As the growing season progresses, our medicinal plant and gin botanical trial crops are showing promising results, with weed control significantly improved from last year.  

An additional variable, Time of Planting, has been added to the second year of trials – this will provide valuable information on how different planting times impact crop establishment, bio-active levels, growth rates, and final yields.  

Many of the first transplanted plots have now reached canopy cover and are looking healthy, a testament to the dedication of our trialists. Some irrigation of the later transplants has been required, which has resulted in lower-than-expected loss rates despite dry conditions. 

Once canopy closure is achieved, the focus shifts from weed management to observation and ongoing maintenance.  

Below we dive into the summer progress of our medicinal plant trials. If you missed our last trial update, you can read that here. 

Liquorice

Year 1 liquorice trial sites are demonstrating strong rhizome growth (horizontal underground plant stems capable of producing the shoot and root systems of a new plant), with certain locations appearing particularly well-suited to the high value, three-year crop.  

As is the case with the other crops, the transplants for our Year 2 liquorice trial have established well.  A newly introduced selective herbicide has been effective in managing weeds without impacting liquorice. 

In line with a more sustainable approach, we are also trialling various organic mulching methods as an alternative to chemical weed control—our preferred direction moving forward. This will enable us to compare weed suppression effectiveness while assessing impacts on root and rhizome development. 

Additionally, monitoring shutdown and regrowth periods will help identify an optimal winter cover crop to naturally suppress weeds, further supporting long-term soil health and crop resilience. 

Ashwagandha & Angelica 

To maximise the results of our direct seed germination rates we will be running further trials this season, testing different sowing methods at the Rehutai and Egmont Road sites. These trials will be conducted in small sections, with the rest of the direct-sowing areas being monitored for any further natural autumn germination. We are eager to learn the results of these trials as direct seeding is a far more cost-effective method of growing. 

For Ashwagandha, we have noted that nightshade weed management is critical. The fungal pathogen Alternaria solani (which is also responsible for potato blight), is carried on this common weed, and the trialists are working hard to keep on top of this when spotted. 

Ashwaghanda, North Taranaki, February 2025

Calendula 

The calendula harvest at certain trial sites has begun. To maximize yields, we will conduct follow-up harvesting every 7–10 days to assess the volume of plant material that can be gathered over time. To improve efficiency, we will trial tractor-assisted harvesting.  

For weed management, a selective herbicide with minimal impact on Calendula is being tested at conventional sites. If successful, it could help with weed maintenance while reducing labour costs.

Calendula, North Taranaki, February 2025

 

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