Next Article in Journal
SNP Loci and Favorable Haplotype Mining for Alkalinity Tolerance in the Rice Bud Stage
Previous Article in Journal
YOLO v7-CS: A YOLO v7-Based Model for Lightweight Bayberry Target Detection Count
 
 
Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
Journals
Agronomy
Volume 13
Issue 12
10.3390/agronomy13122953
agronomy-logo
Submit to this Journal Review for this Journal Propose a Special Issue
► Article Menu

Article Menu

share Share announcement Help format_quote Cite question_answer Discuss in SciProfiles thumb_up
...
Endorse textsms
...
Comment
first_page
settings
Order Article Reprints
Font Type:
Arial Georgia Verdana
Font Size:
Aa Aa Aa
Line Spacing:
Column Width:
Background:
Article

Effect of Intercropping on Fruit Yield and Financial Benefits of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Orchard in Southwest China

by
Ying Liu
1,
Yawen Zhang
2,
Tianhao Xiao
3,
Yuguo Wu
4,
Yuan Li
5,
Ji He
6,
Yangzhou Xiang
7,* and
Bin Yao
8,*
1
School of Biological Sciences, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
2
School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
3
Logistics Support Department, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, No. 15 Beisanhuan Road East, Beijing 100029, China
4
College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
5
The State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-Ecosystems, National Field Scientific Observation and Research Station of Grassland Agro-Ecosystems in Gansu Qingyang, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
6
Agricultural College, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, China
7
School of Geography and Resources, Guizhou Provincial Key Laboratory of Geographic State Monitoring of Watershed, Guizhou Education University, Guiyang 550018, China
8
State Key Laboratory of Tree Genetics and Breeding, Institute of Ecology Conservation and Restoration, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China
*
Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Agronomy 2023, 13(12), 2953; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13122953
Submission received: 7 October 2023 / Revised: 23 November 2023 / Accepted: 28 November 2023 / Published: 29 November 2023
(This article belongs to the Topic Evaluate the Functional Value of Agroecosystem under Different Management Scenarios)
(This article belongs to the Section Agroecology Innovation: Achieving System Resilience)
Browse Figures
Versions Notes

Abstract

:
The practice of intercropping in Rosa roxburghii Tratt orchards holds potential for enhancing fruit yield and financial benefits, yet remains insufficiently explored. To address this, we delved into the effects of intercropping on fruit yield and financial viability of R. roxburghii orchards in Longli County, southern China. Orchards of varying ages (4 years old and 5 years old; 7 years old and 8 years old) were subjected to different treatments: (i) Zea mays and Capsicum annuum intercropping, and clean tillage for younger orchards, and (ii) Lolium perenne, natural grass, and clean tillage for older orchards. Each treatment was assessed for its impact on fruit yield and financial benefits. In younger orchards, intercropping with Z. mays and C. annuum did not significantly elevate fruit yield compared to clean tillage in the 4-year-old orchard; however, C. annuum intercropping significantly improved fruit yield in the 5-year-old orchard. Concurrently, intercropping significantly augmented the total financial benefit by 9234.35–10,486.25 CNY ha−1 (Z. mays) and 14,304.90–16,629.18 CNY ha−1 (C. annuum) compared to clean tillage. In older orchards, L. perenne intercropping significantly elevated fruit yield by 598.84–803.64 kg·ha−1, while natural grass reduced it by 394.61–986.24 kg·ha−1, compared to clean tillage. Additionally, L. perenne intercropping significantly boosted the total financial benefit by 8873.92–9956.56 CNY ha−1, whereas natural grass negatively impacted financial benefits by 78.42–2444.94 CNY ha−1 compared to clean tillage. Collectively, our results illustrate that judicious selection of intercrops, based on orchard age and conditions, can significantly enhance both fruit yield and financial advantages in R. roxburghii orchards. This study furnishes vital insights for orchard management and accentuates the prospective merits of intercropping in fruit production systems.

1. Introduction

Fruits are universally recognized for their vital contributions to human health, offering a rich supply of vitamins, organic acids, antioxidants, minerals, fibers, polyphenols, and other bioactive constituents [1,2,3]. With the continuous improvement in living standards, there has been a consistent rise in global fruit consumption [4,5]. Fruit orchards, occupying about 10% of the agricultural production land worldwide, are crucial in catering to this escalating demand [6]. Notably, China has established itself as the foremost producer and consumer of fruits on a global scale [7,8]. As reported by the FAO [9], between 2012 and 2021, China experienced an expansion in fruit cultivation area from 1.45 × 107 ha to 1.54 × 107 ha, and a surge in fruit production from 2.17 × 108 tons to 2.56 × 108 tons.
To enhance fruit yield, orchard cultivators employ a variety of agronomic practices. Among these, living mulch control, executed either mechanically or manually, is utilized to manage soil in fruit orchards. This strategy is adopted as living mulch can compete with fruit trees for essential resources such as water, nutrients, and light, which in turn may affect fruit production [10,11]. However, conventional clean tillage practices aimed at preserving soil fertility might inadvertently cause soil erosion and nutrient depletion due to frequent soil disturbance [10,12,13], thereby adversely impacting fruit yield [14,15].
Orchard intercropping, entailing the cultivation of additional crops in the alleys, has emerged as a multidisciplinary approach yielding multiple benefits for fruit tree cultivation. Prior research underscores the positive impact of intercropping on fruit quality, tree vigor, soil nutrient content, soil microbial activity, and microclimate conditions such as soil temperature and humidity [16,17,18,19,20,21,22]. By altering the conventional clean tillage model, orchard intercropping forms a soil–crop–atmosphere system, significantly affecting ground temperature and humidity [15,23,24,25]. Moreover, it optimizes temperature, humidity, water, and fertilizer utilization, thereby enhancing fruit tree growth [12,26,27,28,29,30]. Intercropping with aromatic plants such as Rosmarinus officinalis, Ageratum houstonianum, and Ocimum basilicum not only has shown no negative effects on natural enemies but also reduced primary insect population densities [31,32,33]. Hence, by increasing insect pollination, orchard intercropping with aromatic plants can potentially boost fruit yield. This practice has gained traction for its diversified production and efficient space utilization, allowing multiple crops or plants to coexist within the same agricultural area, complementing each other’s growth and resource utilization [34,35,36,37,38].
The facilitation of changes in fruit production through orchard intercropping is primarily mediated by five categories of factors: orchard attributes, climatic conditions, edaphic variables, and managerial factors. Global meta-analysis by Fang et al. [39] revealed that compared to clean tillage, intercropping with legume species significantly bolstered fruit yield, while intercropping with non-legume species led to a significant reduction. However, a contrasting national meta-analysis in China by Ren et al. [35] indicated that both legume and non-legume species significantly enhanced fruit production, with legume species having a greater effect. The discrepancy in these findings could be attributed to the range of study areas and sample sizes. Furthermore, the yield-enhancing effect of intercropping varies with fruit tree types, for instance, citrus orchard intercropping yielded better results than apple orchard intercropping in China [35]. To attain higher fruit yield, it is suggested that a combination of 3–5 years of grass planting in regions with an average annual temperature of 15 °C or above, along with 5–10-year-old orchards, should be considered in China [35]. A meta-analysis by Morugán-Coronado et al. [40] investigating the influence of intercropping on fruit yield in a Mediterranean climate disclosed that fruit yield response to intercropping is closely associated with specific regional climatic conditions, with probable negative effects in warm and dry areas. Regarding the impact of grass mulch methods in orchards on fruit production, the yield-promoting effect of full mulching was found to be less than that of strip mulching [35], possibly because, under full mulching, orchard grass competes with fruit trees for nutrients, water, and root growth space.
Rosa roxburghii Tratt, a widely distributed shrub species primarily found in southwest China, especially in Guizhou province [41,42], is one of the diverse fruit-bearing plants that stands out. The fruits of R. roxburghii are revered for their medicinal properties and are gaining prominence for their potential in disease prevention and treatment [43,44,45,46]. Additionally, the R. roxburghii fruit industry plays a significant role in poverty alleviation, ecological development, and rural revitalization efforts [47]. Acknowledging its importance, the local government has prioritized the development of the R. roxburghii industry, listing it as a key agricultural sector in Guizhou. Despite the average yield of R. roxburghii falling below the desired level, there is a pressing need to improve both yield and fruit quality [48]. While various agronomic measures such as gibberellin application and pruning have been explored to enhance R. roxburghii yield [49,50,51,52], the potential of orchard intercropping in the context of R. roxburghii cultivation remains largely unexplored.
To quantify the substantial benefits of orchard intercropping for enhancing sustainable and financially viable practices in R. roxburghii orchards, this study investigated the effects of intercropping on fruit yield and financial benefits in both 4- and 7-year R. roxburghii orchards. By scrutinizing the outcomes of diverse intercrops, this inquiry aims to unveil the potential of intercropping to elevate R. roxburghii yield and financial viability. The exploration of this is crucial for tailoring agronomic practices that could significantly benefit R. roxburghii cultivators in Guizhou province and potentially offer insights for other fruit orchards with similar agroecological characteristics. This study represents the endeavors to investigate the impacts of orchard intercropping on both fruit yield and financial benefits in R. roxburghii orchards, specifically in the context of southwest China. Through a comparative analysis of diverse intercrops in 4-year-old and 7-year-old R. roxburghii orchards, our findings would shed light on effective intercropping strategies that align with local agricultural practices, thereby providing a novel and practical approach to enhancing the sustainability and financial viability of R. roxburghii cultivation in this region.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Experimental Site

