Licorice

The plant can be propagated via seeds or rhizome cuttings. Seed propagation requires scarification due to the tough outer coat, which naturally limits germination rates without intervention.

Seeds should be planted at a depth of 1.5–2 centimeters with row spacing of 60–70 centimeters. This provides enough space for the plant to establish its extensive root system over the coming years.

Seedlings emerge slowly, making pre-emergence harrowing essential to manage weeds and prevent soil crusting, which can impede the development of young plants.

As a member of the Fabaceae family, it is recommended to treat seeds with nitrogen-fixing bacteria to encourage symbiotic growth and improve plant vigor in the initial stages.

Licorice is a light-demanding crop that thrives in open, sunny areas. While it is highly drought-tolerant due to its deep root system, consistent watering during the first year is vital for healthy establishment.

Light sandy or loamy soils with neutral to slightly alkaline pH are ideal. Excessive clay or high water tables should be avoided, as these conditions significantly increase the risk of root rot.

Optimal temperatures for active growth range between 25–30°C. The plant is hardy, but in regions with harsh, snowless winters, young stands may require protection to survive extreme cold.

Though it can remain on the same site for over a decade, commercial stands are usually harvested every 3–5 years when the concentration of beneficial compounds reaches its peak.

Maintenance involves regular weeding and loosening of the soil, especially in the first two years of growth, as the plant is sensitive to competition from aggressive weed species.

The commercial yield of dry licorice root typically ranges from 3 to 6 tons per hectare depending on crop age and agricultural management intensity. Older stands generally produce higher biomass.

Factors influencing yield include soil nutrient levels, especially phosphorus and potassium, and the density of the planting grid. Proper spacing prevents resource competition among mature plants.

The biological peak for glycyrrhizin content in the roots occurs around the 3rd or 4th year. Harvesting during this specific period ensures the highest pharmaceutical quality of the raw material.

Annual yields of top biomass are possible, though they are secondary to the root harvest. If cultivated without heavy synthetic pesticides, the greens can be utilized in secondary agricultural markets.

Maximizing yield requires strict adherence to agrotechnical protocols, ensuring that the roots have enough space to develop their characteristic deep and thick structure without stress.

Licorice is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust, particularly in areas with poor ventilation or high humidity. Crop rotation is the primary method of preventing these issues.

Root rot is the most serious threat to the crop, often caused by stagnant water or compacted soil. It is difficult to detect early, necessitating preventative soil management and proper drainage.

Insect pests, including various weevils and aphids, may attack foliage and young shoots. While the plant is generally robust, severe infestations can lead to stunted growth and reduced root development.

Integrated pest management, including the use of biological control agents and resistant varieties, is recommended to keep pest populations below the economic injury level.

Regular field scouting is essential during the growing season to detect early signs of infestation or infection, allowing for targeted intervention before the problem spreads across the field.

Harvesting takes place in the autumn once the aerial parts of the plant begin to yellow and die back. This signals that the plant has shifted energy reserves into the roots.

Specialized equipment, such as potato harvesters or deep-blade plows, is used to extract the roots from a depth of at least 40–50 centimeters, minimizing breakage and waste.

After extraction, the roots must be thoroughly cleaned of soil and debris. This washing stage is critical to ensure the final product meets strict pharmaceutical industry cleanliness standards.

Drying is performed in controlled environments at 50–60°C to prevent mold growth and maintain the chemical integrity of the active ingredients, avoiding oxidation or discoloration.

Once dry, the roots are sorted, cut into specified sizes, and stored in dry, well-ventilated areas to protect against humidity and pests until they are ready for market distribution.