Page Three | Section: Upper

If [the soil] is not managed correctly, the plant will not propagate well original: "滋胤" (ziyin). This refers to the multiplication of the corms or "offspring" roots.. By the time the weather becomes scorching hot, the seedlings will grow tall and vigorous. One must frequently hoe the ground around the sides of the plant. In the autumn, the offsets the secondary cormlets are produced. Use the leaves and soil to mound the roots. Taro can save one during times of famine, as locusts and grasshoppers cannot damage it. It should be harvested after the first frost. If eaten during the winter months, it will not cause illness; however, it should not be consumed in large quantities during other months.

After the frost, the white shoots original: "芋白" (yubai). These are the tender, pale buds or shoots found on the taro corms. should be broken off. Scald original: "煠" (zha). A technique of quick-boiling or blanching. them in boiling jiang-shui original: "漿水". A sour, fermented rice water used in ancient Chinese cooking as a seasoning and preservative., then dry them in the sun. When stir-fried and eaten during the winter months, the flavor is superior to that of cattail shoots.

○ Pit-planted Taro: The pits should be over ten feet long, one foot deep, and one foot wide. The rows of pits should be spaced one pace apart. Providing this width allows the wind to pass through, which aids in propagation.

Mallow