Directional water supply device and method for plant roots

Abstract

The invention relates to the technical field of agriculture and forestry cultivation, in particular to a plant root directional water supply device and method, a flexible water storage bag can store a proper amount of water, a root hair container is used for bearing and protecting plant roots and provides a proper growth space for plant roots, the flexible water storage bag is arranged on the root hair container in a sleeving mode, and the flexible water storage bag is arranged on the root hair container in a sleeving mode. The root hair container is in physical contact with the root of a pretreated plant, so that the root of the plant can absorb water from the flexible water storage bag, and after the root hair container which is in physical contact with the root of the plant is planted in soil of a planting hole together, the root of the plant continuously absorbs the water stored in the flexible water storage bag. Therefore, directional and continuous water supply to the roots of the plants is achieved, the water requirement of the plants at the initial stage of field planting is met, rapid rooting and growth recovery of the plants are facilitated, the survival rate of the plants in the arid region is increased, and the survival rate is increased by 18%-28% compared with a traditional planting method.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the field of agroforestry cultivation, and in particular to a plant root directional water supply device and method. BACKGROUND

[0002] In arid and semi-arid regions, large-scale afforestation and systematic ecological restoration are key measures to curb land desertification, restore biodiversity, improve regional ecological environment, and ensure ecological security. However, water supply shortage has always been a core bottleneck restricting the survival and healthy growth of seedlings during the implementation of vegetation reconstruction projects in these regions. These regions are characterized by scarce rainfall, intense evaporation, and other natural features, and the soil moisture is in a state of long-term deficit, leading to the death of newly planted seedlings due to water stress in the early stage of planting, which is a key limiting factor affecting the effectiveness of ecological restoration.

[0003] Currently, traditional irrigation methods such as flooding and sprinkling not only consume a large amount of water resources, but also have low water use efficiency due to intense surface evaporation. Although drip irrigation and seepage irrigation technologies improve water use efficiency to some extent, their high construction cost, complex topographic adaptability requirements, and long-term operation and maintenance management needs make them difficult to be applied on a large scale in economically weak and infrastructure-lacking remote areas.

[0004] In addition, although local water replenishment methods such as "water planting" have appeared in existing technologies, they attempt to inject a large amount of water at once to alleviate drought, but these methods still have obvious defects: the water release process lacks effective control, the duration is short, and it is difficult to match the continuous water demand of seedling roots; at the same time, the spatial distribution of water and the root structure cannot be precisely matched, resulting in low water supply efficiency and failing to fundamentally solve the survival problem of seedlings in drought stress. SUMMARY

[0005] Therefore, the present application provides a plant root directional water supply device and method to solve the technical problems of poor water supply efficiency and low seedling survival rate in the prior art using local water replenishment methods such as "water planting".

[0006] To achieve the above-mentioned purposes, the following solutions are adopted in the present application:

[0007] A plant root-directed watering device is disclosed, wherein the device and the plant roots are buried together in a planting hole. The device includes a root housing and a flexible water storage bag. The root housing has an opening for target roots to enter, allowing the target roots to be accommodated within the housing. This prevents the flexible water storage bag, buried in the planting hole, from being compressed by the covering sand. The root housing is made of a permeable and biodegradable material and is used to house and protect the plant roots. The flexible water storage bag is also made of a biodegradable material and has an internal cavity for storing irrigation water. This cavity accommodates the root housing, allowing it to support the flexible water storage bag and prevent it from cracking due to the covering sand. When the flexible water storage bag accommodates the root housing, its opening is fixedly connected to the opening of the root housing.

[0008] Preferably, the root filament container has several root-inducing and guiding holes.

[0009] Preferably, a support surface is provided on one side of the bottom surface of the root accumulator, the support surface is parallel to the horizontal plane, and a support groove is provided on the side wall of the opening on one side of the support surface, so that the main stem of the plant can be inserted into the support groove.

[0010] Preferably, a fixing groove is formed on the outer surface of the root accumulator at a predetermined distance from the opening, and the flexible water storage bag is equipped with a fastening strap. The fastening strap is used to fix the flexible water storage bag to the fixing groove so that the flexible water storage bag is connected to the root accumulator.

[0011] A method for directional water supply to plant roots includes the following steps:

[0012] S10. Pre-treat the plants to be planted, prepare planting holes, flexible water storage bags and root containers, put the flexible water storage bags on the root containers and connect the two, and inject water of a preset volume into the flexible water storage bags.

[0013] S20. The root arbor is brought into physical contact with the roots of the pretreated plant so that the roots of the plant can absorb water from the flexible water storage bag.

[0014] S30. The root arbor, which has already made physical contact with the roots of the plant, is planted together with the root arbor in the soil of the planting hole. The roots of the plant, which are in physical contact with the root arbor, continuously draw water from the flexible water storage bag, thereby achieving directional and continuous water supply to the plant roots.

[0015] Preferably, the plant to be planted is *Lilac indicum* or *Cotoneaster chinensis*. When the plant to be planted is *Lilac indicum* or *Cotoneaster chinensis*, the length and width of the planting hole are both 40-50 cm, and the depth is 45-55 cm. The planting hole is then compacted before planting.

[0016] Preferably, 1-2.5L of water is injected into the flexible water storage bladder.

[0017] Preferably, the step of “establishing physical contact between the root arbor and the roots of the pretreated plant” includes: guiding and accommodating at least one lateral root of the plant in the internal cavity of the root arbor.

[0018] Preferably, the step of "planting the root arbor, which has already made physical contact with the roots of the plant, together with the root arbor in the soil of the planting hole" includes the steps of: inserting the main stem of the plant into the support groove of the root arbor and making the support surface of the root arbor in horizontal contact with the bottom of the planting hole, so that the root arbor maintains an inclined posture when buried to apply a supporting force to the main stem of the plant.