The study was conducted in two different towns in Longli County, Guizhou Province, China. The first study area was located in Gujiao town, at 106°58′ E and 26°29′ N. The area had an altitude of 1135 m and annual average temperature of 14.8 °C. The coldest monthly average temperature was 4.6 °C, and the hottest monthly average temperature was 23.6 °C. The annual precipitation was about 1100 mm, mostly concentrated in summer. The annual sunshine hours were 1160 h and the frost-free period was 283 days. The soil type is yellow soil with a thickness of 50–80 cm.
The second study area was located in Xima town, at 107°29′ E, 26°18′ N. The area had an altitude of 1150 m and annual average temperature of 14.6 °C. The coldest monthly average temperature was 4.9 °C and the hottest monthly average temperature was 24.2 °C. The annual precipitation was 1100 mm, mostly concentrated in summer. The annual sunshine hours were 1160 h and the frost-free period was more than 280 d. The soil type is yellow soil with a thickness of 50–80 cm.

2.2. Field Trial Design

The field trial was conducted at two different sites, Xima town and Gujiao town, to investigate the effects of intercropping on R. roxburghii orchards. Both sites featured ‘Guinong No.5’ variety of R. roxburghii with a row spacing of 2 m × 3 m, planted in the north–south direction. Fertilization was applied twice during the experiment using a compound fertilizer (N:P:K = 15:15:15) in early April and mid-July. All plots relied on rainfall, and herbicides were not used.
At Xima town, three planting patterns were designed: (1) intercropping with Zea mays (‘Guiyu 1’ variety) at a plant spacing of 0.30 m and a row spacing of 0.40 m, planted in early April; (2) intercropping with Capsicum annuum (‘Guila 21’ variety) at a plant spacing of 0.30 m and a row spacing of 0.40 m, planted in early April; (3) clean tillage (the control) with weeding conducted in March, July, and October. Randomized block design was followed for the research. Each planting pattern had three plots, each with an area of 225 m2. Pruning was carried out in June and September. In the second year, the same experiment was continued, and the management mode of 5-year-old R. roxburghii and intercrops was the same as that in the first year.
At Gujiao town, a 7-year-old R. roxburghii orchard was selected for the study. The experiment involved three treatments: (1) planting of Lolium perenne L. (‘Diamond T’ variety) in the entire R. roxburghii orchard with a seeding rate of 22.5 kg ha−1; (2) natural grass (comprising mainly Setaria viridis, Digitaria sanguinalis, Imperata cylindrica, Eleusine indica, Oxalis corniculata, etc.); (3) clean tillage (the control) with weeding conducted in March, July, and October. Randomized block design was followed for the research. Each treatment had three plots, each with an area of 600 m2. Pruning was carried out in June and September. In the second year, the same experiment was continued, and the management mode of 8-year-old R. roxburghii and intercrops was the same as that in the first year.
The difference between the two sites lies in the intercropping patterns (Figure 1): at Xima town, Zea mays and Capsicum annuum were intercropped with R. roxburghii, while at Gujiao town, intercropping involved natural grass and L. perenne.

2.3. Sampling and Yield Measurement

In order to obtain accurate and reliable data concerning the yield of R. roxburghii and intercropped species, meticulous sampling and measurement procedures were undertaken as outlined below:
R. roxburghii Yield Determination: In September, at the mature stage of R. roxburghii, ten trees were randomly selected from each experimental plot for yield determination. The fruits from each selected tree were harvested, and their total weight was recorded. The yield per hectare was then calculated by extrapolating the average yield obtained from the ten sampled trees to the entire plot area, considering the planting density.
L. perenne and Natural Grass Management: The mowing of L. perenne and natural grass was carried out four times a year, specifically in April, June, July, and September to maintain optimum growth conditions. During each mowing event, a 2 m2 area was designated within each plot, and the fresh weight of the harvested grass was recorded between 3 and 5 pm during sunny weather to ensure consistent moisture content.
Z. mays Harvesting and Yield Calculation: In October, a 2 m2 area was selected within each plot for Z. mays grain sampling. The harvested grains were weighed to obtain the fresh weight, following which a 500 g subsample of grains was collected and placed in nylon mesh bags. The subsample was then taken to the laboratory, where it was dried to a constant weight at 105 °C. The water content was subsequently measured to calculate the yield per hectare of Z. mays grain on a dry weight basis.
C. annuum Harvesting: In July, a 2 m2 area was selected from each plot for sampling C. annuum. The harvested C. annuum was weighed to obtain the fresh weight. Unlike Z. mays, C. annuum was not subjected to drying as it is sold fresh, and thus, its fresh weight was used for yield and financial benefit calculations.

2.4. Financial Benefit Analysis

The basic parameters of the financial benefit analysis were obtained using an actual cost expenditure and market [53] (Table 1, Table 2 and Table 3). The investment unit price of R. roxburghii and intercrop cultivation is calculated by the actual expenditure. The fruit financial benefit of R. roxburghii is the sales income of R. roxburghii fruit minus the cultivation cost. The financial benefit of intercrops is the sales revenue of the edible part of the intercrops minus the cultivation cost. Total financial benefits of the intercropping system are equal to the financial benefit of R. roxburghii plus the financial benefit of intercrops. Because green management was performed in our R. roxburghii orchard and no pesticides were used during the experiment, there was no pesticide cost input. Table 2 shows the investment unit price parameters of the three intercropping methods. Because the investment cost of the two years of intercropping is the same, the investment discounting is not described in the text.

