There are numerous types of herbal medicines, most of which come from perennial herbaceous plants that have naturally grown in the wild for a long time, relying primarily on natural weather conditions for their growth. However, due to the unique nutritional needs and characteristics of Chinese herbal medicines, research on fertilization techniques for these plants remains limited. As a result, current practices in the application of fertilizers for medicinal herbs tend to be biased in two main ways. One approach involves wild-type herbs that require no fertilization at all, with only organic fertilizers being used if necessary. The other method mimics the practices used for field crops, where large amounts of water and chemical fertilizers are applied without considering the specific requirements of medicinal plants. These approaches are not ideal for ensuring high-quality herbal production or enhancing medicinal efficacy.
Surveys conducted in parts of Hebei and Henan reveal that local farmers often rely on traditional methods such as organic manure and experience-based decisions for fertilization. Advanced techniques like soil testing, nutrient diagnosis, and tailored fertilization strategies are rarely used. In most cases, top-dressing is either neglected or poorly executed. Most base fertilizers are applied in the fall, although some are used in spring. These base fertilizers are typically organic, such as compost, cake fertilizer, or human waste.
Experts emphasize that the goal of fertilizing Chinese herbal medicines should not only focus on increasing yield but also on improving the potency and quality of the herbs. To achieve both higher yields and better efficacy, it's essential to tailor fertilization practices according to the specific characteristics of the medicinal parts—such as roots, leaves, flowers, or fruits.
In modern practices, it’s recommended to combine organic fertilizers with appropriate amounts of chemical fertilizers. This combination can enhance both yield and medicinal value. Recent studies have shown that using only organic fertilizers may not be suitable for all medicinal plants. For example, human urine, when used for ginseng or American ginseng, can inhibit root development. Similarly, applying only organic materials to certain herbs like jaundice plants may not be as effective as using specialized compound fertilizers.
The principle behind chemical fertilizer application should be based on organic foundations: use nitrogen fertilizers cautiously, prioritize phosphorus and potassium, and skillfully apply trace elements. For example, plants with flowers and fruits as their medicinal parts should receive more phosphorus and potassium, while those with roots and bulbs need extra potassium. Nitrogen should be used with care, as excessive amounts can lead to poor medicinal properties or overgrowth and rot.
Since Chinese herbal medicines aim to provide both quantity and quality, it’s important to consider the balance of nutrients. According to modern medicinal chemistry, active compounds are often secondary metabolites, which require a balanced supply of both macro- and micronutrients. When applying trace element fertilizers through the soil, they must be mixed thoroughly with organic material to ensure even distribution. Foliar sprays, on the other hand, require careful control of concentration and frequency to avoid damage and achieve the desired results.
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