Paper Details

Abstract

Tea (Camellia sinensis L.) is traditionally cultivated in upland environments characterized by well-drained soils and moderate climatic conditions. However, the expansion of agriculture into diverse agroecological zones has raised interest in the adaptability of tea to non-traditional environments, including coastal landscapes influenced by marine climatic factors. This study investigates the performance of an indigenous tea genotype cultivated under a marine-influenced microclimate in coastal central Vietnam. Geospatial analysis using GIS-based distance verification confirmed the proximity of the cultivation site to the marine shoreline, allowing assessment of potential maritime environmental influence. Field observations included measurements of microclimatic conditions, soil electrical conductivity, and selected biochemical parameters of fresh tea leaves. The results indicate that the indigenous Camellia sinensis genotype maintained stable growth and physiological performance despite elevated humidity, increased wind exposure, and slightly higher soil salinity associated with coastal environments. The findings suggest that moderate marine influence does not necessarily limit tea cultivation when soil salinity remains within acceptable thresholds. Instead, locally adapted genotypes may exhibit resilience under such environmental conditions. These results contribute to the broader understanding of crop adaptation in coastal agroecosystems and highlight the potential of indigenous tea germplasm for climate-resilient agricultural systems.

To Cite This Article