloses a method for propagating and raising seedlings of Polygonum capitatum, a medicinal herb used in Relinqing granules; Chinese Patent ZL2013104067326 discloses a method for cultivating Polygonum capitatum, a medicinal herb used in Relinqing granules; and Chinese Patent ZL2013104071355 discloses a method for harvesting and processing Polygonum capitatum, a medicinal herb used in Relinqing granules. These patent documents are incorporated herein by reference. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method for cultivating Polygonum capitatum, which is expected to improve the cultivation efficiency of Polygonum capitatum, for example, by increasing the content of physiologically active substances in the Polygonum capitatum medicinal material, such as increasing the content of quercetin and succinic acid in the Polygonum capitatum medicinal material. It has been unexpectedly discovered that one or more of these objectives can be achieved by using the method of this invention, and this invention is based on such discoveries.

[0006] Specifically, the first aspect of the present invention provides a method for cultivating Polygonum capitatum by intercropping with maize, which includes the following steps:

[0007] Step 1: Site selection for planting

[0008] The climate is warm and humid with relatively small annual temperature variations, an average annual temperature above 12℃, an annual accumulated temperature above 3000℃, and a frost-free period of over 270 days per year. Rainfall is abundant, with an average annual rainfall of over 1000mm, and relatively high humidity (70-90%) during the growing season. The average annual sunshine duration is 1200-1500 hours, with ample rainfall in April and May and mostly sunny days in September and October. The base is located at an altitude of 400-1500 meters, with a slope of less than 30 degrees (in this example, the slope is less than 2 degrees, which is generally considered to be slopeless). The soil should be fertile, loose, and well-drained loam or sandy loam, preferably slightly acidic to neutral loam with a pH value between 5.5 and 7.0. The cultivated layer should be approximately 20-25cm. The base should be located at least 100 meters from roads, and no other plants of the same genus should be planted within 50 meters of the site. The water and atmospheric environment meet the requirements for a GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) base for medicinal herbs.

[0009] Step 2: Seedling cultivation of Polygonum capitatum

[0010] 1. Seedling raising time: early January to early February (generally, seedling raising should be completed before the Spring Festival);

[0011] 2. Site selection: Select flat loam land with good access to roads, water, electricity, and drainage. At the same time, the surrounding atmospheric environment should meet the national Class II standard, the soil environment should meet the national Class II standard, and the irrigation water quality should meet the national irrigation standard.

[0012] 3. Land preparation: Inside the plastic greenhouse, build a seedling bed with a width of 1m, a height of 20cm, and a length that follows the greenhouse. Fill the seedling bed with 15cm of fine, mature soil that has passed through an 8-mesh sieve. Then, evenly spread 2000kg of well-rotted farmyard manure and 20kg of 45% potassium sulfate compound fertilizer per acre as base fertilizer. Mix them with the bed soil and then level the bed surface with a scraper.

[0013] 4. Sowing: First, thoroughly water the seedbed, then apply 5g / m² of water. 2 Weigh the seeds, mix them evenly with 200-300 times their volume of fine soil that has passed through an 8-mesh sieve, and then sow them evenly on the seedbed. After sowing, cover the seedbed with a layer of mulch to retain moisture.

[0014] 5. Seedling management: Observe the seedbed and keep the soil moist for the first 15 days. Under suitable temperature and humidity, seedlings will emerge in about 10-15 days. When the emergence rate reaches about 70-80%, remove the mulch film and thin the seedlings to 2cm*2cm. Water the seedbed immediately if it is dry. When the temperature inside the greenhouse reaches 30℃, open the film at both ends for ventilation and cooling to prevent the seedlings from being burned by high temperature.

[0015] 6. Hardening off seedlings: One week before transplanting, completely uncover the greenhouse or open the ventilation curtains to increase light exposure and reduce watering, allowing the seedlings to fully contact the outside environment, adapt to the outside environment, and improve the survival rate of transplanting.

[0016] Step 3: Land preparation

[0017] Before the frost arrives, the soil should be deeply tilled to a depth of 30cm or more;

[0018] Ten days before transplanting, remove debris (such as weeds, stones, etc.) from the selected plot and lightly till the soil; break up the soil clods and make beds 1m wide and 10cm high in a north-south direction, with a bed spacing of 35cm (in this example, each bed is 20m long, for a total of 15 beds); evenly spread 20kg / mu of compound fertilizer and 2000kg / mu of well-rotted farmyard manure on the bed surface, then turn them into the soil, mix them with the fine soil, and then level the bed surface with a hoe;

[0019] Step 4: Corn Planting

[0020] Select high-quality, high-yield, stress-resistant, and moderately growing corn varieties suitable for local planting; carefully select seeds before sowing, choosing those with uniform, robust, and plump kernels; in early March, dig holes 5-6 cm deep between the beds where Polygonum capitatum is planted, with a plant spacing of 60 cm, and sow 2-3 seeds in each hole, then cover with soil to maintain a depth of 3-5 cm.

[0021] Step 5: Transplanting Polygonum capitatum seedlings

[0022] Transplanted Polygonum capitatum seedlings should be at least 6-8cm tall, have 5-6 leaves, and the whole batch of seedlings should be neat and uniform in appearance, with intact root systems, no wilting, and no diseases or pests.

[0023] Transplanting should begin from late March to mid-April, preferably on a cloudy or rainy day (ideally with light rain). The density should be controlled at 20-25cm x 20-25cm. On prepared seedbeds, use ropes to mark rows at 20-25cm intervals. Then, along the ropes, dig holes 3-4cm deep with your index and middle fingers at 20-25cm plant spacing. Place the seedlings in the holes and press them firmly. Plant one seedling per hole, with four rows per bed. Water thoroughly on the day of transplanting. 7-10 days after transplanting, during the period until the seedlings have established themselves, conduct a field survey. If any seedlings have died, replant on a cloudy or rainy day.

[0024] Step 6: Check corn seedlings, replant seedlings, and finalize seedling positions.

[0025] After the corn seedlings emerge, check them promptly. If any seedlings are missing, select adjacent holes in the same row to fill the gaps. Leave two strong seedlings for the rest to ensure the seedling density. When the corn grows to 4-5 leaves, the seedlings can be thinned out, with one strong seedling per hole.

