Before soil improvement: Control plot before soil restoration, showing sparse and late-emerging buds with visible pest damage. [Photo/Tide News]

In the core production area of West Lake Longjing tea, a familiar figure known as Dr Wang is helping local farmers cultivate a fresher and higher-quality spring harvest.

Wang Feng, an associate researcher from the Institute of Environment, Resources and Soil Fertilizer at the Zhejiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, has provided technical support to the tea gardens for three consecutive years.

This year's cooler weather has reduced the yield of the prized pre-Qingming tea but significantly improved its quality.

After soil improvement: Tea bushes after soil enhancement, displaying healthier growth and fuller, more vigorous buds. [Photo/Tide News]

Recognizing that soil health is key to tea flavor, Wang and his team addressed long-standing issues such as soil acidification, compaction, and declining organic matter caused by continuous cultivation and unbalanced fertilization.

After conducting systematic soil analyses, the team introduced a comprehensive solution: applying specialized bio-organic fertilizers to restore soil ecology, using slow-release compound fertilizers to ensure precise nutrient supply throughout the growth cycle, and supplementing with functional foliar fertilizers during critical growth stages. These measures have revitalized the tea gardens.

Demonstration plots recorded a 15 percent increase in fresh leaf yield, a 0.5-unit rise in soil pH, and significantly higher amino acid content, enhancing the tea's signature freshness and aroma.

Through scientific innovation, Wang's efforts are safeguarding both the heritage of this iconic tea and the livelihoods of local farmers.

Tea farmers harvest freshly sprouted leaves in the revitalized Longjing tea garden. [Photo/Tide News]