A method for breeding and cultivating chicken foot ginseng seedlings under forest

Abstract

The application discloses a kind of chicken foot ginseng seedling breeding and under-forest cultivation method, and relates to the technical field of medicinal plant cultivation.The application comprises the following steps: seed treatment, sowing germination, seedling cultivation, under-forest planting and post-planting management.The application has high and uniform germination rate, and the seedlings are strong and resistant to adversity.The survival rate of under-forest planting is significantly improved, and the survival rate of under-forest planting is stably above 85%.The ecological and economic benefits are both good: the entire technical route does not require the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers, and the bionic cultivation of chicken foot ginseng is realized by utilizing the resources of yunnan pine open forest land, which not only protects the ecological environment, but also provides technical support for the production of high-quality medicinal materials.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of medicinal plant cultivation technology, and more specifically to a method for propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings under forest cover. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the utilization of *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* still relies heavily on wild resources, and research on related artificial propagation techniques is almost nonexistent, particularly lacking a standardized technical solution that can significantly improve germination rates and ensure seedling growth. This is due, on the one hand, to its dependence on wild resources; and on the other hand, to the narrow distribution area of ​​*Gynostemma pentaphyllum*, the difficulty in seed maturation and harvesting, and the fact that the seeds are small nuts, making germination conditions demanding. Existing reports mostly focus on phytochemical composition and pharmacological activity studies, while no reports have been found on its seed physiological characteristics and key germination technologies.

[0003] Therefore, the technical challenges of seed germination and planting have not yet been solved.

[0004] Therefore, it is particularly urgent and important to develop a method for the propagation and understory cultivation of *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings to achieve efficient and controllable germination and conservation. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In view of this, the present invention provides a method for the propagation and understory cultivation of *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings. It integrates efficient propagation and ecological cultivation of *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* through precise seed treatment, targeted seedling cultivation, and understory habitat control. This includes innovative seed treatment, germination control, and understory root zone improvement, effectively solving the technical bottlenecks of difficult seed germination, low seedling survival rate, and low survival rate of understory planting.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: A method for propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings under forest cover includes the following steps: (1) Seed treatment: Collect mature seeds of Codonopsis pilosula, disinfect them, physically break the cell walls, soak them in organic acid solution, and drain them. (2) Sowing and germination: Sow the treated seeds on the surface of the seedling substrate and use intermittent spraying to control humidity until germination; (3) Seedling cultivation: After germination, the seedlings are cultivated in a controlled environment until they grow into robust seedlings with more than 5 true leaves; (4) Understory planting: Select a loose forest in Yunnan with suitable canopy closure, dig planting holes, apply water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets in the holes, and then plant the healthy seedlings on the water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets so that the roots are in contact with the amendment pellets, and cover with soil and compact. (5) Post-planting management.

[0007] Preferred: Step (1) Disinfection: Disinfect with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution for 15 minutes, rinse with sterile water; Physical cell wall breaking treatment: Shake and rub the seeds with 0.4-0.6mm fine quartz sand at 80-120 rpm for 2-5 minutes; Organic acid solution soaking: Soak in 50-100mM citric acid solution for 8-16 hours.

[0008] Preferred: Step (2) specifically involves: sowing the seeds on the surface of a substrate with a moss:vermiculite volume ratio of 1:1; placing them in a germination box, setting the temperature to 15-18℃, and starting the intermittent spraying system, spraying for 1-3 minutes every 3-5 hours; until germination begins after 20 days.

[0009] Preferred: Step (3) specifically involves: transferring the germinated seedlings to a greenhouse, controlling the temperature at 18-22℃, humidity at 65-75%, and shading rate at 50-60%; watering with 1 / 4 Hogland nutrient solution every two weeks; and after 120 days of cultivation, obtaining robust seedlings with a height of 10-12cm and 5-6 true leaves.

[0010] Preferred: Step (4) specifically involves: selecting a Yunnan pine forest with a canopy density of 0.4-0.6 and digging a 20cm×20cm×20cm planting hole; placing 3-5 pre-prepared water-retaining and air-permeable soil amendment pellets in each hole, planting the healthy seedlings on the water-retaining and air-permeable soil amendment pellets, so that the roots are in contact with the amendment pellets, and covering and compacting the soil.

