Tree Genetics and Molecular Breeding 2025, Vol.15, No.4, 138-146 http://genbreedpublisher.com/index.php/tgmb 143 automatically adjust the pH value and electrical conductivity (EC value) of water based on this information, helping the root system absorb nutrients better, making blueberries grow stronger and have a higher water and fertilizer utilization rate. 6.4 Data-driven modeling of pH-yield-environment interactions If data such as soil pH, nutrients, weather and blueberry yield can all be collected, a model can also be established specifically to study how pH affects yield (Jayasinghege et al., 2024). Statistical methods such as principal component analysis and correlation analysis can also tell us the relationship between physiological indicators such as chlorophyll content and antioxidant enzyme activity and yield, providing data support for precise management (Jiang et al., 2019; Yang et al., 2022b). 7 Case Study: Soil pH Regulation and Yield Improvement in a Commercial Blueberry Orchard 7.1 Location, soil background, and climatic conditions Blueberries prefer acidic soil, with the most suitable pH range being 4.0 to 5.5, and they also require a relatively high organic matter content. In northern China and some southern regions, the soil pH is often relatively high, generally exceeding 5.5. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out improvement in advance. Most blueberry plantations are located in temperate or subtropical regions, where there is abundant rainfall and a mild climate, which is very suitable for blueberry growth (Jiang et al., 2019; Yang et al., 2022b). 7.2 Intervention strategy: type and timing of pH amendment To regulate soil pH, common methods include applying sulfur powder, laying pine needles, adding pine bark, or using some acidic compound fertilizers (such as compound fertilizers containing K₂SO₄). These materials can reduce the pH to between 4.5 and 5.5 and keep it unchanged for several years. Before planting or right after planting, first measure the soil pH. If it is too high, add some sulfur fertilizer and turn the soil to adjust the pH to the ideal range. If the pH is too low, you can also add an appropriate amount of compound fertilizer containing lime to improve it. Adding some organic substances such as pine needles, pine bark, peat and acidified rice husks on a regular basis can also improve soil structure and enhance buffering capacity (Li et al., 2024). 7.3 Observed effects on yield, fruit quality, and nutrient balance When the soil pH was adjusted to 4.5 to 5.5, blueberries grew more vigorously, the biomass of the above-ground parts increased significantly, and the yield could even rise fivefold. The contents of sugar, vitamin C, soluble solids, etc. in the fruit have also increased (Yu et al., 2020). When the pH is too high, blueberries do not grow well, and both yield and taste deteriorate. For example, the sugar-acid ratio decreases and the taste becomes sour. Under the appropriate pH, the contents of iron, manganese and zinc in the leaves are more balanced, the photosynthetic efficiency is higher, and the plants are healthier (Jiang et al., 2019; Yang et al., 2022b). Combined with some organic fertilizer and microbial fertilizer, it can also enhance nutrient cycling and improve soil health (Li et al., 2024). 7.4 Lessons learned and recommendations for scalable application Adjusting the soil pH properly is a prerequisite for high-yield and high-quality blueberries. It is recommended to measure the pH before planting and adjust it to between 4.5 and 5.5 as soon as possible. To improve acidity, sulfur powder, pine needles, pine bark, etc. can be used, and combined with ploughing, it is helpful to maintain acidity for a long time. Adding some organic matter or microbial fertilizer can also enhance soil nutrients and microbial diversity, make the root system more vigorous and the entire blueberry plant healthier (Yu et al., 2020; Li et al., 2024). In addition, it is recommended to regularly check the pH and nutrients of the soil and replenish organic matter and conditioners in a timely manner as needed, which is the key to ensuring blueberry yield and sustainable cultivation. 8 Conclusion and Perspectives Blueberries are particularly sensitive to soil pH levels. Its favorite pH range is from 4.0 to 5.5. Within this range, blueberries grow fast, have a high yield and the fruits are also more delicious. If the soil pH is too high, the plants
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