The Impact of Different Planting Densities on the Growth and Ecological Benefits of Sandland Caragana

Abstract

Sandland Caragana (Caragana korshinskii) is a plant that adapts to arid and barren sandy land, exhibiting significant ecological restoration functions. The mechanisms by which different planting densities affect its growth and ecological benefits are particularly important. This paper explores the impact of planting density on photosynthetic efficiency, nutrient absorption, root expansion, and biomass accumulation based on the biological characteristics and environmental adaptability of Caragana. The study found that although high-density planting can increase root competition, effectively stabilize sand and prevent wind erosion, it may lead to insufficient light and nutrients, affecting plant growth and photosynthetic efficiency. In contrast, low-density planting enhances photosynthetic efficiency but may result in inadequate root expansion, which in turn affects its soil and water conservation capability. By optimizing planting density, the growth potential of Caragana can be enhanced while maximizing its ecological benefits, including sand fixation, resistance to wind and sand erosion, soil and water conservation, and carbon sequestration. Future research should further explore the long-term ecological effects of Caragana under different density conditions to provide a theoretical basis for desert vegetation restoration and carbon neutrality policies.