[0019] Preferably, after planting and covering with soil, a water-blocking and evaporation-resistant layer is placed on the surface of the planting area.

[0020] In the aforementioned plant root directional water supply device and method, the flexible water storage bag can store an appropriate amount of water, and the root bud container is used to support and protect the plant roots, providing a suitable growth space for the plant roots. The flexible water storage bag is fitted onto the root bud container, establishing physical contact between the root bud container and the pre-treated plant roots, allowing the plant roots to absorb water from the flexible water storage bag. After the root bud container, which has established physical contact with the plant roots, is planted together with the plant roots in the soil of the planting hole, the plant roots continuously absorb the water stored in the flexible water storage bag, thereby achieving directional and continuous water supply to the plant roots, meeting the plant's water needs in the early stage of planting, helping the plant to quickly take root and resume growth, and improving the survival rate of plants in arid areas. Its survival rate is 18%-28% higher than that of traditional planting methods. Attached Figure Description

[0021] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the plant root directional water supply device in this invention.

[0022] Figure 2 This is a top view of the plant root directional water supply device of the present invention.

[0023] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the root filament container in this invention.

[0024] Figure 4This is a statistical chart showing the soil moisture content in planting holes of *Lilaconia spp.* under different watering treatments in this invention.

[0025] Figure 5 This is a statistical chart showing the soil moisture content in planting holes for different water replenishment treatments of Cotoneaster spp. in this invention.

[0026] Figure 6 This is a statistical chart showing the survival rate of Lilac in North China under different water replenishment treatments in this invention.

[0027] Figure 7 This is a statistical chart showing the survival rate of Cotoneaster hydropiper under different water replenishment treatments in this invention.

[0028] Figure 8 This is a statistical chart showing the SPAD values ​​of chlorophyll in leaves of *Lilaconia chinensis* under different water replenishment treatments in this invention.

[0029] Figure 9 This is a statistical chart showing the SPAD values ​​of chlorophyll in Cotoneaster leaves under different water replenishment treatments in this invention.

[0030] In the figure, the plant trunk is 100, the lateral roots are 110, the flexible water storage bag is 200, the water inlet is 210, the air vent is 220, the root filament container is 300, the opening is 310, the support surface is 320, the support groove is 330, the fixing groove is 340, the fastening band is 350, and the root induction guide hole is 360. Detailed Implementation

[0031] To facilitate understanding of this application, a more comprehensive description will be provided below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Preferred embodiments of this application are also given. However, this application can be implemented in many different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough and complete understanding of the disclosure of this application.

[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein in the specification of this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0033] Please refer to Figures 1 to 3In one specific embodiment, the plant root directional water supply device is buried together with the plant roots in the planting hole, including a root locator 300 and a flexible water storage bag 200. The root locator 300 has an opening 310 for the target roots of the plant to enter. The target roots can be accommodated in the root locator 300 through the opening 310, preventing the flexible water storage bag 200 buried in the planting hole from being squeezed by the covering sand and thus preventing the target roots from being squeezed. The root locator 300 is made of a water-permeable and biodegradable material, and the root locator 300 is used to collect and protect the roots. The flexible water storage bladder 200 at the plant root is made of a biodegradable material. The flexible water storage bladder 200 has a cavity inside for storing irrigation water, and the cavity of the flexible water storage bladder 200 can accommodate the root arbor 300, so that the root arbor 300 supports the flexible water storage bladder 200 to prevent the flexible water storage bladder 200 buried in the planting hole from being squeezed and broken by the covering sand. When the flexible water storage bladder 200 accommodates the root arbor 300, the opening of the flexible water storage bladder 200 can be fixedly connected to the opening 310 of the root arbor 300.

[0034] The flexible water storage bladder 200 can be irregularly shaped, such as circular, square, or hexagonal. In this embodiment, it is preferably rectangular.

[0035] The flexible water storage bladder 200 provided in this embodiment possesses flexible characteristics, capable of deforming to a certain extent according to actual conditions to adapt to different usage scenarios and installation requirements. The flexible water storage bladder 200 has a large internal cavity, which can be designed according to different growth stages of the plant and the amount of water required to store an appropriate amount of water. The root bud holder 300 is used to support and protect the plant roots, providing a suitable growth space for the plant roots; it also supports the flexible water storage bladder 200, preventing the soil from crushing it and thus achieving the purpose of long-term water replenishment. The root bud holder 300 is made of a water-permeable and biodegradable material. Its water permeability ensures that the plant roots can easily absorb water from the surrounding environment. Its biodegradability allows the root bud holder 300 to gradually decompose after a period of use as the plant grows and the root system expands, preventing long-term pollution of the soil and environment. Common biodegradable materials include root containers 300 made of paper fibers, starch-based plastics, or straw shreds, preferably root containers 300 made of straw shreds. After degradation, these materials can increase soil fertility, provide nutrients for plant growth, and promote plant growth. The shape of the root container 300 can be designed according to the growth characteristics of plant roots, such as round, square, or irregular shapes, to better adapt to the needs of different plants.

[0036] For example, the root container 300 can be a rigid mesh bag. The root container 300 has an opening 310, through which the plant roots can be accommodated within the rigid mesh bag. The purpose of designing the root container 300 as a rigid mesh bag is that the rigid material provides the mesh bag with a certain structural strength and stability, supporting the flexible water storage bag 200 while also protecting the plant roots. The mesh bag's structure also ensures good air and water permeability. The shape and size of the opening 310 can be flexibly designed according to actual usage requirements. Common opening 310 shapes include circular, square, and elliptical. In this embodiment, the preferred shape of the opening 310 is circular. The position of the opening 310 can also be selected based on the shape of the mesh bag and the distribution characteristics of the plant roots. In this embodiment, the opening 310 is positioned at the top of the mesh bag for easy operation. Furthermore, to prevent water leakage from the opening 310 after the plant roots are placed, a sealing structure is provided at the opening 310. For example, using a cap with an elastic sealing strip allows the sealing strip to fit tightly against the edge of the opening 310 when the cap is closed, creating a good seal.

