International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 426-437 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 431 4.3 Planting orientation and spacing for optimal yield The planting orientation and spacing of Akebia trifoliata have a direct impact on its yield and fruit quality. For planting orientation, it is recommended to use a north-south trellis arrangement to enhance ventilation and light penetration, allowing the branches and leaves of Akebia trifoliata to receive even light and avoid excessive shading. Adequate sunlight not only promotes photosynthesis but also helps accumulate sugars in the fruit, thereby improving the quality and yield of Akebia trifoliata. The vines of Akebia trifoliata naturally tend to climb eastward, so the trellis is usually designed with an east-high and west-low configuration to match its growth characteristics and increase fruit yield (Jia et al., 2023). In terms of planting spacing, the recommended row spacing for hillside cultivation is 100 × 200 cm, while for flat land cultivation, a spacing of 90 × 130 cm is advised. This relatively large spacing not only provides each Akebia trifoliata plant with sufficient room to grow but also facilitates subsequent field management and harvesting. Proper spacing reduces competition between plants, improves overall ventilation, and lowers the incidence of pests and diseases, ensuring healthy growth. The scientific design of planting orientation and spacing provides important support for achieving high yield and quality of Akebia trifoliata, ensuring consistent and abundant fruit production during the harvest season. 5 Field Management Measures 5.1 Irrigation requirements and techniques In the field management of Akebia trifoliata, proper irrigation is a key factor to ensure seedling survival and healthy growth. After planting the seedlings, it is important to keep the soil moist, especially during consecutive sunny days, when watering should be done once a week to ensure adequate moisture supply. If feasible, it is recommended to install sprinkler or drip irrigation systems to implement fertigation technology, which not only saves labor but also improves the accuracy of irrigation and fertilization (Li et al., 2021). Fertigation can precisely control the amount of water and fertilizer according to the growth needs of Akebia trifoliata, meeting the plant's water and nutrient demands at different growth stages, thus significantly improving production efficiency. After the establishment of Akebia trifoliata, water management should be adjusted based on soil moisture levels, generally keeping the soil moderately moist. Since Akebia trifoliata has a shallow root system, a stable water supply is crucial to prevent root damage caused by drought or waterlogging. In addition to regular irrigation, it is important to adjust the water amount promptly based on soil moisture conditions, especially during hot and dry seasons, when watering frequency should be increased appropriately. During the fruit enlargement stage, adequate water supply can enhance fruit weight and quality, making the fruits plumper with a better taste. Therefore, the rational application of irrigation techniques is essential for improving the yield and quality of Akebia trifoliata. 5.2 Fertilization strategies for different growth stages Fertilization management is a crucial aspect of high-yield cultivation for Akebia trifoliata, and a scientific fertilization strategy should be developed based on its growth stages and nutritional requirements (Cao et al., 2008). During the seedling stage, it is recommended to apply 100 kg of commercial organic fertilizer or 5 kg of compound fertilizer per acre, diluted in 200 kg of water for irrigation. Fertilization during the seedling stage should follow the principle of "light and frequent" applications, with fertilization once a month to promote the growth and development of roots and leaves. As the plants grow, the amount of fertilizer should be increased, with 10 kg of compound fertilizer per acre during the larger seedling stage. If there is drought or dry soil, the fertilizer can be diluted with water to ensure it reaches the roots effectively. During the flowering and fruiting stages, to improve fruit quality, it is recommended to apply 15 kg of potassium sulfate per acre. Potassium fertilizer promotes the accumulation of sugars and improves the coloration of the fruit, thereby increasing its sweetness and nutritional value. Additionally, as nutrient demands are high during the flowering and fruiting stages, trace element fertilizers should be applied appropriately to maintain balanced nutrition. Proper adjustments in fertilization strategy help achieve stable and high yields for Akebia trifoliata.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==