Shepherd's purse prefers mild conditions and can grow as long as it receives sufficient sunlight and the soil is not too dry. It is not particular about soil type, but thrives best in fertile, loose soil.
Shepherd's purse is a cold-tolerant vegetable that prefers cool and sunny weather. The optimal temperature for seed germination is 20-25°C. The optimal temperature for growth and development is 12-20°C. When the temperature is below 10°C or above 22°C, its growth slows down, the growth cycle is extended, and the quality is poorer. Shepherd's purse has strong cold tolerance; its plants are not damaged at -5°C and can withstand short-term low temperatures of -7.5°C. Under low-temperature conditions of 2-5°C, shepherd's purse vernalizes and bolts to flower within 10-20 days.
Shepherd's purse can cool the blood to stop bleeding, nourish deficiency to strengthen the spleen, clear heat, and promote urination. In spring, its young stems, leaves, or overwintering buds can be picked, blanched, and then eaten cold with sauce, in soups, or stir-fried. Shepherd's purse dumplings and wontons are indispensable delicacies on the spring dining table. Additionally, it can be made into a delicious shepherd's purse porridge.