International Journal of Horticulture, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 426-437 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/ijh 427 These attributes have encouraged the development of Akebia trifoliata cultivation into an emerging agricultural project, attracting the participation of numerous farmers and agricultural enterprises to meet the growing market demand. Akebia trifoliata shows considerable potential for yield and quality improvement, and with proper cultivation management, farmers can achieve high economic benefits (Xiong et al., 2007; Guan et al., 2022). To realize high-yield, high-quality cultivation, the Science and Technology Volunteer Service Team of the Chinese Society of Agronomy and the Xinye Family Farm in Zhuji City, Zhejiang, began the domestication and cultivation research on Akebia trifoliata in 2015. After years of effort, the farm introduced high-quality germplasm resources in 2018 and conducted grafting experiments with various scions and rootstocks, eventually developing a high-quality Akebia trifoliata variety in 2023 characterized by large fruit size, thin skin, few seeds, and a sweet, delicious flavor. According to yield measurements in 2023 and early 2024, the average yield of Akebia trifoliata per mu (0.067 hectares) reached 2,000 to 2,500 kg, with maximum yields exceeding 3,000 kg, and individual fruits weighing between 250 and 300 g, with the largest reaching 750 g. This high-quality Akebia trifoliata variety sells for up to 50 RMB/kg, with an annual yield value exceeding 100,000 RMB per mu and a net income of over 80,000 RMB per mu. Therefore, systematic research into Akebia trifoliata cultivation techniques not only promotes the development of this emerging fruit industry but also contributes positively to local economic growth and agricultural modernization. This study systematically summarizes high-yield cultivation techniques for Akebia trifoliata in Xinye Family Farm in Zhuji City, covering site preparation, seedling planting, trellis setup, providing technical guidance for producers. The study also explores methods to enhance fruit nutritional quality, improve soil health, and promote orchard sustainability. This study aims to enhance the fruit quality and market competitiveness of Akebia trifoliata through standardized cultivation practices, making it a sustainable specialty fruit industry that helps farmers increase their income. 2 Biological Characteristics and Value of Akebia trifoliata 2.1 Morphological and growth characteristics Akebia trifoliata is a perennial deciduous climbing woody vine with a distinctive growth pattern. The plant features palmately compound leaves arranged alternately, with leaflets typically ovate or obovate in shape, and a range of vibrant leaf colors that add to its ornamental appeal (Pan et al., 2021). Its branches are flexible and well-suited for climbing, making it ideal for use in trellis or hedge construction. Akebia trifoliata has a well-developed shallow root system, making it suitable for growth in loose, well-aerated soils. The plant demonstrates strong adaptability to soil conditions and can tolerate a certain level of drought, which facilitates its widespread cultivation (Maciąg et al., 2021; Zhong et al., 2022a). In various regions of China, Akebia trifoliata can be found at different altitudes, ranging from lowlands at 250 meters to mountainous areas up to 2 000 meters. The overall appearance of Akebia trifoliata is neat and elegant, making it a suitable plant for adding aesthetic value to natural landscapes. With a fast growth rate and high vine extension ability, it is commonly used in garden design to create natural shading effects. During the growing season, the vines climb up supports or fences, with leaves layered under sunlight, forming a unique visual effect. Apart from being an economic fruit tree, Akebia trifoliata is also considered one of the ideal choices for landscaping due to its drought resistance and tolerance to poor soil conditions. 2.2 Flowering period and fruit characteristics The flowering period of Akebia trifoliata typically occurs from March to May, with flower clusters up to 20 to 40 centimeters long, providing significant ornamental value. The flowers come in a variety of colors, including yellow, white, and purple-red, which create a striking visual effect in spring orchards (Nasrullah et al., 2018). The flowering process is gradual, with blooms lasting up to two months, adding vitality and color to the spring landscape. In horticultural design, the long flowering period of Akebia trifoliata enhances the layering effect of landscapes, making it a popular choice for courtyard landscaping and ornamental flower arrangements. The long
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==