[0011] Preferred: Step (4) The formula of the water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets by weight is: 100 parts of well-rotted leaf mold, 0.5-1.5 parts of super absorbent resin, and 3-8 parts of dried pine needles crushed to 1-3cm; The preparation method is: after mixing the ingredients evenly, add water and knead into balls, and air dry for later use.

[0012] Preferred: Step (5) specifically involves covering the plant with 2-4cm thick pine needles and regularly removing weeds manually.

[0013] The present invention also provides *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* obtained by any of the above cultivation methods.

[0014] This invention also provides any cultivation method or the application of the above-mentioned *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* in pharmaceutical manufacturing and deep processing of medicinal plants.

[0015] As can be seen from the above technical solution, compared with the prior art, the present invention discloses a method for the propagation and understory cultivation of *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings, and the technical effects achieved are as follows: Compared with the prior art, the present invention has the following significant advantages: 1. High and uniform germination rate: By breaking the seed coat barrier through "physical cell wall breaking" and softening the seed coat with "organic acid soaking" and activating germination signals, the dormancy of Codonopsis pilosula seeds is effectively broken, increasing the germination rate from less than 10% under natural conditions to more than 70%, and the germination is uniform.

[0016] 2. Robust seedlings with strong stress resistance: The use of "intermittent spraying" simulates the microenvironment of alternating dew and short-term drought under the forest, which enhances the stress resistance of the seedlings and avoids the seed rot or excessive growth that can easily be caused by a constant humidity environment, resulting in stronger seedlings.

[0017] 3. Significantly improved survival rate: The innovative "water-retaining and breathable soil amendment" creates a locally optimal micro-domain for the root system of *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings, with coordinated water, fertilizer, and air. The superabsorbent resin ensures water supply during the dry season, while pine needles regulate acidity and improve aeration. This greatly alleviates the stress response during planting, keeping the survival rate of understory plantings stable at over 85%.

[0018] The technology offers excellent ecological and economic benefits: The entire approach eliminates the need for chemical pesticides and fertilizers, utilizing Yunnan's loose forest resources to achieve biomimetic cultivation of *Gynostemma pentaphyllum*. This not only protects the ecological environment but also provides technical support for the production of high-quality medicinal materials. It plays a positive role in the sustainable utilization of this important ethnic medicinal plant and has promising prospects for widespread application. Detailed Implementation

[0019] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0020] This invention discloses a method for propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings under forest cover. Unless otherwise specified, all experimental materials and reagents used in the following embodiments were purchased commercially. Unmentioned experimental steps are routine and will not be described in detail here. Example 1

[0021] A method for propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings under forest cover includes the following steps: (1) Seed treatment: Mature seeds of Codonopsis pilosula were collected in October 2024, disinfected with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution for 15 minutes, and rinsed with sterile water; physical cell wall breaking treatment: the seeds were shaken and rubbed with 0.5 mm fine quartz sand at 100 rpm for 3 minutes; then soaked in organic acid solution: soaked in 75 mM citric acid solution for 12 hours, and then drained. (2) Sowing and germination: Sow the seeds on the surface of the seedling substrate: moss: vermiculite in a volume ratio of 1:1; place them in a germination box, set the temperature to 16℃, and start the intermittent spray system, spraying for 2 minutes every 4 hours; until germination begins after 20 days (the germination rate was 76% after 45 days). (3) Seedling cultivation: After germination, the seedlings are moved to the greenhouse and the temperature is controlled at 20℃, the humidity at 70%, and the shading rate at 55%. Every two weeks, 1 / 4 of the Hogland nutrient solution is applied. After 120 days of cultivation, robust seedlings with a height of 10-12cm and 5-6 true leaves are obtained. (4) Planting under the forest: In May 2025, dig planting holes (20cm×20cm×20cm) under the Yunnan pine forest with a canopy closure of 0.5; put 4 pre-prepared water-retaining and breathable soil amendment balls in each hole (formula: 100 parts of decomposed leaf soil, 1 part of (80 mesh) super absorbent resin (Yuanye Biotechnology, Guangzhou Zhuanyan Biotechnology Co., Ltd., product number: S29884-500g), 5 parts of pine needles crushed to 1-3cm. The preparation method is: mix all the ingredients evenly, add water and knead into balls, and dry in the shade for later use), plant the seedlings on them, and cover with soil; (5) Post-planting management: After planting, cover with 3cm thick pine needles, weed regularly by hand, and do not apply chemical fertilizers; after 180 days, the survival rate reached 91%. Example 2

