Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 256-268 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 260 Moreover, the use of cover crops can influence the abundance of beneficial predators like the mite Anystis baccarum, which preys on the tea green leafhopper. Intercropping with specific cover crops has been shown to increase the abundance of these predatory mites, thereby enhancing their suppressive effect on pest populations (Chen et al., 2019). This approach not only supports pest control but also contributes to the overall health and productivity of the tea plantation ecosystem. 4.3 Competition with weeds and other plants Weeds and other competing plants can significantly affect tea yield by competing for resources such as nutrients, water, and light. Effective weed management is therefore essential to ensure optimal growth conditions for tea plants. Traditional methods of weed control, such as manual weeding and the use of herbicides, are commonly employed, but these can have environmental and economic drawbacks. The integration of cover crops offers a sustainable alternative by suppressing weed growth while simultaneously enhancing soil health and supporting beneficial organisms. For instance, intercropping with cover crops has been shown to influence the abundance of predatory mites, which can indirectly benefit tea yield by controlling pest populations (Chen et al., 2019). This approach not only reduces the need for chemical herbicides but also promotes a more resilient agro-ecosystem, ultimately supporting higher tea yields. 5 Agronomic Practices and Environmental Interactions Agronomic practices play a crucial role in determining tea yield and quality, interacting significantly with environmental factors. In Northeast India, the stagnation of tea yields has been attributed to a combination of plant age, environmental conditions such as rainfall and soil organic carbon, and management practices including the application of NPK fertilizers and pruning methods (Dutta et al., 2010). Similarly, in Eastern Africa, the use of nitrogenous fertilizers and the timing of plucking intervals have been shown to influence soil organic carbon and pH, which in turn affect tea yields (Ombori et al., 2020). These findings highlight the importance of optimizing agronomic practices to suit specific environmental conditions to enhance tea production. In Vietnam, the shift from conventional to agroecological management practices has demonstrated improvements in soil health and economic returns, despite a slight reduction in tea yields (Le et al., 2023). This suggests that sustainable agronomic practices can mitigate environmental degradation while maintaining economic viability. The interaction between agronomic practices and environmental factors is complex, requiring a nuanced understanding to optimize tea production sustainably. 5.1 Pruning and plucking methods Pruning is a critical agronomic practice that influences tea plant growth and yield. Studies have shown that pruning can enhance tea yield by promoting the growth of new shoots, although it may reduce the accumulation of quality-related compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids in tea leaves (Figure 2) (Zhang et al., 2023a; 2023b). This reduction in quality is linked to changes in the rhizosphere soil microbial community and metabolic pathways, which are altered by pruning activities (Zhang et al., 2023a). Therefore, while pruning is beneficial for yield, it necessitates careful management to balance yield and quality. Plucking intervals also significantly impact tea yield and quality. In Kenya, variations in plucking intervals have been shown to affect tea yields, with shorter intervals generally leading to higher yields (Owuor et al., 2009). However, the optimal plucking interval can vary depending on the geographical location and specific environmental conditions, indicating the need for location-specific agronomic recommendations (Dufitumukiza et al., 2020). These findings underscore the importance of tailoring pruning and plucking practices to local conditions to maximize both yield and quality. 5.2 Shade management and agroforestry systems Shade management and agroforestry systems are integral to sustainable tea cultivation, influencing both microclimatic conditions and soil health. In Northern Vietnam, agroecological management practices, which often include shade management, have been shown to improve soil organic matter and biological activity, contributing
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