Medicinal Plant Research 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 275-284 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 278 humidity during the early growth stages supports healthy leaf and tuber development. However, measures should be taken to avoid excessive moisture, which could lead to fungal infections. 3.3 Planting density and intercropping techniques Planting density and intercropping techniques play a crucial role in the efficient cultivation of Corydalis yanhusuo. An appropriate planting density is a key factor in maximizing yield and alkaloid content. Proper spacing ensures that each plant receives sufficient light, water, and nutrients. Studies have shown that planting 25-30 plants per square meter can achieve high yields while avoiding resource competition (Liu et al., 2023). These intercropping systems help mitigate the challenges of continuous cropping and enhance the overall sustainability of Corydalis yanhusuo cultivation. Intercropping can further improve productivity, especially when Corydalis yanhusuo is paired with complementary crops that do not compete for the same nutrients. For instance, intercropping with legumes can improve soil fertility through natural nitrogen fixation, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers (Feng et al., 2021). Additionally, intercropping with aromatic plants like garlic or marigold can provide natural pest control, fostering a healthier growing environment (Pokharel et al., 2023). 3.4 Pest and disease management Corydalis yanhusuo is susceptible to various common pests and diseases that can significantly impact its yield and quality. Major pests include aphids, caterpillars, and root-knot nematodes, which feed on the plant's leaves and roots, causing stunted growth and reduced alkaloid production (Ali et al., 2018; Holbein et al., 2019). Common diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot are particularly problematic in areas with high humidity. Powdery mildew primarily affects the aboveground parts of the plant, while root rot is often associated with poorly drained soils and, if left unmanaged, can lead to severe losses (Huang et al., 2021; Rosati et al., 2023). Environmental conditions such as excessive moisture and poor ventilation exacerbate these issues, making timely identification of pests and diseases essential for effective management. Regular monitoring of C. yanhusuo cultivation areas can help detect early signs of infestation and implement preventive measures to minimize the spread and impact of these problems, ensuring crop health and productivity. To reduce chemical residues and promote environmental sustainability, organic pest and disease control methods are increasingly adopted in Corydalis yanhusuo cultivation. Biological control agents, such as ladybugs and lacewings, are effective in controlling aphid populations. Additionally, plant-based insecticides like neem oil are commonly used to repel pests without harming beneficial insects (Tamilselvi et al., 2022). Crop rotation is another effective organic strategy, breaking the life cycles of pests and pathogens and reducing the incidence of root-knot nematodes and soil-borne diseases (Li et al., 2022). The use of organic compost and mulching not only improves soil fertility but also supports the growth of beneficial microorganisms that suppress harmful pathogens. By integrating these organic approaches, farmers can effectively manage pest and disease pressures while maintaining ecological balance. 4 Factors Influencing Alkaloid Content 4.1 Environmental factors Environmental factors play a crucial role in determining the alkaloid content in Corydalis yanhusuo. One significant environmental factor is the type of field conditions under which the plant is cultivated. For instance, fields that have been previously flooded (HR fields) have shown an increased yield of C. yanhusuo compared to fields used for peanut rotation (PL fields) or fields without any rotation or flooding (N fields) (Li et al., 2022). This suggests that water availability and soil moisture levels can significantly impact the plant's growth and alkaloid production. Additionally, climatic variations have been found to correlate with alkaloid content in cultivated populations of C. yanhusuo, indicating that temperature, humidity, and other climatic factors can influence the biosynthesis of alkaloids (Chen et al., 2020).
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