[0022] A method for propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings under forest cover includes the following steps: (1) Seed treatment: Mature seeds of Codonopsis pilosula were collected in October 2024, disinfected with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution for 15 minutes, and rinsed with sterile water; physical cell wall breaking treatment: the seeds were shaken and rubbed with 0.4 mm fine quartz sand at 80 rpm for 2 minutes; then soaked in organic acid solution: soaked in 50 mM citric acid solution for 8 hours, and then drained. (2) Sowing and germination: Sow the seeds on the surface of the seedling substrate: moss: vermiculite in a 1:1 ratio; place them in a germination box, set the temperature to 15℃, and start the intermittent spray system, spraying for 1 minute every 3 hours; until germination begins; (3) Seedling cultivation: After germination, the seedlings are moved to the greenhouse and the temperature is controlled at 18℃, the humidity at 65%, and the shading rate at 50%. Every two weeks, 1 / 4 of the Hogland nutrient solution is applied. After 120 days of cultivation, robust seedlings with a height of 10-12cm and 5-6 true leaves are obtained. (4) Planting under the forest: In May 2025, dig planting holes (20cm×20cm×20cm) under the Yunnan pine forest with a canopy closure of 0.4; put 3 pre-prepared water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets (formula: 100 parts of well-rotted leaf mold, 0.5 parts of (80 mesh) super absorbent resin, and 3 parts of pine needles crushed to 1-3cm) in each hole, plant the seedlings on them, and cover with soil; (5) Post-planting management: After planting, cover with 2cm thick pine needles, weed regularly by hand, and do not apply chemical fertilizers. Example 3

[0023] A method for propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings under forest cover includes the following steps: (1) Seed treatment: Mature seeds of Codonopsis pilosula were collected in October 2024, disinfected with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution for 15 minutes, and rinsed with sterile water; physical cell wall breaking treatment: the seeds were shaken and rubbed with 0.6 mm fine quartz sand at 120 rpm for 5 minutes; then soaked in organic acid solution: soaked in 100 mM citric acid solution for 16 hours, and then drained. (2) Sowing and germination: Sow the seeds on the surface of the seedling substrate: moss: vermiculite in a volume ratio of 1:1; place them in a germination box, set the temperature to 18℃, and start the intermittent spray system, spraying for 3 minutes every 5 hours; until germination begins; (3) Seedling cultivation: After germination, the seedlings are moved to a greenhouse and the temperature is controlled at 22℃, the humidity at 75%, and the shading rate at 75%. Every two weeks, 1 / 4 of the Hogland nutrient solution is applied. After 120 days of cultivation, robust seedlings with a height of 10-12cm and 5-6 true leaves are obtained. (4) Planting under the forest: In May 2025, dig planting holes (20cm×20cm×20cm) under the Yunnan pine forest with a canopy closure of 0.6; put 5 pre-prepared water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets (formula: 100 parts of well-rotted leaf mold, 1.5 parts of (80 mesh) super absorbent resin, and 8 parts of pine needles crushed to 1-3cm) in each hole, plant the seedlings on them, and cover with soil; (5) Post-planting management: After planting, cover with 4cm thick pine needles, weed regularly by hand, and do not apply chemical fertilizers.

[0024] Comparative experiment

[0025] Verification of the key role of the improved pill The difference between Comparative Example 1 and Example 1 is that when planting seedlings under the forest in S4, water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets were not used, and the seedlings were directly planted in the original soil.

[0026] Results: 180 days after planting, the survival rate was 68%. Compared with Example 1 (91%), this significantly demonstrates that the "water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets" play a crucial role in improving the survival rate of understory plantings.

[0027] Verify the key role of organic acid treatment The difference between Comparative Example 2 and Example 1 is that in the seed treatment of S1, only physical cell wall disruption was performed, and the seeds were not soaked in citric acid solution.

[0028] Results: The seed germination rate was 55%. Compared with Example 1 (76%), this shows that physical cell wall disruption followed by organic acid activation treatment can significantly improve the germination effect, and the two have a synergistic effect.

