Journal of Tea Science Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 273-284 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/jtsr 277 4.3 Irrigation strategies and water management Irrigation strategies and water management are essential components of tea cultivation, particularly in the context of climate change. Effective water management can mitigate the effects of water stress, which is known to impact tea yield and quality. Water stress can lead to changes in the concentration of secondary metabolites, which are crucial for tea quality (Ahmed et al., 2019). Therefore, implementing efficient irrigation strategies is vital for maintaining both yield and quality under changing environmental conditions. Moreover, the choice of irrigation strategy can influence soil properties and plant health. For example, maintaining optimal soil moisture levels can enhance root activity and nutrient uptake, leading to improved yield and quality (Zhang et al., 2020). As climate change continues to affect water availability, developing adaptive irrigation strategies will be crucial for sustaining tea production and ensuring the resilience of tea plantations against environmental stressors. 5 Role of Sustainable Practices in Yield and Quality Optimization 5.1 Organic farming and its yield implications Organic farming practices in tea cultivation have shown promising results in terms of yield optimization and environmental sustainability. Studies indicate that organic substitution of chemical fertilizers can enhance soil quality and maintain tea yield levels. For instance, partial substitution with organic fertilizers like biogas slurry and green manure has been effective in improving soil organic matter and tea yield (Wang et al., 2024). Although organic farming may sometimes result in slightly lower yields compared to conventional methods, the economic benefits can be substantial due to higher market prices for organic tea and reduced input costs (Le et al., 2023). Furthermore, organic farming practices contribute to improved tea quality by increasing the content of beneficial compounds such as amino acids and polyphenols. This is achieved through optimized nutrient management that balances the use of organic manures with reduced chemical inputs, thereby enhancing the nutritional status of tea plants (Zhu et al., 2024). Organic farming not only supports yield optimization but also promotes a healthier ecosystem and better economic outcomes for tea farmers. 5.2 Integrated pest management (IPM) Integrated pest management (IPM) is a sustainable approach that combines various pest control methods to minimize the use of chemical pesticides and enhance tea yield. The adoption of IPM practices has been shown to significantly reduce pesticide usage while maintaining or improving crop yields. For example, the implementation of Inhana Rational Farming technology, which focuses on soil and plant health management, has led to a substantial decrease in pesticide use and improved crop performance in tea plantations (Bera et al., 2024a). This approach not only reduces the environmental impact of tea cultivation but also enhances the resilience of tea plants to pest attacks (Bera et al., 2024b). IPM strategies also contribute to improved soil health and biodiversity, which are essential for sustainable tea production. By reducing reliance on chemical pesticides, IPM practices help maintain a balanced ecosystem that supports beneficial organisms and natural pest predators. This holistic approach not only optimizes tea yield but also ensures the long-term sustainability of tea plantations (Tang et al., 2021; Bera et al., 2024a). 5.3 Agroforestry systems and biodiversity Agroforestry systems, which integrate trees and shrubs into tea plantations, play a significant role in enhancing biodiversity and optimizing tea yield. These systems provide multiple ecological benefits, including improved soil fertility, enhanced water retention, and increased habitat diversity for various species. The presence of diverse plant species in agroforestry systems supports a more resilient ecosystem that can better withstand environmental stresses and pest pressures (Le et al., 2023; Bera et al., 2024a). In addition to ecological benefits, agroforestry systems can also improve tea yield and quality. The shade provided by trees in these systems can help regulate microclimatic conditions, reducing temperature extremes and conserving soil moisture, which are beneficial for tea plant growth. Moreover, the increased biodiversity in
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