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Detailed explanation of the method of transportation of Astragalus seedlings
Through years of practical experience in production, the author has developed a series of techniques for transporting Astragalus seedlings over short, medium, and long distances. These methods are detailed below to ensure the safe and efficient transport of the plants.
For **short-distance transportation** (within 50 kilometers), **wet transport** is commonly used. Suitable containers include wooden crates, barrels, sacks, or woven bags. To maintain moisture, a layer of wet grass, hay, clay, or even egg whites can be placed at the bottom to prevent damage from friction. Wooden boxes and barrels should have ventilation holes and be covered to protect from direct sunlight. In summer, it's essential to keep the temperature low—placing ice on the lid helps achieve this. The recommended density is no more than 40 kg per cubic meter. Water transport is even more effective, allowing a density of up to 50 kg/m³, but it is costlier and more labor-intensive.
For **medium-distance transportation** (between 50 and 500 kilometers), **water transport** is typically preferred. Containers such as barrels, canvas bags, water tanks, foam boxes, or tin boxes can be used. The ratio of water to Astragalus should be 1:1. During hot weather, ice cubes are placed on the net cover so that melted ice gradually cools the water. A small amount of loach (about 10% of the weight of Astragalus) can be added to help maintain water quality. Additionally, 40 million units of gentamycin or 10 grams of chlortetracycline per cubic meter of water should be included, along with some soft grass. The density of Astragalus should not exceed 40 kg/m³.
For **long-distance transportation** (over 500 kilometers), water transport is also used, with a travel time of 1 to 2 days. Key steps include:
1. Use containers like wooden barrels, foam boxes, or tin boxes. Foam boxes are often the best choice, with dimensions around 50x40x25 cm. Cover the box with plastic film to prevent water leakage and make a few ventilation holes for air circulation.
2. Allow the Astragalus to stay in a holding tank for 1–2 days before transport to empty their digestive tracts.
3. Gradually increase the density to 10 kg/m³ over 2–3 days so the plants can adapt to higher densities. During this time, avoid feeding and change the water frequently.
4. If the temperature is high, lower the water temperature gradually by soaking the containers in cooler water (2–3°C lower than previous) for 10–30 minutes until the temperature reaches 10–15°C.
5. Each container should not exceed 10 kg, and the height of the Astragalus should be less than 15 cm. The water-to-plant ratio should be 1:1.
6. Place sterile plastic bags inside the container to isolate the plants and support their bodies during transport. Freeze water bottles and place them in the foam box, slightly loosening the cap to allow slow dripping. Two bottles per box are recommended. Add antibiotics to the water before placing the treated plants inside and seal the box tightly.
7. It is best to start the transport in the early morning or late evening, and ideally on a rainy day to reduce heat exposure.
8. Change the water once or twice during the journey, depending on water clarity and temperature.
These methods ensure the health and survival of Astragalus seedlings during transport, regardless of distance.