[0029] Verify the key role of intermittent spraying The difference between Comparative Example 3 and Example 1 is that in the seed germination stage of S2, the conventional constant humidity seedling raising method (the substrate is always kept moist) is used instead of intermittent spraying.

[0030] Results: The seed germination rate was 50%, and some seeds showed signs of mold and rot, with weak seedling growth. Compared with Example 1, this demonstrates that the humidity fluctuation environment created by intermittent spraying is more conducive to the germination of Codonopsis pilosula seeds and the healthy growth of seedlings.

[0031] Comparative Example 4 Traditional method: (1) Seed treatment: Soak seeds in warm water (40℃) for 24 hours.

[0032] (2) Sowing and germination: Sow in ordinary garden soil under natural room temperature (15-25℃) and humidity conditions.

[0033] (3) Understory planting: After the seedlings grew to a similar size, they were planted in forest land with a canopy closure of 0.5 using conventional methods, without the use of seed improvement pellets. Results: The seed germination rate was only 18%, and the survival rate of understory planting was 45%.

[0034] The comparison results are shown in Table 1:

[0035] The above embodiments and comparative examples fully demonstrate that the method for propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings provided by this invention systematically solves various technical problems in the process from seed to seedling through a series of interconnected technological innovations. The results are significantly better than traditional methods, and the method has a high degree of innovation and practicality. It provides reliable technical support for solving the problems of propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings under forest cover, and is the first of its kind in China for the conservation of this plant.

[0036] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between the various embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0037] Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be implemented in other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Therefore, the invention is not to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A method for propagating and cultivating *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* seedlings under forest cover, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: (1) Seed treatment: Collect mature seeds of Codonopsis pilosula, disinfect them, physically break the cell walls, soak them in organic acid solution, and drain them. (2) Sowing and germination: Sow the treated seeds on the surface of the seedling substrate and use intermittent spraying to control humidity until germination; (3) Seedling cultivation: After germination, the seedlings are cultivated in a controlled environment until they grow into robust seedlings with more than 5 true leaves; (4) Understory planting: Select a loose forest in Yunnan with suitable canopy closure, dig planting holes, apply water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets in the holes, and then plant the healthy seedlings on the water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets so that the roots are in contact with the amendment pellets, and cover with soil and compact. (5) Post-planting management; Disinfection in step (1): Disinfect with 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution for 15 minutes, then rinse with sterile water; Physical cell wall breaking treatment: Shake and rub the seeds with 0.4-0.6mm fine quartz sand at 80-120 rpm for 2-5 minutes; Organic acid solution soaking: Soak in 50-100mM citric acid solution for 8-16 hours; Step (2) is as follows: Sow the seeds on the surface of a substrate with a moss:vermiculite volume ratio of 1:1; place them in a germination box, set the temperature to 15-18℃, and start the intermittent spray system, spraying for 1-3 minutes every 3-5 hours; until germination begins after 20 days. Step (3) is as follows: after germination, the seedlings are moved to a greenhouse and the temperature is controlled at 18-22℃, the humidity at 65-75%, and the shading rate at 50-60%. Every two weeks, 1 / 4 of the Hogland nutrient solution is applied. After 120 days of cultivation, robust seedlings with a height of 10-12cm and 5-6 true leaves are obtained. Step (4) is as follows: Select a Yunnan pine forest with a canopy density of 0.4-0.6 and dig a 20cm×20cm×20cm planting hole; put 3-5 pre-prepared water-retaining and air-permeable soil amendment pellets into each hole, plant the healthy seedlings on the water-retaining and air-permeable soil amendment pellets, so that the roots are in contact with the amendment pellets, and cover with soil and compact it. The formula for the water-retaining and breathable soil amendment pellets in step (4) is as follows by weight: 100 parts of well-rotted leaf mold, 0.5-1.5 parts of super absorbent resin, and 3-8 parts of dried pine needles crushed to 1-3cm. The preparation method is as follows: after mixing all the ingredients evenly, add water and knead into balls, then air dry for later use. Step (5) specifically involves covering the plant with 2-4cm thick pine needles and regularly removing weeds manually.

2. The *Gynostemma pentaphyllum* obtained by the cultivation method described in claim 1.

3. The use of the chicken feet ginseng as described in claim 2 in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

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