International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 343-354 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 350 6 Current Status of Xanthoceras sorbifoliumCultivation and Industry Development 6.1 Cultivation techniques and management practices Xanthoceras sorbifolium, commonly known as yellowhorn, is a tree species highly valued for its adaptability and potential as an oil crop. Efficient cultivation techniques are crucial for maximizing its yield and resilience in various environments. High-yield cultivation methods for Xanthoceras include selecting high-quality seeds, ensuring optimal planting density, and employing proper pest management practices. In northern China, for example, seed stratification, root cuttings, and seedling planting techniques have proven effective in promoting rapid growth and improving plant survival rates in challenging environments (Feng, 2011). Furthermore, maintaining a well-managed nursery system with adequate watering and fertilization ensures healthy seedlings and reduces mortality rates during the early growth stages. Pest control is also a vital aspect of Xanthoceras cultivation. Various pests such as aphids and caterpillars can damage the trees, particularly in young plantations. Effective pest management practices include monitoring pest populations, using biological control agents, and applying insecticides when necessary. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, combining biological and chemical controls, have been successfully implemented to reduce the reliance on pesticides and minimize environmental impact (Chun, 2012). These practices not only improve crop productivity but also contribute to the sustainable cultivation of Xanthoceras. 6.2 Current status of the Xanthoceras industry in china and abroad The Xanthoceras industry in China is rapidly expanding, particularly in northern regions such as Heilongjiang, Inner Mongolia, and Shaanxi, where the species thrives in arid and semi-arid climates. These regions have become the primary production areas for Xanthoceras due to its resilience in poor soil conditions and its ability to tolerate drought and cold. The demand for Xanthoceras oil, both for edible purposes and as a biodiesel feedstock, has spurred the growth of the industry, with many farmers transitioning from traditional crops to this more lucrative option (Li and Liu, 2013). Internationally, Xanthoceras is gaining attention as an alternative bioenergy crop. Its potential to produce high-quality oil with relatively low input costs has attracted interest from biofuel industries in countries with similar environmental conditions. Despite its current limited cultivation outside China, there is growing interest in regions with arid climates, such as parts of the United States and Africa. The global market for Xanthoceras products, including edible oil and biofuels, is expected to expand as research into its applications progresses, presenting significant opportunities for market growth (Zang et al., 2021). 6.3 Challenges and opportunities for the Xanthoceras industry The development of the Xanthoceras industry faces several challenges, particularly in terms of policy support and technology dissemination. One of the main barriers to large-scale adoption is the lack of comprehensive agricultural policies that promote the cultivation of non-traditional crops like Xanthoceras. Although the tree has great potential as a biofuel and edible oil source, limited government subsidies and research funding have hindered its broader adoption. Furthermore, the dissemination of advanced cultivation technologies, such as improved pest management and optimized planting techniques, is often restricted to larger commercial growers, leaving small-scale farmers at a disadvantage (Feng, 2011). Despite these challenges, there are significant opportunities for growth in the Xanthoceras industry. As the demand for renewable energy sources and sustainable agricultural practices increases, Xanthoceras presents a promising solution for both environmental and economic challenges. The tree’s adaptability to marginal lands and its ability to improve soil fertility make it an ideal candidate for large-scale cultivation in regions affected by desertification. With increased policy support and investment in research, the Xanthoceras industry could expand rapidly, providing both sustainable agricultural solutions and economic opportunities for rural communities (Zang et al., 2021; Huang, 2024).
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