International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 343-354 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 349 Xanthoceras plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and promoting the resilience of ecosystems in regions threatened by desertification and land degradation (Ruan et al., 2017). 5Role of Xanthoceras sorbifoliumin sustainable agriculture 5.1 Potential for intercropping and crop rotation Xanthoceras sorbifolium, a versatile tree species, holds significant potential for intercropping and crop rotation, which are essential practices in sustainable agriculture. Intercropping, the practice of growing two or more crops in proximity, can exploit species complementarities to enhance land utilization efficiency. For instance, a meta-analysis on maize and soybean intercropping demonstrated a substantial increase in land equivalent ratio (LER) and fertilizer nitrogen use efficiency (FNER), indicating that intercropping can lead to higher productivity with reduced inputs (Xu et al., 2020; Wang and Li, 2024). Similarly, integrating Xanthoceras sorbifolium with other crops could improve land use efficiency by leveraging its unique growth characteristics and nutrient requirements. Moreover, Xanthoceras sorbifoliumcan be cultivated on marginal lands, making it an excellent candidate for crop rotation systems aimed at restoring soil health and fertility. The tree's ability to thrive in temperate climates and its deep root system can help in breaking pest and disease cycles, improving soil structure, and enhancing nutrient cycling. By incorporating Xanthoceras sorbifolium into crop rotation schemes, farmers can achieve a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system that maximizes land productivity while minimizing environmental impacts (Venegas-Calerón et al., 2017). 5.2 Contribution to carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation Xanthoceras sorbifoliumplays a crucial role in carbon sequestration and climate change mitigation, making it a valuable asset in sustainable agriculture. Trees are well-known for their ability to capture atmospheric carbon dioxide and store it in their biomass and soil. Xanthoceras sorbifolium, with its substantial biomass production, can significantly contribute to carbon capture, thereby reducing the overall carbon footprint of agricultural practices. Furthermore, the cultivation of Xanthoceras sorbifoliumon marginal lands can enhance soil organic carbon levels, which is vital for maintaining soil health and mitigating climate change. The tree's deep root system not only helps in sequestering carbon but also improves soil structure and water retention, making the land more resilient to climate extremes. By integrating Xanthoceras sorbifoliuminto agricultural landscapes, farmers can contribute to global efforts in climate regulation while also benefiting from the tree's various economic and ecological services (Venegas-Calerón et al., 2017). 5.3 Integration of sustainable agriculture withXanthoceras industry development The integration of sustainable agriculture with the development of the Xanthoceras industry can create a circular economy that benefits both the environment and local communities. Xanthoceras sorbifoliumproduces seeds rich in oil, which can be used for biodiesel production, cosmetics, and other industrial applications. The utilization of Xanthoceras-derived products not only provides an alternative renewable energy source but also adds economic value to agricultural practices (Venegas-Calerón et al., 2017). Moreover, the by-products of Xanthoceras sorbifolium, such as the extracted meal rich in proteins and essential amino acids, can be used as animal feed or organic fertilizers, further promoting a circular economy. The presence of bioactive compounds like saponins in the seeds also opens up opportunities for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. By developing a robust Xanthoceras industry, farmers can diversify their income streams while contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and reducing dependency on non-renewable resources (Venegas-Calerón et al., 2017).
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