[0026] Step 7: Field Management

[0027] Weeding and cultivation: 15 days after transplanting, weeds on the surface of the Polygonum capitatum beds should be removed by hand. For weeds with seeds, remove them by hand before the seeds mature. During the remaining time, observe the weed situation in the field and remove them accordingly. Weeding must be done frequently before the rows close, once a month. After the rows close and before harvest, weeds only need to be removed by hand. Before harvest, weeding must be done thoroughly by hand to keep the field weed-free to prevent weeds from being cut together with the medicinal materials during harvest. Before the seedbeds close, weeding and soil loosening should be done twice in conjunction with corn fertilization.

[0028] Corn fertilization: After transplanting, apply a top dressing of fertilizer to each corn plant, mainly nitrogen fertilizer, at a rate of 3-4g per hole;

[0029] Pest and disease control: The strategy is to prioritize prevention and implement integrated pest management, and the use of prohibited or restricted pesticides is forbidden;

[0030] Step 8: Harvesting

[0031] Corn harvesting: Harvest in August when the corn leaves are dry and the kernels are hard, shiny and plump. Do not cut the corn stalks immediately after harvesting; cut the corn stalks 10 days before the first flowering of the corn.

[0032] Harvesting of Polygonum capitatum: Harvest Polygonum capitatum on a sunny day in late September. Cut all the Polygonum capitatum along the base of the ridge (leaving no old stems at the base), shake off the soil, and transfer it to a drying area to dry or dry it on the spot until the moisture content is 9-11%. After harvesting, pack it in a clean container and process it for the time being.

[0033] Furthermore, a second aspect of the present invention provides a Polygonum capitatum, which is obtained by intercropping maize as described in the first aspect of the present invention.

[0034] The present invention cultivates Polygonum capitatum by intercropping it with corn, especially by setting the ridges in a due south-north direction. This results in a significant increase in the content of physiologically active substances in the medicinal Polygonum capitatum, an unexpected discovery that was completely unforeseen by existing technologies. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 A typical scene of intercropping Polygonum capitatum with corn.

[0036] Figure 2Photos show a typical scene after the corn harvest during expert yield measurement when Polygonum capitatum is intercropped with corn. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The invention can be further described through the following embodiments; however, the scope of the invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. Those skilled in the art will understand that various changes and modifications can be made to the invention without departing from its spirit and scope. The invention provides a general and / or specific description of the materials and methods used in the experiments. Although many materials and methods of operation used to achieve the objectives of the invention are well known in the art, the invention is still described herein in as much detail as possible.

[0038] This invention significantly increases the yield of Polygonum capitatum, especially the content of active substances in its medicinal materials, by intercropping corn in the planting area of ​​Polygonum capitatum. The general operation of intercropping corn in the planting of Polygonum capitatum is as follows.

[0039] I. Site Selection

[0040] Before cultivation, a suitable site should be selected for the cultivation base. In accordance with the Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) regulations for Chinese medicinal materials, the authentic producing area of ​​Polygonum capitatum should be selected, and within the authentic producing area, the principles of suitable regionality, safety, and operability for the growth of Polygonum capitatum should be followed.

[0041] Generally, the site selection should be in a traditional producing area of ​​Polygonum capitatum that meets the following requirements: warm and humid climate with small annual temperature fluctuations, an average annual temperature above 12℃, an annual accumulated temperature above 3000℃, a frost-free period of more than 270 days / year, sufficient rainfall, an average annual rainfall of more than 1000mm, and relatively high humidity (70-90%) during the growing season; an average annual sunshine duration of 1200-1500 hours, sufficient rainfall in April and May, and many sunny days in September and October; an altitude of 400-1500 meters, a slope of less than 30 degrees, and fertile, loose, and well-drained loam or sandy loam soil with a pH value between 5.5 and 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral). The cultivated layer should be about 20-25cm deep, and the site should be more than 100 meters away from roads. No plants of the same genus should be planted within 50 meters of the site. The water and atmospheric environment should meet the requirements of GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) base for Chinese medicinal materials.

[0042] II. Pre-cultivation site preparation

[0043] Pre-frost preparation: Before frost, deeply till the soil to a depth of at least 30cm (if the land has been continuously planted for more than three years and is being reused, it needs to be improved by adding farmyard manure). Pre-transplant preparation: 10 days before transplanting, remove weeds, stones, and other debris from the selected plot, lightly till the soil, break up clods, and make beds 1m wide and 10cm high, with a spacing of 30-40cm between beds. Evenly spread 20kg / mu of compound fertilizer and 2000kg / mu of well-rotted farmyard manure on the bed surface, then turn them into the soil, mixing them with the finely tilled soil. Then, level the bed surface with a hoe. Covering with mulch after bed making: While making the beds, cover the bed surface with black weed-control mulch. When covering with mulch, press the edges of the mulch firmly with soil (to prevent it from being blown away by strong winds).

[0044] III. Selection of Seedlings and Fertilizers

[0045] Seedlings: Transplanted *Polygonum capitatum* seedlings must be at least 6-8 cm tall, with 5-6 leaves. The entire batch of seedlings should be uniform in appearance, with intact root systems, no wilting, and free from pests and diseases (*Polygonum capitatum* seedling quality standard grade 3 or above). Seedlings that do not meet these quality requirements must not be planted. Fertilizer: Base fertilizer should be the primary method, supplemented by topdressing; farmyard manure should be the main method, supplemented by chemical fertilizers. Fertilization should be based on the nutritional characteristics of *Polygonum capitatum* and the soil's fertility capacity. Farmyard manure must be fully decomposed to meet harmless and hygienic standards. Chemical fertilizers can be used in moderation according to the growth and development needs of *Polygonum capitatum*.

[0046] IV. Planting

[0047] Planting time: Late March to mid-April (specific time will be determined according to the growth of seedlings in different regions). Seedlings taken on the same day must be transplanted on the same day. Seedlings should not be taken out and left for 2 days without transplanting. When transplanting, the weather should be observed at all times. Transplanting should be carried out on a cloudy day or preferably on a day with light rain.

[0048] Transplanting method:

[0049] Transplanting of Polygonum capitatum: Seedlings taken on the same day must be transplanted on the same day. Seedlings should not be left for two days after being taken out. Weather conditions should be monitored during transplanting; transplanting should be done on a cloudy day or preferably during light rain. For small-scale planting, transplanting can be done on a sunny afternoon after 4 pm. The density should be controlled at 20-25cm x 20-25cm. On prepared seedbeds in the field, use ropes to mark rows at 20-25cm intervals. Then, along the ropes, dig holes 3-4cm deep with your index and middle fingers at 20-25cm plant spacing. Place the seedlings in the holes and press them firmly. Plant one seedling per hole, with four rows per bed. 7-10 days after transplanting, during the period until the seedlings have established themselves, a field survey can be conducted. Replace any dead seedlings by taking new ones. Replacement should also be done on cloudy or rainy days to ensure a high survival rate after transplanting.

