Drought resistance in fruit trees is primarily determined by their genetic makeup, but it is also influenced by external environmental factors. Understanding the water needs of fruit trees allows for timely irrigation and the application of appropriate cultivation techniques during critical growth periods, helping to retain moisture and improve yield.
1. **Selecting Drought-Resistant Fruit Trees**
The drought tolerance of fruit trees varies significantly among species. Pomegranate, jujube, fig, and stone fruits are highly resistant, while walnuts, plums, and grapes have moderate tolerance. Apple, pear, and persimmon trees are the least resistant. In terms of rootstocks, varieties like Qiao anvil, M7, and MM106 show good drought resistance. Native species such as mountain stator, Xifu Begonia, Xinjiang wild fruit, jellyfish fruit, Yamanashi, mountain peach, and mountain grape are also known for their resilience.
2. **Strengthening Cultivation Practices**
2.1 **Proper Planting Density**: Planting at a medium density (2.5–4 meters between rows) ensures adequate space for growth. Digging large pits (about 1 cubic meter) helps improve root development.
2.2 **Timely Pruning**: Use clean tools and apply oil or wax to pruning wounds to prevent sap loss. Remove excess buds in spring and weak shoots in summer. Implement flower thinning and manage fruit load to reduce nutrient waste.
2.3 **Appropriate Fertilization**: Apply organic manure and balanced fertilizers to enhance tree vigor and drought resistance. Deep fertilization encourages deeper root growth.
2.4 **Soil Management**: Regularly till the soil to improve aeration and water infiltration.
2.5 **Terrace and Fish Scale Pit Construction**: On sloped land, build terraces and fish scale pits to capture rainfall, increase local water retention, and boost drought resistance.
3. **Orchard Covering Techniques**
3.1 **Covering with Mulch or Grass**: Plastic film is often used in early spring to conserve moisture, warm the soil, and promote microbial activity. Grass cover improves soil structure, suppresses weeds, and enhances fruit quality. It should be applied in summer when the soil temperature reaches 20°C. The recommended amount is 1,000–1,500 kg/667 m² for grass cover. Before covering, create small channels between trees and ensure proper placement around the trunk.
3.2 **White Clover as a Cover Crop**: White clover is a perennial plant that thrives in partial shade and improves soil fertility. It can be sown in spring or autumn and requires regular maintenance, including cutting and reseeding every few years. Its benefits include weed suppression, erosion control, and improved fruit tree health.
4. **Hole Storage Fertilizer and Water Mulching Technology**
This technique involves placing straw or compost in holes around trees, mixed with fertilizer, and covering them with plastic film. It reduces water usage by up to 90% and is particularly effective in dry, rocky soils. The holes are refilled with fertilizer during key growth stages and can last 2–3 years before being renewed.
5. **Water-Saving Irrigation Methods**
Implement drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, or micro-irrigation to optimize water use and minimize waste.
6. **Use of Chemical Agents**
6.1 **Moisture Absorbents**: Superabsorbent polymers like KD-1 resin can absorb hundreds of times their weight in water, reducing evaporation and improving soil structure. They help maintain moisture levels for extended periods, especially during planting.
6.2 **Anti-Transpiration Agents**: Substances like fulvic acid reduce leaf transpiration without affecting physiological functions. They improve water use efficiency and enhance drought resistance, with effects lasting over 18 days.
By combining these strategies, orchard managers can significantly enhance the resilience of fruit trees to drought conditions, ensuring sustainable production even in challenging environments.
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