[0037] When using the plant root directional watering device provided in this embodiment, firstly, select a flexible water storage bag 200 and a root arbor container 300 of appropriate specifications according to the type and size of the plant, and place the root arbor container 300 in a suitable position, such as at the bottom or side of the planting hole. Then, fit the flexible water storage bag 200 onto the root arbor container 300, ensuring that the two are connected, specifically connecting the inlet of the flexible water storage bag 200 to the opening of the root arbor container 300. This can be done using rubber rings or sealant. A suitable amount of water can be injected into the internal cavity of the flexible water storage bag 200 through the water inlet 210, or into the internal cavity of the root arbor container 300 through the opening 310. Next, place the plant into the root arbor container 300, allowing the plant roots to naturally distribute within the root arbor container 300. Then, fill the area around the plant and root container 300 with soil to ensure the plant grows firmly.

[0038] Compared with traditional irrigation methods, this device provides stable directional water supply, which can provide suitable water conditions for plants, improve the survival rate of plants in arid areas, and significantly improve water use efficiency. Since the water is supplied directly to the plant roots, the evaporation and loss of water on the soil surface are reduced, allowing more water to be absorbed and utilized by the plants, thereby saving water resources.

[0039] The flexible water storage bladder 200 also includes a venting pipe 220. One end of the venting pipe 220 is connected to the water inlet 210, and the other end of the venting pipe 220 extends to the ground. Water can be replenished into the flexible water storage bladder 200 through the venting pipe 220. The venting pipe 220 also facilitates the exchange of gas between the root containment 300 and the ground gas, preventing the plant roots in the root containment 300 from rotting.

[0040] The root container 300 is provided with a plurality of root-inducing drainage holes 360, the diameter of which is 1-2 cm. After the plant is planted, in the early stage of growth, the root-inducing drainage holes 360 can promptly guide the water in the flexible water storage bag 200 into the root container 300 to provide water for the plant. As the plant gradually grows, the root-inducing drainage holes 360 can play a role in inducing roots, allowing the plant roots located in the root container 300 to extend to the outside of the root-inducing drainage holes 360 and puncture the flexible water storage bag 200 to absorb nutrients from the soil in a timely manner.

[0041] Plant cultivation often requires one person to hold the seedling while another person covers it with soil, which requires the manpower of two people to complete. In a preferred embodiment, a support surface 320 is provided on one side of the bottom surface of the root accumulator 300. The support surface is parallel to the horizontal plane. A support groove 330 is provided on the side wall of the opening 310 on one side of the support surface. The main stem of the plant 100 can be inserted into the support groove 330.

[0042] A support surface 320, parallel to the horizontal plane, is provided on one side of the bottom of the root container 300, providing a stable support base for the entire device and the plant, ensuring that the device will not easily tilt or shake during planting. The size of the support surface 320 can be reasonably designed according to the specifications of the root container 300 and the size of the plant to be planted. Furthermore, the surface of the support surface 320 can be treated with anti-slip measures, such as adding texture or attaching anti-slip mats, to prevent the device from sliding during placement. A support groove 330 is formed on the side wall of the opening 310 on one side of the support surface. This design is to support the plant trunk 100 when planting. Inserting the plant trunk 100 into the support groove 330 allows the plant to remain upright in the early stages of growth, avoiding the inconvenience of needing one person to hold it during traditional tree planting. The shape and size of the support groove 330 should be customized according to the thickness and shape of the plant trunk 100. The common shape of the support groove 330 is square. In this embodiment, the support groove 330 is T-shaped, which facilitates the insertion of the plant stem 100 into the support groove 330. Its size is slightly larger than the diameter of the plant stem 100 by 1-2 cm to ensure that the plant stem 100 can be easily inserted while providing sufficient support. In addition, the position of the support groove 330 should be reasonably set to ensure that the plant stem 100 can maintain a natural growth posture after being inserted, and that the normal growth of the plant will not be affected by the restriction of the support groove 330.

[0043] In use, place the root container 300, which has a support surface 320 and a support groove 330, at the bottom of a pre-dug planting hole, ensuring that the support surface 320 is in stable contact with the ground. Carefully insert the plant roots through the opening 310 of the root container 300, and accurately place the plant stem 100 into the support groove 330. Adjust the plant's position to keep it upright and with a natural growth posture. Then, fill the area around the plant, root container 300, and flexible water storage bag 200 with soil, gently compacting the soil to ensure stable plant growth. During the filling process, take care to avoid damaging the flexible water storage bag 200 and the root container 300.

[0044] The support surface 320 provides a stable foundation for the entire device, ensuring its stability during planting and preventing tilting due to external forces or loose soil. The support groove 330 directly supports the plant trunk 100, eliminating the need for manual support during planting, thus saving labor costs and improving planting efficiency.

[0045] Furthermore, when moving the root container 300, in order to prevent the plant stem 100 from easily coming out of the support groove 330, after accurately placing the plant stem 100 into the support groove 330, the plant stem 100 can be fixed to the opening of the root container 300 by soaking straw, so as to improve practicality and convenience.

[0046] In one specific embodiment, a fixing groove 340 is formed on the outer surface of the root receiver 300 at a predetermined distance from the opening 310, and the flexible water storage bag 200 is equipped with a fastening strap 350. The fastening strap 350 is used to fix the flexible water storage bag 200 to the fixing groove 340 so that the flexible water storage bag 200 is connected to the root receiver 300.

[0047] In this embodiment, a fixing groove 340 is formed on the outer surface of the root reservoir 300 at a specific preset distance from the opening 310. This design provides a dedicated fixing position for the connection between the flexible water storage bag 200 and the root reservoir 300. The fastening band 350 is a component used in conjunction with the fixing groove 340. Its function is to firmly fix the flexible water storage bag 200 to the root reservoir 300, thereby ensuring the connection between the two and preventing water leakage.

