CULTIVATION

Site Selection and Soil Preparation

Exposure: sunny to partial shade
Soil Type: well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7)
Soil Preparation: light plowing (20-25 cm), organic amendment (compost or well-decomposed manure) before sowing, weeding before cultivation

Sowing and Planting

Period: spring (March-April, soil at 10-15°C) or fall (October-November, soil at 5-10°C)
Row or Direct Sowing: at 1-2 cm depth, with a density between 25 and 50 g of seeds/m²
Spacing: 30 to 40 cm between rows
Germination: can take 10-15 days

Crop Maintenance and Management

Watering: regular, but without excess, to avoid root rot, especially during germination period
Weeding: manual or mechanical, to be done in the first weeks only
Fertilization: no additional needs if the soil has already been well amended

Cutting and Harvesting

First Cut: 2 to 3 months after sowing (young shoots reaching 30 to 50 cm in height), generally before flowering
Harvest Frequency: regular cutting every 4 to 6 weeks to encourage continuous growth
Harvest Method: scissors or sickle to cut young shoots

Post-Harvest and Processing

Drying Leaves: air-dry in a shaded and ventilated area, then store in paper bags or airtight jars for future use
Processing: various uses (food, cosmetics, textiles)

Seed Harvest

Seed Collection: wait for the plants to flower and bear seeds (around late summer or early fall). The seeds are small and black, you can harvest them by shaking the flower heads into a bag or basket

Disease & Pest Control

Common Diseases: can be subject to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions, the use of biological sulfur-based fungicides may be necessary in case of occurrence
Pests: some rare aphid attacks can be observed, the use of black soap or garlic decoction sprays can be effective