The Chinese harvest 2 tons of potatoes per hundred square meters thanks to a ritual that may seem strange at first glance.
Before planting, they throw a herring head into the hole.
During the decomposition process, it releases phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen, which nourish the tubers for months.
But there is a nuance: the fish must be salted. Salt repels wireworms, and fat creates a film that protects against fungus.
The second secret is rice husk ash. It is mixed with the soil to reduce acidity.
Try this method and your potatoes will grow the size of grapefruit. Just don't tell your neighbors, or your harvest will become a local legend.
What to do if you can't find that much herring? Replace it with bone meal. It works more slowly, but gives the same effect.
To avoid soil salinization, rinse the holes with water before planting.
The Chinese also use tea leaves - its tannins strengthen the skin of the tubers.
Another life hack: plant potatoes in a checkerboard pattern. This way, each bush will get more light and space.
And don't dig too deep - the optimal depth is 10 centimeters. In dense soil, the tubers will become deformed.
In a season you will understand why Chinese farmers laugh at European technology.
