Effects of soil enzymes and soil characteristics in different growing zones on growth and quality of Wuyi rock tea (Camellia sinensis L.)

We analysed the soil characteristics, growth and quality indices of Wuyi rock tea (Rougui) in 3-growing areas (Yu, Guiyan, Qishan). The results showed that the available K and organic matter of tea soil in Qishan plantation were lower than soil fertility class I. The activity of most soil enzymes was Yu > Guiyan > Qishan. The growth indices of tea plant was Qishan > Guiyan approximate to Yu. The quality indices of fresh leaves were Yu > Guiyan > Qishan. Nitrogen was negatively correlated, whereas, K and organic matter were positively correlated with most soil enzymes. The growth indices of tea plant were positively correlated with N and catalase, but they were negatively correlated with K and organic matter and most soil enzymes. The quality indices of fresh leaves were negatively correlated with N and catalase, however, they were positively correlated with K and organic matter and most soil enzymes. There was negative co-relationship between the growth indices and the quality indices of fresh leaves. In brief, in Qishan soil on the one hand higher N facilitated the growth of Rougui tea leaves, but the deficiency of K and organic matter lowered the quality of Rougui tea leaves. The results suggested that to improve the quality of tea leaves in Qishan plantation, nitrogen content need to be reduced and the K and organic matter need to be increased in soil.