[0048] A method for directional water supply to plant roots includes the following steps:

[0049] S10. Pre-treat the plants to be planted. The plants to be planted can be Lilac in North China and Cotoneaster davidii. The pre-treatment includes trunk cutting and root pruning. Trunk cutting can effectively reduce the evaporation and consumption of water in the above-ground parts of the seedlings. Trim excessively long, damaged or rotten roots to promote the germination of new roots after planting. Dig planting holes. The size and depth of the planting holes should be determined according to the type and size of the plants to ensure that they can provide sufficient growth space for the plants. Prepare a flexible water storage bag 200 and a root fibrous container 300. Put the flexible water storage bag 200 on the root fibrous container 300 and inject a preset volume of water into the flexible water storage bag 200.

[0050] S20. The root accumulator 300 is brought into physical contact with the roots of the pretreated plant so that the roots of the plant can absorb water from the flexible water storage bag 200.

[0051] S30. The root container 300, which has established physical contact with the roots of the plant, is planted together with the root container 300 in the soil of the planting hole. The roots of the plant, which are in physical contact with the root container 300, continuously draw water from the flexible water storage bag 200, thereby achieving directional and continuous water supply to the plant roots.

[0052] The plant root-directed water supply method provided in this application can provide a continuous water supply to plants, meet their water needs in the early stages of planting, help them to quickly take root and resume growth, and improve their survival rate. By fitting a flexible water storage bag 200 onto the root container 300 and injecting water into the flexible water storage bag 200, and establishing physical contact between the plant roots and the bag, water can be directly supplied to the area around the plant roots, avoiding evaporation and loss of water on the soil surface. This achieves precise water supply to the plant roots and improves water utilization.

[0053] In one specific embodiment, the plant to be planted is *Lilac indicum* or *Cotoneaster chinensis*. When the plant to be planted is *Lilac indicum* or *Cotoneaster chinensis*, the length and width of the planting hole are both 40-50 cm, and the depth is 45-55 cm. The planting hole is then compacted before planting.

[0054] In a preferred embodiment, 1-2.5L of water is injected into the flexible water storage bladder 200.

[0055] Injecting 1-2.5L of water into the flexible water storage bag 200 can meet the water absorption needs of the roots of most plants in the short term after planting. It will not cause the plants to wilt due to lack of water, nor will it cause the roots to rot due to lack of oxygen due to excessive water.

[0056] In a preferred embodiment, the step of “establishing physical contact between the root accumulator 300 and the roots of the pretreated plant” includes: guiding and accommodating at least one lateral root 110 of the plant in the internal cavity of the root accumulator 300.

[0057] By guiding and housing at least one lateral root 110 of the plant within the internal cavity of the root container 300, water from the flexible water storage tank 200 can be directly supplied to the specific lateral root 110. Different parts of the plant root system have varying capacities for absorbing water and nutrients, and the lateral root 110 plays a crucial role in absorption and expansion during plant growth. This method allows for precise water supply positioning, promotes adaptation between the root system and the water supply device, and ensures initial root stability, enabling the plant to better adapt to its new growing environment after planting. Sufficient and stable water supply and favorable root growth conditions help maintain turgor pressure and normal physiological metabolism in plant cells, reducing wilting and death caused by water shortage or root damage. Experiments described later show that plants grown using this method of introducing lateral roots 110 into the root container 300 have a survival rate 18%-28% higher than those grown using traditional methods.

[0058] Compared to traditional irrigation methods, this directional water supply method, which introduces lateral roots 110 into the root reservoir 300, can significantly save water resources. In traditional irrigation methods, water evaporates from the soil surface or seeps into the deeper soil layers, resulting in a significant waste of water resources. This method, however, supplies water directly to the lateral roots 110, reducing ineffective water loss and improving water utilization efficiency.

[0059] Furthermore, the step of "planting the root accumulator 300, which has already made physical contact with the roots of the plant, together with the root accumulator 300 in the soil of the planting hole" includes the following steps: accommodating the main stem of the plant in the support groove 330 of the root accumulator 300, and making the support surface of the root accumulator 300 horizontally contact the bottom of the planting hole, so that the root accumulator 300 maintains an inclined posture when buried, so as to apply a supporting force to the main stem 100 of the plant.

[0060] The plant trunk 100 is housed in the support groove 330 of the root container 300, and the support surface of the root container 300 is in horizontal contact with the bottom of the planting hole and is kept in an inclined position. This provides reliable support for the plant trunk 100, ensuring that no manual hand support is required during planting, and only one person is needed to cover the soil, thus saving labor costs.

[0061] Furthermore, after planting and covering with soil, a water-blocking evaporation layer can be placed on the surface of the planting area. For example, covering the plant with mulch after planting can effectively prevent soil moisture evaporation and collect rainwater to the roots, significantly improving the moisture retention effect.

[0062] The following specific experimental examples further illustrate the technical solution and effects of the present invention. It should be noted that the following experimental examples are only for further explanation of the present invention and do not limit the technical solution of the present invention.

[0063] 1. Experimental materials

[0064] Two representative shrub species from the arid north-central region of Ningxia were selected: *Syringa reticulata* and *Cotoneaster chinensis*, both two-year-old bare-root seedlings. Before planting, the height difference between treatments was minimized, and all seedlings were ensured to have plump terminal buds, complete root systems, robust growth, and no pests or diseases. *Syringa reticulata* and *Cotoneaster chinensis* underwent pretreatment, with trunk cuts of 50 cm and 20 cm respectively.

[0065] The quick-adjusting dripper is a household potted plant dripper, purchased online.