2.5. Statistical Analyses

Microsoft Excel 2016 software was adopted to organize the experimental data. SPSS software (version 26) was used to test the normality of the data, and normally distributed data were subjected to variance analysis and multiple comparisons. Two-way ANOVA was followed for the research. The significance test for the mean of fruit yield and financial benefit was conducted using the least significant difference (LSD) test method. Data were visualized using OriginPro 2023 software.

3. Results

3.1. Effect of Intercropping on R. roxburghii Yield

The effect of intercropping on the fruit yield of R. roxburghii was related to the intercropping pattern and years (Figure 2). In the 4-year-old R. roxburghii orchard in Gujiao, compared with clean tillage, Z. mays and C. annuum did not significantly increase the fruit yield of R. roxburghii in the first year, but C. annuum increased the fruit yield of R. roxburghii in the second year (p < 0.01) (Figure 2a). In the 7-year-old R. roxburghii orchard in Xima, compared with clean tillage, natural grass and intercropping L. perenne in the first year did not significantly affect the fruit yield of R. roxburghii, but natural grass in the second year reduced the fruit yield of R. roxburghii (p < 0.01). L. perenne increased the fruit yield of R. roxburghii in the second year (p < 0.05) (Figure 2b). In addition, compared with natural grass, intercropping L. perenne increased the fruit yield of R. roxburghii (p < 0.001) in the second year of intercropping at the orchard in Xima. In the Gujiao orchard, continuous intercropping of Z. mays increased the yield of R. roxburghii (p < 0.05), while continuous intercropping of C. annuum increased the yield of R. roxburghii (p < 0.01) (Figure 2c). In the Xima orchard, continuous intercropping of L. perenne had a positive effect on the yield of R. roxburghii (p < 0.01) (Figure 2d).

3.2. Intercropping Effects on the Financial Benefits

3.2.1. Intercropping Effects on the Fruit Financial Benefits

The effect of intercropping on the fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii was also related to the intercropping category and intercropping years (Figure 3). Specifically, in the 4-year-old orchard at the foot of the valley, compared with clean tillage, intercropping Z. mays and C. annuum in the first year did not significantly improve the fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii; however, intercropping C. annuum in the second year had a very significant promotion effect on the fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii, although natural grass in the second year reduced the fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii (p < 0.01). L. perenne intercropping significantly increased the fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii in the second year (Figure 3b). In the Gujiao town orchard, compared with the first year of intercropping, continuous intercropping Z. mays had a significant effect on the fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii, and continuous intercropping C. annuum significantly increased the fruit financial effects of R. roxburghii (Figure 3c). In the orchard at Xima town, compared with the first year of intercropping, continuous natural grass did not increase the fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii (p > 0.05), but continuous intercropping with L. perenne significantly increased the fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii (Figure 3d).

3.2.2. Intercropping Effects on the Intercrops’ Financial Benefits

The financial benefits of intercropping crops are mainly related to intercropping patterns (Figure 4). In the 4-year-old orchard at Gujiao town, the financial benefits of intercropping Z. mays were 4159.37–4414.49 CNY ha−1, and the financial benefits of C. annuum were 8552.76–8592.78 CNY ha−1 (Figure 4a). Because the yield of intercropping C. annuum (3882.00–3891.90 kg·ha−1) is higher than that of Z. mays (2911.50–2995.50 kg·ha−1), and the price of C. annuum is higher than that of Z. mays, the financial benefit of intercropping C. annuum is significantly higher than that of Z. mays (p < 0.01) (Figure 4a). In the 7-year-old orchard at Xima town, both clean tillage and natural grass have only inputs and no output, resulting in negative values of these two models, while the output of intercropping L. perenne is greater than the input, so the financial benefit of intercropping L. perenne is positive (Figure 4b). The financial benefits of intercrops were not significant (p < 0.05) due to the small changes in inter-annual crop yield and price (Figure 4c,d).

3.2.3. Intercropping Effects on the Total Financial Benefits

The total financial benefit of the intercropping system was closely related to the intercropping mode and the intercropping duration (Figure 5). In the 4-year-old and 5-year-old orchard at Gujiao town, compared with clean tillage, the total financial benefits of the two intercropping modes of Z. mays and C. annuum were significantly increased by 9234.35–10,486.25 CNY ha−1 and 14,304.90–16,629.18 CNY ha−1, respectively (Figure 5a). In the first year of intercropping, the total financial benefit of the R. roxburghii–C. annuum intercropping mode was significantly higher than that of the R. roxburghii–Z. mays intercropping mode (p < 0.05), while in the second year of intercropping the total financial benefit of the R. roxburghii–C. annuum intercropping pattern was significantly higher than that of the R. roxburghii–Z. mays intercropping pattern (p < 0.01). In the 7-year-old and 8-year-old orchard at Xima town, compared with clean tillage, the natural grass intercropping pattern reduced the total financial benefit, while the R. roxburghii–L. perenne intercropping pattern significantly increased the total financial benefit, which was 8873.92–9956.56 CNY ha−1 (Figure 5b). In terms of the total financial benefits of the same model in different years, only continuous intercropping of C. annuum had a significant effect on the total financial benefits in the Gujiao orchard (p < 0.05) (Figure 5c), whereas continuous intercropping of L. perenne significantly increased the total financial benefits in the Xima orchard (Figure 5d).

