How to Grow Bolivian Maca Root
- 1). Locate a growing area with full sun and well-draining soil. Maca plants prefer cool average temperatures between 30 degrees and 55 degrees Fahrenheit, though they can withstand vast temperature ranges.
- 2). Prepare the soil by removing stones and breaking up large clumps of dirt. Pull weeds in or near the growing area.
- 3). Mix manure or compost into soil.
- 4). Check the pH of your soil. Maca plants do best in alkaline soil with a pH of 5 and heavy mineral content.
- 5). Bury the seeds ¼ inch below the surface level of the soil. Seeds will take four days to germinate in soil at a temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 6). Water seeds lightly immediately after planting. Without fully saturating, keep the soil moist until seedlings reach 6 inches in height. Once seedlings mature, fully soak the ground with water one to two times per week.
- 7). Add another layer of compost or manure half way into the growing cycle as this will maintain growth and add needed nutrients.
- 8). Harvest Maca roots after about seven months in the ground. Partially dig away the soil on one side of the plant to see the size of the root. Edible roots are typically 2 to 5 centimeters in size.