[0066] Plant root directional water supply device, provided by Ningxia University Laboratory;

[0067] The drip irrigation bags are for landscaping and greening. They can be purchased online, with a maximum capacity of 2.5 L and a drip irrigation period of 10-20 days.

[0068] The absorbent cotton (with plastic tubing) was purchased online.

[0069] 2. Test Methods

[0070] 2.1 Experimental Location

[0071] The afforestation experiment began in early April 2025, located in Baole'an Gully, Luoshan Nature Reserve, Ningxia. The selected slopes were sunny sides of the gully, with a gradient of less than 15°, specifically at 106°14'0.24" and 37°19'9.22" latitude and longitude, with an average altitude of 1798 m. Before the experiment, soil samples were taken to measure soil thickness, gravel content, and soil physicochemical properties. The results were: soil thickness 0–10 cm, soil gravel content 15%, and soil bulk density 0.8854 g / cm³. 3 The soil composition was as follows: pH 8.41, total nitrogen 0.465 g / kg, total phosphorus 0.517 g / kg, total potassium 16.11 g / kg, available nitrogen 35.00 mg / kg, available phosphorus 3.81 mg / kg, and available potassium 127.16 mg / kg. The vegetation cover was 0.3924, and the soil moisture content during the afforestation season was 6.13%.

[0072] 2.2 Experimental Design

[0073] The experiment employed a completely randomized block design. For each tree species, there were four treatment groups: drip irrigation (T-1), root-directed watering (T-2), drip irrigation bag irrigation (T-3), absorbent cotton irrigation (T-4), and a control group (CK). Each treatment involved 30 seedlings. Three replicates were conducted on the afforestation site at the uphill, mid-slope, and downhill sections. Each replicate was 25 m long (lateral) × 22.5 m wide (longitudinal), for a total experimental area of ​​5625 m². 2 The specific design of each processing group is as follows:

[0074] Drip irrigation system water replenishment treatment group (T-1)

[0075] Afforestation began in early April 2025. Planting pits were dug at designated locations, with a spacing of 2.5 m x 2.5 m between plants. The planting pits measured 40 cm (length) x 40 cm (width) x 45 cm (depth). After assembling the drip irrigation system, 1-L recycled plastic bottles were used as water reservoirs. These bottles were filled with water, the caps removed, and the drip irrigation system was screwed tightly onto the bottle opening. After the pre-treated seedlings were transplanted by two people, the planting area was covered with mulch. The water reservoir was then inverted, and the pointed end of the conical support structure was inserted into the soil at a suitable distance from the plant, ensuring it was firmly in place. A syringe was used to make a hole in the bottom of the water reservoir to prevent air pressure from obstructing water flow. The flow rate was adjusted by rotating the flow control valve screw.

[0076] Plant root-directed water supply treatment group (T-2)

[0077] The difference between this plant root-directed water supply treatment group and the drip irrigation treatment group mentioned above is that: 1 L of water is injected into the flexible water storage bag 200, and the water-filled flexible water storage bag 200 is fitted onto the root bud container 300; one lateral root 110 of the seedling is guided and accommodated in the internal cavity of the root bud container 300, the main stem of the seedling is accommodated in the support groove 330 of the root bud container 300, and the support surface of the root bud container 300 is in horizontal contact with the bottom of the planting hole, so that the root bud container 300 maintains an inclined posture when buried to apply support force to the main stem 100 of the plant. The transplanting is completed by one person, and the surface of the planting area is covered with mulch.

[0078] Drip irrigation bag water replenishment treatment group (T-3)

[0079] The difference between this drip irrigation bag water replenishment treatment group and the drip irrigation device water replenishment treatment group mentioned above is that: the drip irrigation bag is filled with water (2.5L) and the bag opening is screwed tightly. After transplanting the seedlings, the surface of the planting area is covered with mulch, and the drip irrigation bag is placed in a location with a significant drop, ensuring that the lowest water level in the bag is higher than the drip needle. After placement, the regulator is opened to purge the air from the pipe, ensuring that water flows out of the bag. Then, the drip needle is inserted into the soil at a suitable distance from the base of the seedling, and the regulator is adjusted to control the water outflow rate.

[0080] Water-absorbing cotton moisturizing treatment group (T-4)

[0081] The difference between this absorbent cotton water replenishment treatment set and the aforementioned drip water replenishment treatment set is as follows: A small opening is cut in the cap of the water storage bottle for the water-guiding cotton rope to pass through. A 1-L capacity recycled plastic bottle is used as the water storage bottle, filled with water so that one end of the cotton rope is submerged in the water and extends to the bottom of the bottle. Then, the cap is tightened to complete the assembly. When transplanting seedlings, the other end of the water-guiding cotton rope is wrapped around the roots of the plant. The exposed water-guiding cotton rope and most of the water storage bottle, along with the plant, are covered with soil. A syringe is used to make a hole in the top of the water storage bottle to prevent air pressure inside the bottle from hindering water flow. The plastic tubing prevents moisture loss from the exposed cotton rope due to sun exposure. After transplanting the seedlings, the surface of the planting area is covered with mulch.

[0082] Blank control group (CK)

[0083] The difference between this blank control group and the above-mentioned drip irrigation treatment group is that, after transplanting according to the above transplanting method, no irrigation device is used for water supply.

[0084] During the experiment, none of the seedlings in the above experimental groups were irrigated or managed by humans, allowing them to grow naturally.

[0085] 2.3 Indicator Monitoring

[0086] Soil moisture content: From April to October 2025, soil samples were taken from the root zone of seedlings in each experimental treatment (20-30 cm) in the middle of each month, and the soil moisture content was determined by drying method (drying continuously at 105 ℃ for 8-10 h).

[0087] Seedling survival rate: In October of the year of afforestation, a comprehensive survey of the tree species in the experimental area was conducted, and the seedling survival rate was calculated. Survival rate = (number of surviving seedlings / total number of seedlings at the time of afforestation) × 100%.