4. Discussion

The application of intercropping practices in orchards has garnered recognition for its capacity to optimize soil temperature and humidity, fostering an environment conducive to the robust growth of fruit trees [12,26,54]. Intercropping, when appropriately managed, can leverage the natural grass cover to enhance soil moisture retention by mitigating surface temperatures [10,55]. However, it is important to acknowledge that the interaction between natural grass growth and fruit yield is not universally positive. In scenarios where natural grass in the orchard exerts weak competition, it can potentially enhance soil moisture retention and benefit R. roxburghii growth. Yet, instances are prevalent where the presence of natural grass leads to reduced R. roxburghii yield due to aggressive weed competition for water and nutrients. In a contrasting approach, intercropping R. roxburghii with strategically chosen crops such as C. annuum, Z. mays, and L. perenne, positioned at intervals from R. roxburghii plants, effectively mitigated competitive pressures. Such intercropping not only curbed weed encroachment but also supplemented nutrients through practices such as soil aeration and weed management. The strategic intercropping involving Z. mays, C. annuum, and L. perenne proved particularly beneficial, fostering an environment conducive to R. roxburghii growth and ultimately yielding a notable increase in fruit yield. This finding is corroborated by Zhu et al. [56], whose research demonstrated that intercropping with Gramineae plants led to heightened Wolfberry productivity through the modification of soil characteristics and enzyme activities.
While our study did not uncover statistically significant differences in yield between intercropping and clean tillage treatments, it is pertinent to recognize that the relatively short intercropping duration in our investigation might not have allowed the intercropping system ample time to fully manifest its yield-enhancing potential. This observation aligns with findings from parallel studies [57] and underscores the dynamic nature of intercropping effects, which can evolve over extended timeframes. To further unravel the nuanced impact of intercropping on augmenting R. roxburghii yield, future research endeavors could contemplate prolonged intercropping periods. Moreover, investigating the broader influence of intercropping on dimensions such as fruit quality, tree vitality, and soil nutrient dynamics could yield comprehensive insights into the multifaceted benefits of intercropping strategies [58].
The financial benefit of intercropping strategies in R. roxburghii orchards emerges as a notable outcome of our study, particularly when compared to conventional clean tillage practices. In this context, intercropping R. roxburghii with crops such as Z. mays, C. annuum, and L. perenne yields promising financial benefits, while the presence of natural grass demonstrated a propensity to diminish overall profits. This observation underscores the pivotal role of judicious intercropping practices and effective weed management in maximizing the financial returns of R. roxburghii cultivation.
Within the realm of intercropping systems, C. annuum emerges as a standout, boasting the highest level of profitability. Z. mays and L. perenne follow, each presenting positive financial returns. In stark contrast, the clean tillage and natural grass treatments yield negative profits, essentially incurring input costs without commensurate output. Importantly, the amplified profitability stemming from intercropping the 4-year-old R. roxburghii orchard with C. annuum and Z. mays compared to the intercropping of the 7-year-old R. roxburghii orchard with L. perenne can be attributed to two key factors. Primarily, the larger intercropping area in the 4-year-old orchard enhances the scale of financial benefits. Furthermore, the higher unit prices commanded by C. annuum and Z. mays in comparison to L. perenne contribute significantly to the observed disparity. These observations elucidate the intricate interplay between orchard age, intercropping area, and crop unit prices.
In light of these insights, the selection of intercropping crops should be underpinned by a comprehensive understanding of local market dynamics and crop unit valuations. This strategic approach will enable cultivators to align their intercropping choices with prevailing market demands and capitalize on the most financially advantageous options. Finally, the efficient intercropping patterns we screened have the opportunity to be sustainably and widely promoted [59].
Our research significantly contributes to the existing knowledge regarding orchard intercropping and its positive repercussions on both fruit yield and financial benefits [19,60,61,62]. Moreover, our observations regarding the advantageous impacts of R. roxburghii orchard intercropping on soil nutrient enrichment, microbial activity, and enzyme dynamics align with findings from previous studies [63,64]. However, we acknowledge the nuanced nature of intercropping effects on profitability, which could be influenced by diverse variables such as climatic conditions, soil attributes, management protocols, intercrop species, and intercropping duration. Further comprehensive research is imperative to thoroughly explore these factors, facilitating the broad adoption of R. roxburghii intercropping methodologies and promoting the sustainable growth of fruit orchard agriculture.
It is essential to recognize the limitations of our study. The relatively short duration of intercropping in our investigation might have restrained the full manifestation of its potential yield-promoting effects. This finding aligns with similar observations reported in related studies [57]. For a more robust evaluation of intercropping’s impact, future studies should consider prolonged intercropping periods and delve into the intricate agronomic and agroecological mechanisms underlying the enhanced productivity observed in older R. roxburghii orchards (7 years old compared to 4 years old).
The residents near our experimental site like to eat C. annuum and Z. mays, so the financial benefits are better. At the same time, these two crops have strong adaptability in the local area, so they are selected as intercrops. In addition, the local aquaculture industry is relatively developed, and the demand for forage is large. Intercropping forage grass in R. roxburghii orchards can reduce nutrient loss caused by soil erosion and help to maintain soil fertility in orchards, thus promoting the growth of R. roxburghii trees and laying a foundation for high yield and high financial benefits. This shows that the selection of intercrops should take into account the needs of local residents so that the products produced can be sold well. Such intercropping modes can continue to develop.
Guesmi-Mzoughi et al. [65] reported that some intercrops, such as potato, tomato, and cucumber, generated an environment more advantageous to plant-parasitic nematodes infecting olive trees in Tunisia. Therefore, in order to test whether the intercrops host dangerous nematodes, the structure and diversity of plant-parasitic nematodes in R. roxburghii intercropping should be investigated. Intercropping with aromatic plants improved soil health by increasing soil organic matter in pear orchards [66], and hindered the occurrence of insects, such as Proagopertha lucidela, Serica orientalis, and Maladera verticalis [67]. A large number of beetle species love to feed on the twigs of R. roxburghii in summer, especially during drought periods, which led to reduction in R. roxburghii yield to a greater extent. Hence, it is necessary to study the biocontrol effect of intercropping aromatic plants on beetles in R. roxburghii orchards in the future. It is difficult to achieve high fruit yield by relying solely on intercropping crops to provide nutrients for R. roxburghii trees. It has been found that orchard intercropping grass resulted in the reduction in soil total phosphorus and available potassium [68], which suggests that orchard intercropping systems should also be given reasonable fertilization, especially of available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium compound fertilizer. Therefore, it is necessary to carry out fertilization experiments in combination with the age of R. roxburghii trees and soil background fertility to find a reasonable amount of fertilizer under intercropping. According to the growth of natural grass in orchards, weeding should be carried out in time. Timely cutting of the aboveground parts of the natural grass is necessary to use it as organic fertilizer for R. roxburghii orchards. Tougeron et al. [69] revealed that flower strips in an apple orchard provided a favorable condition to two parasitoid species, Aphidius matricariae and Ephedrus cerasicola, which effectively enhanced the control of rosy apple aphids. Future studies are needed to test which intercrops in R. roxburghii orchard are conducive to the survival of natural enemies of insects. In our study, R. roxburghii in the intercropping system was in the fruiting period, and it is necessary for us to study the intercropping mode of R. roxburghii saplings. Since the financial benefits of intercropping may change over time, in order to obtain higher financial benefits of intercropping systems, fruit growers should choose suitable intercropping crops in R. roxburghii orchards according to the future market demands for those crops.

5. Conclusions

Our investigation underscores the potential advantages of intercropping as a financially viable practice for R. roxburghii orchards. The inclusion of clean tillage and natural grass as control treatments provided a comparative baseline, revealing their inadequacy in enhancing R. roxburghii yield. On the other hand, intercropping with C. annuum, Z. mays, and L. perenne significantly improved both the yield and financial benefit of R. roxburghii cultivation when compared to clean tillage practices. This knowledge holds immense value for researchers and farmers, both in China and globally, who are engaged in orchard intercropping. The adoption of intercropping strategies can improve orchard conditions, elevate fruit yield, and ultimately, augment the financial benefits of R. roxburghii cultivation, which may contribute to the financial benefit of the R. roxburghii fruit industry.
While our study provides insightful contributions to this field, we recognize certain experimental limitations, such as fewer test repeats, the two-year experimental span, and the selection of intercropping crops based on regional availability. Future endeavors should set more repetitions to minimize the deviation in research results caused by soil heterogeneity in the field, and consider long-term studies to assess the persistent effects of intercropping on R. roxburghii yield and financial benefits across multiple cropping seasons. Moreover, exploring alternative intercropping combinations and crop rotations, alongside comprehensive cost–benefit analyses, may unveil insights into the most suitable intercropping strategies for diverse R. roxburghii orchards and regional scenarios. Further research could also delve into the ecological interactions between intercropped species to better understand and demonstrate the sustainability aspect of intercropping systems in R. roxburghii orchards.

