The Plum rain is a concentrated period of rainfall that occurs annually from June to July in the mid-lower reaches of the Yangtze River, including tea areas in southern China, as well as subsequent mountain floods often accompanied by typhoons in August and September.
Experience has shown that improper disaster prevention or neglect during the plum rain and mountain Flood season can pose significant threats and losses to tea production, particularly in mountainous tea areas in southern China. To minimize the adverse effects of plum rain and subsequent mountain floods on tea production, especially in southern China, we have compiled measures for disaster prevention and mitigation in tea production for your reference.
1. Pay Attention to Plum Rain and Mountain Flood Forecast and Warning Information
After June each year, tea areas, particularly those in mountainous regions of southern China, should promptly monitor the latest weather forecasts and mountain flood warnings. Be vigilant against the risk of mountain floods due to continuous rainfall or short-term heavy downpours and strong convection weather. Closely watch changes in weather conditions and rainfall levels. Once there is a forecast or warning of significant rainfall, it's better to be overly cautious and enter a state of alert.
2. Strengthen Safety Inspections at Tea Factories
During the plum rain and subsequent mountain flood season, tea factories in mountainous areas should be wary of heavy rainfall. In case of prolonged heavy rainfall, especially for factories near mountains, rivers, and streams with geological hazards, constant observation is necessary. First and foremost, ensure personal safety; secondly, prevent damage to factory buildings and equipment caused by landslides and flooding; thirdly, prevent losses of stored tea due to water ingress. Stored dry tea and other materials should be promptly relocated to a safe location.
3. Ensure Proper Drainage and Disease and Pest Prevention in Tea Gardens
Tea plants are intolerant of waterlogging and humidity. Therefore, in anticipation of the plum rain, areas prone to water accumulation, particularly low-lying terraced tea gardens and tea nurseries, should promptly open ditches and clear channels to lower the groundwater level. Timely repairs should be made to damaged ditches, roads, and other supporting facilities. Additionally, preventative measures should be taken for tea varieties like Longjing 43, which are susceptible to anthracnose, to effectively reduce the incidence rate.