[0050] V. Corn Sowing:

[0051] Seed selection: Select high-quality, high-yielding, stress-resistant, and moderately growing maize varieties that have been approved by the national and provincial crop product approval committees and are suitable for local planting. Before sowing, carefully select seeds, choosing those with uniform, robust, and plump kernels.

[0052] Sowing time: Sowing is generally carried out in early March after the transplanting of Polygonum capitatum.

[0053] Sowing method: Spot sowing. Following the required plant spacing, manually dig holes, sow 2-3 seeds, and cover with 3-5cm of soil, ensuring uniform soil depth. (Seedling transplanting: Corn seedlings are raised in mid-to-late March; transplanting time and method are the same as spot sowing.)

[0054] Checking, replanting, and finalizing seedlings: After emergence, check seedlings promptly. If missing seedlings are found, replant them in adjacent holes along the same row; leave two healthy seedlings for the remaining seedlings to ensure proper density. When the seedlings have 4-5 leaves, finalize the seedlings, selecting one healthy seedling per hole.

[0055] VI. Field Management

[0056] Watering: If the weather is hot and dry on the day of transplanting Polygonum capitatum, water thoroughly to help the roots establish. If it doesn't rain for 3-5 days after transplanting, water again manually. Therefore, for large-scale planting, it's best to transplant around the Qingming Festival to coincide with rain, which reduces planting costs and avoids extensive watering. After 10 days of root establishment, artificial watering is no longer necessary; water according to rainfall.

[0057] Fertilization: Fertilization of Polygonum capitatum should primarily consist of basal fertilizer, supplemented by topdressing; mainly farmyard manure, supplemented by chemical fertilizers. Fertilization should be based on the nutritional characteristics of Polygonum capitatum and the soil's nutrient supply capacity. Generally, for soil conditions, apply 2000 kg / mu of well-rotted farmyard manure or 20 kg / mu of compound fertilizer (or 30 kg / mu of superphosphate) as basal fertilizer during land preparation. The farmyard manure used must be fully decomposed to meet harmless and hygienic standards. Topdressing is not recommended later. Chemical fertilizers can be used in moderation according to the growth and development needs of Polygonum capitatum. If the soil is relatively infertile and growth is poor later, foliar fertilizer or compound fertilizer diluted with water can be applied as a topdressing. The dosage is 10 kg / mu of compound fertilizer and 1-1.5% concentration of foliar fertilizer.

[0058] Weed control: 15 days after transplanting, weeds between rows should be removed by hand, and weeds on the rows should also be removed by the roots. For weeds with seeds, they should be removed by hand before the seeds mature. During the remaining time, observe the weed situation in the field and weed accordingly. Weeding must be done frequently, approximately once a month, before the rows close. Weeding should be carried out once a month before harvest.

[0059] Pest and disease control: Strictly implement the plant protection policy of "prevention first, integrated management," adopting comprehensive control measures such as forecasting, plant quarantine, agricultural control, physical and mechanical control, biological control, and chemical control to create environmental conditions favorable to the growth and development of Polygonum capitatum and unfavorable to the reproduction, infection, and spread of various pathogens, thereby controlling its occurrence and damage. Pest control primarily focuses on prevention and integrated management. The main source of Polygonum capitatum pests is to avoid selecting fields where rapeseed or vegetables were previously grown, or to plant in fields far away from those fields, where pests are generally less prevalent.

[0060] (1) Small cutworm Agrotis ypsilon Rottemberg

[0061] Damage symptoms: The cutworm, also known as the groundworm or black groundworm, is a pest belonging to the Noctuidae family of Lepidoptera. During the transplanting season in April and May, it bites off seedlings of Polygonum capitatum near the ground, causing seedling loss and affecting yield.

[0062] Agricultural control: Before transplanting and after autumn / winter harvest. Remove and collect all weeds in and around the field, transport them out of the field, and compost them in a centralized location. Tilling: Use a hoe or plow before transplanting in autumn and spring. Deeply till in autumn (about 30cm), and shallowly till (about 20cm) before transplanting.

[0063] Physical control: Every morning for the first 5 days after transplanting, loosen the topsoil around wilted seedlings to kill larvae. Adult trapping: Mid-April to early October. Hang Jiaduo PS-15Ⅱ frequency-vibration insecticidal lamps, black light lamps, or sugar-vinegar hanging racks in the field.

[0064] Chemical control: Use highly effective, low-toxicity, broad-spectrum insecticides such as 20% cypermethrin EC. On the afternoon of the transplanting day, dilute 20% cypermethrin EC 1500 times and spray evenly over the entire seedbed.

[0065] (2) Two-spotted firefly beetle Monolepta hieroglyphica (Motschulsky)

[0066] Damage symptoms: The two-spotted leaf beetle is a pest of the Chrysomelidae family in the order Coleoptera. It damages the leaves of Polygonum capitatum from April to July, often eating small oval holes in the leaves, which affects the normal growth of Polygonum capitatum.

[0067] Agricultural control: Weeding and removing all weeds in and around the field before transplanting and after autumn and winter harvest, and deep plowing in autumn to kill eggs and reduce the source of insects can all reduce damage.

[0068] Physical control: Mid-April to July. Hang Jiaduo PS-15Ⅱ frequency vibration insecticidal lamps in the field.

[0069] Chemical control: During the adult insect damage period from April to July, use 4.5% acetamiprid EC diluted 1500 times and spray evenly on the entire Polygonum capitatum plant and bed surface.

[0070] (3) Prodenia litura Fab.

[0071] Damage symptoms: The beet armyworm, also known as the beet cutworm or lotus-patterned cutworm, is a pest belonging to the genus *Prodenia* of the family Noctuidae in the order Lepidoptera. It damages the leaves of *Polygonum capitatum* from June to September, often eating away at the leaves to create notches. In severe cases, it devours all the leaves, leaving only the stem, seriously affecting the growth of *Polygonum capitatum* and the quality of medicinal materials.