Author Contributions

Y.L. (Ying Liu): Conceptualization, Investigation, Methodology, Writing—original draft, Writing—review and editing, Formal analysis, Funding acquisition. Y.Z., T.X., Y.L. (Yuan Li) and Y.W.: Conceptualization, Writing—Review and editing. J.H.: Formal analysis, Investigation. Y.X.: Investigation, Writing—original draft, Funding acquisition. B.Y.: Formal analysis, Supervision, Project administration, Writing—review and editing. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Funding

This research was funded by the Guizhou Province ordinary colleges and universities youth science and technology talent growth project (QJHKYZ [2022]304), Guizhou Provincial Basic Research Program (Natural Science) (QKHJC-ZK [2022] YB335), Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities (lzujbky-2021-10), Scientific Research Fund Project of Guizhou Education University (2020BS019), and Forestry Science and Research Program of Guizhou Province (GZFSTC [2015] NO.6).

Data Availability Statement

The data presented in this study are available on request from the corresponding author.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with a minor correction to resolve spelling and grammatical errors. This change does not affect the scientific content of the article.

References

  1. Arias, A.; Feijoo, G.; Moreira, M.T. Exploring the potential of antioxidants from fruits and vegetables and strategies for their recovery. Innov. Food Sci. Emerg. Technol. 2022, 77, 102974. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  2. Salehi, F. Quality, physicochemical, and textural properties of dairy products containing fruits and vegetables: A review. Food Sci. Nutr. 2021, 9, 4666–4686. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  3. Rosa-Martínez, E.; García-Martínez, M.D.; Adalid-Martínez, A.M.; Pereira-Dias, L.; Casanova, C.; Soler, E.; Figàs, M.R.; Raigón, M.D.; Plazas, M.; Soler, S.; et al. Fruit composition profile of pepper, tomato and eggplant varieties grown under uniform conditions. Food Res. Int. 2021, 147, 110531. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  4. Ganesh, K.S.; Sridhar, A.; Vishali, S. Utilization of fruit and vegetable waste to produce value-added products: Conventional utilization and emerging opportunities-A review. Chemosphere 2022, 287, 132221. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  5. Bakhsh, M.A.; Khawandanah, J.; Naaman, R.K.; Alashmali, S. The impact of COVID-19 quarantine on dietary habits and physical activity in Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2021, 21, 1487. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  6. Castellano-Hinojosa, A.; Kanissery, R.; Strauss, S.L. Cover crops in citrus orchards impact soil nutrient cycling and the soil microbiome after three years but effects are site-specific. Biol. Fertil. Soils 2023, 59, 659–678. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  7. Li, C.; Zhu, H.; Li, C.; Qian, H.; Yao, W.; Guo, Y. The present situation of pesticide residues in China and their removal and transformation during food processing. Food Chem. 2021, 354, 129552. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  8. Li, W.; Yang, M.; Wang, J.; Wang, Z.; Fan, Z.; Kang, F.; Wang, Y.; Luo, Y.; Kuang, D.; Chen, Z.; et al. Agronomic Responses of Major Fruit Crops to Fertilization in China: A Meta-Analysis. Agronomy 2020, 10, 15. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  9. FAO. United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. 2023. Available online: https://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data/QCL (accessed on 24 March 2023).
  10. Tang, W.; Yang, H.; Wang, W.; Wang, C.; Pang, Y.; Chen, D.; Hu, X. Effects of Living Grass Mulch on Soil Properties and Assessment of Soil Quality in Chinese Apple Orchards: A Meta-Analysis. Agronomy 2022, 12, 1974. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  11. Liang, Q.; Zhang, T.; Liu, Z.; Gao, W.; Cheng, Y.; Feng, H. Effects of Different Green Manure Crops on Soil Water, Nitrogen, and Yield: Preliminary Results in an Apple Orchard on the Loess Plateau, China. Agronomy 2023, 13, 2009. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  12. Liu, R.; Thomas, B.W.; Shi, X.; Zhang, X.; Wang, Z.; Zhang, Y. Effects of ground cover management on improving water and soil conservation in tree crop systems: A meta-analysis. Catena 2021, 199, 105085. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  13. Xie, B.; Chen, Y.; Cheng, C.; Ma, R.; Zhao, D.; Li, Z.; Li, Y.; An, X.; Yang, X. Long-term soil management practices influence the rhizosphere microbial community structure and bacterial function of hilly apple orchard soil. Appl. Soil Ecol. 2022, 180, 104627. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  14. Tang, M.; Li, H.; Zhang, C.; Zhao, X.; Gao, X.; Wu, P. Mulching measures improve soil moisture in rain-fed Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) orchards in the loess hilly region of China. Sustainability 2021, 13, 610. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  15. Tang, M.; Gao, X.; Wu, P.; Li, H.; Zhang, C. Effects of Living Mulch and Branches Mulching on Soil Moisture, Temperature and Growth of Rain-Fed Jujube Trees. Plants 2022, 11, 2654. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  16. Qian, X.; Gu, J.; Pan, H.; Zhang, K.; Sun, W.; Wang, X.; Gao, H. Effects of living mulches on the soil nutrient contents, enzyme activities, and bacterial community diversities of apple orchard soils. Eur. J. Soil Biol. 2015, 70, 23–30. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  17. Chen, G.; Liu, S.; Xiang, Y.; Tang, X.; Liu, H.; Yao, B.; Luo, X. Impact of living mulch on soil C:N:P stoichiometry in orchards across China: A meta-analysis examining climatic, edaphic, and biotic dependency. Pedosphere 2020, 30, 181–189. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  18. Żelazny, W.R.; Licznar-Małańczuk, M. Soil quality and tree status in a twelve-year-old apple orchard under three mulch-based floor management systems. Soil Tillage Res. 2018, 180, 250–258. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  19. Hu, Y.; Zhan, P.; Thomas, B.W.; Zhao, J.; Zhang, X.; Yan, H.; Zhang, Z.; Chen, S.; Shi, X.; Zhang, Y. Organic carbon and nitrogen accumulation in orchard soil with organic fertilization and cover crop management: A global meta-analysis. Sci. Total Environ. 2022, 852, 158402. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  20. Xiang, Y.; Chang, S.X.; Shen, Y.; Chen, G.; Liu, Y.; Yao, B.; Xue, J.; Li, Y. Grass cover increases soil microbial abundance and diversity and extracellular enzyme activities in orchards: A synthesis across China. Appl. Soil Ecol. 2023, 182, 104720. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  21. Lombardo, S.; Restuccia, A.; Abbate, C.; Anastasi, U.; Fontanazza, S.; Scavo, A.; Guarnaccia, P.; La Malfa, S.; Pandino, G.; Mauromicale, G. Trifolium subterraneum cover cropping for improving the nutritional status of a Mediterranean apricot orchard. J. Sci. Food Agric. 2021, 101, 3767–3777. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  22. Xiang, Y.; Li, Y.; Liu, Y.; Zhang, S.; Yue, X.; Yao, B.; Xue, J.; Lv, W.; Zhang, L.; Xu, X.; et al. Factors shaping soil organic carbon stocks in grass covered orchards across China: A meta-analysis. Sci. Total Environ. 