Journal of Tea Science Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 273-284 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/jtsr 275 integration of advanced agricultural management practices tailored to specific genotypes can further enhance tea yield and quality, ensuring that the genetic potential of the plants is fully realized (Owuor et al., 2011). 3 Analysis of Tea Cultivation Techniques 3.1 Traditional methods and practices Traditional tea cultivation methods have long relied on the extensive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to enhance yield and quality. In regions like Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, China, traditional practices involve high rates of chemical inputs, which, while initially boosting productivity, have led to environmental concerns such as soil acidification and nutrient runoff (Xie et al., 2018). Similarly, in Northern Vietnam, conventional tea cultivation has been associated with soil health degradation and environmental pollution due to the overuse of chemical fertilizers (Le et al., 2023). These traditional methods, although effective in maintaining high yields, often result in long-term soil fertility issues and increased environmental risks. Despite the challenges, traditional practices have been foundational in establishing tea as a major cash crop in many regions. In West Bengal, India, for instance, traditional soil management practices have been documented, showing a significant portion of soil samples with optimal pH and organic carbon levels suitable for tea cultivation (Malakar et al., 2022). However, the reliance on chemical inputs remains a concern, necessitating a shift towards more sustainable practices to ensure long-term soil health and productivity. 3.2 Modern innovations and technologies Modern innovations in tea cultivation focus on reducing the environmental impact of traditional practices while maintaining or improving yield and quality. One such innovation is the dual reduction of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which has shown promising results in improving soil health and reducing nutrient runoff in tea gardens (Xie et al., 2018). The use of agroecological management practices in Northern Vietnam has demonstrated significant improvements in soil organic matter and pH, leading to better tea quality and increased economic returns for farmers (Le et al., 2023). Technological advancements such as the Nutrient Expert (NE) system have also been developed to optimize fertilization practices. This system has been shown to increase tea yield and quality while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fertilizer use, thus enhancing economic benefits and environmental sustainability (Tang et al., 2021). These modern approaches highlight the potential for integrating technology and sustainable practices to optimize tea cultivation. 3.3 Integration of traditional and modern approaches Integrating traditional and modern approaches in tea cultivation can offer a balanced solution to enhance productivity while mitigating environmental impacts. For instance, combining organic and chemical fertilizers has been identified as an effective strategy to improve soil nutrients and tea yield, as seen in studies conducted in various tea-growing regions (Wang et al., 2020). This integrated approach not only maintains the benefits of traditional methods but also incorporates modern sustainability practices to reduce environmental risks. Moreover, the use of organic inputs such as compost tea and anaerobic digestate has been shown to produce yields comparable to conventional chemical fertilizers, offering a viable alternative for sustainable tea production (Curadelli et al., 2023). Blending traditional knowledge with modern innovations, tea growers can achieve a more sustainable and productive cultivation system that supports both environmental health and economic viability. 4 Agronomic Practices for Yield and Quality Optimization 4.1 Pruning techniques Pruning is a vital agronomic practice that significantly influences tea yield. The study shows that pruning can significantly improve the growth indicators of tea plants, such as leaf area, hundred-bud weight, chlorophyll content, and yield, while enhancing key metabolic pathways, including fatty acid synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, and plant hormone signal transduction, thereby increasing yield (Figure 1) (Zhang et al., 2023b). Pruning also alters the rhizosphere soil microbial community, increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria and
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==