[0072] Agricultural control: Remove and clear all weeds from the field and surrounding area before transplanting and after the autumn and winter harvest. Before transplanting, deeply till the selected land (about 30cm) with a hoe or plow.

[0073] Physical control: Trapping adult insects: Hang Jiaduo PS-15Ⅱ frequency vibration insecticidal lamps, black light lamps, or sugar and vinegar hanging racks in the field from mid-April to July.

[0074] Chemical control: During the larval damage period from June to September, spray the entire Polygonum capitatum plant with a 2000-fold diluted 20% cypermethrin EC diluted evenly in the evening.

[0075] (4) Leaf spot disease

[0076] Symptoms: Leaf spot disease of Polygonum hydropiper mainly occurs on the leaves, starting with the lower leaves. Initially, the lesions are small, gradually enlarging. The lesions are round or oval, expanding outwards from the center, with brown, slightly raised edges; the outer contour of the lesions is distinct. In severe cases, the lesions can merge, forming large, irregular spots. Later, sparse, slightly concentric black dots appear scattered on the lesions.

[0077] Prevention and control methods:

[0078] ① Agricultural control measures: Select disease-resistant varieties, promptly remove diseased plant debris from the field, burn it in a centralized manner away from greenhouses, ventilate and reduce humidity in a timely manner, and increase the application of organic fertilizer and phosphorus and potassium fertilizer to enhance plant resistance.

[0079] ② Chemical control: Before disease onset, primarily use protective fungicides for spraying. Suitable options include 75% chlorothalonil wettable powder at a 600-fold dilution, or 80% mancozeb wettable powder at a 600-fold dilution, or 70% mancozeb suspension at a 600-fold dilution. In the early stages of disease, use fungicides with curative effects or mixtures with protective fungicides. Suitable options include 10% difenoconazole water-dispersible granules at a 1500-fold dilution, or azoxystrobin at 250 g / L, or 64% cymoxanil wettable powder at a 400-fold dilution. Apply every 7-10 days, for 2-3 consecutive treatments. Use small-aperture spray nozzles to reduce leaf surface humidity.

[0080] (5) Control of corn diseases and pests

[0081] During the seedling stage, timely application of insecticides is necessary to control pests, and later spraying with jinggangmycin is recommended to control sheath blight. Basal leaves should also be removed. Major diseases and pests during the corn tasseling stage include large leaf spot, small leaf spot, and corn borer. Large leaf spot and small leaf spot primarily damage corn leaves; fungicides should be sprayed promptly when lesions first appear, applying the prescribed dosage at 7-day intervals, for a total of 2-3 applications. Corn borer is best controlled by applying carbofuran or granular insecticide to the tassel during the large whorl stage; this method is quite effective.

[0082] The above-mentioned pest and disease control measures are routine practices in this field.

[0083] VII. Harvesting

[0084] Harvesting time: Mid-August to the end of September. During this period, temperatures are high and there are many consecutive sunny days. Do not delay until the rainy autumn season in pursuit of higher yields. Several days before harvesting, closely monitor the weather forecast and harvest and dry the crops when there are three consecutive days of clear skies without rain. General harvesting methods are as follows.

[0085] Corn harvesting: The signs of corn maturity are that the husks begin to turn yellow 7-10 days later (usually in mid-August), the kernel lines basically disappear, and a black layer appears at the base. Harvesting at this time will significantly improve yield and quality. After harvesting, corn should be dried in a timely manner.

[0086] Harvesting of Polygonum capitatum: In late September, use a sharp sickle to cut the above-ground stems and leaves along the surface of the raised beds, cutting them completely at ground level, leaving no stems or branches. Depending on the local weather, if the weather is good and there is no rain for at least two or three days, the plants can be dried on-site. After cutting, turn them over and spread them on the ground to dry for 1-2 days. Then, take advantage of the morning dew to moisten them before transporting them back to the drying area for further drying. If the weather has been bad recently, after cutting, shake off the soil from the Polygonum capitatum by hand and carry them to the drying area using clean baskets or other clean transportation methods, or transport them to a drying area near the warehouse for further drying.

[0087] 8. Primary processing at the place of origin

[0088] Sun-drying: Use a fork to evenly spread the transported Polygonum capitatum on a clean, uncontaminated drying ground or mat, about 15cm thick. During the sun-drying process, turn it three times a day with a fork and try to remove any remaining soil to ensure the ash content of the Polygonum capitatum does not exceed the standard. Sun-dry until the moisture content of the stems and leaves is below 12%.

[0089] Storage: After removing impurities, dried medicinal materials should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Store and use accordingly.

[0090] Based on the above general planting requirements, some specific embodiments are provided below; the descriptions of these embodiments shall prevail for the embodiments already illustrated, and the general planting methods described above shall be followed for the embodiments not illustrated.

[0091] Example 1: Planting Polygonum capitatum by intercropping with corn

[0092] Step 1: Site selection for planting

[0093] The climate is warm and humid with relatively small annual temperature variations, an average annual temperature above 12℃, an annual accumulated temperature above 3000℃, and a frost-free period of over 270 days per year. Rainfall is abundant, with an average annual rainfall of over 1000mm, and relatively high humidity (70-90%) during the growing season. The average annual sunshine duration is 1200-1500 hours, with ample rainfall in April and May and mostly sunny days in September and October. The base is located at an altitude of 400-1500 meters, with a slope of less than 30 degrees (in this example, the slope is less than 2 degrees, which is generally considered to be slopeless). The soil should be fertile, loose, and well-drained loam or sandy loam, preferably slightly acidic to neutral loam with a pH value between 5.5 and 7.0. The cultivated layer should be approximately 20-25cm. The base should be located at least 100 meters from roads, and no other plants of the same genus should be planted within 50 meters of the site. The water and atmospheric environment meet the requirements for a GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) base for medicinal herbs.

[0094] Step 2: Seedling cultivation of Polygonum capitatum

[0095] 1. Seedling raising time: early January to early February (generally, seedling raising should be completed before the Spring Festival);

[0096] 2. Site selection: Select flat loam land with good access to roads, water, electricity, and drainage. At the same time, the surrounding atmospheric environment should meet the national Class II standard, the soil environment should meet the national Class II standard, and the irrigation water quality should meet the national irrigation standard.

