Yew is an evergreen tree or large shrub that belongs to the genus Taxus in the fir family. It is native to southern China, Japan, India, Nepal and other regions, and in traditional Chinese culture, yew is considered a valuable tree species due to its tough material and distinctive red seeds.
Growing environment
Yew is shade-loving, hardy, and can grow in poor soils, but is not tolerant of moisture. It usually grows in mountainous areas at an altitude of 500-3000 meters, especially in humid, cloudy, and cool environments.
Soil requirements
Yew does not have high requirements for the soil in which it grows, and it can grow on poor land. It prefers to grow in slightly acidic soil, and the requirements for soil pH value are between 5.5~7.0. In daily maintenance, it is recommended to use well-drained, loose sandy loam.
watering and humidity
Yew has strong drought tolerance, and the watering strategy should follow the principle of "no drying, no watering"3. It prefers a moist environment, but is afraid of waterlogging, so choose well-drained soil when planting. Foliar sprays in the morning and evening in summer can maintain humidity, but watering or spraying in the middle of the day should be avoided.
Fertilization management
Yew does not have very high fertilizer requirements, and nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers can be applied during the growing season (March to October), and potassium dihydrogen phosphate solution can be sprayed to the foliar surface every 7-10 days. Less fertilization should be applied during the winter dormant period, as the plants are stagnant and do not need much nutrients.
Growth rate
Yew grows slower and can live for thousands of years. The growth rate of adult trunks is only a few millimeters per year.
Disease and Insect Resistance
Yew has a certain resistance to pests and diseases, but it is still necessary to pay attention to prevent the occurrence of pests and diseases during the planting process.
Ecological value
Yew has an important position in the ecosystem, and its growth has a positive effect on maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance.
Cultural significance
In China, yew is endowed with symbolism of acacia and longevity due to the red color of its wood and seeds.
Due to the slow growth and weak regeneration capacity of yew, coupled with over-logging, its natural population has been damaged to a certain extent. Therefore, it is very important to protect yew resources and maintain ecological balance.