2022, 807, 150632. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  23. Hu, J.; Bai, S.; Zhao, R.; Chen, G.; Cai, J. Effects of black geotextile mulch and grass mulch on the microclimate, fruit quality and anthocyanin components of ‘Xinyu’ table grape. N. Z. J. Crop Hortic. Sci. 2022, 1–18. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  24. Shyam, A.; Sharma, D.P.; Dogra, R.K.; Kaushal, R. Improved soil physico-chemical characteristics, soil moisture and plant growth properties through vertical mulching in a plum orchard. Biol. Agric. Hortic. 2023, 1–22. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  25. Duan, J.; Liu, Y.-J.; Yang, J.; Tang, C.-J.; Shi, Z.-H. Role of groundcover management in controlling soil erosion under extreme rainfall in citrus orchards of southern China. J. Hydrol. 2020, 582, 124290. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  26. Tu, A.; Xie, S.; Zheng, H.; Li, H.; Li, Y.; Mo, M. Long-term effects of living grass mulching on soil and water conservation and fruit yield of citrus orchard in south China. Agric. Water Manag. 2021, 252, 106897. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  27. Suo, G.-D.; Xie, Y.-S.; Zhang, Y.; Luo, H. Long-term effects of different surface mulching techniques on soil water and fruit yield in an apple orchard on the Loess Plateau of China. Sci. Hortic. 2019, 246, 643–651. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  28. Cao, Q.; Wang, Z.; Yang, X.; Shen, Y. The effects of cocksfoot cover crop on soil water balance, evapotranspiration partitioning, and system production in an apple orchard on the Loess Plateau of China. Soil Tillage Res. 2021, 205, 104788. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  29. Castellano-Hinojosa, A.; Martens-Habbena, W.; Smyth, A.R.; Kadyampakeni, D.M.; Strauss, S.L. Short-term effects of cover crops on soil properties and the abundance of N-cycling genes in citrus agroecosystems. Appl. Soil Ecol. 2022, 172, 104341. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  30. Pisciotta, A.; Di Lorenzo, R.; Novara, A.; Laudicina, V.A.; Barone, E.; Santoro, A.; Gristina, L.; Barbagallo, M.G. Cover crop and pruning residue management to reduce nitrogen mineral fertilization in Mediterranean Vineyards. Agronomy 2021, 11, 164. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  31. Li, X.; Lu, X.; Zhang, Z.; Huang, J.; Zhang, J.; Wang, L.; Hafeez, M.; FernándezGrandon, G.M.; Lu, Y. Intercropping Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) with Sweet Pepper (Capsicum annum) reduces major pest population densities without impacting natural enemy populations. Insects 2021, 12, 74. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  32. Wan, H.H.; Song, B.Z.; Tang, G.B.; Zhang, J.; Yao, Y.C. What are the effects of aromatic plants and meteorological factors on Pseudococcus comstocki and its predators in pear orchards? Agrofor. Syst. 2015, 89, 537–547. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  33. Laffon, L.; Bischoff, A.; Gautier, H.; Gilles, F.; Gomez, L.; Lescourret, F.; Franck, P. Conservation biological control of Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella): Effects of two aromatic plants, Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and French Marigolds (Tagetes patula). Insects 2022, 13, 908. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  34. Rodrigues, M.Â.; Arrobas, M. Chapter 20—Cover cropping for increasing fruit production and farming sustainability. In Fruit Crops; Srivastava, A.K., Hu, C., Eds.; Elsevier: Amsterdam, The Netherlands, 2020; pp. 279–295. [Google Scholar]
  35. Ren, J.; Li, F.; Yin, C. Orchard grass safeguards sustainable development of fruit industry in China. J. Clean. Prod. 2023, 382, 135291. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  36. Novara, A.; Cerda, A.; Barone, E.; Gristina, L. Cover crop management and water conservation in vineyard and olive orchards. Soil Tillage Res. 2021, 208, 104896. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  37. Kumar, A.; Pramanick, B.; Mahapatra, B.S.; Singh, S.P.; Shukla, D.K. Growth, yield and quality improvement of flax (Linum usitattisimum L.) grown under tarai region of Uttarakhand, India through integrated nutrient management practices. Ind. Crops Prod. 2019, 140, 111710. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  38. Pramanick, B.; Brahmachari, K.; Ghosh, A.; Zodape, S.T. Foliar nutrient management through Kappaphycus and Gracilaria saps in rice-potato-greengram crop sequence. J. Sci. Ind. Res. 2014, 73, 613–617. [Google Scholar]
  39. Fang, L.; Shi, X.; Zhang, Y.; Yang, Y.; Zhang, X.; Wang, X.; Zhang, Y. The effects of ground cover management on fruit yield and quality: A meta-analysis. Arch. Agron. Soil Sci. 2021, 68, 1890–1902. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  40. Morugán-Coronado, A.; Linares, C.; Gómez-López, M.D.; Faz, Á.; Zornoza, R. The impact of intercropping, tillage and fertilizer type on soil and crop yield in fruit orchards under Mediterranean conditions: A meta-analysis of field studies. Agric. Syst. 2020, 178, 102736. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  41. Huang, D.; Li, C.; Chen, Q.; Xie, X.; Fu, X.; Chen, C.; Huang, Q.; Huang, Z.; Dong, H. Identification of polyphenols from Rosa roxburghii Tratt pomace and evaluation of in vitro and in vivo antioxidant activity. Food Chem. 2022, 377, 131922. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  42. Li, H.; Fang, W.; Wang, Z.; Chen, Y. Physicochemical, biological properties, and flavour profile of Rosa roxburghii Tratt, Pyracantha fortuneana, and Rosa laevigata Michx fruits: A comprehensive review. Food Chem. 2022, 366, 130509. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  43. Ni, H.; Yu, L.; Zhao, X.; Wang, L.; Zhao, C.; Huang, H.; Zhu, H.; Efferth, T.; Gu, C.; Fu, Y. Seed oil of Rosa roxburghii Tratt against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in vivo and in vitro through PPARα/PGC-1α-mediated mitochondrial oxidative metabolism. Phytomedicine 2022, 98, 153919. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  44. Li, X.; Wang, X.; Yan, K.; Weng, G.; Zhu, M. Effect of Rosa roxburghii fruit on blood lipid levels: A systematic review based on human and animal studies. Int. J. Food Prop. 2022, 25, 549–559. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  45. Tang, L.; Zhang, S.; Zhang, M.; Wang, P.; Liang, G.; Gao, X. Analysis of protective effects of Rosa Roxburghii Tratt fruit polyphenols on lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury through network pharmacology and metabolomics. Food Sci. Nutr. 2022, 10, 4258–4269. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  46. Zhu, J.; Zhang, B.; Wang, B.; Li, C.; Fu, X.; Huang, Q. In-vitro inhibitory effects of flavonoids in Rosa roxburghii and R. sterilis fruits on α-glucosidase: Effect of stomach digestion on flavonoids alone and in combination with acarbose. J. Funct. Foods 2019, 54, 13–21. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  47. Zhang, S.; Xiong, K.; Deng, X.; Kong, L.; Min, X. Impact of ecological restoration on ecosystem service trade-offs: Insight from karst desertification control. Land Degrad. Dev. 2023, 34, 2693–2706. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  48. Li, N.; Jiang, L.; Liu, Y.; Zou, S.; Lu, M.; An, H. Metabolomics combined with transcriptomics analysis revealed the amino acids, phenolic acids, and flavonol derivatives biosynthesis network in developing Rosa roxburghii Fruit. Foods 2022, 11, 1639. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  49. Zhang, C.; Li, Q.; Li, J.; Su, Y.; Wu, X. Chitosan as an adjuvant to enhance the control efficacy of low-dosage pyraclostrobin against powdery mildew of Rosa roxburghii and improve its photosynthesis, yield, and quality. Biomolecules 2022, 12, 1304. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  50. Li, J.; Li, R.; Zhang, C.; Guo, Z.; Wu, X.; An, H. Co-Application of Allicin and Chitosan Increases Resistance of Rosa roxburghii against Powdery Mildew and Enhances Its Yield and Quality. Antibiotics 2021, 10, 1449. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  51. Zhang, C.; Li, J.; Su, Y.; Wu, X. Association of physcion and chitosan can efficiently control powdery mildew in Rosa roxburghii. Antibiotics 2022, 11, 1661. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  52. Zhang, C.; Yan, K.; Lin, L.; Fang, Y.; Zhang, X. Effects of source–sink alteration by pruning on physiological parameters and fruit production of Rosa roxburghii Tratt. on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau in China. Photosynthetica 2022, 60, 190–199. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  53. Markovitch, D.G.; Huang, D.; Ye, P. Marketing intensity and firm performance: Contrasting the insights based on actual marketing expenditure and its SG&A proxy. J. Bus. Res. 2020, 118, 223–239. [Google Scholar]
  54. Liao, Y.; Cao, H.; Liu, X.; Li, H.; Hu, Q.; Xue, W. By increasing infiltration and reducing evaporation, mulching can improve the soil water environment and apple yield of orchards in semiarid areas. Agric. Water Manag. 2021, 253, 106936. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  55. Maitra, S. Role of intercropping system in agricultural sustainability. Centurion J. Multidiscip. Res. 2018, 8, 77–90. [Google Scholar]
  56. Zhu, L.; He, J.; Tian, Y.; Li, X.; Li, Y.; Wang, F.; Qin, K.; Wang, J. Intercropping Wolfberry with Gramineae plants improves productivity and soil quality. Sci. Hortic. 2022, 292, 110632. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  57. Sánchez, E.E.; Giayetto, A.; Cichón, L.; Fernández, D.; Aruani, M.C.; Curetti, M. Cover crops influence soil properties and tree performance in an organic apple (Malus domestica Borkh) orchard in northern Patagonia. Plant Soil 2007, 292, 193–203. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  58. Li, Y.; Li, Y.; Zhang, Q.; Xu, G.; Liang, G.; Kim, D.-G.; Carmona, C.R.; Yang, M.; Xue, J.; Xiang, Y.; et al. Enhancing soil carbon and nitrogen through grassland conversion from degraded croplands in China: Assessing magnitudes and identifying key drivers of phosphorus reduction. Soil Tillage Res. 2024, 236, 105943. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  59. Maitra, S. Intercropping of small millets for agricultural sustainability in drylands: A review. Crop Res. 2020, 55, 162–171. [Google Scholar]
  60. Mauromicale, G.; Occhipinti, A.; Mauro, R.P. Selection of shade-adapted subterranean clover species for cover cropping in orchards. Agron. Sustain. Dev. 2010, 30, 473–480. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  61. Cheng, H.; Hu, W.; Zhou, X.; Dong, R.; Liu, G.; Li, Q.; Zhang, X. Fruit Tree Legume Herb Intercropping Orchard System Is an Effective Method to Promote the Sustainability of Systems in a Karst Rocky Desertification Control Area. Forests 2022, 13, 1536. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  62. Eichhorn, M.P.; Paris, P.; Herzog, F.; Incoll, L.D.; Liagre, F.; Mantzanas, K.; Mayus, M.; Moreno, G.; Papanastasis, V.P.; Pilbeam, D.J.; et al. Silvoarable Systems in Europe—Past, Present and Future Prospects. Agrofor. Syst. 2006, 67, 29–50. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  63. Xiang, Y.; Liu, Y.; He, J.; Liu, X.; Xu, H.; Guo, Y. Effects of sod-culture on soil nutrients, microorganisms and enzyme activities in Rosa roxburghii Tratt. Orchard. North. Hortic. 2018, 24, 96–101. [Google Scholar]
  64. Liu, L.; He, J.; Wen, X. Effects of intercropping different crops on soil microbial group and enzyme activities in Rosa Roxburghii Orchard. J. Mt. Agric. Biol. 2019, 38, 8–13. [Google Scholar]
  65. Guesmi-Mzoughi, I.; Tabib, M.; Sellami, F.; Hadj-Naser, F.; Regaieg, H.; Kallel, S.; Horrigue-Raouani, N. Diversity of plant-parasitic nematode communities infesting olive orchards in Tunisia in relation to agronomic factors. Eur. J. Plant Pathol. 2022, 164, 479–494. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  66. Zhang, Y.; Han, M.; Song, M.; Tian, J.; Song, B.; Hu, Y.; Zhang, J.; Yao, Y. Intercropping with Aromatic Plants Increased the Soil Organic Matter Content and Changed the Microbial Community in a Pear Orchard. Front. Microbiol. 2021, 12, 616932. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef] [PubMed]
  67. Tang, G.B.; Song, B.Z.; Zhao, L.L.; Sang, X.S.; Wan, H.H.; Zhang, J.; Yao, Y.C. Repellent and attractive effects of herbs on insects in pear orchards intercropped with aromatic plants. Agrofor. Syst. 2013, 87, 273–285. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  68. Wei, H.; Xiang, Y.; Liu, Y.; Zhang, J. Effects of sod cultivation on soil nutrients in orchards across China: A meta-analysis. Soil Tillage Res. 2017, 169, 16–24. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
  69. Tougeron, K.; Ferrais, L.; Gardin, P.; Lateur, M.; Hance, T. Flower strips increase the control of rosy apple aphids after parasitoid releases in an apple orchard. Ann. Appl. Biol. 2023, 182, 245–256. [Google Scholar] [CrossRef]
Agronomy 13 02953 g001
Figure 1. Pictures of two study sites. (a) Clean tillage, (b) Intercropping Zea mays, (c) Intercropping Capsicum annuum in Gujiao town; (d) Clean tillage, (e) Intercropping natural grass, (f) Intercropping Lolium perenne in Xima town.
Figure 1. Pictures of two study sites. (a) Clean tillage, (b) Intercropping Zea mays, (c) Intercropping Capsicum annuum in Gujiao town; (d) Clean tillage, (e) Intercropping natural grass, (f) Intercropping Lolium perenne in Xima town.
Agronomy 13 02953 g001
Agronomy 13 02953 g002
Figure 2. Fruit yield of R. roxburghii orchard under different intercropping modes and duration. Fruit yield of R. roxburghii between three intercropping modes (a) under 4 and 5-year-old in Gujiao orchard, and (b) under 7 and 8-year-old in Xima orchard, and fruit yield of R. roxburghii (c) between 4 and 5-year-old under three intercropping modes in Gujiao orchard, and (d) between 7 and 8-year-old under three intercropping modes in Xima orchard. n.s., *, **, and *** denote no significant difference, p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively. CT, clean tillage; ZM, Z. mays; CA, C. annuum; NG, natural grass; LP, L. perenne.