[0097] 3. Land preparation: Inside the plastic greenhouse, build a seedling bed with a width of 1m, a height of 20cm, and a length that follows the greenhouse. Fill the seedling bed with 15cm of fine, mature soil that has passed through an 8-mesh sieve. Then, evenly spread 2000kg of well-rotted farmyard manure and 20kg of 45% potassium sulfate compound fertilizer per acre as base fertilizer. Mix them with the bed soil and then level the bed surface with a scraper.

[0098] 4. Sowing: First, thoroughly water the seedbed, then apply 5g / m² of water. 2 Weigh the seeds, mix them evenly with 200-300 times their volume of fine soil that has passed through an 8-mesh sieve, and then sow them evenly on the seedbed. After sowing, cover the seedbed with a layer of mulch to retain moisture.

[0099] 5. Seedling management: Observe the seedbed and keep the soil moist for the first 15 days. Under suitable temperature and humidity, seedlings will emerge in about 10-15 days. When the emergence rate reaches about 70-80%, remove the mulch film and thin the seedlings to 2cm*2cm. Water the seedbed immediately if it is dry. When the temperature inside the greenhouse reaches 30℃, open the film at both ends for ventilation and cooling to prevent the seedlings from being burned by high temperature.

[0100] 6. Hardening off seedlings: One week before transplanting, completely uncover the greenhouse or open the ventilation curtains to increase light exposure and reduce watering, allowing the seedlings to fully contact the outside environment, adapt to the outside environment, and improve the survival rate of transplanting.

[0101] Step 3: Land preparation

[0102] Before the frost arrives, the soil should be deeply tilled to a depth of 30cm or more;

[0103] Ten days before transplanting, remove debris (such as weeds, stones, etc.) from the selected plot and lightly till the soil; break up the soil clods and make beds 1m wide and 10cm high in a north-south direction, with a bed spacing of 35cm (in this example, each bed is 20m long, for a total of 15 beds); evenly spread 20kg / mu of compound fertilizer and 2000kg / mu of well-rotted farmyard manure on the bed surface, then turn them into the soil, mix them with the fine soil, and then level the bed surface with a hoe;

[0104] Step 4: Corn Planting

[0105] Select high-quality, high-yield, stress-resistant, and moderately growing corn varieties suitable for local planting; carefully select seeds before sowing, choosing those with uniform, robust, and plump kernels; in early March, dig holes 5-6 cm deep between the beds where Polygonum capitatum is planted, with a plant spacing of 60 cm, and sow 2-3 seeds in each hole, then cover with soil to maintain a depth of 3-5 cm.

[0106] Step 5: Transplanting Polygonum capitatum seedlings

[0107] Transplanted Polygonum capitatum seedlings should be at least 6-8cm tall, have 5-6 leaves, and the whole batch of seedlings should be neat and uniform in appearance, with intact root systems, no wilting, and no diseases or pests.

[0108] Transplanting should begin from late March to mid-April, preferably on a cloudy or rainy day (ideally with light rain). The density should be controlled at 20-25cm x 20-25cm. On prepared seedbeds, use ropes to mark rows at 20-25cm intervals. Then, along the ropes, dig holes 3-4cm deep with your index and middle fingers at 20-25cm plant spacing. Place the seedlings in the holes and press them firmly. Plant one seedling per hole, with four rows per bed. Water thoroughly on the day of transplanting. 7-10 days after transplanting, during the period until the seedlings have established themselves, conduct a field survey. If any seedlings have died, replant on a cloudy or rainy day.

[0109] Step 6: Check corn seedlings, replant seedlings, and finalize seedling positions.

[0110] After the corn seedlings emerge, check them promptly. If any seedlings are missing, select adjacent holes in the same row to fill the gaps. Leave two strong seedlings for the rest to ensure the seedling density. When the corn grows to 4-5 leaves, the seedlings can be thinned out, with one strong seedling per hole.

[0111] Step 7: Field Management

[0112] Weeding and cultivation: 15 days after transplanting, weeds on the surface of the Polygonum capitatum beds should be removed by hand. For weeds with seeds, remove them by hand before the seeds mature. During the remaining time, observe the weed situation in the field and remove them accordingly. Weeding must be done frequently before the rows close, once a month. After the rows close and before harvest, weeds only need to be removed by hand. Before harvest, weeding must be done thoroughly by hand to keep the field weed-free to prevent weeds from being cut together with the medicinal materials during harvest. Before the seedbeds close, weeding and soil loosening should be done twice in conjunction with corn fertilization.

[0113] Corn fertilization: After transplanting, apply a top dressing of fertilizer to each corn plant, mainly nitrogen fertilizer, at a rate of 3-4g per hole;

[0114] Pest and disease control: The strategy is to prioritize prevention and implement integrated pest management, and the use of prohibited or restricted pesticides is forbidden;

[0115] Step 8: Harvesting

[0116] Corn harvesting: Harvest in August when the corn leaves are dry and the kernels are hard, shiny and plump. Do not cut the corn stalks immediately after harvesting; cut the corn stalks 10 days before the first flowering of the corn.

[0117] Harvesting of Polygonum capitatum: Harvest Polygonum capitatum on a sunny day in late September. Cut all the Polygonum capitatum along the base of the ridge (leaving no old stems at the base), shake off the soil, and transfer it to a drying area to dry or dry it on the spot until the moisture content is 9-11%. After harvesting, pack it in clean containers and transport it for initial processing.

[0118] Regarding the typical working scenarios of this embodiment Figure 1 This is a typical scene of Polygonum capitatum intercropped with corn. Figure 2 These are typical photos of the scene after the corn harvest when experts measured the yield of Polygonum capitatum intercropped with corn.

[0119] Example 2: Planting Polygonum capitatum by intercropping with corn

[0120] Step 1: Site selection for planting

[0121] The climate is warm and humid with relatively small annual temperature variations, an average annual temperature above 12℃, an annual accumulated temperature above 3000℃, and a frost-free period of over 270 days per year. Rainfall is abundant, with an average annual rainfall of over 1000mm, and relatively high humidity (70-90%) during the growing season. The average annual sunshine duration is 1200-1500 hours, with ample rainfall in April and May and mostly sunny days in September and October. The base is located at an altitude of 400-1500 meters, with a slope of less than 30 degrees (in this example, the slope is less than 2 degrees, which is generally considered to be slopeless). The soil should be fertile, loose, and well-drained loam or sandy loam, preferably slightly acidic to neutral loam with a pH value between 5.5 and 7.0. The cultivated layer should be approximately 20-25cm. The base should be located at least 100 meters from roads, and no other plants of the same genus should be planted within 50 meters of the site. The water and atmospheric environment meet the requirements for a GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) base for medicinal herbs.