[0088] Seedling height and diameter at ground level: At the end of the seedling transplanting period and the end of the seedling growth period (early October), the seedling height and diameter at ground level of seedlings under different treatments were measured using a measuring tape and a vernier caliper. The difference between the two measurements is the seedling height and diameter at ground level growth.

[0089] Number, length, and thickness of new shoots: At the end of the seedling growth period, 10 samples were selected from the same tree species, the same treatment measures, and the same replicate, and the number of new shoots sprouted from each sample was counted; five new shoots were cut from each sample using a measuring tape and vernier calipers to measure their length and thickness.

[0090] In mid-September 2025, unilateral leaves from the 3rd and 4th pairs of leaflets of compound leaves at the same location on standard plants, with no shading and good light conditions, were selected. The relative chlorophyll content (SPAD) was measured and collected using a TYS-B chlorophyll content meter. The collected leaves were then measured for leaf area, leaf perimeter, leaf length, and leaf width using a YMJ-C intelligent leaf area meter (TOP Corporation, China). Subsequently, 50 leaves were randomly selected from each replicate to measure leaf biomass, and the leaves were dried to calculate leaf water content.

[0091] 2.4 Data Processing

[0092] Excel 2021 was used for preliminary data statistical processing, SPSS 27 was used for one-way ANOVA and Duncan's method for multiple comparison significance analysis, and Origin 2025 b was used to generate graphs.

[0093] 3. Results and Analysis

[0094] 3.1 Effects of different treatment groups on soil moisture content

[0095] Depend on Figure 4It can be seen that, regarding the soil moisture content in the planting holes of *Lilac in North China*, in April, there was no significant difference between the soil moisture content of T-1, T-2, T-3, and T-4 and the control (CK); in May, T-2, T-3, and T-4 were significantly higher than the control (CK), while T-1 was not significantly different from the control (CK); in June, T-2 and T-3 were significantly higher than the control (CK), while T-1, T-4 were not significantly different from the control (CK); in July, T-2, T-3, and T-4 were significantly higher than the control (CK), while T-1 was not significantly different from the control (CK); in August, T-2, T-3, and T-4 were significantly higher than the control (CK), while T-1 was not significantly different from the control (CK); in September, T-2, T-3, and T-4 were significantly higher than the control (CK), while T-1 was not significantly different from the control (CK); in October, T-2, T-3, and T-3 were significantly higher than the control (CK), while T-1 was not significantly different from the control (CK) (P>0.05).

[0096] Depend on Figure 5 It can be seen that, regarding the soil moisture content in the planting holes of Cotoneaster spp., in April, the soil moisture content of T-3 was significantly higher than that of CK, while there was no significant difference between T-1, T-2, T-4 and CK; in May, the soil moisture content of T-2 was significantly higher than that of CK, while there was no significant difference between T-1, T-3, T-4 and CK; in June, T-2, T-3, T-4 were significantly higher than that of CK, while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK; in July, T-2, T-3, T-4 were significantly higher than that of CK, while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK; in August, T-2, T-3, T-4 were significantly higher than that of CK, while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK; in September, T-2, T-3, T-4 were significantly higher than that of CK, while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK; in October, T-2, T-3, T-4 were significantly higher than that of CK, while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK.

[0097] 3.2 Effects of different treatment groups on afforestation survival rate

[0098] Depend on Figure 6 It can be seen that the survival rates of afforestation of *Syringa retusa* in North China under different treatment groups, from high to low, are T-2, T-3, T-4, T-1, and CK. Among them, T-2 has the highest survival rate; T-3 is significantly higher than T-4, T-1, and CK; T-4 is significantly higher than T-1 and CK; there is no significant difference between T-1 and CK.

[0099] Depend on Figure 7 It can be seen that the survival rate of *Cotoneaster hydropiper* afforestation under different treatments, from high to low, is as follows: T-2, T-3, T-4, T-1, CK. There is no significant difference in the survival rate between T-2 and T-3, and both are significantly higher than T-4, T-1, and CK. T-4 is significantly higher than T-1 and CK. T-1 is significantly higher than CK.

[0100] 3.3 Effects of different treatment groups on seedling growth

[0101] 3.3.1 Effects of different treatment groups on seedling height and diameter at breast height (DBH) growth

[0102] The seedling height and diameter at ground level of the seedlings in the different treatment groups were measured and statistically analyzed. The results are shown in Table 1.

[0103] Table 1. Statistics on seedling height and diameter at ground level of seedlings in different watering treatment groups.

[0104] Table 1 shows that different watering treatments promoted the growth of seedling height and diameter at root (DBR) of *Syringa repens* and *Cotoneaster davidii*, but the degree of response varied depending on the treatment. For *Syringa repens*, T-2 and T-3 were the most effective growth-promoting measures. Under these two treatments, the annual growth of seedling height (1.92 cm and 1.90 cm, respectively) and annual growth of DBR (0.31 mm and 0.30 mm, respectively) reached their maximum values, with no significant difference between them, but both were significantly better than the control group CK (0.67 cm seedling height and 0.07 mm DBR). T-4 still had a good promoting effect on seedling height growth (1.45 cm), but its promoting effect on DBR (0.19 mm) was not significantly different from T-1 (0.20 mm), and both were significantly lower than the two optimal treatments mentioned above. The seedling growth indicators under all watering treatments were significantly higher than those under CK. For *Cotoneaster davidii*, its growth was more sensitive to the watering treatment, and the increase in growth was greater. In promoting seedling height, T-2 (4.00 cm) and T-3 (3.83 cm) showed the most outstanding and significant effects, followed by T-4 (3.20 cm), while there was no significant difference between T-1 (2.13 cm) and CK (2.03 cm). In promoting diameter at breast height (DBH), T-2 (0.65 mm), T-3 (0.52 mm), and T-4 (0.61 mm) were all highly effective treatments, with no significant differences among themselves, but all were significantly better than T-1 (0.36 mm) and CK (0.37 mm).

