Affecting a moderate-strength El Niño event and superimposed on the backdrop of global warming, the average global temperature in 2023 may break the record for the warmest year set in 2016. It is expected that most regions in China will have temperatures similar to or higher than the long-term average this winter through next spring, but with active cold air phases. Precipitation in southern regions will be above normal, increasing the risk of compound meteorological disasters. In response to complex climate changes, timely management of tea gardens during winter can help ensure their safe overwintering and lay the groundwork for high-quality and high-yield tea production and increased income for tea farmers in the coming year. So how can we properly manage tea gardens in winter? Follow along as we explore the winter-spring tea garden management guidelines developed by the Department of Plant Industry Management of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, in collaboration with the National Agricultural Technology Extension Service Center and the Expert Advisory Group on Tea of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.
1. Disaster Prevention
1.1 Freeze Prevention
Closely monitor weather forecasts and implement protective measures such as mulching between rows and covering the canopy with straw mats, plastic films, or shade nets before a Cold wave hits. Remove the canopy covers promptly after the cold wave ends. Before the arrival of a cold wave, apply amino acid foliar Fertilizers to the leaves, combined with diammonium phosphate, to enhance the plant's resistance. During a cold wave, continuous spray Irrigation can reduce cold damage and frost injury. After temperatures return to normal, prune affected tea gardens lightly. For slightly damaged gardens, perform light Pruning to remove dead branches and leaves while preserving the picking surface. For severely damaged gardens, conduct deep pruning to remove dead branches.
Tea Garden Covered with Shade Nets
Tea Garden Sprinkler Irrigation
1.2 Drought Prevention in Spring
For tea gardens with irrigation facilities, promptly repair and maintain them, clean reservoirs, and actively store Water. Use crop straw mulch between rows, especially in young tea gardens, to conserve moisture. After rainfall, shallowly till the soil to retain water and conserve moisture.
Crop Straw Mulch Between Rows in Tea Gardens
2. Nutrient Management
2.1 Increase Organic Fertilizer Application
Applying organic fertilizer in autumn and winter promotes tea plant growth and improves fresh leaf quality. Based on soil fertility and the nutrient content of the organic fertilizer, regions with appropriate conditions can apply it via trench application along the drip line of the tea plants from October to late November, typically at around 200 kg per mu (approximately 0.0667 hectares).
Increased Application of Organic Fertilizer in Tea Gardens
2.2 Foliar Fertilizer Application
To increase nutrient storage in tea plants and improve the yield and quality of spring tea, apply amino acid foliar fertilizers once in December, and then 1-2 more times in January and February, ensuring an interval of over two weeks between applications. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be used for spraying.
Drone Application of Foliar Fertilizer
2.3 Nitrogen Fertilizer Top-Dressing
In premium tea-producing areas, apply fast-acting nitrogen fertilizer about 30 days before the start of spring tea harvesting, using 5-8 kg of pure nitrogen per mu. In Oolong tea and bulk green tea-producing areas, apply fast-acting nitrogen fertilizer 20-30 days before the start of harvesting, also using 5-8 kg of pure nitrogen per mu.
3. Preparation for Spring Tea Production
3.1 Maintenance of Production Equipment
Repair and maintain picking, processing, and field operation equipment to ensure they are in working order. Check for missing tools and purchase and install them as needed.
3.2 Procurement of Production Materials
Purchase necessary production materials in advance, including fertilizers, fuel, and pest control products for spring tea production.
Disease and Pest Control in Tea Gardens (Provided by Cai Xiaoming)
3.3 Clearing Production Sites
Clear drainage ditches in tea gardens, repair garden paths, and clean the factory and surrounding environment.
Training for Tea Pickers and Processing Personnel
3.4 Conduct Production Training
During the winter off-season, organize training sessions for tea pickers and processing personnel to improve their skills and awareness of safety in production.