[0122] Step 2: Seedling cultivation of Polygonum capitatum

[0123] 1. Seedling raising time: early January to early February (generally, seedling raising should be completed before the Spring Festival);

[0124] 2. Site selection: Select flat loam land with good access to roads, water, electricity, and drainage. At the same time, the surrounding atmospheric environment should meet the national Class II standard, the soil environment should meet the national Class II standard, and the irrigation water quality should meet the national irrigation standard.

[0125] 3. Land preparation: Inside the plastic greenhouse, build a seedling bed with a width of 1m, a height of 20cm, and a length that follows the greenhouse. Fill the seedling bed with 15cm of fine, mature soil that has passed through an 8-mesh sieve. Then, evenly spread 2000kg of well-rotted farmyard manure and 20kg of 45% potassium sulfate compound fertilizer per acre as base fertilizer. Mix them with the bed soil and then level the bed surface with a scraper.

[0126] 4. Sowing: First, thoroughly water the seedbed, then apply 5g / m² of water. 2 Weigh the seeds, mix them evenly with 200-300 times their volume of fine soil that has passed through an 8-mesh sieve, and then sow them evenly on the seedbed. After sowing, cover the seedbed with a layer of mulch to retain moisture.

[0127] 5. Seedling management: Observe the seedbed and keep the soil moist for the first 15 days. Under suitable temperature and humidity, seedlings will emerge in about 10-15 days. When the emergence rate reaches about 70-80%, remove the mulch film and thin the seedlings to 2cm*2cm. Water the seedbed immediately if it is dry. When the temperature inside the greenhouse reaches 30℃, open the film at both ends for ventilation and cooling to prevent the seedlings from being burned by high temperature.

[0128] 6. Hardening off seedlings: One week before transplanting, completely uncover the greenhouse or open the ventilation curtains to increase light exposure and reduce watering, allowing the seedlings to fully contact the outside environment, adapt to the outside environment, and improve the survival rate of transplanting.

[0129] Step 3: Land preparation

[0130] Before the frost arrives, the soil should be deeply tilled to a depth of 30cm or more;

[0131] Ten days before transplanting, remove debris (such as weeds, stones, etc.) from the selected plot and lightly till the soil; break up the soil clods and make beds 1m wide and 10cm high in an east-west direction, with a bed spacing of 35cm (in this example, each bed is 20m long, for a total of 15 beds); evenly spread 20kg / mu of compound fertilizer and 2000kg / mu of well-rotted farmyard manure on the bed surface, then turn them into the soil, mix them with the fine soil, and then level the bed surface with a hoe;

[0132] Step 4: Corn Planting

[0133] Select high-quality, high-yield, stress-resistant, and moderately growing corn varieties suitable for local planting; carefully select seeds before sowing, choosing those with uniform, robust, and plump kernels; in early March, dig holes 5-6 cm deep between the beds where Polygonum capitatum is planted, with a plant spacing of 60 cm, and sow 2-3 seeds in each hole, then cover with soil to maintain a depth of 3-5 cm.

[0134] Step 5: Transplanting Polygonum capitatum seedlings

[0135] Transplanted Polygonum capitatum seedlings should be at least 6-8cm tall, have 5-6 leaves, and the whole batch of seedlings should be neat and uniform in appearance, with intact root systems, no wilting, and no diseases or pests.

[0136] Transplanting should begin from late March to mid-April, preferably on a cloudy or rainy day (ideally with light rain). The density should be controlled at 20-25cm x 20-25cm. On prepared seedbeds, use ropes to mark rows at 20-25cm intervals. Then, along the ropes, dig holes 3-4cm deep with your index and middle fingers at 20-25cm plant spacing. Place the seedlings in the holes and press them firmly. Plant one seedling per hole, with four rows per bed. Water thoroughly on the day of transplanting. 7-10 days after transplanting, during the period until the seedlings have established themselves, conduct a field survey. If any seedlings have died, replant on a cloudy or rainy day.

[0137] Step 6: Check corn seedlings, replant seedlings, and finalize seedling positions.

[0138] After the corn seedlings emerge, check them promptly. If any seedlings are missing, select adjacent holes in the same row to fill the gaps. Leave two strong seedlings for the rest to ensure the seedling density. When the corn grows to 4-5 leaves, the seedlings can be thinned out, with one strong seedling per hole.

[0139] Step 7: Field Management

[0140] Weeding and cultivation: 15 days after transplanting, weeds on the surface of the Polygonum capitatum beds should be removed by hand. For weeds with seeds, remove them by hand before the seeds mature. During the remaining time, observe the weed situation in the field and remove them accordingly. Weeding must be done frequently before the rows close, once a month. After the rows close and before harvest, weeds only need to be removed by hand. Before harvest, weeding must be done thoroughly by hand to keep the field weed-free to prevent weeds from being cut together with the medicinal materials during harvest. Before the seedbeds close, weeding and soil loosening should be done twice in conjunction with corn fertilization.

[0141] Corn fertilization: After transplanting, apply a top dressing of fertilizer to each corn plant, mainly nitrogen fertilizer, at a rate of 3-4g per hole;

[0142] Pest and disease control: The strategy is to prioritize prevention and implement integrated pest management, and the use of prohibited or restricted pesticides is forbidden;

[0143] Step 8: Harvesting

[0144] Corn harvesting: Harvest in August when the corn leaves are dry and the kernels are hard, shiny and plump. Do not cut the corn stalks immediately after harvesting; cut the corn stalks 10 days before the first flowering of the corn.

[0145] Harvesting of Polygonum capitatum: Harvest Polygonum capitatum on a sunny day in late September. Cut all the Polygonum capitatum along the base of the ridge (leaving no old stems at the base), shake off the soil, and transfer it to a drying area to dry or dry it on the spot until the moisture content is 9-11%. After harvesting, pack it in clean containers and transport it for initial processing.

