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Traceability of eco-friendly plantations

1.Definitions and Purpose

Environmentally friendly plantations refer to forest areas formed by the planned planting of trees through human intervention. Its main purpose is to improve the ecological environment, such as reducing soil erosion, purifying the air, regulating the climate, protecting biodiversity and many other aspects. For example, in some mountainous areas, where soil erosion is severe due to over-cultivation, planted forests can fix the soil and reduce the flow of sediment into rivers

2.Species selection

It is crucial to choose a tree species that is suitable for the local environment. In arid regions, drought-tolerant tree species such as Populus euphratica are chosen. Populus euphratica has a strong root system that can penetrate more than ten meters underground to obtain water, and can survive in arid and rainless environments. In coastal areas, mangrove forests are planted to resist erosion by sea breezes and seawater. Mangrove forests have a well-developed root system and are able to grow in seawater, effectively protecting coastal ecosystems

3.Cultivation techniques

Land preparation: Before planting, the land should be organized, including removing weeds, loosening the soil, etc. For example, for some relatively compact soils, tillage can increase the air permeability and water permeability of the soil, which is conducive to the growth of tree roots.

Seedling: Seed seedling raising or cuttings can be used to raise seedlings. Seed seedlings need to choose healthy and full seeds, and then sow them after germination treatment. Cuttings are to select healthy branches of trees, insert them into a suitable substrate, and wait for them to take root and sprout. For tree species such as poplars, cuttings are a more commonly used method, which can quickly propagate a large number of seedlings.

Afforestation density: A reasonable afforestation density should be determined according to the characteristics of the tree species and the purpose of afforestation. If the main purpose is to produce timber, the afforestation density may be relatively small so that the trees have enough space to grow for nutrients and light, resulting in good wood quality. However, if it is for the purpose of ecological protection, such as windbreak and sand-fixing forests, the afforestation density may be larger, so that the protective effect can be formed more quickly

4.Ecosystem service functions

Carbon sequestration: Trees absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, fixing it in wood and soil, thereby reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Planted forests play an important role as carbon sinks in the global response to climate change. According to research, one hectare of mature forest can absorb tens of tons of carbon dioxide per year.

Water conservation: Forests are like a huge "green reservoir". The root system of trees absorbs and stores water, and the litter layer also traps rainwater, slowing surface runoff and increasing groundwater recharge. Plantation forests in the upper reaches of some rivers can effectively regulate the amount of water in the rivers and ensure a stable supply of water downstream.

Biological Habitat Provision: Plantation forests provide habitat and food for a wide range of wildlife. As forests grow, birds can nest in trees, and understory grasses and shrubs provide habitat and breeding for small mammals and insects, contributing to the restoration and development of biodiversity

5.Post-management and maintenance

Irrigation: Proper irrigation is required in the early stages of tree growth, especially during the dry season. For example, newly planted saplings can easily lead to the death of seedlings if they are not replenished in time during the spring drought. Water-saving irrigation methods such as drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation can be used to improve the efficiency of water resource utilization.

Fertilization: Reasonable fertilization is carried out according to the growth stage of the tree and the soil fertility status. At the young tree stage, proper application of nitrogen fertilizer can promote the growth of branches and leaves of trees. At the same time, it is necessary to pay attention to the type and amount of fertilizer to avoid soil pollution and poor tree growth caused by excessive fertilization.

Pest control: Establish a pest and disease monitoring system, and adopt the strategy of biological control and physical control, supplemented by chemical control. For example, aphids are controlled by releasing natural enemies of pests, such as ladybugs. When necessary, use low-toxicity and high-efficiency pesticides for chemical control, but strictly control the amount and scope of pesticide use

6.Comparison with natural forests

Environmentally friendly plantation forests tend to have a single tree species composition, while natural forests have a richer diversity of tree species. After a long period of natural succession, natural forests have formed a complex ecosystem structure. However, planted forests can achieve certain ecological and economic objectives in a relatively short period of time. For example, planted fast-growing forests can provide a large amount of timber in a dozen years, while natural forests have a relatively long timber growth cycle.