Molecular Soil Biology 2025, Vol.16, No.2, 63-72 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/msb 66 3.2 Inorganic soil conditioning methods Inorganic soil conditioners usually include various fertilizers, lime, gypsum, etc. They are mainly used to adjust the pH of the soil or supplement the nutrient elements needed for plant growth. Basic nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are indispensable in the development process of crops. Scientific fertilization can enable crops to grow faster during the seedling stage and absorb nutrients more efficiently (Mao et al., 2021). Among them, lime is mainly used to neutralize the acidity of the soil and help increase the pH value to neutral or slightly alkaline, so that plants can absorb nutrients more easily and at the same time reduce the release of harmful metals (Zeng et al., 2023). As for gypsum, it is quite effective in improving soil structure. Gypsum can make the originally compacted soil softer, enhance the aggregate structure, facilitate the downward growth of the root system, and make it easier for water to seep in. Sometimes, farmers also use gypsum together with fertilizers. This can simultaneously improve the nutrient status and physical conditions of the soil, allowing plants to grow better (Mao et al., 2021). This combination is particularly suitable for use on nutrient-deficient or degraded land, which helps restore soil fertility and promote more sustainable agricultural development (Zeng et al., 2023). 3.3 New soil management techniques In recent years, some more advanced soil management methods have emerged, such as precise fertilization, mycorrhizal fungus inoculation, and water regulation techniques. Precise fertilization refers to applying fertilizers in a targeted manner based on specific crop types and soil conditions, reducing unnecessary waste and environmental pollution. Providing plants with appropriate nutrients at the right time can improve their absorption efficiency and thereby promote growth and yield (Mao et al., 2021; Sun and Qian, 2024). Mycorrhizal inoculation involves introducing certain beneficial fungi (the most common being arbuscular mycorrhizal AMF) into the roots of plants. These fungi can coexist with the root system, helping plants absorb nutrients more effectively and also improving soil structure. Zhang et al. (2019) once found that mycorrhizal inoculation could promote the formation of more aggregates in the soil, making it easier for the root system to expand and enhancing its ability to absorb water and nutrients. In terms of water management, a material called "superabsorbent polymer" is widely used. It can lock in moisture in the soil and release it slowly when plants need it. This approach can reduce the impact of drought, make photosynthesis smoother, and also make the overall growth of plants more stable (Mao et al., 2021). 4 Effect of Soil Improvement on Wu Yao Mother Plants 4.1 The promotion of root development and growth rate through soil improvement Soil amendments, such as organic and biological fertilizers, loosen the soil and make it more porous, making nutrients more accessible to the plant. This allows the roots of Linderae acuminata to grow deeper, increasing their overall range and volume. With more porosity and improved aeration in the soil, the root system can more easily expand. These changes directly enhance the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients, leading to faster and stronger plant growth (Angelopoulou et al., 2014). Biological fertilizers also activate the soil microbiome. These invisible microorganisms help break down nutrients in the soil, converting previously inaccessible elements into usable nutrients for the plant. They also promote the growth of root hairs and fine root systems, effectively creating more "supply straws" for the plant and improving root absorption efficiency (Bira et al., 2016). Stronger roots lead to healthier plants, ultimately increasing yields. 4.2 The enhancement of active ingredient content (such as essential oils, flavonoids) due to soil improvement Improved soil not only promotes the growth of Wu Yao, but also benefits the active ingredients in its body. For example, the content of active ingredients such as volatile oils and flavonoids will also increase accordingly. Organic fertilizers and proper nutrient management can provide the raw materials needed for synthesizing these components, as well as increase the activity of related enzymes, promoting the production of these substances (Feng et al., 2024). Some beneficial microorganisms can also work. They reduce the stress on plants and help absorb more nutrients. They will affect the substances secreted by the root system, thereby stimulating plants to
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