Figure 2. Fruit yield of R. roxburghii orchard under different intercropping modes and duration. Fruit yield of R. roxburghii between three intercropping modes (a) under 4 and 5-year-old in Gujiao orchard, and (b) under 7 and 8-year-old in Xima orchard, and fruit yield of R. roxburghii (c) between 4 and 5-year-old under three intercropping modes in Gujiao orchard, and (d) between 7 and 8-year-old under three intercropping modes in Xima orchard. n.s., *, **, and *** denote no significant difference, p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively. CT, clean tillage; ZM, Z. mays; CA, C. annuum; NG, natural grass; LP, L. perenne.
Agronomy 13 02953 g002
Agronomy 13 02953 g003
Figure 3. Fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii under different intercropping modes and duration. Fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii between three intercropping modes (a) under 4 and 5-year-old in Gujiao orchard, and (b) under 7 and 8-year-old in Xima orchard, and fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii (c) between 4 and 5-year-old under three intercropping modes in Gujiao orchard, and (d) between 7 and 8-year-old under three intercropping modes in Xima orchard. n.s., *, **, and *** denote no significant difference, p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively. CT, clean tillage; ZM, Z. mays; CA, C. annuum; NG, natural grass; LP, L. perenne.
Figure 3. Fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii under different intercropping modes and duration. Fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii between three intercropping modes (a) under 4 and 5-year-old in Gujiao orchard, and (b) under 7 and 8-year-old in Xima orchard, and fruit financial benefits of R. roxburghii (c) between 4 and 5-year-old under three intercropping modes in Gujiao orchard, and (d) between 7 and 8-year-old under three intercropping modes in Xima orchard. n.s., *, **, and *** denote no significant difference, p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively. CT, clean tillage; ZM, Z. mays; CA, C. annuum; NG, natural grass; LP, L. perenne.
Agronomy 13 02953 g003
Agronomy 13 02953 g004
Figure 4. Intercrops’ financial benefits of different intercropping modes and duration in R. roxburghii orchards. Intercrops’ financial benefits between three intercropping modes (a) under 4 and 5-year-old R. roxburghii orchard in Gujiao town, and (b) under 7 and 8-year-old R. roxburghii orchard in Xima town, and intercrops’ financial benefits (c) between 4 and 5-year-old R. roxburghii orchard under three intercropping modes in Gujiao town, and (d) between 7 and 8-year-old R. roxburghii orchard under three intercropping modes in Xima town. n.s., **, and *** denote no significant difference, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively. CT, clean tillage; ZM, Z. mays; CA, C. annuum; NG, natural grass; LP, L. perenne.
Figure 4. Intercrops’ financial benefits of different intercropping modes and duration in R. roxburghii orchards. Intercrops’ financial benefits between three intercropping modes (a) under 4 and 5-year-old R. roxburghii orchard in Gujiao town, and (b) under 7 and 8-year-old R. roxburghii orchard in Xima town, and intercrops’ financial benefits (c) between 4 and 5-year-old R. roxburghii orchard under three intercropping modes in Gujiao town, and (d) between 7 and 8-year-old R. roxburghii orchard under three intercropping modes in Xima town. n.s., **, and *** denote no significant difference, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively. CT, clean tillage; ZM, Z. mays; CA, C. annuum; NG, natural grass; LP, L. perenne.
Agronomy 13 02953 g004
Agronomy 13 02953 g005
Figure 5. Total financial benefits of R. roxburghii orchards under different intercropping modes and duration. Total financial benefits of R. roxburghii between three intercropping modes (a) under 4 and 5-year-old in Gujiao orchard, and (b) under 7 and 8-year-old in Xima orchard, and total financial benefits of R. roxburghii (c) between 4 and 5-year-old under three intercropping modes in Gujiao orchard, and (d) between 7 and 8-year-old under three intercropping modes in Xima orchard. n.s., *, **, and *** denote no significant difference, p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively. CT, clean tillage; ZM, Z. mays; CA, C. annuum; NG, natural grass; LP, L. perenne.
Figure 5. Total financial benefits of R. roxburghii orchards under different intercropping modes and duration. Total financial benefits of R. roxburghii between three intercropping modes (a) under 4 and 5-year-old in Gujiao orchard, and (b) under 7 and 8-year-old in Xima orchard, and total financial benefits of R. roxburghii (c) between 4 and 5-year-old under three intercropping modes in Gujiao orchard, and (d) between 7 and 8-year-old under three intercropping modes in Xima orchard. n.s., *, **, and *** denote no significant difference, p < 0.05, p < 0.01, and p < 0.001, respectively. CT, clean tillage; ZM, Z. mays; CA, C. annuum; NG, natural grass; LP, L. perenne.
Agronomy 13 02953 g005
Table 1. Investment unit price of R. roxburghii cultivation.
Table 1. Investment unit price of R. roxburghii cultivation.
Experimental SitesOrchard Age
(Year)		Pruning
(CNY ha−1)		Fertilization
(CNY ha−1)		Harvesting
(CNY kg−1)
Gujiao town4–5120022501
Xima town7–8225030001
Table 2. Investment unit price (CNY ha−1) of intercrops.
Table 2. Investment unit price (CNY ha−1) of intercrops.
Experimental SitesOrchard Age
(Year)		TreatmentsSeedCultivationSoil ScarificationFertilizationHarvesting
Gujiao town4–5CT00450000
ZM9001500150022503000
CA12002250300030004500
Xima town7–8CT00450000
LP15001200150015004500
NG00150000
Note: CT, clean tillage; ZM, Zea mays; CA, Capsicum annuum; LP, Lolium perenne; NG, natural grass.
Table 3. Sales unit price of R. roxburghii and intercrops (CNY kg−1).
Table 3. Sales unit price of R. roxburghii and intercrops (CNY kg−1).
CropsR. roxburghiiZ. maysC. annuumL. perenne
Unit price 5340.5
Disclaimer/Publisher’s Note: The statements, opinions and data contained in all publications are solely those of the individual author(s) and contributor(s) and not of MDPI and/or the editor(s). MDPI and/or the editor(s) disclaim responsibility for any injury to people or property resulting from any ideas, methods, instructions or products referred to in the content.

Share and Cite

MDPI and ACS Style

Liu, Y.; Zhang, Y.; Xiao, T.; Wu, Y.; Li, Y.; He, J.; Xiang, Y.; Yao, B. Effect of Intercropping on Fruit Yield and Financial Benefits of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Orchard in Southwest China. Agronomy 2023, 13, 2953. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13122953

AMA Style

Liu Y, Zhang Y, Xiao T, Wu Y, Li Y, He J, Xiang Y, Yao B. Effect of Intercropping on Fruit Yield and Financial Benefits of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Orchard in Southwest China. Agronomy. 2023; 13(12):2953. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13122953

Chicago/Turabian Style

Liu, Ying, Yawen Zhang, Tianhao Xiao, Yuguo Wu, Yuan Li, Ji He, Yangzhou Xiang, and Bin Yao. 2023. "Effect of Intercropping on Fruit Yield and Financial Benefits of Rosa roxburghii Tratt Orchard in Southwest China" Agronomy 13, no. 12: 2953. https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy13122953

Note that from the first issue of 2016, this journal uses article numbers instead of page numbers. See further details here.

Article Metrics

Back to TopTop