[0105] 3.3.2 Effects of different treatment groups on the growth of seedling shoots

[0106] The growth of new shoots in the seedlings of the different treatment groups was detected and statistically analyzed. The results are shown in Table 2.

[0107] Table 2. Statistics on the growth of new shoots of seedlings in different watering treatment groups.

[0108] As shown in Table 2, for *Syringa retusa* in North China, the number of new shoots was highest in treatment T-3 (4.77), significantly higher than other treatments. There were no significant differences among treatments T-1, T-2, T-4, and CK, with 4.44, 4.54, 4.56, and 4.47 new shoots, respectively. In terms of new shoot length, T-3 (7.20 cm) was significantly the longest, while T-2 (6.30 cm) and T-4 (6.23 cm) showed no significant difference. T-1 (5.60 cm) and CK (5.75 cm) were the shortest and showed no significant difference. In terms of new shoot thickness, T-3 (1.19 mm) and T-2 (1.16 mm) had the highest thickness with no significant difference, followed by T-4 (0.83 mm), then T-1 (0.76 mm), and CK (0.66 mm) had the thinnest. For Cotoneaster spp., the number of new shoots was highest in T-2 (3.93) and T-4 (3.83) with no significant difference, followed by T-3 (3.39), while T-1 (2.89) and CK (2.93) had the fewest new shoots with no significant difference. The length of new shoots was significantly longest in T-3 (18.13 cm), followed by T-2 (17.83 cm), then T-4 (16.83 cm), then CK (15.41 cm), and shortest in T-1 (14.26 cm). The thickness of new shoots was highest in T-2 (2.17 mm), followed by T-3 (1.96 mm), with no significant difference between T-1 (1.84 mm) and T-4 (1.86 mm), and the thinnest in CK (1.75 mm).

[0109] 3.4 Effects of different treatment groups on seedling leaves

[0110] 3.4.1 Effects of different treatment groups on the SPAD value of chlorophyll in seedling leaves

[0111] Depend on Figure 8 It can be seen that the chlorophyll SPAD value of leaves of North China lilac seedlings in treatments T-2 and T-3 was significantly the highest, followed by treatment T-4, while treatments T-1 and CK were significantly the lowest, with no significant difference between them.

[0112] Depend on Figure 9 It can be seen that the SPAD values ​​of chlorophyll in the leaves of Cotoneaster seedlings treated with T-2, T-3, and T-4 were significantly the highest, while those in T-1 and CK treatments were significantly the lowest, with no significant difference between the two.

[0113] 3.4.2 Effects of different treatment groups on seedling leaf morphology

[0114] The leaf morphology of the seedlings in the different treatment groups was detected and statistically analyzed. The results are shown in Table 3.

[0115] Table 3. Comparison of leaf area, leaf perimeter, leaf length, and leaf width of seedlings in different water replenishment treatment groups.

[0116] Table 3 shows that for *Syringa reticulata* var. *northern China*, the leaf area was largest in treatment T-3 (609.16 mm²), significantly higher than other treatments; T-2 (559.23 mm²) and T-4 (587.66 mm²) were next, with no significant difference between the two, both significantly higher than T-1 (456.99 mm²) and CK (426.90 mm²), while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK. Leaf circumference was significantly higher in treatment T-3 (97.36 mm) than other treatments; T-4 (89.56 mm) and T-2 (85.93 mm²) showed no significant difference, both significantly higher than T-1 (69.33 mm) and CK (68.86 mm), while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK. The leaf length and width showed consistent trends, with the T-3 treatment exhibiting the largest values ​​(45.53 mm leaf length, 36.98 mm leaf width), significantly higher than other treatments. T-2 (42.74 mm leaf length, 35.00 mm leaf width) and T-4 (42.76 mm leaf length, 36.03 mm leaf width) showed no significant differences, and both were significantly higher than T-1 (35.84 mm leaf length, 27.10 mm leaf width) and CK (35.63 mm leaf width, 24.14 mm leaf width). There was no significant difference between T-1 and CK. For Cotoneaster spp., the leaf area was largest in the T-2 treatment (523.77 mm²), significantly higher than other treatments. T-3 (455.23 mm²) was significantly higher than T-4 (325.91 mm²), and T-4 was significantly higher than CK (256.67 mm²) and T-1 (257.09 mm²). There was no significant difference between CK and T-1. Leaf circumference was significantly higher in T-2 (75.96 mm) than in other treatments; T-3 (67.73 mm) was significantly higher than T-4 (59.03 mm), and T-4 was significantly higher than T-1 (55.38 mm) and CK (54.44 mm), while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK. Leaf length and width showed consistent trends, with T-2 showing the largest values ​​(38.21 mm leaf length, 21.46 mm leaf width), significantly higher than other treatments. T-3 (35.06 mm leaf length, 19.57 mm) and T-4 (29.90 mm leaf length, 18.10 mm) showed no significant difference, and both were significantly higher than T-1 (25.59 mm leaf length, 15.7 mm leaf width) and CK (25.838 mm leaf width, 15.60 mm), while there was no significant difference between T-1 and CK.

[0117] 3.4.3 Effects of different treatment groups on seedling leaf biomass

[0118] The fresh weight and biomass of the seedlings in the different treatment groups were statistically analyzed, and the results are shown in Table 4.

[0119] Table 4. Comparison of leaf fresh weight and leaf moisture content of various tree species under different water replenishment treatment groups.