[0146] Example 3: Planting Polygonum capitatum

[0147] Embodiments 1-3 of this invention were conducted on a flat plot of land (with a slope of less than 2 degrees, generally considered to be without slope) approximately 66m long from east to west and 24m long from north to south at the Niudachang base experimental demonstration site in Shibing, Guizhou. This plot was divided into three plots: east, middle, and west, with a minimum interval of 1.5 meters between the three plots. The east plot was used for the experiment of laying out the furrows in the due south-to-due north direction in Embodiment 1, the west plot was used for the experiment of laying out the furrows in the due east-to-due west direction in Embodiment 2, and the middle plot was used for the experiment of Embodiment 3. Each of the three plots was approximately 20m × 20.25m.

[0148] In this Example 3, except that corn was not planted between the beds, all other plants were planted with Polygonum capitatum according to the procedure in Example 1, and the final product was Polygonum capitatum with a moisture content of 9-11%.

[0149] Except for Example 3, which does not intercrop corn, and Example 1 and Example 2, which have different bed layouts and intercropping directions, the planting conditions and operations of Examples 1 to 3 are basically the same. Furthermore, the corn seeds, the Polygonum capitatum seedlings used for transplanting, the corn planting time, the Polygonum capitatum seedling transplanting time, the amount of fertilizer, the corn harvesting time, and the Polygonum capitatum harvesting time are all carried out at the same time and under the same conditions.

[0150] The above Examples 1 to 3 were conducted at the Niudachang Base Experimental Demonstration Site in Shibing County, Guizhou Province. The three batches of Polygonum capitatum medicinal materials obtained can be referred to as Example 1 Polygonum capitatum, Example 2 Polygonum capitatum, and Example 3 Polygonum capitatum, respectively.

[0151] Example 4: Planting Polygonum capitatum

[0152] In the experimental demonstration site of Polygonum capitatum planting in Longshan Town, Longli County, Guizhou Province, on a flat plot of land (slope less than 2 degrees, generally considered to be without slope) about 65m long from east to west and 25m long from north to south, Polygonum capitatum was planted with or without intercropping corn, following the methods of Examples 1 to 3. The resulting Polygonum capitatum plants can be referred to as Example 41, Example 42, and Example 43, respectively.

[0153] Example 5: Planting Polygonum capitatum

[0154] In the demonstration area for the promotion and planting of Polygonum capitatum in Xinchang, Wudang, Guiyang, Guizhou, on a flat plot of land (with a slope of less than 2 degrees, generally considered to be without slope) about 65m long from east to west and about 22m long from north to south, Polygonum capitatum was planted with or without intercropping corn, following the methods of Examples 1 to 3. The resulting Polygonum capitatum plants can be referred to as Example 51, Example 52, and Example 53, respectively.

[0155] Example 6: Quality Assessment of Polygonum capitatum Medicinal Material

[0156] There are various methods for quality testing of Polygonum capitatum medicinal materials, such as those described in Zhao Yingkui's literature (Zhao Yingkui, et al., Research on Quality Standards of Polygonum capitatum, Chinese Patent Medicine, 2020, 42(02): 408). In this example, the HPLC method described in Zhao Yingkui's literature was used to determine the contents of gallic acid and quercetin in the Polygonum capitatum medicinal materials obtained in Examples 1-5.

[0157] Taking Example 1 as an example, six portions of Polygonum capitatum obtained in Example 1 (four portions of Polygonum capitatum harvested from the four corners of the planting plot (at least 1 meter away from the four corners), one portion of Polygonum capitatum harvested from the center, and one portion of Polygonum capitatum harvested from the whole plot) were dried to constant weight and the contents of gallic acid and quercetin in the Polygonum capitatum medicinal material were determined according to the law. The results are expressed as the mean ± SD of the six samples respectively. Similarly, all the Polygonum capitatum obtained in Examples 2 to 5 were measured. The results are as follows: In Example 1, the gallic acid content of *Polygonum capitatum* was 3.547±0.183 mg / g and the quercetin content was 8.316±0.358 mg / g; in Example 2, the gallic acid content was 2.836±0.183 mg / g and the quercetin content was 6.033±0.358 mg / g; in Example 3, the gallic acid content was 2.235±0.113 mg / g and the quercetin content was 3.825±0.204 mg / g; in Example 41, the gallic acid content was 3.624±0.174 mg / g and the quercetin content was 8.174±0.372 mg / g; and in Example 42, the gallic acid content was 2.983±0.1 mg / g. The gallic acid content of *Polygonum hydropiper* in Example 43 was 79 mg / g, and the quercetin content was 5.869±0.233 mg / g. The gallic acid content of *Polygonum hydropiper* in Example 51 was 3.482±0.196 mg / g, and the quercetin content was 8.624±0.346 mg / g. The gallic acid content of *Polygonum hydropiper* in Example 52 was 2.714±0.167 mg / g, and the quercetin content was 6.118±0.278 mg / g. The gallic acid content of *Polygonum hydropiper* in Example 53 was 2.306±0.126 mg / g, and the quercetin content was 3.764±0.193 mg / g.

[0158] In addition, the yield of each embodiment was calculated based on the dried Polygonum capitatum with a moisture content of 9-11% and the planting area (based on the area of ​​the ridges). The results were as follows: the yields of medicinal materials in Examples 1-3 were 284.3 kg / mu, 282.6 kg / mu, and 274.2 kg / mu, respectively; the yields of medicinal materials in Examples 41-43 were 255.8 kg / mu, 256.3 kg / mu, and 246.2 kg / mu, respectively; and the yields of medicinal materials in Examples 51-53 were 276.5 kg / mu, 275.3 kg / mu, and 263.8 kg / mu, respectively.

[0159] Based on the above results, it was unexpected that intercropping Polygonum capitatum with maize (Examples 1-2) significantly increased the content of the typical active ingredients gallic acid and quercetin in the resulting Polygonum capitatum medicinal material compared to intercropping with maize (Example 3). Even more unexpectedly, the orientation of the ridges in the intercropping with maize also significantly affected the content of these typical active ingredients in the medicinal material; a north-south orientation resulted in significantly higher content of active ingredients than an east-west orientation. This may be related to the duration, intensity, and timing of sunlight exposure, although the inventors have not yet found a specific theoretical explanation for this difference. Furthermore, the orientation of the ridges did not appear to affect the yield of the medicinal material, but the yield was slightly higher when intercropping with maize than when not intercropping with maize. It is believed that some literature teaches that Polygonum capitatum is a light-loving plant; however, the results of this invention seem to contradict this.

