Traditional orchard management has long relied on practices such as clearing and weeding, where all weeds are removed from the orchard floor, leaving the soil exposed. In some cases, only specific crops are planted. This approach has led to poor ecological protection, increasing the risk of soil erosion and reducing soil fertility. Relying heavily on chemical fertilizers and pesticides to boost production not only raises costs but also negatively affects fruit quality. In contrast, "orchard grass cultivation" involves planting beneficial forage crops between fruit trees, creating a sustainable system that integrates fruit, grass, livestock, marshes, and fertilizer. This model encourages mutual stimulation and a circular flow, helping to preserve soil moisture, enhance fertility, and improve both fruit yield and quality.
Commonly used grass species in this system include white clover, ryegrass, and alfalfa. Among these, white clover is most widely adopted in the "fruit-grass-livestock-marsh-fertilizer" ecological model. White clover is a perennial legume with three-part leaves, oval-shaped foliage, and small white flowers. It thrives in various conditions, showing strong adaptability and resilience to cold, shade, and thin soils. It can survive winter in most regions and grow well under 30% light transmission. Its soil pH range is between 4.5 and 8.5. The plant has a long growth cycle, producing high biomass over 7–9 years, with annual fresh grass yields of 40–60 tons per hectare, making it an excellent feed for livestock. Additionally, it offers strong soil protection, prevents erosion, and fixes significant amounts of nitrogen—up to 150–195 kg per hectare annually. It also serves as an ornamental plant and a valuable nectar source for pollinators, flowering for up to five months.
White clover is typically sown between late March and April, or late August and September. Seedlings usually emerge within 3–4 days, and by April of the following year, they become dense. The recommended sowing method includes drilling at 30–40 cm spacing, with a seeding depth of 0.5–1.5 cm and a seed rate of 7.5–11.25 kg per hectare. Early weed control and timely watering are essential during the seedling stage. Once the grass reaches 30 cm in height, it should be harvested, leaving 10 cm to encourage regrowth. Harvesting can occur two to three times a year.
Introducing grass into orchards helps maintain green cover, reduce soil moisture evaporation, and prevent surface soil erosion—especially important for apple production in dry areas. Grass between trees can support natural predators of pests, promoting biological pest control. Choosing grasses that flower around the same time as apple trees enhances pollination by attracting bees and other pollinators, while also improving soil organic matter. It helps regulate the orchard’s microclimate, reduces temperature fluctuations, and lowers the risk of sunburn on fruits. Additionally, it produces about 480–580 kg of fresh grass per mu, providing nutritious feed for livestock and supporting agro-ecological farming. This practice improves soil health, increases forage availability, and promotes sustainable agricultural development.
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