[0120] Table 4 shows that for *Syringa reticulata*, the fresh leaf weight showed no significant difference among T-3 (4.95 g), T-2 (4.88 g), and T-4 (4.88 g), and was significantly higher than T-1 (3.85 g) and CK (3.91 g). There was no significant difference between T-1 and CK. The leaf moisture content showed no significant difference among T-3 (75.88%), T-2 (75.77%), and T-4 (75.74%), and was significantly higher than T-1 (69.30%) and CK (68.82%). There was no significant difference between T-1 and CK. For *Cotoneaster arvense*, the fresh leaf weight showed no significant difference among treatments and among the CK group. Specifically, the values ​​were CK (1.23 g), T-1 (1.19 g), T-2 (1.15 g), T-3 (1.14 g), and T-4 (1.13 g). The leaf water content of T-2 (70.35%) was significantly higher than that of T-3 (66.90%) and T-4 (66.99%). There was no significant difference between T-3 and T-4, and both were significantly higher than that of T-1 (58.49%) and CK (57.67%). There was no significant difference between T-1 and CK.

[0121] In summary, using the method and apparatus provided in this application to supplement water for *Syringa reticulata* var. *northern China* resulted in a survival rate of up to 86.67%, an increase of 28.89% compared to the survival rate without supplementation. Similarly, using the method and apparatus provided in this application to supplement water for *Cotoneaster chinensis* var. *northern China* resulted in a survival rate of up to 78.89%, an increase of 18.89% compared to the survival rate without supplementation. After supplementing water for *Syringa reticulata* var. *northern China* and *Cotoneaster chinensis* var. *northern China*, various growth indicators of both species were significantly improved. Furthermore, the method and apparatus provided in this application directly reduce manpower, reducing the number of people required to plant one seedling from two to one, thereby increasing planting efficiency and reducing planting costs.

[0122] Furthermore, although the survival rate of the T-3 treatment group was close to that of the T-2 treatment group, it was found in the experiment that the needles on the drip irrigation bags were easily damaged and clogged due to the hard soil in arid areas. Clogged needles prevented watering and affected plant survival rates, thus requiring timely detection and replacement. Moreover, using drip irrigation bags consumes a significant amount of water, hindering water conservation and increasing planting costs. Additionally, since drip irrigation bags are typically made of non-biodegradable plastic and buried in the soil, they cause environmental pollution. Therefore, the T-3 treatment method is not recommended.

[0123] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present invention, but the scope of protection of the present invention is not limited thereto. Any person skilled in the art can easily conceive of various equivalent modifications or substitutions within the technical scope disclosed in the present invention, and such modifications or substitutions should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

Claims

1. A plant root directional water supply device, wherein the plant root directional water supply device and the plant roots are buried together in a planting hole, characterized in that, The device includes a root canal and a flexible water reservoir. The root canal has an opening for the target roots of the plant to enter. The target roots can be accommodated in the root canal through the opening, preventing the flexible water reservoir buried in the planting hole from being squeezed by the covering sand and thus preventing the target roots from being crushed. The root canal is made of a water-permeable and biodegradable material and is used to house and protect the plant roots. The flexible water reservoir is also made of a biodegradable material and has an internal cavity for storing irrigation water. The cavity of the flexible water reservoir can accommodate the root canal, allowing the root canal to support the flexible water reservoir and prevent the flexible water reservoir buried in the planting hole from being crushed by the covering sand and thus preventing it from breaking. When the flexible water reservoir accommodates the root canal, the opening of the flexible water reservoir and the opening of the root canal can be fixedly connected.

2. The plant root directional water supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The root filament container is provided with several root-inducing and guiding holes.

3. The plant root directional water supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A support surface is provided on one side of the bottom surface of the root arbor, which is parallel to the horizontal plane. A support groove is provided on the side wall of the opening on one side of the support surface, and the main stem of the plant can be inserted into the support groove.

4. The plant root directional water supply device according to claim 1, characterized in that, A fixing groove is formed on the outer surface of the root accumulator at a predetermined distance from the opening. The flexible water storage bag is equipped with a fastening strap, which is used to fix the flexible water storage bag to the fixing groove so that the flexible water storage bag is connected to the root accumulator.

5. A method for directional water supply to plant roots, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S10. Pre-treat the plants to be planted, prepare planting holes, flexible water storage bags and root containers, put the flexible water storage bags on the root containers and connect the two, and inject water of a preset volume into the flexible water storage bags. S20. The root arbor is brought into physical contact with the roots of the pretreated plant so that the roots of the plant can absorb water from the flexible water storage bag. S30. The root arbor, which has already made physical contact with the roots of the plant, is planted together with the root arbor in the soil of the planting hole. The roots of the plant, which are in physical contact with the root arbor, continuously draw water from the flexible water storage bag, thereby achieving directional and continuous water supply to the plant roots.

6. The method for directional water supply to plant roots according to claim 5, characterized in that, The plant to be planted is either *Syringa reticulata* or *Cotoneaster chinensis*. When the plant to be planted is either *Syringa reticulata* or *Cotoneaster chinensis*, the length and width of the planting hole are both 40-50 cm, and the depth is 45-55 cm. The planting hole is compacted before planting.

7. The method for directional water supply to plant roots according to claim 5, characterized in that, Inject 1-2.5L of water into the flexible water storage bladder.

8. The method for directional water supply to plant roots according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of "establishing physical contact between the root arbor and the roots of the pretreated plant" includes: guiding and accommodating at least one lateral root of the plant in the internal cavity of the root arbor.

9. The method for directional water supply to plant roots according to claim 5, characterized in that, The step of "planting the root arbor, which has already made physical contact with the roots of the plant, together with the root arbor in the soil of the planting hole" includes the following steps: inserting the main stem of the plant into the support groove of the root arbor and making the support surface of the root arbor in horizontal contact with the bottom of the planting hole, so that the root arbor maintains an inclined posture when buried to apply a supporting force to the main stem of the plant.

10. The method for directional water supply to plant roots according to claim 1, characterized in that, After planting and covering with soil, cover the surface of the planting area with a water-blocking and evaporation-resistant layer.

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