[0160] The above description is merely an embodiment of the present invention and does not limit the patent scope of the present invention. Any equivalent structural or procedural transformations made based on the content of the present invention specification, or direct or indirect applications in other related technical fields, are similarly included within the patent protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. The method of planting Polygonum capitatum by intercropping with corn includes the following steps: Step 1: Site selection for planting The climate is warm and humid with relatively small annual temperature variations, an average annual temperature above 12℃, an annual accumulated temperature exceeding 3000℃, and a frost-free period of over 270 days per year. Rainfall is abundant, with an average annual rainfall exceeding 1000mm, and relative humidity of 70-90% during the growing season. The average annual sunshine duration is 1200-1500 hours, with ample rainfall in April and May and mostly sunny days in September and October. The base is located at an altitude of 400-1500 meters with a slope of less than 30 degrees. The soil should be fertile, loose, and well-drained loam or sandy loam with a pH value between 5.5 and 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral). The cultivated layer should be 20-25cm deep. The base should be located at least 100 meters from roads, and no other plants of the same genus should be planted within 50 meters of the site. The water and atmospheric environment meet the requirements for a GAP (Good Agricultural Practices) base for medicinal herbs. Step 2: Seedling cultivation of Polygonum capitatum 1. Seedling raising time: early January to early February; 2. Site selection: Select flat loam land with good access to roads, water, electricity, and drainage. At the same time, the surrounding atmospheric environment should meet the national Class II standard, the soil environment should meet the national Class II standard, and the irrigation water quality should meet the national irrigation standard.

3. Land preparation: Inside the plastic greenhouse, build a seedling bed with a width of 1m, a height of 20cm, and a length that follows the greenhouse. Fill the seedling bed with 15cm of fine, mature soil that has passed through an 8-mesh sieve. Then, evenly spread 2000kg of well-rotted farmyard manure and 20kg of 45% potassium sulfate compound fertilizer per acre as base fertilizer. Mix them with the bed soil and then level the bed surface with a scraper.

4. Sowing: First, thoroughly water the seedbed, then apply 5g / m² of water. 2 Weigh the seeds, mix them evenly with 200-300 times their volume of fine soil that has passed through an 8-mesh sieve, and then sow them evenly on the seedbed. After sowing, cover the seedbed with a layer of mulch to retain moisture.

5. Seedling management: Observe the seedbed and keep the soil moist for the first 15 days. Under suitable temperature and humidity, seedlings will emerge in 10-15 days. When the emergence rate reaches 70-80%, remove the mulch film and thin the seedlings to 2cm*2cm. Water the seedbed immediately if it is dry. When the temperature inside the greenhouse reaches 30℃, open the film at both ends for ventilation and cooling to prevent the seedlings from being burned by high temperature.

6. Hardening off seedlings: One week before transplanting, completely uncover the greenhouse or open the ventilation curtains to increase light exposure and reduce watering, allowing the seedlings to fully contact the outside environment, adapt to the outside environment, and improve the survival rate of transplanting. Step 3: Land preparation Before the frost arrives, the soil should be deeply tilled to a depth of 30cm or more; Ten days before transplanting, remove debris from the selected plot and lightly till the soil; break up the soil clods and make beds 1m wide and 10cm high in a north-south direction, with a bed spacing of 35cm; evenly spread 20kg / mu of compound fertilizer and 2000kg / mu of well-rotted farmyard manure on the bed surface, then turn them into the soil, mix them with the fine soil, and then use a hoe to level the bed surface; Step 4: Corn Planting Select high-quality, high-yield, stress-resistant, and moderately growing corn varieties suitable for local planting; carefully select seeds before sowing, choosing those with uniform, robust, and plump kernels; in early March, dig holes 5-6 cm deep between the beds where Polygonum capitatum is planted, with a plant spacing of 60 cm, and sow 2-3 seeds in each hole, then cover with soil to maintain a depth of 3-5 cm. Step 5: Transplanting Polygonum capitatum seedlings Transplanted Polygonum capitatum seedlings should be at least 6-8cm tall, have 5-6 leaves, and the whole batch of seedlings should be neat and uniform in appearance, with intact root systems, no wilting, and no diseases or pests. Transplanting should begin from late March to mid-April, choosing cloudy or rainy days for transplanting, with a density of 20-25cm x 20-25cm. On prepared seedbeds in the field, use ropes to mark rows at 20-25cm intervals. Then, along the ropes, dig holes 3-4cm deep with your index and middle fingers at 20-25cm plant spacing. Place the seedlings in the holes and press them firmly, one seedling per hole, four rows per bed. Water thoroughly on the day of transplanting. During the period from transplanting to root establishment, conduct field surveys 7-10 days after transplanting. For any dead seedlings, replant on cloudy or rainy days. Step 6: Check corn seedlings, replant seedlings, and finalize seedling positions. After the corn seedlings emerge, check them promptly. If any seedlings are missing, select adjacent holes in the same row to fill the gaps. Leave two strong seedlings for the rest to ensure the seedling density. When the corn grows to 4-5 leaves, the seedlings can be thinned out, with one strong seedling per hole. Step 7: Field Management Weeding and cultivation: 15 days after transplanting, weeds on the surface of the Polygonum capitatum beds should be removed by hand. For weeds with seeds, remove them by hand before the seeds mature. During the remaining time, observe the weed situation in the field and remove them accordingly. Weeding must be done frequently before the rows close, once a month. After the rows close and before harvest, weeds only need to be removed by hand. Before harvest, weeding must be done thoroughly by hand to keep the field weed-free to prevent weeds from being cut together with the medicinal materials during harvest. Before the seedbeds close, weeding and soil loosening should be done twice in conjunction with corn fertilization. Corn fertilization: After transplanting, apply a top dressing of fertilizer to each corn plant, mainly nitrogen fertilizer, at a rate of 3-4g per hole; Pest and disease control: The strategy is to prioritize prevention and implement integrated pest management, and the use of prohibited or restricted pesticides is forbidden; Step 8: Harvesting Corn harvesting: Harvest in August when the corn leaves are dry and the kernels are hard, shiny and plump. Do not cut the corn stalks immediately after harvesting; cut the corn stalks 10 days before the first flowering of the corn. Harvesting of Polygonum capitatum: Harvest Polygonum capitatum on a sunny day in late September. Cut all the Polygonum capitatum along the base of the ridge, shake off the soil, and transfer it to a drying area to dry or dry it on the spot until the moisture content is 9-11%. After harvesting, pack it in a clean container and process it for the time being.

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